Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 July 2014 Mark 5:36b

15 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Mark 5:36b.      Be not afraid, only believe. 

 

Oh Friends, it was one of those nights when the early to bed, early to rise situation was replaced by the late to bed, therefore late to rise tactic. And believe me, the rising wasn’t made any easier by the gentle riddim of the falling rain. (smile) But we all know that once there’s hungry hope and expectant faith, all things are possible.
 
And that’s worthily enhanced by our word from my almanac for today: ‘BELIEVE!’
 
Now that’s one of the strongest tools in man’s arsenal, my people! So much so that Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919), the 26th U.S. President, is reputed to have declared: ‘Believe and you’re halfway there.’
 
And there’s certainly a lot of truth in that statement, my brethren. The first action in any thing is usually one of belief; believing you can do it, or that the action is possible. As the Chinese Proverb also declares: ‘The longest journey begins with the first step.’
 
But Friends, we cannot take that first step until we believe that the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is worth journeying for, is worth sacrificing whatever is necessary to achieve it. And believe me Friends – yes it’s a day of belief – anything that’s worthwhile striving for, will include a fair amount of sacrifice.
 
But the elementary position in it all must first be belief. As we said earlier, belief that the thing is possible, and also belief that you can carry it out to a successful ending. That’s why our wonderful Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ placed so much emphasis in His teaching on belief.
 
Our Bit says it quite clearly: ‘Be not afraid, only believe.’
 
And a very important aspect of any situation is that once we believe, we need to keep on believing, for belief is not a one time, one and done thing, but a continuous process, especially where Jesus Christ is concerned!
 
Now let’s look at the situation under which Jesus spoke the words of our Bit. And it was indeed a red-letter day, one of the many in Jesus’ earthly sojourn. For on that day, as He was on His way to heal a ruler of the synagogue’s (Jairus) daughter, a woman in the huge crowd who had suffered from an unusual blood flow for 12 years, BELIEVED!
 
She had spent all her money on medical treatment, but instead of getting better, she just got worse. But that day, when she heard that Jesus was in town, she hurried down to see him. ‘For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.’ (Mark 5:28)
 
What belief, what faith my people! So she surged through the crowd and touched His clothing. ‘And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague (affliction).’ (Mark 5:29)
 
Yes Friends, the power of belief is a helluva thing, especially if that belief is in Jesus Christ!
 
And the scholars explain the woman’s possible reasoning. ‘5:28. Popular belief had it that a person’s dignity and power extend to what he wears.’
 
And in that light, her actions make complete sense. But what’s also interesting is that with all the crowd milling around Him, and everybody pushing and shoving to get a better position, Jesus knew immediately that something was amiss; ‘knowing in himself that virtue (power) had gone out of him, turned him about in the press (crowd), and said, Who touched my clothes?’ (Mark 5:30)
 
The disciples were obviously astounded by His question, as there were so many people around Him. ‘And he (Jesus) looked round about to see her that had done this thing. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague (affliction).’ (Mark 5:32-34).
 
Yes my people, faith can only come from belief! In fact, simply put, faith is strong belief!
 
And the scholars give us this interesting explanation of the woman’s behaviour. ‘5:33. The woman would be fearful of a rebuke, since her bleeding rendered her “unclean” according to Jewish law. She ought not to have been mixing in the crowd, nor reaching out purposely to touch a man. That she owned up indicates that her interest lay not only in physical health: she wanted to be right with Jesus Himself. Her faith, not the grasp of her hand, brought restoration to her.’
 
That brings up an interesting and oh so important question my brethren; how many of us sincerely want to be right with Jesus eh? So right that we fall on our knees and admit our wrongs?
 
Hopefully all believers, since it’s a rite of our faith, of our belief in Jesus! For now though, we’ll just leave that question and its answer to circulate in our souls, (smile) and continue with the story of that red-letter day.
 
The Good Book describes it thus: ‘While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master (Teacher) any further?’ (Mark 5:35)
 
And to that statement, the scholars declare: ‘5:35. Obviously, Jesus has intentionally let the time pass in which He might have preserved the girl’s life.’
 
And the Good Book continues: ‘As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.’ (Mark 5:36)
 
Yes Friends, all we have to do is BELIEVE!
 
So today, let’s get the ball rolling on belief nuh; particularly in strong belief in Jesus! And for those of us who already have that strong belief in Him, let’s go out and teach and show others by our words and actions how that belief plays such a great and wonderful part in our lives. For that’s what Jesus expects of His followers, of His true believers. In fact it’s our bounden duty as a true believer!
 
So let’s go out and do our duty, make Jesus proud of us by exhibiting belief and faith as strong as, if not stronger than the woman in the story with the issue of blood, thereby glorifying Him to all with whom we come into contact. Much LOVE!
 
…one can’t truly believe in Jesus…without it being showed in one’s actions and words… 
 
P.S. Oh my people, the lateness of the Bit was even further aggravated by my security company wanting to do an important update in the middle of my writing, then needing me to shut down the computer so that the update could take effect. It certainly was aggravating. But I guess that’s a part of the whole computer scene, and we just have to grin and bear it. Again, my humblest apologies. (smile) Much LOVE!

