Today’s Scrip-Bit   29 January 2023 Romans 8:28.

29 Jan 2023 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Romans 8:28.       And we know that all things work together for good to them that LOVE God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Another day of life, another Sunday on God’s great earth, another opportunity for His people to gather in His sanctuary to fellowship and offer up prayer and praise with thanksgiving. It doesn’t get any better than that. And today’s song offering is one that’s very near and dear to all our hearts, because it shows how our faith can transcend all the negative, unfortunate and heartbreaking circumstances we might experience in this fallen world. The song is most appropriately titled, ‘It is well With My Soul.’ 

And the story goes that the author, Horatio Spafford (1828-1888) was a successful lawyer and businessman in the Windy City of Chicago. His family consisted of his wife, four daughters and a son. But as so happens to even the best and most faithful of us, tragedy struck. He lost his four-year-old son to scarlet fever, then shortly thereafter in 1871, the Great Chicago Fire destroyed all his real estate investments, seriously decreasing his wealth. Then, in 1873, Spafford sent his wife and four daughters to a much need holiday in Europe, with the intentions of joining them later. 

Much to his chagrin though, a few days later he received a telegram from his wife, which apparently read, ‘Saved alone. What shall I do?’ informing him that their ship had been destroyed and his four daughters perished with it. She was the sole surviving member of the family. Can you imagine the sorrow and sadness the poor man must have endured? But he finally sailed to meet his wife and during the crossing, the captain apparently pointed out the spot where his daughters met their watery graves, then Spafford went to his cabin and wrote this beautiful hymn as ‘a testament to the salvation he found in Jesus through the good and bad times in life.’ 

So, as the snow falls from the high heavens this last Sunday in January 2023,  let’s do it justice now by offering up our sacrificial praise in a soulful, heartfelt, mid-tempo version. Singing: ‘When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say It is well, it is well, with my soul (Chorus: It is well (it is well) With my soul (with my soul) It is well, it is well with my soul.) 

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. (Chorus) My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, o my soul (Chorus) For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul. (Chorus) 

But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord! Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul! (Chorus) And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul. It is well (it is well) With my soul (with my soul) It is well, it is well with my soul.’  

Oh my people, that’s the unwavering truth! It’s never easy, but when we put our sincere trust in Christ Jesus, He does enable us to bear even the most horrible tragedy with some semblance of peace and calm! And I can personally testify to that, for when my adorable mother Molly, died unexpectedly some twelve years ago while I was in California, I experienced that true peace and calm Jesus offers to those who walk with Him in faith. I was writing the Bit one morning when I was told I had a phone call from my mother’s caregiver, and right away I sensed what had happened, and surprisingly I just felt this feeling of peace overcome me. 

Now, it doesn’t mean you don’t feel the pain, but there’s an aura of peace around you that compassionately keeps you together during those rough times. Yes friends, God’s LOVE and grace do help us get through those times when the challenges are coming hard and fast and we feel all alone, without a place to turn to for help and succour, and consequently feel that we’ll never be able to handle them. 

But when you feel helpless and all alone, that’s the very time you ought to turn to Jesus, for remember He is the ONE who strengthens us and acts as place of refuge and solace like the opening verses of Psalm 46 remind us. ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in trouble. Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst (the heart) of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.   Selah.’ (Ps. 46: 1-3) 

And that’s the gospel truth! But we have to believe it to see it. That’s the basic tenet of our faith. We have to let our faith rise up and accept God’s grace, mercy and compassion when we are hurting. No, it’s never easy, but with God’s help, always possible. Like Bruh David says n Psalm 67:7. ‘In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.’  That reminds of another great man of faith, Job, who suffered a terrible loss of family and business like Spafford did. 

And what was his reaction? He chided his wife who advised him to curse God and die. ‘But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive (accept) good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil (accept calamity)? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.’ (Job 2:10) Unfortunately though, that’s not something too many of us can say when calamity strikes us, and we are believing God for help. Our first reaction is usually anger and vehemence at God. 

But that never helps the situation. We must understand that there’s a reason and purpose for EVERY THING that happens in our lives, though we can’t figure it out. Our Lord doesn’t just bring or allow calamity upon for us for no purpose, but it’s all a part of His overall plan for our lives. And we need to remember that whatever He allows to come against us, He will also allow us a way to get out or through it. That’s why we need to rise up on those calamitous occasions and say like Job of God. ‘Though he slay me, yet will I trust him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.’ (Job. 13:15) 

That’s the kind of unquenchable faith we believers need in these ever so important and contrary times. Even when it appears that God has turned against us, we must still trust in Him, for Job eventually received twice as much as he originally had and I’m sure Horatio Spafford received some kind of divine reward for his faithfulness. So please, as we walk in the trials and tribulations of our times, let’s remember this awesome, all-encompassing promise: ‘And we know that all things work together for good to them that LOVE God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.’ (Rom. 8:28) Much LOVE!

…you can’t walk by faith…without showing your faith in your walk… 

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ      

Today’s Scrip-Bit   31 December 2022 Philippians 4:13.

31 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Philippians 4:13.         I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Now, it’s a wet, drizzly and cloudy New Year’s Eve in my neighbourhood, but I definitely prefer that to the white stuff some people are getting, and others have not dug themselves out of since the big snowfall on Christmas weekend. It’s been a rough time for many North Americans, thankfully though, my area didn’t get the snow others got, we just got rain and howling winds for a couple of days. 

And though the rain will no doubt dampen some of the New Year’s Eve excitement, I’m sure it won’t curtail the basic exuberance of many partygoers, who will party on, come rain, snow or shine. (smile) But since it’s Saturday, let’s take a look at the quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. 

