The Overwhelming Importance of LOVE in a Believer’s Life, as well as in the World!

20 Nov 2024 Leave a comment

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

John 14:15.       If you LOVE me, keep my commandments.

Then it was Wednesday; the middle day of our work week, where we endeavour to catch our second wind, and with a flourish, drive on towards the finish line on Friday! And I know that’s much easier said than done, but as disciples of Christ, we need to rise above the mundane challenges of the world, for that’s why we’re imbued with his Holy Spirit and all the other benefits we reap when we become a child of God and joint heir with Christ. And I believe we need a bit of reawakening and remembrance from the Word to encourage us; namely Bruh David’s words from Psalm 103 – Bless the Lord’s Holy Character. 

So please pray with me: ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.’ (Ps. 103: 1-5) 

Ah friends, those are words and sentiments we should never forget, but always have first place in our hearts, souls, bodies and minds, for it’s through the Lord’s grace and mercy that we have all the good things and benefits we enjoy. And let’s remember those things don’t come for free; they have been bought with an enormous price, the death of Christ Jesus! So we cannot afford to take them for granted, but are expected, as followers of Christ to be obedient to His will and His commandments. 

Remember His words: ‘If you LOVE me, keep my commandments.’ (John 14:15) It’s as simple as that my fellow believers. If we truly LOVE Jesus, then we will keep His commandments. Unfortunately though, it seems that a lot of us don’t truly LOVE him, for we are not keeping His commandments, otherwise, our world would not be in the shambles and total chaos that it’s currently in. And the sad thing is that our world is lacking only one thing; that’s LOVE! And Jesus told us several times about the importance of LOVE in discipleship, as well as in life on a whole. 

Listen up to these instances. ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye LOVE one another; as I have LOVED you, that ye also LOVE one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have LOVE one to another.’ (John 13:34-35). Then later on He reiterates: ‘This is my commandment, That ye LOVE one another, as I have LOVED you.’ (John 15:12) And even after that, Jesus still tries to implant the immense value of LOVE into our puny, stubborn minds, when He again says: ‘These things I command you, that ye LOVE one another.’ (John 15:17) 

And even John makes it plain in his fist epistle that LOVE should be first place in our hearts, when he writes: ‘For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning; that ye should LOVE one another.’ (1 John 3:11) But we are obviously not following Christ’s commandment because LOVE is the thing most lacking in our churches and our world as a whole. It’s so sad that the negative things like hate, anger, greed, jealousy, debauchery, etc. etc. are the ruling emotions in our world, with true LOVE running a pitiful last. And even when we do talk about LOVE, it’s merely a form of lust or expediency and not true brotherly LOVE. 

Yet, despite al of our disobedience and idol worship, and putting God anywhere but first place in our lives, we still arrogantly expect to reap the many wonderful benefits His LOVE provides. And that’s bold facedness at its zenith! And I guess we should continue with these verses of Psalm 103, which make things a lot plainer. 

‘The Lord executeth righteousness and judgement for all that are oppressed. He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous (abounding) in mercy ( lovingkindness). He will not always chide (strive): neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. 

For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy (lovingkindness) toward them that fear (reverence) him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear (reverence) him. For he knoweth our frame (understands our constitution); he remembereth that we are dust.’ (Ps. 103:6-14) 

Oh friends, Bruh David is trying to show us the many benevolent attributes of our great God, as well as the greatness of His mercy by not punishing us according to our sins, but instead removing them as far as the east is from the west, and also the greatness of His compassion on un us, as a father pitieth his children. 

Then he continues: ‘As for man, his days are as grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more (it is not remembered). But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear (reverence) him, and his righteousness unto children’s children; To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.’ (Ps. 103:15-18) 

Yes my fellow saints, the Lord’s a wonderful God, but in the long run it’s to those who reverence Him and keep His commandments. We won’t be rewarded for our blatant disobedience and sinfulness, although we will be forgiven if we repent and change the direction of our hearts. So all the sinful nonsense we’re carrying on with in this world, will only bring us hellfire and damnation, and eventual separation from Almighty God. But for those of us who choose to do our best to follow Christ, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Wednesday Wail. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘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!’ 

And if we endure right down to the end, then it’s been promised that that future will be even more glorious than we can ask or imagine. So, see you there! Much LOVE!

…only fools knowingly follow Satan…when it’s obvious…that Christ is the Answer…

Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien

Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 November 2020 Psalm 51:10.

25 Nov 2020 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 51:10.     Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right (steadfast) spirit within me. 

Winter, winter, winter! Yes, the snow, the ice and the cold, dreary days seem to be settling in for the long haul. But, as with ALL things in this world, we can handle the winter with kid’s gloves because of the presence of Christ Jesus in our lives! Wow! Jesus; the ONE and ONLY Superstar there is, who imbues His followers with divine strength to do ALL that they need to do in this mish-mash world! How wonderful He is when you come to really know Him my brethren!  

But on a serious note, yuh know, this could be one of the roughest winters ever yes; what with the Covid-19 pandemic in full swing, and the flu season also upon us, then because of the cold dreary weather we also have our seasonal friend SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) dropping in for a friendly visit too. That’s the type of depression related to the change in seasons, mostly starting in the fall and running through the winter months, just sapping your energy and making you even less effective than normal.  