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 July 2014 Proverbs 15:5

14 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Proverbs 15:5.   A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth (keeps, accepts) reproof is prudent (sensible). 

Well, well, well! If it isn’t Monday, the day the workers like to hate! (smile) But Friends, we shouldn’t hate Mondays nuh, because it’s the opening of a new work week, which also means that there can be improvement opportunities galore for many of us.
 
We should be treating Mondays like we do Fridays – celebrating it with a ‘TGIM! Thank God it’s Monday! The new work week is here, and I’m going to go out and take advantage of it, just living and working for Jesus!’
 
Don’t laugh mih brethren, it is possible to build such a relationship with Mondays, but it’s just going to take time, possibly a long while to build that positive attitude, especially since we’re already mired in the negative Monday hating and bashing.
 
But until we do get our act together in that respect, we’ll stick with our tried and true Monday Morning Battle Hymn. Now let’s sing it like we really mean it; in loud voice and perfect harmony.  
 
‘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!’ 
 
Mama Mia! That certainly was a boisterous and harmonious rendition my people! Jesus even gave us a thumbs up sign! I guess we’re more prepared than we realized, to go out and do battle with the enemy in Jesus’ name.
 
And today we’ll wrap up this series of messages on this Bit. ‘A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth (keeps, accepts) reproof is prudent (sensible).’ And we’ll all agree that that’s a rather truthful statement.
 
So what other Proverbs can we find to corroborate it eh? Try these: ‘The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise. He that refuseth (disdains or ignores) instruction despieth his own soul: but he that heareth (heeds, accepts) reproof getteth understanding. The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.’ (Prov.15:31-33)  
 
Yes my people, the ability to both give and receive constructive criticism is a rather important aspect of our daily lives. And it all begins with the reverence of Almighty God, from whom the much desired attribute of wisdom flows. Unfortunately though, only a small portion of our society can handle constructive criticism.
 
And in this rather judgemental society of ours, we’re all quick to criticize, but then we rise up in supposedly godly anger, when we are criticized. As the old people would say: ‘do so, ent like so.’ (smile) And that’s gospel truth Friends, for we don’t like done to us, what we gladly do to others.
 
Anyway my fellow believers, none of us is perfect – that appellation can only be applied to Jesus – neither do we all think alike, so there will inevitably be differences of opinions, but we have to be very careful, sensitive and considerate in when and how we criticize, because strife is far too often caused by unwanted and unwarranted criticism.
 
Now hear these words of wisdom from Cousin Sol. ‘Whoso LOVETH wisdom rejoiceth his father (makes his father rejoice): but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance (wastes his wealth). (Prov.29:3)  And we have a very good example of that in Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son.
 
And this Proverb is like unto the last one: ‘My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.’ (Prov.27:11)
 
Ah Friends, as we said, it all comes down to our relationship with Almighty God, whether or not we have the wisdom and common sense to do life in a decent, constructive and LOVING manner.
 
And these last verses nicely wrap it all up. ‘The fear (reverential awe) of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother; For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.’ (Prov.1:7-9)
 
That’s it in a nutshell right there my people! The parents ought to embrace and pass on God’s law and consequently wisdom, while the children ought to hear and put it into practice in their own lives.  That’s the only way wisdom and understanding will continue to grace our planet.  
 
So please, let’s try and adhere to it nuh; make it the basis of our daily lives, so that we can learn to give and receive wise counsel, and thus greatly enhance our earthly pilgrimage. Much LOVE!
 
…to choose wisdom over folly is a blessed thing…but it doesn’t just spring up from nowhere…it has to be taught and learned…preferably starting in the home…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 July 2014 Lamentations 3:37

11 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Lamentations 3:37.  Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?

 
And then it was Friday… And all the working people joyfully shouted: ‘Yeahhh Friday! Friday at last! Oh how we LOVE you Friday! TGIF! Thank God it is Friday yes!’ 
 
Oh Friends, it sure is good to welcome Friday into our lives, but please remember it is just another day, one that the Lord laboured on to create, and we need to put the same energy and godly living into it, like any other day.
 
So to help us keep our focus on Almighty God, despite the fascinating worldly invitations of the upcoming weekend, let’s chant our Friday Chant. All together now: ‘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.’
 
Yes my brethren, we need to keep in mind that the weekend is not merely for fun and frolic, but also for fellowship and rejuvenation, which will enable us to do a good job for the Lord in the upcoming week.
 
And today we have a most interesting Bit… Sorry, all of them are indeed interesting (smile) because they are taken from the Good Book; the Word of God.
 
Nonetheless, in his soulful Lamentations, the prophet Jeremiah poses this most important question: ‘Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commanded it not?’
 
And the unequivocal answer to that foolish question is ‘NOBODY!’
 
Yes Friends, no mortal man can make anything come to pass if the Lord declares otherwise!
 
And we just have to look at the awesome Creation, to discover how awesome, how omnipotent is the power of our amazing and magnanimous God. And He’s very forthright in telling us that His thoughts and His ways are way way higher than ours (Is.55:8-9)  So how can we expect to out do Him eh?
 