And the first one says: ‘Belief creates the actual fact.’ Now that’s something that’s spouted by the world, but it certainly isn’t true. Yes, what you believe might become a fact to you, but that doesn’t mean it’s actually a truthful fact. For example, many people, believe there is no God, does that make it a fact that there is no God! Absolutely not! It’s the same way back in time when they believed that the world was flat, but that didn’t mean it was flat, although some still argue that fact today. (smile). 

And in today’s confused society there are so many truths that you will trip over them if you’re not careful. Whatever you believe nowadays is considered truth; that’s your truth, but that doesn’t make it factual or even true. The only things we can believe that are true and also factual are the words of God written in His venerable library, the Bible. Why? Because it is a collection of ‘divine instruction.’ 

As Bruh Paul wrote to Timothy. ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished (equipped) unto all good works.’ (2 Tim. 3:16-17) Now that’s where belief meets truth and facts! 

Then there’s this quote: ‘I’m not going to continue knocking on that old door that doesn’t open for me. I’m going to create my own door and walk through that.’ Now the first part of that statement makes sense, why bother knocking on a door that’s no longer opening for you. However, the next part of the statement is somewhat tricky, especially if you are a believer in Christ Jesus. The world says that you must press ahead and open doors for yourself, but Almighty God desires that you wait and let Him open doors for you. 

In His divine plan for our lives, He closes them and also opens them as He sees fit. And the worst mistake we can ever make is to try and open doors for ourselves that the Lord doesn’t want us to go through, or He’s not ready for us to go through. I can speak on that from personal experience. You’ll just keep bouncing your head until you wake up and realize your mistake, or He thinks it’s time to open that door. 

Now that doesn’t mean you just sit and do nothing while waiting for God to open the next door. No! You prepare yourself through prayer and study of His word and whatever is behind the door that will be opened. For lots of time the door doesn’t open because you’re not ready, knowledgeable and experienced enough to manage the promotion that opened door will bring. 

And the next quote advises: ‘Wake up determined, go to bed satisfied.’ Yes, that’s certainly an interesting quote, one to which we should all aspire! We should be determined every day to do God’s will, whatever it might be! After giving thanks for seeing another morn, then we ask for His purpose and guidance, our daily bread, so that we can fulfill His desires for that day. Then we get moving and are obedient to His will. That way, we can go to bed at night satisfied! 

And in the process of doing God’s will, the next quote tells us: ‘Do not allow people to dim your shine because they are blinded. Tell them to put some sunglasses on.’ Now is that ever so true, since in our daily journey the enemy will send naysayers to belittle or lessen us in the eyes of the world. But once we know we are doing God’s will, let’s not allow them to do that! 

Yes, if they think we’re shining too brightly, then they ought to put on sunglasses, because Jesus said that we’re the light of the world, and we should shine, shine bright and sparkling all over the world! On the other hand, if they would just accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, they would be able to shine bright and sparkling like us! (smile) 

And the last quote says: ‘Not having the best situation, but seeing the best in your situation is the key to happiness.’ That certainly has some truth to it. It’s a proven fact that our attitude towards our situations always affects our reactions to them. And it’s definitely the key to our response. A negative attitude will engender or produce doubt, fear and an inability to deal successfully with the situation. However, a positive attitude, though it might not change the circumstances, will allow you to think clearly and find a way out without the added baggage of fear and doubt. 

But overall, that consistent kind of positive attitude is only possible when Jesus is your Guide and Leader, since He is the One who empowers us to have that attitude. Remember these words of Bruh Paul: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.’ (Phil. 4:13) Yes, it’s through His power that we are able to stand strong and steadfast through whatever circumstances we encounter. It’s through belief in His goodness and mercy, like Bruh Paul says later on: ‘But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19) 

Oh my fellow believers, we’re living in a tough, cruel and evil world, but if we believe the words of Jesus, like these enlightening and encouraging ones: ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) And He has definitely done that through His death and resurrection. 

So, if we allow words like those to continually simmer and bubble in our hearts and souls, ready to be used at an instant’s notice, then we will be able to overcome the hard knocks of life and enjoy the abundant life that He’s promised. But it all depends on us: on our sincere belief, trust and surrender to Him! Much LOVE!

…until you really get to know Jesus…you won’t really know how wonderful He is… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   4 December 2022 Psalm 27:1.

04 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 27:1.       The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Oh friends, this Sunday morning reminds me of Bruh David’s heartfelt words in the opening verse of Psalm 122: ‘I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.’ (Ps. 122:1) Consequently, I want to offer us that same marvellous opportunity today. So please, let us be glad on this the Lord’s Day and go into His house this morning filled with much thanks and praise for being alive and being a valued member of His flock, a joint heir with His Son Jesus Christ and therefore partakers of all that He has given to Christ. Nothing could be better than that my faithful brethren because it means the whole universe is our inheritance. Glory be! 

And since our bountiful inheritance all came about through Christ’s selfless work, it’s only right that we should offer up heartfelt gratitude and praise to His holy name. And we’ll do that today by opening our proceedings with a song most appropriately titled, ‘In Christ Alone,’ written in 2002 by Stewart Townend and Keith Getty. The writers wanted to encapsulate the theme of the life, death and resurrection of Christ, plus its implications for us, and they certainly have done that. So, let’s raise our harmonious voices in sweet sacrificial praise in a rousing, but soulful, mid-tempo version of this beautiful song. 

Singing: ‘In Christ alone my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song; This cornerstone, this solid ground, Firm through the fiercest drought and storm. What heights of LOVE, what depths of peace, When fears are stilled, when strivings cease! My comforter, my all in all—Here in the LOVE of Christ I stand. In Christ alone, Who took on flesh, Fullness of God in helpless babe! This gift of LOVE and righteousness, Scorned by the ones He came to save. Till on that cross as Jesus died, The wrath of God was satisfied; For ev’ry sin on Him was laid— 

Here in the death of Christ I live. There in the ground His body lay, Light of the world by darkness slain; Then bursting forth in glorious day, Up from the grave He rose again! And as He stands in victory, Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me; For I am His and He is mine— Bought with the precious blood of Christ. No guilt in life, no fear in death— This is the pow’r of Christ in me; From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny. No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from His hand; Till He returns or calls me home— Here in the pow’r of Christ I’ll stand. Yes, Here in the pow’r of Christ I’ll stand.’ 