So instead of one kind of depression, that aligned with the virus, we now have two kinds to deal with in the upcoming months. Brother! And who says that 2020 was going to get easier eh? And the sad part is that with all the depression and mental health problems we currently have in our world, we’re still not taking them seriously enough and doing enough to correct them. If possible, the stigma, the fear, and negative emotions about mental problems and depression are becoming stronger.  

What a bam bam eh! We’ve supposedly come so far in our evolution, our enlightenment, but yet still we don’t pay serious attention to the things that really matter and can cause widespread problems in no time at all. It’s all about technology in this modern world, but we don’t notice that that same technology is causing most of our problems, especially the mental ones. Through our technology we’re spewing out reams of hatred, lies, resentment, body shaming, mental abuse and what have you!  

Unfortunately, instead of using the technology for good and useful purposes, it’s been used for way too many negative things. So what’s the answer eh? I really don’t know nuh, but an interesting passage of scripture in the Good Book just caught my eye. It’s the Lord talking through the prophet Ezekiel to His people Israel of new things in their future after all their idol worship and turning away from the Lord, the God of their forefathers.  

‘For I will take you from among the heathen (nations), and gather you out of all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh.’ (Ezek. 36:24-26)  

Oh my people, do we ever need such cleansing very badly in these idolatrous and wicked times! Times when we have turned away from God in droves, even to the point of trying to drive Him completely out of our society. But we’re such a foolish people, with all of our supposed learning, we still don’t realize that God will not allow Himself to be driven from the universe and the people He created with such LOVE and wonder! He will allow us the free will to play around with idols and other supposed gods, but His glory, majesty and superiority, He will NEVER give up, no matter how hard we try.  

Why can’t we learn from the fall of Satan eh? The archangel Lucifer who was more powerful than any of us mortals tried to overthrow God, and where did that foolish pride and desire leave him eh? Unsavourily kicked out of heaven, to be forever seething in hell, suffering in the hot bowels of the earth! That’s what our tomfoolery will also get us my brethren!  

And I must be a real simpleton yes, for when I see the number of times Israel turned away from God, suffered for her disobedience, then ran back to Him, I can’t fathom why we won’t do the same thing. It’s obvious that our way isn’t working, and He’s promised to take us back anytime we repent and seek Him sincerely. So what’s the holdup eh, what’s stopping us from a revival in God’s goodness and grace eh? Foolish pride, I guess. And the desire to do it our way, even though it’s just drowning us in the mire of sin and evil.  

But friends, the whole thing is not rocket science nuh. And we have the perfect example of it in Bruh David finally coming to heel. Remember after his dalliance with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah, he thought he was on easy street, but a year or so later the prophet Nathan draped him up over his obnoxious and abominable iniquities? What did Bruh David do eh? Without hesitation, He admitted his sin, repented, and threw himself upon the mercy of God.  

Hear his plea: ‘Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy LOVING-kindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightiest be justified (be found just) when thou speakest, and be clear (blameless) when thou judgest.’ (Ps. 51:1-4)  

Oh friends, it might not be easy, but it’s simple! We have all sinned and come very short of God’s glory, and we all know it full well, so where is the wisdom and the backbone it takes to come before a forgiving God and say I’m sorry eh? That’s why the Lord called Bruh David His friend and a man after His own heart! Bruh David never turned away from Him, even when the going got real rough, and was always quick to repent when his evil doings were found out.  

Now listen to his sincere plea, what he desired most of the Lord, as he says in the middle of Psalm 51. ‘Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. 

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right (steadfast) spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free (generous) spirit. Then I will teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.’ (Ps. 51:7-13)  

Oh yes, I know Bruh David was good with words, but even the most uneducated could ask God to wash him and cleanse him and forgive him. And friends, until we, in this current generation come to our senses and return to God, in the same droves in which we turned away from Him, our world will be forever awash in disaster, calamity, sin, evil, terrible inhumanity and ungodliness.  

So for the comparative few of us who know the truth, and it has set us free, let us now go home telling all and sundry of our wonderful positing in Christ Jesus, through our Wednesday Wail.  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!’  

And we know that if we endure to the end, that future will be even more glorious than we can ask or imagine!  Much LOVE! 

…only a real revival in godliness…can save our world… 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 31 July 2017 2 Chronicles 31:21.

31 Jul 2017 Leave a comment

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

2 Chronicles 31:21.   And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.

And then it was Monday! Yeh friends, it’s that day that we all LOVE to hate, because it means we’ve got to get up out of our warm, comfortable beds at some ungodly hour and get ready to go to work many miles away, facing terrible traffic jams all along our route. It might even mean having to awaken the children and get them to the baby sitter before you even head out on your treacherous journey. 

And yes friends, getting on the road these days is nothing but a nightmare; you never know what will happen with the numerous cars on the insufficient roads and the numerous poor drivers unwisely speeding and weaving in and out of the backed up traffic. So there is some amount of reasonable and expected trepidation come Monday morning, but that’s how the society is set up, that’s how we make our living. 