Now listen to the opening statement of the Good Book: ‘In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.’ (Gen.1:1)
 
Oh my fellow believers, how could a mortal man ever top that eh, especially when it’s that same omnipotent Creator who created him?
 
‘And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness… So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.’ (Gen.1:26a, 27)
 
‘And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.’ (Gen.2:7)
 
So Friends, from those simple bits of scripture, it’s obvious, or ought to be obvious, that man’s power CANNOT ever rival God’s, and whatever God says, that’s the way it will be!
 
Hear how Cousin Sol in his God-given wisdom describes it. ‘A man’s heart deviseth (plans) his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.’ (Prov.16:9)
 
As the scholars so refreshingly declare: ’16:9. The Lord is sovereign over man’s scheming and planning.’
 
And isn’t that the indisputable truth? It surely is!
 
Now listen to Cousin Sol again: ‘There are many devices (plans, schemes) in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.’ (Prov.19:21)
 
Yes my fellow believers, it’s a complete waste of time trying to put plans into place which God does not authenticate or desire to have come to pass. And I can testify to that from hard experience, like most of you also can.
 
And looking back through history, we can see all the failed societies and great pronouncements and plans of men that have not been successful because God was simply not in favour of them.
 
And our world is in its current state of confusion because we have not adhered to God’s plan, as outlined in the Good Book, but are foolishly trying to implement our own. And the more we try to do that, the further down we sink into the mire, the cesspool of ungodliness.
 
The psalmists’ of old wisely recognized the futility of going against God’s will. Hear how the author of Psalm 148 – All creation to praise the Lord – puts it. ‘Praise ye the Lord; (sing hallelujah): Praise the Lord from the heavens: praise him in the heights. Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts.
 
Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the Lord: for he commanded, and they were created.’ (Ps.148:105)
 
And the writer of Psalm 33 – Praise to the Lord for His creation – declares it thus. ‘Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.
 
The Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen (nations, gentiles) to nought: he maketh the devices (plans, schemes) of the people of none effect. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.’ (Ps.33:8-12)
 
Ah Friends, neighbours and fellow believers, what more do we need to convince us that if God does not desire something to come to pass, for whatever reason, it will not do so, regardless of all our puny mortal efforts?
 
So today, let’s be wise nuh, let’s try and bring all our plans into agreement with those of Almighty God nuh, for it is His dictates that will prevail anyway. Much LOVE!
 
…how can the created ever be greater than the Creator eh…that’s nothing but a fool’s wisdom…

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 July 2014 Matthew 24:13

10 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 24:13.  But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.


O Friends, you all have to excuse the ole fella yes, because it’s ‘Summertime, And the livin’ is easy. Fish are jumping, And the cotton is high. Your daddy’s rich, and your mama’s good lookin’, So hush little baby, Don’t you cry.’
 
Yes my people, those memorable lyrics of the George Gershwin song, ‘Summertime,’ were particularly apt last night. Oh, and just so you know, my daddy wasn’t rich, but my Mama Molly was sure good lookin’! (smile)
 
And it’s not like I did anything special last night. I just hung out some with the duchess, then when she went to bed, I listened to some music and watched the first half of the Argentina – Netherlands soccer game.  But it certainly kept me up until the wee hours of the morning – two o’clock, I believe.
 
And though I know that Willie Shakespeare said something in one of his plays about going to bed late means being up early, I didn’t arise until six o’clock this glorious summer’s morn!
 
Let me warn us right now, I’ve never been an early to bed, early to rise kind of guy, more of a night owl, so if the summer weather stays as beautiful as it is, don’t expect to see the Bit early every day. For when the summer magic and craziness hits me, I am liable to get involved in stuff that doesn’t include, or rather, precludes going to bed early. (smile)
 
And there, now that I’ve warned us, let’s see what else I have to say for myself? Nothing really nuh, for the sleep is still enveloping my mind, the caffeine hasn’t taken effect as yet, the allergies are acting up, and I’m simply asking the good Lord to help me endure. What a way to practice what you preach! (smile)
 
And my brethren, asking the Lord to help you endure is never a bad thing; in fact it’s always a wonderful way to go, especially since in our Bit, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ so seriously warns us: ‘But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.’
 
So as true believers, we are ALL expected to hang in until the very end! And you don’t need to tell me that that’s not always easy, because I’m experiencing one of those hang in there, enduring times right now. (smile)
 
But Friends, please remember that with our serious buckling down, and with Jesus’ generous help, we can endure any and every thing! And it’s so important that we do, since almost everything in this wide world calls for some kind of endurance or another.
 
So, like the last couple of days, let’s continue looking at some interesting and important scripture passages on endurance and enduring. Listen to Bruh Paul natter at poor Timothy. ‘Thou therefore endure hardness (hardship), as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.’ (2 Tim.2:3-4)
 
Yeh mih breddren, a good soldier endures all that comes against him! And like Bruh Paul and Timothy, we’ve been chosen to be soldiers by Jesus Christ in His wonderful army. That means we need to endure hardship, with a smile, if possible. Hn!
 