Oh my people, that was a wonderful rendition, and all heaven was singing with us! And as I look at the words and sentiments expressed in the song, I can’t help but see the truth of it all. Christ is the ONLY ONE who can be at the same time, our hope, light, strength, song, cornerstone and solid ground. And we can find scriptures that personify all of them through Him. 

Listen to this one on hope from the pen of Peter. ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively (living) hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.’ (1 Pet. 1:3) Yes my fellow believers, it’s only through Christ’s resurrection that we can have a true and living hope of eternal life! 

And as per our light, Jesus Himself said it thus: ‘I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.’ (John 8:12) And there’s no disputing that claim because it’s what He came to do; to bring the freeing light of God to a dark and sin enslaved evil world! 

Then as regards our strength… Oh, we all know that magnificent verse of scripture written by Bruh Paul to the Philippians: ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me!’ (Phil. 4:13) And that’s more gospel truth friends, because it is only through Christ’s strength, His empowerment, that we are able to stand strong and steadfast against the enemy and all his evil wiles and temptations. And Bruh David said it so well in Psalm 27: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?’ (Ps. 27:1) 

And if you didn’t know about Christ being our song, (smile) Moses declared it long ago when he and the children of Israel sang: ‘The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation (praise Him); my father’s God, and I will exalt him.’ (Ex.15:2) And that verse was so important and sweet, that the psalmist gave it further exposure in Psalm 118:14. 

Now, it’s no secret that Jesus is our cornerstone! He is our foundation, our measuring stick or example, the promise of God to His people! No ifs ands or buts about that, for without Him we’d be cast aside for ever. Isaiah said it long ago: ‘Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone. A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.’ (Is. 28:16) 

And Peter corroborates that the scripture was fulfilled, when speaking of Jesus: ‘Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, The stone which the builders disallowed (rejected), the same is made the head of the corner (chief cornerstone).’ (1 Pet. 2:7) Yes friends, Christ’s church is the work of a Master Craftsman, and He is the solid, rocklike foundation on which it’s built. 

And we all know what Jesus said about the man who built his life on Him. ‘Therefore whosever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man which built his house upon a (the) rock.’ (Matt. 7:24) And that rock is Jesus, who no flood or strong wind or natural disaster can destroy, because He’s solid like a rock! 

And we’ll end with this most appropriate commentary on the song. The writer sincerely entreats: ‘Lord, who am I, that you should desire so much to be LOVED by me? And who shall I LOVE, if I don’t LOVE You, my Jesus? Make me all Yours for the rest of my days. Give me Your LOVE; I ask for nothing more.’ Now, my fellow saints, please let that be our prayer for today! Much LOVE!

…Jesus is the ONLY sure hope in this world… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ 

Today’s Scrip-Bit   3 December 2022 Matthew 19:26.

03 Dec 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew 19:26.        With men this is impossible; but with God ALL things are possible.

And is there ever good reason for today to be called a lazy day Saturday! Oh yes! The rain’s falling, the wind’s blowing, it’s dark, cloudy and fairly chilly! Great reasons all for staying in bed under the covers, just dozing in and out of consciousness, or lounging on the couch, mindlessly watching the boob-tube! (smile) 

Well, I’ve already done what lazing I could safely get away with, but unfortunately reality intervened, as it always does, letting me know that the Lord’s work was waiting to be done. And like the obedient follower I try to be, (smile) here I am considering, obviously with the Lord’s help, what to write about the quotes that our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. 

And the first quote says: ‘I dwell in possibility.’ Now that’s definitely a good place to dwell because it opens a much wider variety of possibilities than if one dwelt in impossibility. (smile) But then, the question needs to be asked how much is really possible in man’s strength alone? And the answer comes, not a whole lot! However, when one has joined forces with the Lord God of the universe through His most august Son, Jesus Christ, then a whole new realm of possibility opens up to you. 

And how is that you ask? Well, it stems from Jesus’ conversation with His disciples about it being easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter heaven. Then He made this overwhelming, but ever so true statement: ‘With men this is impossible; but with God ALL things are possible.’ (Matt. 19:26) And that statement is totally supported by God’s creation of the universe and all therein, and His total control of everything and everyone that exists in it. That’s why it’s ever so important to stay in God’s good graces if one wants to have unlimited possibilities in this life. 

That brings us to this next interesting quote. ‘Inspiration comes from within yourself. One has to be positive. When you’re positive, good things happen.’ Now, there’s a lot of truth in those statements, but not the entire truth. First off, not all inspiration comes from within oneself because we can be inspired by things, places and people outside of ourselves. Although, in a way, you can argue that for that outside inspiration to move you, it must first get into you spirit, therefore the inspiration came from within. (smile) 

Yes, I am trying to be the devil’s advocate. And being positive is wisdom of the highest order, although it’s not only good things that happen when you have a positive mindset, but certainly more good things happen than bad when you are positively inclined. But in all of our positivity friends, we still need Jesus to get us through the storms of life that will bombard us, for He is the ONLY ONE who can calm storms and/or lead us safely through them. And He ALONE gives us the strength, energy, hope and faith to withstand whatever comes against in this world filled with tribulation. 