And very few of us are blessed to have it any other way. So we just have to do what the saying says: ‘grin and bear it, and do what we have to do to survive and eventually prosper. But my brethren, whenever we’re walking hand in hand with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, that is exactly what will happen. 

But it’s not always easy to get moving early in the morning, that’s why we have an antidote for those Monday difficulties, called our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, which gets our adrenaline flowing and causes us to rise to the task. So let’s belt it out now in unison nuh, with plenty enthusiasm and heartfelt sincerity. 

‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. 

We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. 

But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. 

Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ 

Ah mih breddren, the enthusiasm was somewhat lacking, but our choirmaster, Jesus, saw the hungry hope and expectant faith in our hearts and was reassured by it. So now that our motors are humming, let’s go out and work diligently and excellently for Jesus nuh, because that’s what He expects of His followers. 

And we have a wonderful example in our Bit of how doing all we do for the Lord with a sincere heart, eventually benefits us. The Good Book tells us: ‘And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the Lord his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.’ (1 Chr.31:20-21)

Those words refer to King Hezekiah when he turned Judah away from idol worship and restored them to worshipping the God of their fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And please notice my brethren, his heart was faithful in all he did and the Lord caused him to prosper. He will do likewise with us if we faithfully seek and serve Him. 

And another interesting example of diligence in the Lord’s work is that of Nehemiah when he was rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. His enemies Sanballat and Tobiah tried to tear him away from it, so it would languish and they could destroy him. But Nehemiah had God’s Spirit working in him. 

‘And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you. Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort, and I answered them after the same manner.’ (Neh.6:3-4) 

Yes my fellow believers, that’s how the enemy will try to distract us from doing the Lord’s work. In the meanwhile though, Nehemiah had half the workers armed on the wall prepared to fight, while the other half worked. (Neh.4:13-18) 

And wonder of wonders: ‘So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul (Aug –Sept), in fifty and two days. And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all of the heathen that were about us saw these things, they were much cast down in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was wrought of (accomplished by) our God.’ (Neh.6:15-16) 

And who says our great and wonderful, omnipotent and magnificent God doesn’t work in wonderful ways eh! 

And we’ll end with this wise and wonderful verse from Cousin Sol. ‘Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.’ (Prov.16:3) Yeh friends, when we commit our work to God, our plans prosper! That’s wisdom of eternal proportions! Much LOVE!

…integrity…sincerity…diligence…excellence…faithfulness…are some of the character traits EVERY Christian ought to have…

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 July 2015 Psalm 46:1‏

04 Jul 2015 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 46:1.  God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in trouble.    

HAPPY  4TH  OF  JULY  U.S. OF A!

Happy Birthday U.S of A! Yes Friends, the greatest nation the world has ever seen is 239 years old today!

Unfortunately, those United States of America are no longer the powerhouse they used to be. Why, you ask? Simply because they have turned away from the God of their fathers, and have now embraced idol worship. When the thirteen States of the Union declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, the guiding light of their founding fathers was the Lord God Jehovah.

Several States had been founded because their occupants, like the Quakers, had been running away from religious persecution in Britain. And why do you think the U.S became such a powerful nation? Because the basis, the foundation for living was based on the Holy Word of God! And we all know that the Word of the Lord is immensely powerful, even to the moving of mountains, and those who sincerely follow it will become powerful too.

Sadly though, in the last few generations the tide has turned, and the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob no longer holds near as much sway in the U.S. as it once did. And as the godly character disappeared, so did the prosperity.  

God has been removed from the public schools and government offices, churches are no longer as sacred and important as they used to be. Consequently God is not being taught in the homes either, with the overall result being that God is now severely mocked in the U.S. and instead of being one of the most God-fearing countries in the world; it is now the world’s SIN capital.  

Ah Lord eh! When I hear of some of the sinful abominations that now occur in the U.S, I just have to shake my head in disgust. Even Lucifer, the prince of darkness, who now controls the country, must shake his head in wonder.

Anyway, we’re not here to condemn, but the pertinent facts must be stated without being glossed over. We are here rather to try and raise the level of godliness again, so that the once mighty nation can restore some of its lost glory, and bask once more in the sunshine of God’s grace and mercy. It is never too late to repent and return to God.

The ancient Jewish people knew that and were wise enough to repent when they had fallen by the wayside.  And America right now needs a massive inflow, a great upheaval of repentance and rejuvenation of godliness, so that Jesus’ LOVE Revolution can prevail, and the nation rise once again, like the phoenix from its ashes.

And not only for them, but for the whole world, because although they are not as mighty as they once were, unfortunately, still as they go, so does the rest of the world. So please pray sincerely, seriously and often for America to return to God’s fold, for we will all be blessed by that most significant occurrence.

Now let’s turn to our Bit. ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help (an abundantly available help) in trouble.’

Oh Friends, right there is such a statement of absolute and indisputable truth, that if we would only sincerely embrace it, our lives and our world would be so much better!