Meanwhile, James, in talking of patience in affliction, says: ‘Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman (farmer) waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish (establish) your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh (has come near).
 
Grudge (grumble) not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
 
Behold, we count them happy (blessed) which endure. Ye have heard of the patience (perseverance) of Job, and have seen the end of (intended by) the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful (compassionate), and of tender mercy.’ (James 5:7-11)
 
What a hard row to hoe my people, but vitally necessary amongst believers!
 
Now hear Jesus to those who had followed Him after He miraculously fed them. They weren’t really interested in the miracles, just looking for more physical food. ‘Labour not for the meat (food) which perisheth, but for that meat (food) which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.’ (John 6:27)
 
Yes Friends, in real life we throw away lots of physical food because it cannot endure, but as believers, we need to seek spiritual food that lasts, that’s not here today and gone tomorrow. And only through close association with Jesus Christ can we find that kind of everlasting food.
 
And we’ll end as we began, with memorable words from Bruh Paul to Timothy. ‘But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure (death) is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course (race),
 
I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that LOVE his appearing.’ (2 Tim.4:5-8)
 
Oh my people, my people, it is imperative that when our last days on earth are drawing nigh, that we are able to say words similar to those of Bruh Paul, because we have, obviously with God’s help, endured everything that’s been thrown at us!
 
If we can say that in all truth, then we’ve done our best, and there’s nothing to worry about, because that’s all our wonderful God expects of us; our very best.
 
So today, and every day hence, let’s ensure that even if we do nothing else, we endure for Jesus’ sake. That’s wisdom from above! Much LOVE!
 
…I have fought a good fight…I have finished my course (race)…I have kept the faith…oh how beautiful those words sound at the end of every believer’s life…  
 
P.S.  And who says I’m not truly enduring this morning eh, since the ole computer decided to freeze on me just as I was about to send out the Bit. Ah Lord eh! The Lord surely tests us on what we preach! And I’m not even done yet! (smile) But with the Lord’s help, the ole fella is enduring! Glory Hallelujah! Much LOVE!

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 July 2014 1 Peter 2:2

07 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

1 Peter 2:2,     As newborn babes, desire the sincere (pure) milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.

Oh Friends, it’s a brand new day – Monday – the first day of the new work week. And for whatever reason, I’ve been guided to take a brief inventory of the state of our world.

And it’s in a real sorry state at the present time –  what with a variety of strife, wars, terrorism and other violent acts dominating the landscape of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, spawned mainly by greed, lust for power, racial, religious and ethnic and economic  tension. And in many of those same places where the violence is taking place, there is famine, drought, flooding, sickness and extreme poverty.

Meanwhile, on this side of the pond, in North America, the confrontations are not as violent, though racial, religious and ethnic tensions are also on increase. There is plenty dissension and the continuing economic fallout is causing poverty, homelessness and sickness to be more rampant than ever, especially in such an affluent society. But that’s because the greed and non-social conscience of the rich are causing them to get richer, while the rest are certainly getting poorer.

And besides that we’re simply having floods in the Western Canadian Provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, while several violent tornados have recently ripped through the U.S Midwest and Southern Ontario, and this past weekend Hurricane Arthur deluged the U.S North East Coast and the Canadian Maritime Provinces with tons of rain. But then states like Texas and California are enduring extended periods of drought.

But down in South America, where poverty and strife are always present in large amounts, the supposedly ‘beautiful game,’ soccer is having its World Cup expose in Brazil amidst large demonstrations and unhappiness at the amount of money spent to build new, white elephant stadiums to host the games. But the games are being doted on and bet on by billions around the globe.

What’s going to happen after the finals this week eh? The already wealthy clique that controls the game will walk away even wealthier, leaving the poor and downtrodden in Brazil possibly even worse off than before. And before long we’ll certainly hear about some unnecessary violence committed in the name of the football gods.

Ah Lord eh! And that Friends is only a brief overview. So what sort of picture does it paint of our world eh? Certainly not a pretty one! And though there’s serious unrest and tension all over, there’s not much any of us individuals can do, except to try and keep our immediate families and friends as safe and secure as possible, and free of those negative influences.

However as a group, a group of true believers in Jesus Christ, we can do something to lessen those negative influences. And we can begin by being thankful and responsible this Monday morning; by getting up and going to work without whining and complaining, especially after the 4th of July long weekend, for we are living better than three quarters of our world.

So in appreciation of that, and homage to our wonderful God, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with great gusto. As one powerful army cum choir of God, 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!’

Now that might suffice for today my people, but what happens tomorrow eh? We have to turn to the wisdom of our Bit: ‘As newborn babes, desire the sincere (pure) milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.’

We need to grow in the Word of God if we hope to make a positive difference in this world. And you can see from our overview that our world is in bad shape, which means we have to get a move on sooner, rather than later if we want to stop its slide into total destruction. And this section of Scripture from Hebrews, where the author wants to talk about Jesus the High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, brings home that point.

