Today’s Scrip-Bit   3 October 2023 Genesis 45:28.

03 Oct 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 45:28.       Israel said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.

‘Summerlicious’ days are still here friends! Thus we can sing: ‘Oh what a beautiful morning…Oh what a beautiful day! Oh what a beautiful morning…Everything’s going my way!’ And with Jesus Christ as our Lord, Savour and Guiding Light, ALL things will eventually go our way! All thanks and praise be to the spotless Lamb who died for us to set us free from Satan’s evil bondage! And all God’s people gave a loud and grateful shout of ‘Praise the Lord!’ 

Now, let’s get to that amazing story of Bruh Joseph, which the Lord imbued with so much intrigue and drama. We’ve reached the part where Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers, then sends them home, per Pharoah’s command, with wagons and food to bring their families down to Egypt. But when they get home and tell their father Jacob that Joseph was still alive and ruler of all Egypt, the old man faints and does not believe them. Not until he sees all the wagons and provisions that Joseph has sent. Then ‘Israel said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.’ (Gen. 45:28) 

And we pick up the story from the Bible at that point. ‘And Israel (Jacob) took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beer-sheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac. And God spake unto Israel in the visions of the night, and said, Jacob, Jacob. And he said, Here am I. And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation: I will go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely bring thee up again: and Joseph shall put his hand upon thine eyes (will close your eyes when you die).’ (Gen. 46:1-4) 

Now here are some important explanations from the scholars re those verses. In regard to ‘Jacob stopped at Beer-sheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac. Both Abraham (21:33) and Isaac (26:25) had erected altars here, and this may have been his (Jacob’s) motive for offering sacrifices. Abraham had lied about his wife in Egypt (12:10-20) with serious consequences; and Isaac had been forbidden even to go there (26:2), which must have caused Jacob some anxiety. But God assured Jacob that he need fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation (cf. 15:13-21; Ps. 105:17, 23). 

The Lord promised to be with Jacob and also surely bring thee up again. It was also promised that Jacob would die in Egypt as Joseph shall put his hand on thine eyes, contrasted to the troubled end he had predicted for himself (37:35, when he believed that Joseph was dead). Thus “bring thee up again” refers to the nation of Israel, not Jacob.’ Ah friends, there are so many ins and outs and ramifications and complications in the story that sometimes it’s hard to keep one’s bearings. (smile) But fear not, the Holy One of Israel has it all under control. 

Thus, the Bible continues: ‘And Jacob rose up from Beer-sheba: and the sons of Israel carried Jacob their father, and their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons which Pharoah had sent to carry him. And they took their cattle (livestock), and their goods, which they had gotten in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob and all his seed (descendants) with him: His sons, and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters, and his sons’ daughters, and all his seed brought he with him into Egypt.’ (Gen. 46:5-7) 

Oh mih people, doesn’t our God do a wonderful job of storytelling, with just the right amount of pace, drama and intrigue to keep you fastened to your seat in great expectations? He certainly does! And I guess we can call this the ‘li’l Exodus’, where Jacob and his immediate family moved from the famished land of Canaan to the prosperous land of Egypt, as opposed to the ‘great Exodus’ some four hundred years later, where the whole nation of Israel, between one and two million strong, left Egypt to return to the Promised Land of Canaan. 

But that friends, the creation of the nation of Israel, was the whole idea behind God’s machinations. To give them a place to grow in peace and develop the characteristics and culture that He desired them to have. And that they did quite successfully in the fertile land of Goshen in Egypt. If He had left them in Canaan during the famine they would have died out and His promises to make a great nation of Abraham and his descendants would not have come to pass. And I know with God’s mighty power, one would think that He could accomplish it in some easier way. But that’s not the way our God operates. He likes things to move along in a normal, steady manner, no rush and no fuss. (smile) 

And who would have thought that He would set up the creation of the promised nation of Israel through the young boy of a dysfunctional family being sold into slavery by his evil and jealous brothers eh? I doubt that either Abraham or Isaac would have thought it. But Jacob might, since he ended up down there with his whole family. The point is my brethren, that we never know the Lord’s purposes or reasons behind the things He does or allows in our lives, but if we claim to sincerely trust and obey Him, then we must allow Him to do what He thinks is best. 