And the confident declaration of Bruh David, when he fled from the rebellion of his son Absalom as stated in Psalm 3 – a prayer of confidence in God, certainly corroborates our Bit. ‘Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God.   Selah. But thou, O Lord, art a shield for (around) me; my glory, and the lifter up of (the one who lifts up) mine head.’ (Ps.3:2-3)  

Oh my brethren, more absolute and indisputable truth! Bruh David wasn’t just making this up, writing beautiful poetry for poetry’s sake, but he was living the tough and terrible times. And his confidence in the God of his fathers was so great, that he continues thus. ‘I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill.   Selah.

I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.’ (Ps.3: 4-6)

What total confidence and trust in Almighty God! How many of us nowadays can say that with as much confidence and trust eh? Not too many. But Bruh David lived it Friends, and if we live for God too, then eventually we will be able to speak with such boldness and sincerity. And here is how he ends the Psalm. ‘Salvation belongeth unto the Lord: thy blessing is upon thy people.   Selah.’ (Ps.3:8)

Yes Friends, salvation is of God. It is His free gift through Jesus Christ, and His blessings are always upon those who LOVE, worship and adore Him!

Oh how I wish the once godly societies could repent and go back to serving and worshipping the One and ONLY TRUE GOD, Yahweh, then life here on earth would be so much better.

But not to worry, we’re working on it, slowly but surely, and one day, in the not too distant future, victory will be ours! God has promised it, and we all know that He faithfully keeps His promises, we just have to do our part, which is simply to live for Him and spread His Word.

Now let’s go home with the closing words of Psalm 46, from which our Bit is taken. The sons of Korah unabashedly declare: ‘The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.   Selah. Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.   Selah.’ (Ps.46:7-11)  

And all God’s people declared a loud and proud shout of ‘Praise be to the mighty God of Jacob! He is indeed our refuge and our strength, our salvation and our help in time of trouble!’

Yes Friends, now let’s go out and live it nuh, let’s go out and walk the talk. Much LOVE!

 …oh let the Lord be exalted in all the earth…so that the heathen can come to Him…in sincere repentance… and receive the wonderful gifts of salvation and eternal life…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 August 2014 Proverbs 2:5

22 Aug 2014 Leave a comment

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Proverbs 2:5. Then shalt thou understand the fear (reverential awe) of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.
 
Well hello there you beautiful people, it’s Friday, our favourite day!
 
And all hard working people joyfully declared: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday yes! Don’t know if I could have handled another day nuh. Praise the Lord! Thank Him ever so much that it’s Friday!’
 
Yes Friends, we have to be ever so thankful to our wonderful God for bringing us through another dark night into the glorious sunlight of His Son Jesus Christ and showering us with the many blessings He has planned for us today.
 
And while we’re in the praise and thanks mood, (smile) let’s chant our Friday Chant to give us a right perspective for the upcoming weekend. As one now, in unison and harmony. ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through.
 
Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.’
 
And yuh know what Friends? Once we get on the right track, then a whole new world opens up to us. A world of opportunity, of peace, LOVE, joy, grace, strength and faith like we’ve never imagined! That’s what knowing God does for the human spirit.
 
Like our Bit so wisely says: ‘Then shalt thou understand the fear (reverential awe) of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.’ 
 
And in today’s crazy, evil, ungodly, troubled world, do we ever need to hold Almighty God in reverential awe, and embrace His freedom releasing knowledge! For without that awe inspiring knowledge, we’d be just like a small boat being tossed to and fro on a big, stormy sea, that will eventually disintegrate and sink when we can no longer take the constant jamming and battering.
 
But my brethren, with the wisdom and knowledge of God circulating within us, we’ll instead stand steadfast and strong, like a big ship on those same stormy seas and successfully ride out the storm, ably guided by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
 
Yes Friends, as Cousin Sol so eloquently says in Proverbs 4: ‘Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline (turn away) from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: LOVE her, and she shall keep thee.
 
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to (place on) thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.’ (Prov.4:4-9)
 
And isn’t that the gospel truth? It surely is!
 
And furthermore, re the subject of wisdom, James cautions us: ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not (without reproach); and it shall be given to him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering (not doubting).
 
For he that wavereth (doubts) is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.’ (James 1:5-8)
 
And the scholars have an interesting take on verse 5: ‘1:5. This verse is not a blanket promise of wisdom for any situation. In the context of life’s trials, it probably speaks of the believer being granted (1) wisdom as to the reason for his trials and (2) wisdom to endure them.’
 
But sadly my people, the truth is that nowadays too many of us are either double minded, wishy washy in our attitude towards God, and thus unstable. Or if not, then we’re single minded in the foolish pursuit of the lust and idol worship of the things of the world, and have little or no regard whatsoever for Jehovah God.
 
That my Friends is an untenable position, for eventually you will pay a whopping price for your gross disobedience and lack of reverence to your Creator, even to the point of facing eternal separation from Him…and that’s for all eternity. And believe me, that is the worst thing that can ever happen to a soul, since that means being eventually cast into the lake of fire with Beelzebub and all his other evil and foolish minions. (Rev.20:10)
 
Now I’m sure none of us wants that to happen to us or to anyone close to us. But the only way to avoid that judgement is by sincerely embracing the ONE TRUE and LIVING GOD; He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as soon as possible, preferably RIGHT NOW, for none of us knows when we will be called to the other side.
 