‘Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered (explain), seeing ye are dull of hearing. For when for the time (though by this time) ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles (sayings) of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat (solid food)

For every one that useth (partakes of) milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat (solid food) belongeth to them that are of full age (mature), even those who by reason of use (practice) have their senses exercised (trained) to discern both good and evil.’ (Heb.5:11-14)

Yes Friends spiritual immaturity is holding back the body of Christ. Many of us, who should be teachers by now, are still immature in the faith. We can’t cause a LOVE Revolution through immaturity. We need to be versed in the Word and then put it into practice.

Now listen to how Peter describes us: ‘But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people (God’s special people); that ye should show forth (proclaim) the praise of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.’ (1 Pet.2:9) 

Yes my brethren, that’s what we’re supposed to be, chosen of God, special! That also means we have to be behave like royalty! So please let’s get with the programme nuh, let’s seriously study the Word and thus not be fooled by the wiles of the enemy. It’s only through maturity we can do that, and also be able to teach others. That’s what Jesus desires of us.

Much LOVE!…it’s high time believers stop allowing the carnal lusts of the world to rule their lives…and turn to the things of the Spirit and of God instead…

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 July 2014 Isaiah 61:3

04 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Isaiah 61:3.   To appoint unto (console) them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called tress of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

HAPPY  4TH  OF JULY  U.S  OF A!

Oh mih people, God’s people, it’s Friday! Thank God for that! But would you believe it’s also Friday the 4th of July in the year of our Lord 2014? Yes Friends, it’s Independence Day in the U.S. of A! She’s 238 years young!
 
And since it is one of the most celebrated days down there, you know that the party done start long time ago and is humming along quite nicely. And I wish all you folks down south a Happy and Blessed 4th of July Holiday! Enjoy it, because you’ve earned it.
 
But unfortunately, it seems that you are now swiftly drifting down into the murky depths of life. You have removed Jehovah God so much from your lives, that you’re now very much considered the most sinful country in the world. And that my Friends is not a very nice reputation to have.
 
Please remember that your great country was founded on the solemn, true and faithful Word of Almighty God; He of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
 
As John Adams, one of the founding Fathers and later President, was said to have written to his wife Abigail, shortly before the Declaration of Independence in July 1776: ‘The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival.
 
It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.’
 
Please note my brethren, the advice regarding it as a ‘day of deliverance, with solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty.’ And though there is still some of that, it’s no way near enough!
 
Apparently there’s some confusion as to when the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed, the 2nd or the 4th, but it’s always been celebrated on the 4th.
 
Remember too, that all your wealth and great abundance came from Jehovah God, the most august God of your fathers. It is He who caused you all to beget so much wealth that you can also possess the sobriquet as being the most powerful and wealthy nation so far to grace God’s earth.
 
Why do you think America has been so blessed eh? Because the Lord had a purpose and a place for it; that it should be used as a show place for His Word in Modern Times, as Israel was in the Days of Old.
 
And hopefully, you’llnotice that as America moves further and further away from God, the lower and lower it sinks into sin, into depravity, lower standards and a lack of true LOVE for anything and anybody.
 
Oh Friends, America needs to be strong again, for sadly, but truthfully, as America goes, so does the rest of the world. She’s still that powerful.
 
Therefore my people, if we want to make the world right, truthful and strong, then we need to bring America back to God; back into His obedient fold, for if she succumbs to Lucifer’s evil power, then we’re all in danger of succumbing and going under.
 
So my brethren, that is the task that lies before us this Independence Day of 2014… to bring America back to the God of its Fathers! Hn! And don’t fool yuh fat nuh, it is indeed going to be a mighty task, so far has she fallen into the evil hands of Beelzebub and his wicked cohorts.
 
But as we well know, if we stand together strong, in unity of purpose with each other, and with Jesus Christ, then we can do anything; anything at all that needs doing! And believe me people, this needs doing very badly. America is heading for certain destruction if she keeps going down the godless path.
 
I beg of you, implore you, not to sully the names of your forefathers who founded this great nation on the principles of truth, freedom, justice…and above ALL…GOD!
 
And we can restore its godliness if we simply put our hearts, minds, souls and bodies to it. As Bruh Paul so wisely told Timothy: ‘For God hath not give us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of LOVE, and of a sound mind.’ (2 Tim.1:7)
 
That means my brethren, that we already have all the parts to do God’s Will!
 
Oh my people, the Lord has made America great so that it could glorify Him, but now it’s showing totally different colours, and just like Israel paid dearly for their disobedience, we will too eventually, if we continue down the the disobedient, sinful path we’re now treading.
 
But my fellow believers there is hope, there is also God’s perennial promise that repentance and obedience will bring forgiveness. He is overjoyed when we repent and come back to Hisfold,and He’s waiting with open arms, waiting with good tidings of salvation:
 
‘To appoint unto (console) them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.’
 
And my people, we definitely can’t glorify God, the way things are going now. So let’s get it together and do what we have to do nuh, to save the greatest nation ever, from total destruction for disobedience to God’s Word and Will.
 