Remember His words of sincere and faithful assurance. ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33) And that’s the gospel truth my brethren! Jesus by His death, resurrection and ascension has defeated the powers of darkness, took away the keys to Hades from Satan and set us captives of sin free. And Jesus corroborates that earlier on, when He says: ‘If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.’ (John 8:36)  

Now that’s why Bruh Paul could pen these marvellous words of encouragement to the church at Philippi after receiving a gift from them. ‘Not that I speak in respect of want (in regard of need): for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased (live humbly), and I know how to abound (live in prosperity): every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.’ (Phil. 4:11-13) 

Yes friends, Bruh Paul was saying that though he appreciated their gift, he had learned to be content in whatever state he found himself. And that comes from his relationship with Christ, who through His spiritual strength and encouragement enables Bruh Paul to adapt to whatever circumstances he’s currently facing. And Christ will do the same thing for us if we put our sincere trust and faith in Him. 

That leads us to this next quote: ‘You do not find the happy life. You make it.’ And that’s no lie. Happiness doesn’t just fall from the sky on us, we have to do certain things to become happy and to stay happy, for happiness can be a very fleeting thing, based so much on our circumstances of the moment. The first thing to understand is that we need to make ourselves happy. Even if we are showered with all the wealth and power in the world, we still have to decide to be happy. 

And the next point is that we cannot depend on any one person for all of our happiness. It’s just not possible because of the way human relationships can be very topsy-turvy; fine one moment, then in total disarray the next. That’s why we believers in Christ Jesus talk about joy rather than happiness, because joy is something that’s deep-seated and stable and doesn’t change from one minute to the next. With Jesus as your Lord and Saviour you can go through tough times and still be joyful. That’s why Bruh Paul said he could handle any situation with Jesus in his life. That’s why the Bible tells us: ‘the joy of the Lord is your strength.’ (Neh. 8:10) Christ Jesus empowers us! 

And that’s nowhere more evident than in this last quote. ‘I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.’ Yes, whichever ball player said those words knew the secret of success; never give up. Just keep on trying. And failure is never failure until you stop trying. As Cousin Sol writes in Proverbs: ‘For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief (stumble into calamity). (Prov. 24:16) 

Yes, my fellow saints, the righteous man, the one who has Jesus as his guide and leader never gives up because in Jesus’ kingdom there’s no giving up, the word failure doesn’t exist! No matter how many times he may fail, with Jesus’ help, he gets back up again and keeps on trying until he succeeds! And that’s a very valuable lesson we badly need to renew in our souls and spirits this lazy Saturday morning. 

Why? Because in these recent times of much confusion and uncertainty, the body of Christ, His church, has been very frail and fragile, beset by way too much doubt, fear and lethargy. We have not been strong and steadfast as we were expected to be. But now it’s time for the body of Christ to rise up and show this evil world the true qualities of Christ, as we boldly shine our lights and spread our saltiness all over this turbulent globe! Much LOVE!

…I can do anything…that Christ asks of me… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   31 July 2022 John 15:5b.

31 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

John 15:5b.      …for without me ye can do nothing. 

Wow friends! I can’t believe another Sunday has come around so quickly! And to make matters worse, today is also the last day of July, meaning that the summer of 2022 is almost over, only August left to go. And at the rate time seems to be travelling these days, that will soon be over too, and we’ll be back into the harsh reality of winter. But that’s okay, (smile) we’re true and staunch believers in Christ Jesus, that means we can handle anything that comes against, be it heat or cold, fire or flood, hell or highwater. 

Seriously though, with all the problems our world is currently facing, like the pandemic of Covid 19, which isn’t going away, but seems to be coming back again strong, the new virus of monkeypox, aided by all the strife and dissension, plus the many natural and man-made disasters, we don’t even have time to think about the speed with which the days are passing. 

But that’s one of the reasons why we gather every Sunday, either physically in God’s sanctuary, or by technological means, so that we can pray and give thanks and ask for divine help to deal with what’s going on around us. Also to encourage each other in the joy of the Lord, and be comforted and encouraged by our omnipotent God, so that we can go back out into the world and face it mano-a-mano, without fear or worry. 

Therefore, as we always do, let’s open with some worship, with a song aptly titled, ‘I can’t even walk without You holding my hand.’ And believe me friends that’s the gospel truth! Without Christ, we can’t’ do much of anything. But we’ll talk about that later, right now let’s raise our voices in sacrificial praise, sincerely singing the wonderful words that Joyce and Colbert Croft apparently penned. In a heartfelt, medium tempo, soulful, harmonious version, let’s do it justice! 

‘I thought number one would surely be me I thought I could be what I wanted to be I thought I could build on life’s sinking sand But now I can’t even walk without you holding my hand – I thought I could do a lot on my own I thought I could make it all alone I thought of myself as a mighty big man But Lord I can’t even walk without you holding my hand – Oh Lord, I can’t even walk without you holding my hand The mountains are too high and the valleys too wide Down on my knees that’s where I learned to stand Oh Lord, I can’t even walk without you holding my hand – 

I think I’ll make Jesus my all and all And if I’m in trouble on his name I’ll call If I didn’t trust him I’d be less of a man ‘Cause Lord I can’t even walk without you holding my hand – Oh Lord, I can’t even walk without you holding my hand The mountains are too high and the valleys too wide Down on my knees that’s where I learned to stand ‘Cause Lord I can’t even walk without you holding my hand Oh Lord, I can’t even walk without you holding my hand Yes my Saviour, I can’t walk without you holding my hand. Thank You for teaching me that through your Word…I can’t even walk, without holding your hand.’ 

And if you don’t believe that’s the God-awesome truth, then something’s wrong with your mind! (smile) Now, it’s not like we’re fishing and/or floundering for that truth, because Jesus said it with a straight face, a long time ago, when He told the disciples: ‘Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.’ (John 15:4-5) 

That should make it very clear friends. Without Jesus, we’re nothing and can do nothing. But with Him…Mama oh Mama! We can do any and everything, even moving mountains with faith only as big as a grain of mustard seed! Yes friends, as Bruh Paul faithfully proclaimed to the church at Philippi: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ (Phil. 4:13) And the same thing applies to us; we can live under any conditions, adapt to any circumstances, be they good, bad or in-between, through Christ’s help and strength, most ably led and guided by the third member of the Trinity, the indwelling Holy Spirit. 