And if we continue to put it off, to vacillate and make excuses, we could end up being like the rich fool in Jesus’ parable. ‘And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.
 
But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.’ (Luke 12:19-21)
 
Therefore my brethren, on this crucial Friday morning in August 2014, I implore us to take a serious look at our personal relationship with Almighty God, and make sure that we are properly aligned in His court, otherwise crapaud smoke we pipe, we’ll end up eternally separated for Him.
 
And that’s definitely not heavenly wisdom! Much LOVE!
 
…to have ears…and not listen to what God says…is the wisdom of a fool…  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 October 2013 Psalm 135:15

02 Oct 2013 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 135:15.    The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.
 
Oh my wonderful Friends in Christ, in light of something I have to share, I thought it would be an excellent idea to open with this hymn of praise.
 
So please sing with me. ‘What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry, Everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry, Everything to God in prayer.’  
 
And yuh better believe my people, that that’s the God-awesome truth! We suffer so much pain and grief because of our reticence, for whatever reason to take our problems to the ONLY PERSON who can truly handle them – Almighty God.
 
And on reading this poem from Dr. Robert H. Schuller’s Hour of Power Devotional, I just had to share it. It’s titled, quite appropriately ‘What a Friend!’
 
And it so rightly and encouragingly declares: ‘You have never failed, Lord, to be my one, essential, intimate friend. When I was: Lonely in striving – you encouraged me. Lonely in struggling – you lifted me. Lonely in serving – you supported me.
 
Lonely in suffering – you comforted me. Lonely in sinning – you forgave me. Lonely in sinking – you renewed me. Lonely in succeeding – you rejoiced with me. What a friend I have in Jesus! Thank you, Lord. Amen.’
 
Oh mih people, mih people, doesn’t that just hit the right spot this morning! Because as Dr. Schuller so wisely and rightly says, Jesus is our one, essential, intimate Friend, who’s never yet failed us! And the glorious thing is that He never will!
 
The problem though is that too many of us refuse to believe it, and instead look to the foolish things of the world for guidance and solace. But Friends, please remember what our Bit so wisely says: ‘The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.’
 
And there is definitely no doubting that! For what can man do that God cannot change or do even better eh? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! So it’s quite time we wake up and smell the roses and stop allowing the things of the world to control our lives.
 
And I’m going to make some of us happy by announcing that this is definitely the last day for this particular Bit. (smile) And hopefully, by now, the truth contained therein, will have sunk into our hearts, heads and souls and brought us to the reality of the ineptitude of the world situation, and the fact that only Jesus can alleviate it.
 
So let’s get into this last scripture which comes from Jeremiah, as expected, speaking of God and the idols. ‘Hear ye the word which the Lord speaketh unto you, O house of Israel: Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen (Gentiles), and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.
 
For the customs of the people are vain (futile): for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck (decorate) it with silver and gold; they fasten it with nails and hammers, that it move not.
 
They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good. Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O Lord; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.’ (Jer.10:1-5)
 
Oh mih breddren, what invaluable words; words of wisdom, power and truth! Nothing that man makes can get us to heaven, not even close! So why do we insist on hankering and running after the worthless and valueless things of the world eh, when the things of heaven are so much more important and worthwhile?
 
Let’s hope that this series of messages on the foolishness of worshipping idols has really hit home, and has at least lessened, if not completely cut out our idol worship.
 
Now here’s a word from the scholars. ’10:1-16. Considering the impotence of the false gods and the emptiness of false religion, men surely ought to worship the omnipotent Lord and King of the nations. God’s name, which is great, reveals His character and reputation. The term ‘name’ became a title for God (cf. Dan. 9:18-19; Amos 2:7; 9:12) and was applied in the New Testament to Christ (Acts 4:12; 5:41; 3 John 7).’
 
And as always Friends, it’s in our best interest to check out the references provided by the scholars, since they only improve our understanding of the Word. And we’ll close with this invigorating and uplifting scripture, which ably supports the scholars’ note.
 
‘But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation. Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth, even they shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens.
 
He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by his discretion.’ (Jer.10:10-12)
 
And all God’s people declared a long, loud and sincere: ‘Praise the Lord! Amen! And again we say, Amen!’ Much, much LOVE, my fellow believers in Christ!
 
…please remember…whatever keeps us away from God…that’s an idol…and its influence should either be completely eliminated…or at least greatly reduced…so that we have more time for God…
 
 
 
 
 
 

Today”s Scrip-Bit 30 September 2013 Psalm 135:15.

30 Sep 2013 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 135:15.     The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.
 
Oh Friends, I’ll say it quietly. Today is Monday, another work week beckons. And surprise, surprise, the response I receive is fairly good! There’s no overt resentment or whining, with a smattering of enthusiasm, but the majority portray a kind of resigned reaction in the shrug of their shoulders. Like they’re thinking, I can’t beat them, so I might as well join them. 
 