Now let’s go home chanting our Friday Chant: ‘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 remember too Friends, to heed Granny’s wise warning this weekend of much festivity, since the evil one will be out desperately hunting for anyone he can take down. So drunk or sober…please mind yuh business… Those are truly words of everlasting wisdom! Much LOVE!
 
…don’t forget…that as America goes, so do all of us…so we all need to pitch in and help her…

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 July 2014 Isaiah 61:3

03 Jul 2014 Leave a comment

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

Isaiah 61:3.   To appoint unto (console) them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

Oh Friends, it’s a nice cool Thursday morning in early summer! And what does the ole fella have to say for himself? Not a whole lot nuh. I went to bed late, reading a novel, then had a rough night, turning and tossing, dreaming all sorts of stuff. But luckily though, it was all pleasant stuff, no nightmares, nothing scary… Thank the Lord for small mercies!
 
And now I’m here to write the Bit, seeking heavenly guidance to write something sensible that will help us all; that will motivate, encourage and keep our focus steadily on Almighty God, our LOVING Creator and generous Provider.
 
And in keeping with that task, I’ll just remind us that our task on this great earth is to take hold of God’s grace, to endure our afflictions with patience, without growing weary, knowing that in His own good time, our heavenly Father will perform, establish, strengthen and settle us.
 
We must be of good courage and wait with patience and perseverance, hungry hope and expectant faith on our wonderful and most faithful God. And all God’s people said a delightful ‘Praise the Lord! Amen.’
 
Yes Friends, we ought to, because that is all simply gospel truth! And why is that so? Because every worthy name named in the Good Book, had their trials and tribulations, their ups and downs, their tests and passages through the fire to check their true mettle.
 
And those who stood steadfast and strong, who passed the tests – obviously with God’s help – were subsequently rewarded By the Most High God Jehovah.
 
Oh my people, we have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory and expectations. However, when we do acknowledge our shortcomings, confess our sins and return to being obedient to His will, He is most magnanimous to forgive and forget.
 
Oh what a great God we serve and worship! He delights so much in our repentance, that He’s promised there would be future glory in Zion, with good tidings of salvation:
 
‘To appoint unto (console) them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.’
 
And was His great and holy name ever glorified when His Son Jesus fulfilled the first part of His everlasting promise!
 
We’re just waiting now, with patience and perseverance, hungry hope and expectant faith – yes, I do like those terms – for that fateful day when, as Isaiah promised in the Lord’s name: ‘Violence shall no more (longer) be heard in thy land, wasting (devastation) nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.
 
The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. The sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw it self: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.
 
Thy people shall also be righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the Lord will hasten it in his (its) time.’ (Is.60:18-22)
 
Oh Friends, what a glorious day that will be eh!
 
And if you don’t believe Isaiah, then listen to those same promises reiterated by our faithful Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, to John in His Revelations: ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.’ (Rev.21:4)
 
Oh Glory Hallelujah! I can’t wait for that day my brethren! No more aches and pains – Wow!
 
And furthermore,  hear this on the New Jerusalem: ‘And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. (Rev.21:22-23)
 
Oh happy dayyyy! When Jesus washed… When Jesus washed… ALL my sins away…!
 
As the scholars explain: ’21:22-23. There is no temple in the city, since both the Father and the Son will be present in their fullest manifestations. Its light will be provided by the Shekinah glory of God and of Christ (cf. Ex.3:3-4; 24:15-17; 33:14-16; Luke 2:9; 9:29; Heb.1:3).’
 
Plenty of scripture references tocheck out Friends. (smile)Now that’s not all: ‘And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.
 
And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh (causes an) abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.’ (Rev.21:24-27)
 
Mama Mia! Oh my brethren, the imagined sight of that, through the eyes of faith is just working on me, stirring me up! (smile)
 
And there’s more: ‘And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in (on) their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle (lamp), neither light of the sun; for the Lord giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.’ (Rev.22:3-5)
 
Oh my people, that is what awaits us at the end of the day, if we bear our burdens and yokes, already much lightened by our Saviour Jesus Christ, with patience and perseverance, hungry hope and expectant faith! There’s absolutely nothing better than what He’s promised!
 
So please, let’s get serious nuh, let’s buckle down, pull up our britches, pull up our socks, and whatever other cliché there is concerning improving our behaviour, and just live for Jesus, as He desires us to do. That’s wisdom of untold benefit! Much LOVE!
 
…Let’s LOVE our God…LIVE our Faith…and SPREAD His Word…that’s all He asks of us…
 
P.S.  Oh my Friends and fellow believers, I do hope you all enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. There was a smile on my face and joy in my heart from soon after I began writing it, and saw where it was headed. Hope it brings a smile to your faces too and produces a fire in your hearts for Jesus! Please have a most blessed day walking safely and talking intimately with Jesus! Much LOVE!

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 30 June 2014 John 6:29

30 Jun 2014 Leave a comment

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

John 6:29.   Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

It is Monday Friends… and all over the world people are excited, joyful, enthusiastic and everlastingly grateful that they have jobs to go to on this fateful last day of June 2014!
 
