SCRIP-BITS

And even if you did overdo it, then just suck it up and do what needs to be done, regardless of your physical feelings. I’m sure you didn’t have any qualms about anything when you were living it up yesterday, so please don’t have any today when Jesus is counting on you to be His ears, arms, eyes and heart in an ungodly world which badly needs His LOVE and encouragement.

And now that you’ve been suitably admonished, (smile) let’s get down to brass tacks here ourselves, and with the guidance of our great God, write something that’s inspiring and encouraging.

And in seeking something inspiring to begin, I found these words of encouragement from one of my favourite writers and preachers, Dr. Robert H. Schuller.

Listen closely Friends and fellow believers. Dr. Schuller tells us that ‘The joy of being at the top of the mountain is the joy of reaching down to help others see and develop their (own) possibilities.’

And what a riot of wisdom and truth that is my brethren! For what other purpose can their be at the top of the mountain if you’re a true and faithful follower of Jesus eh?

None really my people! Because that’s what Jesus did every day of His life; go about doing good, helping and healing people, and if we want to truly follow in his footsteps then we need to do the same. Yes my fellow believers that is our mandate; to help the needy, in all walks of life, in whatever way we are able!

But just as our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, didn’t have it easy, we won’t have it easy either. There will always be trials and tribulations to face as our God tests us, and the heathen, the unbeliever and evil powers of this world try to break down our faith.

But as Jesus so wisely says in our Bit: ‘In your patience posses ye your souls.’

And that’s more awesome truth Friends! For it’s only if we settle down without fear and anxiety and accept the promises of Jesus and stand fast and strong on them that we will grow and mature in out faith walk and thus further His glorious kingdom.

And today again I want to fill our minds, hearts, souls, bodies and wherever else (smile) with more encouraging and uplifting scriptures on patience, perseverance and endurance, while walking steadfastly in faith with Jesus.

Now let’s start with some beautiful heartfelt words from Bruh David. Yeh, you can call me biased because I LOVE to begin with Bruh David and end with Jesus. (smile)

Anyway listen to Bruh David as he declares praise for answered prayer from Psalm 40. ‘I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings (steps).

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man that maketh the Lord his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.’ (Ps.40:1-4)

Oh my brethren, yuh see what can happen when we wait patiently on the Lord? Meanwhile Bruh Paul told it to the Romans this way when talking about the results of justification.

‘Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience (produces perseverance);

And patience, experience (character); and experience hope: And hope maketh not ashamed (does not disappoint); because the LOVE of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.’ (Rom.5:1-5)

Ah Friends what a moving and touching scripture; one that we all know, but resist following because we’re afraid of trials and tribulations. But if we don’t experience some misfortune and suffering, then we won’t grow in the LOVE and reflection of Jesus.

And to show that it’s all gospel truth, James, in his epistle, tells it to us this way. ‘My brethren, count it all joy when we fall into divers temptations (various trials); Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (produces) patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing.’ (James 1:2-4)

And as the scholars so wisely remind us: ‘1:4. The natural response to adversity is to escape it. But God uses trouble to mature His people.’

And as we all know, but fear and refuse to accept, that’s undeniable truth! For it’s only when we’re under fire, that the real us comes forth, we find out what we’re truly made of, and how much we truly LOVE and desire to work for Jesus.

Anyway Friends, I think we’ll end there because I don’t want to give us too much scripture to ponder at anyone sitting. See how I consider your busy lives! (smile)

So in light of all that’s been said above, let’s go out today and do as Jesus did everyday of His earthly sojourn: help the hurting and the needy, despite our hurts and needs, thus reflecting the true character of Jesus. That’s wisdom from on high! Much LOVE!

…sympathy comes from the mind…but empathy comes from the heart…through personal experience…