And though the situations in which He places us are not always to our liking, with His greater wisdom and foresight, as well as the promise to eventually work all things for our good, we have to go along with His plans. And remember, He never asks us to do something without giving us the wherewithal, the anointing to do it. And I believe Bruh Joseph’s story is a monumental one, from which we can learn the immense value of trust, faith, surrender, patience, perseverance and longsuffering, all worthwhile and necessary characteristics for living a godly earthly life. End of Sermon! (smile) 

Now, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting the whole world know to whom we belong lock, stock and barrel. Altogether now: In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’ 

And having said that, it now behooves us to go out and share that amazing friendship and LOVE of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!

…the Lord never leads us astray…for He is our Good Shepherd…and the Good shepherd cares for His sheep…

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   2 October 2023 Genesis 45:26b.

02 Oct 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 45:26b.       And Jacob’s heart fainted, for he believed them not.

Oh my people, I don’t know what’s happening nuh, but it’s forecasted to be warm and sunny all week, with temps in the low to mid-twenties! Wow! And this in the first week of October to booth! I must say I like this climate change business yes! (smile) But the trees have not been fooled, they’re still cautiously changing the colours of their leaves and preparing for the frosty season, because they know that when it comes, as come it must, it will come without any warning. Anyway, let’s say thanks to our God and enjoy the good weather while it lasts. 

Now, let’s see what’s happening in that enlightening and oh so teachable story of Bruh Joseph. When last we saw him, he’d revealed his identity to his brothers, and all of Pharaoh’s house knew that his brothers had come to him. And strangely enough, this pleased Pharoah and his household so much that Pharaoh commanded Bruh Joseph to give his brothers wagons and food to bring down their father and families to Egypt. ‘…for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.’ Yes my brethren, when the Lord is working on your behalf, you don’t get favour and goodness in small amounts, but He causes even your enemies to like you and bestow their abundance on you! 

Thus, the Bible reports: ‘And the children of Israel (Jacob) did so: and Joseph gave them wagons (carts), according to the commandment of Pharoah, and gave them provision for the way. To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment (clothing); but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment. And to his father he sent after this manner; ten asses (donkeys) laden (loaded) with the good things of Egypt, and ten she asses (donkeys) laden with corn (grain) and bread and meat (food) for his father by (for) the way. So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye fall not out (meet with calamity) by (along) the way.’ (Gen. 45:21-24) 

Ah friends, that is the way families should treat each other. In fact, that is the way all Christians, all believers in Christ Jesus should treat each other; be generous with whatever we have to those in need. Unfortunately though, these are greedy and selfish times, and even supposed believers are not being as generous as they can, or ought to be towards the large amount of people who are suffering from dire want. The body of Christ, the church itself is not as involved as it should be with the poor and needy. But that’s one of Jesus’ intentions behind its formation; a certain help to society in times of need. And we certainly need to improve our efforts in that area if we are to fulfill Christ’s demands. 

Anyway, getting back to the story of Bruh Joseph, the Good Library tells us: ‘And they (Bruh Joseph’s brothers) went up out of Egypt, and into the land of Canaan unto Jacob their father. And told him, saying, Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt. And Jacob’s heart fainted, for he believed them not.’ (Gen. 45:25-26) They were lucky he didn’t just drop dead on them with the surprise of such news. His favourite son, missing and thought dead for twenty years, is still alive and governor of the most prosperous and powerful land on the planet! Brother! That was more than enough to jolt the heart of an old man. 

But that was not in God’s script. (smile) So Jacob simply felt faint with the amazing news. ‘And (in his disbelief), they told him all the words of Joseph, which he had said unto them: and when he (Jacob) saw the wagons which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived. And Israel (Jacob) said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die.’ (Gen. 45:27-28) 

And all yuh still thing our God isn’t a great dramatist? No sir! He is the best! For His Word, from Genesis to Revelation, the sixty-six books are filled with all sorts of drama: good, bad and indifferent! So why don’t we pay more attention to God’s Word then eh? Nothing that man has ever written on his own can even come close to the drama filled words of the Bible, which is the infallible and inerrant Word of God written for man’s benefit through the intercession of the Holy Spirit. 

For as Bruh Paul writes to Timothy, describing the unique character of Scripture: ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine (what to believe), for reproof (what is wrong), for correction (how to correct wrong), for instruction in righteousness (how to live): That the man of God may be perfect (proficient, capable), thoroughly furnished (equipped) unto all good works (having all he needs to do what God wants).’ (2 Tim. 3:16-17) 

Yes my fellow saints, the Bible is our Instruction Manual for life down here on Mother Earth! And if we don’t follow its directions, we will pay the price, the consequences for disobedience, sooner or later. For as Uncle Charles (Dr. Charles Stanley) used to say: ‘we reap what we sow, more than we sow, and later than we sow.’ And that’s the gospel truth! In one form or another, our misdeeds do not go unpunished. And a good example of that is how the evil deeds of Bruh Joseph’s brothers came back to haunt them long after the fact. 