And though my people, it’s an improvement over our past reactions, it’s still not good enough for followers of Jesus. The true followers of Jesus ought to be well rested and rearing to go out and spread His Word and His Holy Name! (smile) Anyway, I know that reaction will come in time, for it’s all about growing, about maturing in Christ. So until that awesome time arrives, let’s keep on singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn to raise the adrenalin and charge our batteries.
 
As one, loud and proud voice now, let’s sing: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together.
 
We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour.
 
We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’
 
Okay Friends, our engines are revving and we’re ready for battle! So let’s get straight into our Bit, because I have plenty interesting scripture and scholarly thoughts to share this morning. (smile) And I hear the moans and groans in the background.
 
But yuh know, if it was celebrity news and other people’s business, there would be nary a groan, instead everybody would sit up and show interest. And then, when our God accuses us of idol worship, of not paying sufficient attention to Him and His Word, we get all upset and claim it’s not true.
 
Anyway, here’s our Bit: ‘The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.’ Now that, we all know to be indisputable truth! However, though we might know it intellectually, our disobedient and rebellious souls refuse to accept it, as our actions prove each and every day.
 
But listen to this rich and powerful scripture, the words of our wonderful and ever-LOVING, but no-nonsense God, as spoken through His prophet Isaiah. As expected, it deals with the folly of idolatry and the Lord’s promise to have His Spirit continually watch over Israel.
 
 ‘Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have I not told thee from that time, and have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no (other) God (Rock); I know not any. They that make a graven image are all of them vanity (useless); and their delectable (precious) things shall not profit; and they are their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.
 
Who hath formed a god, or molten (moulded) a graven image that is profitable for nothing? Behold, all his fellows (companions) shall be ashamed: and the workmen, they are of (mere) men: let them all be gathered together, let them stand up; yet they shall fear, and they shall be ashamed together.’ (Is.44:8-11)
 
Ah mih people, strong and truthful words indeed! And the prophet goes on to ridicule the makers of idols in God’s name, up to verse 20. Please read it, so you can get the full discourse.
 
Now hear the scholars take on all that. ’44:9-20. This expose of idolatry is the most taunting in all of the Bible. The prophet Isaiah, serving as the spokesman of Yahweh, reveals the utter foolishness of polytheistic pagan idolatry. The graven image (carved idol) is called vanity (nothing). Delectable things refers to the adornment of idols with gold, silver and precious stones.
 
The prophet announces that the idols themselves are their own witnesses, (whereas man is God’s witness). They see not, nor know. Therefore these inanimate objects are profitable for nothing. Isaiah then berates the workmen (artisans) for designing and constructing their idols in the figure of a man. He exposes the basic fallacy of idolatry, a god made in the image of man. Thus the prophet’s criticism of one who would worship an idol carved from the same tree that he would use for firewood is that he feedeth on ashes.’
 
Oh Friends, please, please, let’s ensure today that we’re not feeding on ashes, or doing any of those things idolaters are supposed to do. And remember that the worshipping of idols doesn’t only include statues and graven images, but refers to ANY and EVERYTHING which we consider more important than God, and spend so much time on or in, with little or no regard to spending time with the Most High God Jehovah!
 
So please let the Word and the Holy Spirit be our guides today, as we go out to join the enemy in battle on Jesus’ behalf this Monday morning, the last day of September 2013. It’s the only way to disprove the contention that we’re idol worshippers. Much LOVE!
 
…what’s the purpose of worshipping inanimate, immobile man made objects…who can do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING for us…especially when there’s already a powerful, merciful, forgiving, LIVING GOD in existence…
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 29 September 2013 Psalm 135:15

29 Sep 2013 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 135:15.    The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.
 
Oh Friends, on this glorious, but a tad chilly morn, the last Sunday in September 2013, I think we should begin our message with a hymn of praise to our wonderful God, Jehovah. So please sing this old, but ever timely hymn with me.
 
‘Praise Him, praise Him, all ye little children, God is LOVE, God is LOVE; (repeat). LOVE Him, LOVE Him, all ye little children, God is LOVE, God is LOVE; (repeat). Thank Him, thank Him, all ye little children, God is LOVE, God is LOVE; (repeat) 
 
Oh yes my people, there’s no better way to start our day than with some thanks and praise to our ever-LOVING God! Now let’s hope that all of us who are able to, will get out some time today and fellowship with other believers, for we need that strength and reassurance that fellowshipping brings.
 
That’s why the Lord gave us ONE day each week, regardless of which one you choose, to get together and worship and celebrate His Holy Name. That’s a chance to get away from the evil world and all the ungodly things it has to offer and filter some godly stuff into our precious souls with praise and worship. And all of that fits in very nicely with our Bit: ‘The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.’
 
Ah mih Friends, during our work week, we’re constantly bombarded by all the idolatrous things the world has to offer, so we’ve got to make the most use of the opportunity on Sundays, or whenever you celebrate the Sabbath, to put replenish our souls by reasserting that the Lord God Almighty is the ultimate mover and shaker in our lives. 
 
Now for the last two days, we’ve been looking at scripture that supports our Bit, and today we’ll continue to do the same. There’s plenty scripture on idolatry my Friends, and we need to get it all into us, so that we can resist the attractive siren call of the idols of the world.
 