But yuh know what, we can also say: It is Monday Friends… and all over the world lots of people are sad, in despair, fearful, crying, and even dying  because they don’t have jobs to go to on this fateful last day of June 2014!
 
And paradoxically, both statements would be true!  Unfortunately though, I do believe that in these very trying and challenging economic times the latter statement and/or situation contains the greater the number of people.
 
So my brethren, if you are one of those lucky ones in the minority, one with a job this Monday morning, then I’d strongly suggest you put some cheer in your heart, a smile on your face and get a move on, instead of pouting and childishly complaining, of being miserable and downcast because you have to go and do a little labouring, so that you can eat bread.
 
Chuh!  Remember Bruh Paul’s words to the Thessalonians on the subject: ‘For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.’ (2 Thess.3:10)
 
Oh Friends, it’s a good thing that we don’t rigidly enforce that command nuh, else many more people would be starving than currently are! However, since we are only mere mortals, and complaining is a part of our natural heritage, (smile) let’s get some much needed encouragement from our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. Let’s sing it with a zest and a zeal that will move the forces of heaven!
 
As one beautiful sounding, harmonious choir now: ‘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!’
 
Oh Friends, that was most excellent! Jesus was proud of us! Now let’s see if we can keep Him proud concerning the terms of our Bit. ‘Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.’
 
Remember yesterday we saw where the crowd was following Jesus looking for physical food, but He was more interested in giving them spiritual food, and told them so. After which they enquired what they had to do to perform the works of God, and Jesus replied with our Bit.
 
And still in a quandary, after receiving His answer, ‘They said therefore unto him, what sign showest thou (will you perform) then, that we may see, and believe thee? What dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.
 
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
 
Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.’ (John 6:30-35)
 
Oh my people, what beautiful words of encouragement, wisdom and truth! Only our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Master Teacher, could have uttered them so movingly, so touching to the heart!
 
Now I’m not sure if the people who heard Him live on that day, really understood what He was talking about, but we do. And since we are His representatives here on earth, it is our bounden duty, our responsibility to get out into the evil, ungodly world and let the unbelievers know what is what.
 
So today, as we venture out into the wide and wicked world, to begin a new week of work, let’s remember to give Jesus some air time; let people know by our words, who He is and what He’s done for us, and will also do for them if they accept Him. And then, by our actions, let them see how He expects us to behave.
 
Friends, that’s all Jesus really expects from us. And it’s not hard to do, if we truly believe and want to be His true disciples. So let’s get on with it nuh! Much LOVE!
 
…today I’m going to try and change the world…just one moment at a time…by letting Jesus work through me…

 Visit the Scrip-Bit Blog at https://randyobrien50.wordpress.com

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 29 June 2014 John 6:29

29 Jun 2014 Leave a comment

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

John 6:29.   Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

Oh mih people, how we doing this bright and bountiful Sunday morning eh? I do hope that the Lord is in our thoughts, and that all those who celebrate the Sabbath on Sundays are getting ready to go and fellowship with others of like intentions.
 
Meanwhile, for those who celebrate the Sabbath on other days, I hope that you have already successfully fellowshipped with your peers. For we need to remember that fellowshipping is extremely important in the lives of Christ’s people.
 
It’s where we encourage and exhort and uplift each other. So please make it a habit of getting together with others of your denomination at least once a week to celebrate Christ’s victory, and to offer up praise and worship in thanksgiving for all that He’s so selflessly done for us.
 
And before I forget, here is a most useful prayer that we can all use when we come to share private time with our Maker. I’ve shared it sometime ago, but in light of yesterday’s Bit, where we talked about reading the Word, it seemed rather apropos to share it again. I found it at the back of my mother’s Bible after she went to be with the Lord, and since then, I’ve used it all the time.
 
It’s plain and simple and to the point. ‘Dear heavenly Father, as I open my Bible, I pray that you will let my heart find peace. As my mind is filled with new understanding, Grant that I may learn the things you want me to know from the words I read. Bless me to find the courage, the comfort, the joy, these pages can bring, as I read about Jesus our greatest teacher. Amen.’
 
Oh Friends, I don’t think we can getter a better opening prayer than that, for it covers all the bases! But it’s your choice to use it or not, though you can certainly use it as a guide to develop your own individual approach. Whatever you’re comfortable with, that’s what you ought to use.
 
And today, my fellow believers, we’re going to look at an interesting and most important teaching of Jesus. This happens the day after He feeds the five thousand with the five barley loaves and two small fishes, then gathers up twelve baskets with the remnants of that meal. That certainly opened their eyes and made them believe that Jesus was indeed a prophet. (John 6:1-14)
 
But Jesus fearing that they would take Him by force and try to make Him king, went off by Himself into the mountains. Then that evening, without Jesus, the disciples got into a boat to cross over the Sea of Galilee, but part way over a wicked storm hit them.
 