So please, I plead with us, especially in these very evil and ungodly times, let’s read and study that heavenly written Information Manual and put it into sincere and serious actions in our lives nuh, so that we don’t have to pay serious consequences later on. And the first step in that direction is going to the throne of grace in sincere and humble prayer, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, and asking for divine help in time of earthly need. 

As one voice: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. 

So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

And before the Lord will keep His promise, we have to keep ours; turn from our evil ways and sincerely seek His face! That’s the ONLY WAY to enlist divine help! Much LOVE!

…our God is good and forgiving…but like a good parent…He doesn’t put with continual disobedience from His people…when we don’t hear…we feel…  

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit    29 September 2023 Genesis 45:5b.

29 Sep 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 45: 5b.       for God did send me before you to preserve life.

And today when we say, ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday!’ we truly mean it, because it’s just another beautiful day in the life! Sunshine, lollipops and roses! Oh friends, it’s too good to be true, but we had better enjoy these wonderful days while we have them, for the weather is so contrary these days, that it can turn into a nightmarish scene at the drop of a hat. 

So, let’s give our great God thanks and praise for all the many undeserved blessings He’s so generously bestowed on us. And all God’s children declared (yesss!!!): ‘We thank You Lord for Your goodness and mercy. Please help us to truly appreciate them and live the way You desire, in sincere obedience to You and Your word. This we pray in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’ 

And now it’s time to turn to the next episode in the thrilling saga of Bruh Joseph that set the stage for so much stuff, many, many moons ago. And some of us who don’t know Bruh Joseph’s story will be surprised to know the tremendous ramifications it had in the world back then, and still has to this day. Now, we saw yesterday where Judah implores Bruh Joseph to keep him as a slave instead of Benjamin, because if they returned without Benjamin, it would surely kill his father. 

And finally friends, we’ve reached the apex, the climax of the story. Bruh Joseph, set between a rock and a hard place by his brother’s heartfelt plea, finally breaks down. The Bible tells it thus: ‘Then Joseph could not refrain (restrain) himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren!’ (Gen. 45:1) 

Yes mih people, our ingenious machinations always catch up with us at some time or the other. And now the chickens are finally coming home to roost between Bruh Joseph and his brothers. And the Good Library continues: ‘And he (Joseph) wept aloud: and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard. And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him, for they were troubled (dismayed) at his presence.’ (Gen. 45:2-3) 

What an incredible moment that must have been in the brothers’ lives! Discovering that this powerful, well-dressed Egyptian-looking man was there long lost brother obviously came as a big surprise, you could have knocked them down with a feather! And furthermore, the revelation must have struck tremendous fear in their hearts, as they remembered the terrible deed they had done to him so long ago. Oh mih bredrin, our wrong doings, do come back to haunt us, so please, let’s refrain from them as much as possible nuh, so we won’t have them boomerang back on us at some future date. 

Anyway, the heightened drama of the saga continues: ‘And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. Now therefore be not grieved or angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.’ (Gen. 45:-5) Wow! Bruh Joseph had finally understood what God was doing in his life! Wish many more of us could do the same, for we would cause ourselves much less pain and heartache. 

And Bruh Joseph continues to reveal the situation to his brothers. ‘For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing (plowing) nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity (a remnant) in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharoah, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.’ (Gen. 45:6-8) 

Mama Mia! What must the brothers have thought? They must have trembled with fear. It’s surprising that none of them fainted. But according to the scholars: ‘In spite of many assurances, this uneasiness before their brother persisted for many years (cf. 50:15). They were literally “terrified, trembling.” Joseph gave a clear testimony to God’s working providentially in his own life when he said: God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity … and to save your lives … so now it was not you that sent me hither, but God. The phrase He hath made me a father unto Pharaoh is an expression applied to Egyptian viziers (Prime Ministers) as far back as the third millennium B.C.’ 

Yes, my fellow believers, we finally see and understand what God was doing in Bruh Joseph’s life! All the trials and tribulations he unfairly underwent were necessary for him to become the Leader and Saviour of his family as the Lord’s script required. That’s why I keep repeating that our God is the greatest dramatist ever! No one else can envision and produce the kind of ups and downs, the ins and outs and connect the dots like He can. And I’m sure that many of us today are being used in the same manner, for some uplifting purpose of which we’re completely unaware, and consequently undergoing troubles that we don’t understand. 