And we’ll begin with Moses’ warning the Israelites. In Deuteronomy Chap. 4, from verses 15-27, he warns them about turning to the worship of idols when they go into the Promised Land and become prosperous and successful.  Letting them know that it would provoke God to anger, and He would then scatter them amongst the heathen.
 
‘And there shall ye serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell. But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.
 
When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy father which he sware unto them.’ (Deut.4:28-31) 
 
And Friends, we all know that the Israelites did not heed Moses’ warning and eventually turned to idol worship, not once, but several times. And God, being the faithful keeper of His promises, dutifully scattered them amongst the heathen. But by the same token, each time they woke up from their stupidity and repented, He was also faithful and merciful to restore them to their land and prosperity.
 
Oh my people, please remember that our God doesn’t change, and like the Israelites, we have a covenant with Him, through Christ Jesus to stay away from idols and graven images. However, like the Israelites again, we’re not fulfilling our part of the contract, but instead are heavily into worshipping the things of the world. No wonder so much calamity and disaster are currently plaguing our world. 
 
So it’s obvious that if we want to eliminate the catastrophe in our world, then WE have to change. We have to get out of the worldly rat race, CUT OUT the pre-eminence of worldly things in our lives. We can see from the Israelites’ example that all is not lost, that while there’s life, there’s always hope, for our God is a most merciful and forgiving Deity.
 
Thus, if we sincerely repent and turn from our evil ways, He will once again, enfold us in His LOVING embrace, but it all depends on us my people. We hold the key to both our earthly and eternal destiny, and His name is Jesus!
 
So let’s use it to unlock the door to righteousness, salvation and eternal life, like we’ve been taught nuh. It’s the only wise, sane and sensible thing to do, provided we want to save and improve our world. You don’t have to be rocket scientist to figure that our Friends.
 
So, though I have more stuff to share, taking into consideration our busy schedules and already overworked mental systems, (smile) I’ll leave us to ponder on those things that make for a godly and righteous life. Much LOVE!
 
…God’s world doesn’t change…He who is disobedient….will ALWAYS pay a stiff price for their disobedience…
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  

Today”s Scrip-Bit 26 February 2013 James 3:16

26 Feb 2013 Leave a comment

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

James 3:16.     For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
 
Ah Friends, yesterday has passed, and today is upon us again, with all of God’s new mercies and blessings! And His people offered a loud, ‘Thank you Lord! We praise and bless Your Holy Name!’ Unfortunately though, many of us in the Greater Toronto area won’t be pleased with it, because the weatherman has been warning us for the last few days about another terrible storm coming our way, starting this evening and continuing into sometime Wednesday. The temperature is supposed to be around 4 Celsius, so let’s hope that we are lambasted by rain, rather than the dreaded white stuff, as the weather people seem to expect. It only looks beautiful when it’s undefiled by man. Anyway, as true and strong believers in, and followers of Jesus Christ, we’ll handle it, with His most valuable help. I guess that means some breathing tests I’m supposed to have tomorrow will be cancelled again, like they were last week when the rather inclement weather struck. (smile) These days I’m so tired of the topsy-turvy weather that I’m not going out if it’s bad, unless it’s for some thing very, very important. The tests can wait. It’s not like I’m still sick and suffering from bronchial congestion like I was a few weeks ago. Anyway, enough of my unimportant problems, let’s turn to our Bit, which is way more important. It’s the same one as yesterday. ‘For where envying and strife is (self seeking exists), there is confusion and every evil work.’ And we saw yesterday that that was indeed truth of the highest order, especially in our modern, selfish, evil, godless, idol-worshipping world. Now yesterday we ended by saying that violence and strife are possibly the number one products of our present world. Ah Friends, the crime, violence, and widespread corruption within our nations are heart-rending. And here we’ll use T&T, Trinidad and Tobago as an example. It’s been recently reported that in the first forty something days of 2013, there have been sixty something murders in the twin island Republic of between 1 and 2 million people. And that’s without any major incidents from the recent Carnival celebrations, which the police said was the cleanest and least problematic in years. Now I’m not crying down T&T, just using it as a broad example because I have the figures, for violence is widespread all over the globe. And to bring that point home, right here in ole Toronto the Good, young people, all be it from 15 years old have recently been shooting up each other, in broad daylight too. In fact, young people less than 25 years of age have been recently committing most of the gun crimes. That certainly doesn’t say much about the respect that our young people have for the human life; very little for both theirs and others. And the sad part is that these shootings are over very petty stuff. Most of them can’t even spell their blooming names or even wash themselves properly, but they’re quick to pull a gun over some foolish, petty, imagined slight. Now we won’t even bother to talk about the U.S. which seems intent on returning to the days of the Wild West with its proliferation of legal guns and crimes. Please note that in several states guns are now been legally worn openly. Ah Lord eh! When is going to end? When are we going to understand and wake up to the fact that guns only foster violence? When are we going to truly believe the age-old adage, that he who lives by the sword, and also the gun, dies by the sword and the gun too? As Bruh Paul so rightly told the Corinthians: ‘For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying and strife, and divisions (dissensions), are ye not carnal (fleshly), and walk as men (live according to man)? (1 Cor. 3:3) Yes my brethren, we are indeed carnal, almost totally living by the dictates of man and not God. And unfortunately a carnal mind hinders the growth of the Holy Spirit in mankind. So please, for all our sakes, let’s see if we can’t bring our world around nuh, beginning with our immediate families, to what James describes as the optimal situation. ‘But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated (willing to yield), full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.’ (James 3:17) Oh my fellow believers, that’s the only way we’ll ever turn our strife filled world around and see our children’s children live in harmony, peace and LOVE, rather than anger, bitterness, resentment and the resultant strife that only leads to untold, untimely and unnecessary death and destruction. That’s the wisdom for this age. Much LOVE!…and the fruit of righteousness…is sown in peace…of them that make peace… (James 3:18)