Meanwhile, in his second letter to the church at Corinth, Bruh Paul wrote these stirring words to them. ‘And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.’ (2 Cor. 3:4-5) And it’s not like we don’t know that the words of the song and the Good Book are very true, that we can’t do anything of value without Christ. But it’s just that we are so stubborn and pig-headed, we refuse to acknowledge it because of foolish pride. 

And please remember my people, one of the things the Lord dislikes with a burning passion is pride, because it detracts from His glory. It makes us feel He’s not important in our scheme of things, we don’t need Him, we are sufficient in and of ourselves. And that’s exactly how the world is feeling today, and why we have such a busload of unsolvable problems. I don’t know what more it will take to make us acknowledge that we can’t help ourselves, and without God we’re nothing; nothing but flimsy, flaking pottery spinning on the potter’s wheel. 

Now let’s look at a couple of statements from the song and see how they play out in real life. Right from the very beginning we get it wrong: ‘I thought number one would surely be me…I could be what I wanted to be…I could build on life’s sinking sand.’ But Jesus refutes every one of those ideas. To be number one in his kingdom, one must first learn to serve, as He told the disciples. ‘…but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister (servant). And whosoever will be chief (first) among you, let him be your servant (slave). Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto (to be served), but to minister (to serve), and to give his life a ransom for many.’ (Matt. 20:26-28) 

And, as per building life on sinking sand, Jesus also addressed that problem, when he preached about the two foundations for building in this life, the Rock: that’s Himself, His example and His words. And everything else, which is sinking sand, that will be washed away when the rains fall and the floods come. But those who keep His words, build on Him, their foundation will stand the test of time and nature, because it was built on solid rock. (Matt. 7:24-27) 

The same thing goes for these foolish and egotistic words: I thought I could do a lot on my own…could make it all alone…thought of myself as a mighty big man…’ No friends, those are all self-serving and untruthful words, which Cousin Sol warned us about very long ago, when he wrote: ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct (make smooth) thy paths.’ (Prov. 3:5-6) Now, those are really the only words we need to live by yes, my fellow saints! We satisfy all the requirements when we do those things. 

And I’ll close with my favourite line of the song: ‘Down on my knees, that’s where I learned to stand.’ And that’s the glorious truth friends! When we get down on our knees before Almighty God and declare our sincere LOVE for Him and great desire for His fellowship…that’s when we truly begin standing; standing strong in His awesome name and glorious majesty! As Luciano’s song so rightly says: Man was made to serve Jah…and to live together forever! Much LOVE!

…only safe and secure in Christ Jesus…are we anything or anybody… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   16 July 2022 Luke 18:27.

16 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Luke 18:27.       The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

And then it was Saturday – our lazy day! And boy oh boy, did I ever feel like being lazy all day! And in keeping with that feeling, though I was already late waking up, I nevertheless lay there in bed, awake, thinking all sorts of delicious lazy thoughts. But then, as always, reality intruded, it burst my lazy bubble; the Lord’s work needed to be done, and I needed to get my lazy self, up and about to do it! Ah brother, no rest for the wicked nor the righteous! And I muttered an insincere: ‘Thank you for the reminder, Lord!’ (smile) 

So, as we do on Saturdays, let’s see what interesting quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. And the first one says: ‘Positive thinking is more than just a tagline. It changes the way we behave. And I firmly believe that when I am positive, it not only makes me better, but it also makes those around me better.’ Yes, that’s quite true. We can’t just talk positive thinking, but like everything else we must put it into action for it to bear fruit. And when we do that, it not only makes us better, but also rubs off on those we encounter. 

But let me make one proviso here: positive thinking as the world proposes can’t make miraculous changes to your life. Oh yes, it will help you some, but the real test comes when your positive mindset includes Jesus! Oh glory be mih people! When Jesus is actively in our lives, miracles happen all around us all the time, we become doers of seemingly impossible stuff, because as He said. ‘The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.’ (Luke 18:27) And once you believe that, even if your faith is only as big as a small grain of mustard seed, you too can move mountains, do miracles, (Matt. 17:20) 

So, it’s not simply positive thinking we need to improve our lives and situations, but more importantly strong belief in Jesus and the fact that all things are possible through and with Him. As Bruh Paul said so confidently to the Philippians: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phill. 4:13) And that’s the glorious truth my faithful brethren! We can do anything that Jesus wants us to do, because He empowers us to do whatever He desires of us! 

That brings us to this next quote that’s in a similar vein to the first one. It tells us that ‘An attitude of positive expectation is the mark of the superior personality.’ Now in the world that might be true to a certain extent, but as we just saw, mere positive thinking doesn’t move mountains, it’s only when Jesus is involved in that positive mindset that things truly begin to happen. 

And then, with Jesus, we never have issues of superiority, for as He says, ‘I am meek and lowly in heart (gentle and humble)’ (Matt. 11:29) That means we don’t think we’re better than anybody else, so we wouldn’t say we have a superior personality, but possibly more wisdom, we’re wiser than most because we have the good sense to choose Jesus above all the foolish, perishable trappings of the world. 

Now, isn’t it just wonderful to have Jesus in our lives? It certainly is, for it enables us more than the unbelievers to handle the next quote, which says: ‘What is the difference between an obstacle and an opportunity? Our attitude toward it. Every opportunity has a difficulty, and every difficulty has an opportunity.’ Yes friends, our attitude towards life in general and our individual circumstances in particular is what sets us apart from the unsuccessful throng, or multitude. As the quote so truly specifies: ‘Every opportunity has a difficulty, and every difficulty has an opportunity.’ 