But the moral of the story is that we must leave it all in God’s hands, for He created us, as well as the plans for our lives, which He solemnly promised were for good and not calamity, to give us a future and a hope, just like He did for Bruh Joseph and his family way back when. So, let’s not get upset and angry with God when we undergo stuff that seems unfair, for He’s working it all out for our good, just in His way and time. And if we faithfully endure with Him, we’ll eventually see the masterpiece that He’s planned for our lives finally blossom forth, and then we’ll fully understand His amazing dramatic potential. (smile) 

Now, let’s go to Him, at the throne of grace, through our Friday Chant, confidently, but humbly asking for divine grace and wisdom in these very serious times of need. As one voice:  ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough…   because our many serious problems are escalating instead of improving. And it’s obvious we can’t fix them on our own, so Lord, we’re desperately crying out for your help. 

Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. We therefore ask you Lord to give our leaders the wise guidance to handle these unexpected storms properly. And please help the rest of us to be responsible and to stay safe amidst all the anxiety and confusion of these ungodly times. 

We fervently pray too Lord that you’ll use the discontent and dissatisfaction in our land as a means of restoring faith in you. Return backsliders to your fold. Show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. So that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’  

And if we truly want to see divine help, then we need to do what it requires; that’s turning from our evil ways, and being obedient to God’s dictates! Much LOVE!

…the Lord’s plans for our lives…are seldom clearly understood…but through sincere faith and total trust…we can see them through to fruition… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit    28 September 2023 Genesis 44:18b.

28 Sep 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 44:18b.       and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh.

Another beautiful day in my neck of the woods my brethren! And although this one is tinged with a bit of cloud, the strong winds will hopefully blow away the cloud cover eventually, and just leave the sun shining brightly. Now it’s certainly nice to have bright and sunshiny days, but that then means there’s no rain to water the land, and we haven’t seen any rain around here for almost three weeks now, so the land is parched and dry, and the Duchess is carrying up my water bill by watering the grass more than normal. But what to do eh? You can’t have all good and no bad, and I’ll just have to grin and bear it when I see the next water bill. (smile) 

And here’s a li’l reminder for us to keep us on the straight and narrow path. ‘The Bible is God’s word to us, still fresh through all the ages. And if we read it, we will find God’s wisdom in its pages!’ Wow! What good news! And do we ever desperately need God’s wisdom in these evil and ungodly times my people! So please, let’s get back to reading, studying and living the Bible nuh, because that’s the ONLY way we will ever make any serious and lasting headway in these troubled and disaster-filled times! 

Now let’s see what’s happening with the intriguing tale of Bruh Joseph and his brothers. Yesterday we stopped where he had set up Benjamin for stealing his silver cup, then told the other brothers that only Benjamin would remain with him as his slave, ‘and as for you, get you up in peace unto your father.’ (Gen. 44:17) But can you imagine the consternation that caused amongst the brothers. How could they go back to their father Jacob without his youngest son eh? Especially since he’d made such a fuss about sending him in the first place and was still suffering the loss of his other son Joseph. And thus the intrigue, the simmering drama reaches another level. 

The Bible then tells us: ‘Then Judah came near unto him (Bruh Joseph) and said, Oh my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord’s ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh.’ (Gen. 44:18) Can you believe it, Judah simpering before his brother, even praising him to be like Pharaoh? I wonder if that stirred any vengeful desires in Bruh Joseph, seeing his older brother bowing and scraping and begging before him, after the infernal treatment they had meted out to him? 

As a normal human being it must have felt good, but as we’ve seen earlier on, the brothers seemed to have had a change of heart, and the revenge factor in Bruh Joseph had also lessened. Then Judah went on to recount to Bruh Joseph their conversation the first time they came down to buy food, how he asked them about a father and a brother? ‘And we said unto my lord, we have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother, and his father LOVETH him. And thou saidst unto thy servants, Bring him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him. 