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 September 2012 Psalm 90:12

15 Sep 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 90:12.       So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
 
Oh Friends, the ole fella’s starting late this forecasted cool and cloudy Saturday morning, plus he’s tired, although I got lots of rest, and I don’t have a clue about what I’m going to write. (smile) How is that for a start eh? But our God is a good and merciful Deity and has promised not to give us tasks to perform in His Name without the necessary tools to perform them. And I’ve had personal experience in this area for the last how many years, therefore I’m not worried about my lack of info, late start or tiredness. Remember that Jesus also promised that the Holy Spirit will tell us what to say when the time is right, be it in persecution or writing on His behalf. (Matt.10:19-20) So right now I’m depending on those promises, (smile) because I know that our God is faithful and won’t let me down in my time of need. Oh Friends, when is the nonsense going to end eh? When full scale war breaks out? I’m talking about the latest acts of violence against American life and property in the Muslim countries because of a reputedly derogatory video against the prophet Mohammed. Now who in their right senses would produce such a video and upload it to You Tube knowing the reverence lavished on that spiritual leader by his followers, and the fanaticism with which his name is protected, especially at a very sensitive time like this? The fellow in the middle of the production apparently said he wanted to stir up the pot. Well he certainly has! And if the reports are true that he’s a Coptic Christian, can you imagine the problems it will cause those poor folks who are already so badly treated and persecuted in the Muslim countries. Ah Lord eh! Some of us definitely need our heads examined yes, for the last thing we need is a religious backlash and upheaval in these already turbulent times. No wonder in his only Psalm, and therefore the first in the Psalter, Moses pleaded with God in our Bit: ‘So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom (gain a heart of wisdom).’ That video certainly wasn’t an act of wisdom. However he knows that his days are truly numbered now, and has taken to hiding. But as the old people say, you can run, but you can’t hide, and one day they’ll catch up to him and he’ll pay the price for his folly. What makes matter all the worse is that it was done on the anniversary of the bombing of the World Trade Centre. Don’t you think that gave more ammunition to the already highly motivated fanatics to remember and celebrate with more murderous behaviour? Now why is it that we need to know the number of our days before we can seek wisdom eh? That should be a priority from the very start! But I guess mankind likes to push the envelope right to the limit, then try to smarten up just before we reach the end of our leashes. But that ought not to be so my people. I guess the Lord doesn’t let us know our life span, because too many of us would live evil, ungodly lives, then at the last minute repent and plead for mercy. In Psalm 39, A prayer for self-understanding, Bruh David asks the same basic question, but in a slightly different manner. ‘Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am. Behold, thou hast made my days as a handbreadth; and mine age is nothing before thee: verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity (vapour).’ (Ps.39:4-5) But Friends, we don’t need to know how frail we are, just to know that we are indeed frail ‘…like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.’ (Ps.90:5-6) And like Moses lamented over his people Israel so long ago: ‘For they are a nation void of counsel, neither is there any understanding in them. O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end.’ (Deut.32:28-29) Moses could be talking about our society today, for this current version is so mired in evil and ungodliness that they don’t know whether they are coming or going. Sadly, many of those involved in all the lustful, idol worship and worldly activities that are now so prevalent, don’t have a clue as to what they really are involved in, and what their end will be like if they keep on living that worldly life. That’s because they have no real knowledge of their Creator, or believe the evolution theory, and thus think that they can get away with murder. But Friends, we believers know how wrong they are, and it’s our job to try and wake them up to the reality of the situation. Remember Jesus said that there’d be great joy in heaven over one repentant sinner, more than over ninety nine righteous ones, who need no repentance. (Luke 15:7) And James tells us that for every sinner we bring to repentance, we shall save a soul from death and also hide plenty sins. (James 5:20) So my brethren, please let’s not worry about the number of our earthly days, but instead behave as though today is the last one, and go out into this evil, ungodly world and behave appropriately; that is winning souls for Jesus, with the wisdom we have already received through the power of His Holy Spirit. That’s truly wisdom at its highest! Much LOVE!…Christians ought to revere Jesus as highly as other faiths revere their leaders…    P.S. Yuh see, Friends, the Lord was indeed faithful to me. The Bit’s not too late, and it does make some sense. (smile) Much LOVE!