And do we ever know about that. For though simple opportunities may seem to abound, every one of them will present some difficulty at some stage of the game. It very seldom ever runs smoothly all the way through. And it’s only when we have the belly and backbone that comes from knowing Jesus that we can fight through those difficulties and not give up. 

Likewise, in most difficult situations there is usually an excellent opportunity for us to get hold of and pursue to a successful end. But there again, we need the perspicacity, the insight, the shrewdness inspired by our walk with Jesus to discern those fruitful opportunities within those difficult situations, and purposefully go after them. Oh, what would we do without Jesus eh? I don’t know nuh. (smile) 

And all of it culminates in this last quote which advises us to: ‘Cultivate an optimistic mind, use your imagination, always consider alternatives, and dare to believe that you can make possible what others think is impossible.’ Now all of that is obviously good advice, whether or not you believe in Jesus. But the crowning glory of it all is that when you sincerely believe in Jesus, then you can indeed make those things that others think impossible, possible, because ALL things are possible to and through Him!  

And please don’t think that Jesus isn’t all for positive thinking and optimism, because He is. He is the most positive thinker and greatest optimist that ever lived! Just check out these facts about Him nuh. Who else would think that His dying, His shed blood could pay for all the sins of mankind eh, from beginning to end? He had to be a powerful positive thinker and optimist. 

And likewise, who else but a major optimist and positive thinker would think to only leave a dozen, mostly uneducated men to evangelize the world eh? And that’s exactly what Jesus did. And look at how far we’ve come in doing that. Most of the known world now know about Jesus, and the number of those who don’t Him are getting fewer each day with the marvellous advances we’ve recently had in communication technology. And neither should we forget that in Jesus’ vocabulary and kingdom, the words ‘quit, give up, and can’t do it’ don’t exist…and never will! 

Now, let’s go out into the cruel, evil and ungodly world and just live for Him, because He not only died for us, to wash and make us clean from our abominable sins, but He also rose for us, so that we too could rise again on the last day and be with Him in heaven, where He is right now, sitting at the Father’s right hand, advocating on our behalf! 

Oh my fellow saints, all that Jesus has done, and is still doing, is strictly for our benefit. So please, let’s remember that nuh, and show some gratitude by sincerely living for Him! Much LOVE!

…if there’s only one word and/or thought that should guide our lives…it’s JESUS… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​          

Today’s Scrip-Bit   2 July 2022 Micah 7:8.

02 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Micah 7:8.       Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me.

And then it was Saturday – lazy day. But yuh know what? Some of us are so dog-tired after yesterday’s hectic Canada Day celebrations that we’re too tired to even be lazy! (smile) Yes, it is indeed possible to be too tired to even be lazy. That’s because lazy is a state of mind, and tired is more a state of body. But anyway, whatever you are this Saturday morning, we do hope that you are in good health and still madly in LOVE with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! 

Yes, we talking about the Son of God, who so unselfishly sacrificed His holy and sinless life for us, a bunch of ungrateful sinners, on the cross of Calvary. Thus, taking our abundant and ugly sins on His shoulders, while giving us His magnificent righteousness. What an unfair exchange! But He did it because He LOVED us and wanted to save us from the clutches of Satan and his fiery domain of hell. That’s why it’s ever so important that we LOVE Him in return and do our best to live the way He desires. 

And having made that rousing call on Jesus’ behalf, (smile) it’s now time to check on the quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. And the first one tells us: ‘Believing in negative thoughts is the single greatest obstruction to success.’ Now, I wouldn’t necessarily say that negative thinking is the ‘single greatest obstruction to success,’ but it certainly is a big obstruction. That’s because from the time you think or say, ‘I can’t,’ you inject your project, or whatever it is, with an added burden, an extra weight of doubt and disbelief that you don’t need. 

It’s difficult enough to get things going, you definitely don’t want or need to add any extra weight to your problems. And please remember that all the fighting between good and bad positive and negative goes on in your mind, so the less confusion you have there, the more peace of mind you have, the better off you are. And don’t forget either that the best peace you can ever get is from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He said it Himself. ‘Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14:27) 

And on top of that, if you sincerely believe in Jesus then you will also know that ALL things are possible with Him, and consequently we can joyfully and confidently say: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ (Phil. 4:13) Yes, anything that’s worthy and noble, etc. anything that is in Christ’s will, He will enable us to do it. So there is no need to ever think negatively. 

That brings us to the next quote: ‘A problem is a chance for you to do your best.’ And that’s no lie, since problems are opportunities for us to come up higher, to show what we have, to expose our inner fortitude, confidence and wisdom. As they say, problems are made to be solved. Yeh friends, problems are merely chances to show our mettle. (smile) And life is full of them. In fact, life itself is usually our biggest problem. (smile) So it does no good to turn away from a problem as soon as it shows up, but instead we must put our best foot forward, which means also turning to Christ for help and direction. 

And granted, we will not be able to solve all of our problems, but we should not be found wanting in the trying, should at least get an ‘A’ for effort. And we have the perfect example of that in the following quote. ‘Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.’ 

Oh my people, that’s indeed the gospel truth! Believers in Christ ought never to give up because the words ‘give up’ or ‘failure’ aren’t found in His vocabulary. And ofttimes mere persistence is all we need to overcome a problem. It’s legendary in talking about famous people who failed time after time but never gave up and finally succeeded. We are talking about people like Henry Ford, the automotive success, Thomas Edison, the lightbulb creator, Walt Disney, the creator of our greatest entertainment attractions. 