And like the gracious Saviour He is, who comes to our rescue time and time again, the disciples, now in great despair for their lives, eventually see Him walking on the water towards them, saying; ‘It is I; be not afraid.’ (John 6:20)
 
Now obviously after hearing about Jesus great miracle of feeding, the next day throngs gathered in expectation of more of the same. But unfortunately they couldn’t find Jesus, although they knew that He hadn’t gone over in the boat with the disciples. But nonetheless, they rushed over by boat to the other side, to Capernaum, looking for Him.
 
‘And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles (signs), but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.’ (John 6:25-26)
 
Jesus knew that they weren’t looking for Him for spiritual purposes, for spiritual fodder, but for physical food. And He therefore warns them: ‘Labour not for the meat (food) which perisheth, but for that meat (food) which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.’ (John 6:27)
 
Oh Friends, that warning is also of the utmost importance to us today, as we have sadly placed God in the background of our society with only sparse acknowledgment, and are daily lusting more and more after the unenduring things of the world.
 
And that is oh so wrong, so foolish my brethren, because it imperils our salvation, our eternal livelihood, setting us up for eternal separation from Almighty God, which is the very worst thing that could ever happen to a human being!
 
And the crowd back then, not fully understanding Jesus’ words, continued: ‘Then said they unto him, what shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.’ (John 6:28-29)
 
Yes Friends, that is what God expects of us! Before we can do anything in His name, we must first believe in and on Jesus Christ; the One He sent to enlighten us, to selflessly sacrifice His sinless life on our behalf, and thus redeem and reconcile us to Himself! That, my people, ought to be our first order of business! Not the last, as some of us consider it.
 
And that is quite ably backed up by Jesus’ statement to doubting Thomas, when he declared: ‘Lord, we know not wither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me.’ (John 14:5-6)
 
Oh my brethren, no truer words have ever been spoken! So if you are truly concerned about your life in the hereafter, and you ought to be, then you’d better take those words to heart and put them into action in your life. For that my Friends, is indeed wisdom of the highest order possible. Much LOVE!
 
…to spend eternity on the inside with the Father looking out…one must first embrace the Son and all that He stands for…that’s the ONLY WAY to achieve that most worthwhile goal…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 27 June 2014 Ephesians 5:21

27 Jun 2014 Leave a comment

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

Ephesians 5:21.   Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
 
‘Friday, oh Friday! How I LOVE that day! Friday, oh Friday! The weekend’s coming my way! Oh thank God it’s Friday! And I’m feeling okay! Friday, oh Friday! How I LOVE that day…’
 
Ah Friends, the amount of little ditties we can make up to celebrate Fridays eh. And rightly so, because Friday is a day when we finally see some daylight at the end of the work-week tunnel and envision a wonderful weekend of pleasure.
 
But please remember that the weekend is not only for pleasure, but should also include rest and fellowship with other believers. So let’s chant our Friday Chant, which gives us a better perspective on how to handle the weekend.
 
As one now: ‘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.’
 
Now that’s more like it! (smile) And today we’ll continue looking at our simple sounding, but oh so important Bit: ‘Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.’
 
And why is it so important? Because it deals with harmony, unity, like-mindedness, goals and values that please God, in His church. And right now there’s certainly not enough of that in the body of Christ.
 
Christianity is way too fractured, and thus dysfunctional to the serious work it’s called upon to do. In too many churches, regardless of religion or denomination, the congregations are divided in to cliques resentful of, and sometimes outright warring against each other.
 
Bruh Paul saw it happening even in the young churches he founded and strenuously pointed out the error to them. Here is what he said to the Galatians on the matter. ‘This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
 
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.’ (Gal.5:16-18)
 
Basically, he’s saying that ‘the flesh seeks to thwart the Spirit, who in turn attempts to frustrate the flesh’s evil desires…. The Spirit-led person is not under the law. The Christian does not need the restraints of the law because his moral life is governed by the Spirit.’
 
And then Bruh Paul goes on to list the works of the flesh (Gal.5:19-21)…’and they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is LOVE, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness (kindness), goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (self-control): against such there is no law.
 
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections (its passions) and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vainglory (conceited), provoking one another, envying one another.’ (Gal.5:21b-26)
 
Yes Friends, as true believers, the Holy Spirit ought to lead us to produce fruit that is harmonious, united and uplifting to God’s church. But unfortunately too many of us have not sufficiently crucified our flesh, and thus worldly lusts like vanity, envy, resentment and spitefulness still characterize Christ’s church today. What an awful shame!
 
Meanwhile, Peter, who also recognizes the problem, puts it this way. ‘Likewise ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
 
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
 
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in (experienced by) your brethren that are in the world.
 
But the God of all grace, who hath called us into his eternal glory by Jesus Christ, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish (confirm), strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.’ (1 Pet.5:5-11)
 
Oh Friends, I couldn’t say it any better! And my wish for all of us today, is that we walk carefully, recognizing that Beelzebub is constantly circling, like the vulture that he is, that we stand strong and steadfast, yet humble and reverent before Almighty God, living in harmony and unity, thus bringing untold glory to His Holy Name. Much LOVE!
 
…unity and harmony between God’s people…will not come simply by wishing it…but by diligently working together to make it happen…

 

 

 

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