Each one of them failed several times, were even considered failures by their counterparts, before they eventually found success. The thing is that they never gave up, kept working on their problems, with a positive mindset. They obviously had the idea that Cousin Sol puts forward in Proverbs. ‘For a just (righteous) man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief (stumble into calamity).’ (Prov. 24:16) 

Just like Jesus said we ought to forgive at least seventy times seven, in other words continually, so we are expected to get up each time we fall, for failure is not failure until we stop trying, until we give up. But until then, while we keep trying, we have not failed, just not being successful as yet. (smile) For as the prophet Micah confidently proclaimed: ‘Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me.’ (Mic. 7:8) 

And so, we come to the last quote: ‘Every day may not be good… but there’s something good in every day.’ And do we ever need to believe that because it’s more gospel truth! Every day won’t go completely smooth, because that’s just the way life is. But in every day there will be stuff and times that are good, and we must look for those good things and times instead of merely concentrating on the problems and difficult moments. That’s one of the reasons why so many of us live unhappy lives, we overlook the many good things and focus on the few bad or troublesome ones. 

If you don’t believe me, then try this. Get pen and paper and write down the good things and the bad things that happen to you. I’m sure that you’ll find more good things than bad, but unfortunately you focus more on the bad ones. And friends, if that’s the way we behave, then we won’t live the abundant life that Christ died for us to live right down here on God’s great earth. He said that unlike the thief, or the evil one, ‘who only comes to steal and kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’(John 10:10) 

So, the only way to live that abundant life is to stay under Christ’s marvellous umbrella, in peace, LOVE and joy, spreading His word, while living a life that glorifies Him, so that others can come to Him and find salvation, which we all so desperately need, if we ever hope to see God! Much LOVE!

…in Christ alone…is salvation found… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​    

Today’s Scrip-Bit   4 June 2022 Matthew 19:26.

04 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew 19:26.        With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Oh mih people, our friend, lazy Saturday, is with us again. Thanks be to God! (smile) And Saturdays are important to our way of life because it gives us a chance to wind down from the exhaustive work week that most of us endure, with the endless running around to get to the babysitters and then to work on time, through traffic jams morning and evening. And the rushing about does take a toll on all our faculties; mental, physical and emotional. So, Saturday comes along like a breath of fresh, clean spring air, where we don’t need to rush out, and can mostly relax and ever so gratefully say ‘Thank the Lord! Blessed be His glorious Name!’ 

Now, having raised our hats to Saturday, (smile) let’s see what quotes our friend Anselm sent us this past week, as he aspires to inspire us for a better tomorrow. And the first one says that ‘Positive anything is better than negative nothing.’ And I don’t think we can really find fault with that sentiment because positivity is always better than negativity. For even in times of negativity, in sad or unfortunate circumstances that we don’t cause or control, like the pandemic and unrest in our streets that we’ve been recently experiencing, it’s the positive thoughts and attitudes that help us to get through them in one piece. 

But to be positive about anything means that you must have a strong foundation, and an assured reason for that positive mindset. That’s why doubters are very seldom positive, they are unable to constantly visualize a good outcome. I guess we can liken positivity to our Christian faith, because that’s what it’s based on; the positive, reassuring and encouraging and solid foundation of Christ Jesus. As the Good Book tells us: ‘Now faith is the substance (realization) of things hoped for, the evidence (conviction) of things not seen.’ (Heb. 11:1) 

Yes friends, we are positive and have faith in Jesus although we’ve never seen Him in the flesh, but we’ve heard enough about Him and His marvellous works and have enough personal experience to know that He is faithful and true and that we can believe wholeheartedly in Him. So being positive is a good thing, because it usually draws positive stuff to you, but the best positive situation we can ever come into is belief and faith in Jesus Christ. 

Then the next quote solemnly declares: ‘Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.’ And that’s oh so true, because we can never accomplish anything until we take action, get moving with whatever it is we hope to accomplish. It’s like the saying; ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained.’ If you don’t get up off your fanny and begin working on your project, it will never be accomplished. 

The first thought should always be, ‘let’s do this, let me try,’ because it’s only your actual action or trying that will even get it started, much less accomplished. And the second thought should be, ‘I can do this!’ That positive mindset is necessary to stir up your passion and enthusiasm. And if you’re a Christian, then even better, you can say: ‘I can do this through Christ who strengthens me!’ Yes my fellow believers, we can do anything that’s within Christ’s will for us. 

And I think I might have gotten ahead of myself here, (smile) because the next quote deals with exactly what we just said. ‘Virtually nothing is impossible in this world if you just put your mind to it and maintain a positive attitude.’ There is one drawback to that quote though, it leaves Jesus out of the situation, and only if Jesus is involved is ALL things possible. There are some things you can put your mind to as much as possible and maintain as much of a positive attitude as you desire, but you still won’t do them, unless you are focused on Jesus, because it’s only through HIM, that ALL things are possible! 

As He said in Matthew 19, in answer to the disciples’ amazement, when talking to them about the difficulty of a rich person entering heaven, comparing it to a camel going through the eye of a needle. ‘With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.’ (Matt. 19:26) And so it should be if God is the Creator and Controller of the universe! And if He is as omnipotent, omniscient and omni-present as we claim, then nothing should be impossible to Him! 

And just for our info, the prophet Jeremiah said it in his prayer, long before Jesus did. ‘Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard (difficult) for thee.’ (Jer. 32:17) And whether we believe it or not,  that’s the gospel truth my people! (smile) 

That brings us to the last quote for today, which wisely advises: ‘My dear friend, clear your mind of can’t.’ Yes mih bredrin, that’s indeed wise advice, especially if you are a believer in Christ Jesus, for remember what we just said, ‘All things are possible to and through Christ!’ But even if you are not a believer, you definitely don’t need the word ‘can’t’ in your vocabulary because it just wreaks of negativity and automatically introduces that negative tendency, that tendency to doubt, to be anxious and not believe that you can do what you are contemplating, or handle the situation before you. 

And once that negative connection of doubt is introduced, it begins eating up your passion and enthusiasm and your assurance that you are able. And without that positive thought, ‘I am well able,’ your ability to accomplish whatever it is will be compromised, because that terrible word ‘can’t’ has brought in thoughts of possible failure instead of success. 

And just one more thought before we go on this glorious, sunshiny but somewhat cool Saturday morning. (smile) Let’s all remember that failure is never failure, failure is never accomplished until we stop trying. So, the thought for today is to always keep on keeping on, to get back up every time you fall, never stop trying, for when you stop trying, that’s when you die, both spiritually and emotionally, and eventually physically! Much LOVE!

…life was meant to be lived positively…and you can’t get any more positive than…living for Christ…  

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   1 June 2022 Mark 4:40.

01 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Mark 4:40.      And he said unto them, why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 

Here it is my people, a somewhat cloudy and rainy first day of June, the sixth month of the year! Can you imagine it, May, which just recently begun, is now finished and we are into June? Brother! The days sure are flying past with speedy wings. The good thing though is that it brings us into some good summer weather! Glory be! But we must realize that the summer days fly faster than the winter ones and try to put the brakes on the next couple of months, because if they fly just as fast as the earlier part of the year, then we’ll soon be back to winter again. And that, we surely want to forestall for as long as possible. (smile) 

But come what may, let’s remember, as Bruh Paul so nicely puts it in his letter to the Philippians: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!’ (Phil. 4:13) And that’s the gospel truth my people! Once whatever we need to do is in God’s will, then we will be given the wherewithal to do it. Our part is simply to believe it, then put it into action. Unfortunately though, both believing and activating our belief is not always easy, and it’s only as we go through the tough times of life, which we all face at some time or other, that we are able to understand and acquire the right perspective. 

Now, I do believe that the following passages of scripture, where the Good Book opened this morning, were meant for us to read and ponder upon and bring some measure of reassurance to our weary souls. In it, Isaiah talks about ‘Thanksgiving for God’s mercies,’ something we certainly ought to give on a regular basis. So please read with me. ‘And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedest me. 

Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall we draw water out of the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings (deeds, works) among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.’ (Is. 12:1-6) 

And that’s the indisputable truth my brethren! The Holy One of Israel, the Lord God Jehovah is indeed mighty in our midst! Who else is like unto Him eh? NOBODY! That’s why we ought to LOVE and treasure Him, glorify, worship and exalt His Holy Name! Continually sing His praises, for He alone is our salvation and our strength. Yes, He gave us His salvation through the sacrificial death of His Son Jesus Christ, which atoned for our sins, paid our sin debt in full! For that alone we ought to bow down and worship Him, glorify Him like there’s no tomorrow. And it’s only because of Jesus’ death that we have the option for a tomorrow, and a glorious one at that! 

So why do so many of us talk one thing and then do another eh? Why do we talk about faith and then when the time comes to put into action, to prove it, we falter and disappoint our Saviour eh? And I’m talking particularly about the last couple of years when the pandemic and much unrest in the streets were plaguing our world. Where was the church, the supposed body of Christ eh? Where were we the supposed faithful believers, the mighty Christians? Definitely not as front and centre as we ought to have been. Too many of us believers were tested and found to be wanting. 

And why was that eh? That’s because we don’t truly believe, we still have too much of the world in us, we don’t fully trust and surrender ourselves to His will, And until we do that, whatever faith we claim to have will be useless. Oh, we do talk a good talk, but when the chips start to fly, and we are required to come up strong, to come up higher for Christ, we run and hide. No wonder one of Jesus’ continual comments was on faith. Some about great faith, some about little faith, some about no faith. But He always homed in on the faith of those around Him. 

And this scripture is possibly one of the best examples of that. We talking about the time Jesus and the disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee and a terrible storm arose, battering their boat until it even began to take in water. Obviously, the disciples were afraid, but Jesus slept calmly on a pillow in the stern of the boat through all the commotion. 

When they couldn’t stand it anymore, they awakened Him, saying: ‘Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this (who can this be), that even the wind and the sea obey him.’ (Mark 4:38-41) 

Oh my people, it could only be the one who created the winds and the seas in the first place. Who else would they listen and react to so quickly eh? And though we decry the disciples for their lack of faith back then, many of us are no better right now, when we know even more than they did. And I like how the scholars describes the passages of scripture from Mark 4:35 to 5:43. 

They say: ‘Jesus takes His disciples from the classroom to the laboratory. Having just taught them that God’s power will cause His kingdom to grow to worldwide proportions and influence  (4:30-32 – the parable of the mustard seed), Jesus now performs four miracles that demonstrate this divine might. God’s power is seen in overcoming (1) the danger of a storm (4:35-41); (2) demons in a victim possessed (5:1-20); (3) disease in a woman physically ravished (5:21-34); and (4) the death of a little girl (5:35-43).’ 

And that’s exactly what’s been happening to us in these last troublesome years. Jesus has taken us from the classroom to the laboratory to test our book knowledge in real life. Remember friends, we were born for a time such as this; meaning that we were born to shine bright in this particular time. So please let’s pick it up nuh. I truly believe that none of us have yet realized our full potential, which means that even the best of us can do better. And remember, since we’ve been bought with the precious blood of Christ, that we are no longer working for ourselves, but for Him. That ought to stir up some passion and fire in our souls and bellies. (smile) 

Now, for those of us who are indeed trying, let’s go home declaring (yeahhh!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus. Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’ 

Please note too, that if we endure until the very end, then that future will be even more glorious than we can ever ask or imagine! Now, that ought to put a smile on our faces and give us cause to endure right to the end. (smile) Much LOVE!

…a little faith is better than no faith at all…for without faith…it is impossible to please God… 

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