And we said unto my lord, the lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his father, his father would die. And thou saidst unto thy servants, Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face no more. And it came to pass when we came up unto thy servant my father, we told him the words of my Lord. And our father said, Go again, and buy us a little food. And we said we cannot go down: if our youngest brother be with us, then will we go down: for we may not see the man’s face, except our youngest brother be with us.’ (Gen. 44:20-26) 

I wonder how Bruh Joseph took all of that, knowing Jacob’s age and his great LOVE for his departed mother Rachel and her children. But Judah didn’t give him much time to contemplate the situation as he continued: ‘And thy servant my father said unto us, ye know that my wife bare me two sons: And the one went out from me, and I said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I saw him not since: And if ye take this (one) also from me, and mischief (calamity) befall him, ye shall bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.’ (Gen. 44:27-29) 

Now, hearing the sad state of his father, surely must have wrapped some strings of sorrow around Bruh Joseph’s heart. And Judah continued to reason with him. ‘Now therefore when I come to thy servant my father, and the lad be not with us; seeing that his life is bound up in the lad’s life; It shall come to pass, when he seeth that the lad is not with us, that he will die: and thy servants shall bring down the gray hairs of thy servant our father with sorrow to the grave.’ (Gen. 44:30-31) Oh friends, unknown to Judah, he was shooting some stealthy and dangerous darts into Bruh Joseph’s heart. 

But here comes Judah’s final plea. ‘For thy servant became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, If I bring him not unto thee, then shall I bear the blame to my father for ever. Now therefore, I pray thee, let thy servant abide (remain) instead of the lad a bondman (slave) to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren. For how shall I go up to my father, and the lad be not with me? lest peradventure I see the evil that shall come on my father.’ (Gen. 44:32-34) 

Ah my people, the awesome power that is found in words, especially heartfelt ones. Judah had certainly put Bruh Joseph in a spot between a rock and a hard place; did he want revenge on his brothers so badly that he was willing to cause his father’s death? We’ll see how the drama plays out tomorrow, if God spares life. (smile) In the meanwhile here’s this gem of explanation from the scholars. They say that ‘Judah’s statement, let thy servant abide instead of the lad, indicates that God had changed the hearts of the brothers, His plea reminds one of the great Servant born to this tribe – the Servant, (our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ) who offered Himself for the transgressions of His people.’ 

And there’s no doubt whatsoever about the servanthood of Christ, but there’s plenty about ours. And that’s all the more to our detriment since the Lord has bestowed on us, undeserved blessings, which we call our Thursday Blessings, to help us do His earthly work. So please, let’s activate them now by declaring (steups!!!) them in loud and sincere voice. 

‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

And having activated those many wonderful blessings, it’s time for us go out and use them generously for the benefit of others, as the Lord so desires! Much LOVE!

…revenge can sometimes be sweet…but it can also break your heart… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit    26 September 2023 Genesis 44:4b.

26 Sep 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 44:4b.        Wherefore have ye rewarded (repaid) evil for good?

Aye friends, I’m not sure exactly what kind of day we’re going to have this autumn Tuesday in my neighbourhood, because they are telling me about it being partly sunny and to expect high winds soon. But what I do know is that right now it’s a glorious day out there, filled with sunshine and decent temperatures for this time of year. So, I will rejoice and be glad in it, like the Bible tells us to do! 

And now a li’l prayer to remind us of God’s goodness. Please pray with me. ‘The Light of God surrounds me: The LOVE of God enfolds me: The Power of God protects me: The Presence of God watches over me: Wherever I am, God is… And ALL is well!’ Oh mih people, isn’t it just wonderful to know that wherever we are God’s Light, LOVE, Power and Presence are constantly with us, looking over us and protecting us? It certainly is! 

Now let’s get to that intriguing drama that’s Bruh Joseph’s story. We left the saga yesterday where Bruh Joseph sees his brothers seated in his house, and his heart yearns so much for his youngest sibling Benjamin, his mother’s other son, that he goes into his bed chamber and cries. The emotions are beginning to run free. 

The Bible then tells us: ‘And he (Bruh Joseph) washed his face, and went out, and refrained (restrained) himself, and said, Set on (serve the) bread. And they set on for him (served him) by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves, because the Egyptians might not eat bread (could not eat food) with the Hebrews; for that is an abomination unto the Egyptians.’ (Gen. 43:31-32) 

Ah Lord eh, even in the midst of supposed good relations there’s still always separation! Bruh Joseph eats by himself, his brothers by themselves, and the Egyptians by themselves because by man’s foolish and ungodly tradition, it’s not fitting for them to all eat together. No wonder there’s still so much anger and resentment in our world, if we can’t even do a simple thing like break bread together. 

But the Bibe continues: ‘And they sat before him, the first-born according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marvelled (looked with astonishment) one at another. And he took and sent messes (servings) unto them from before him: but Benjamin’s mess (serving) was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank and were merry with him.’ (Gen. 43:33-34) 

Brother! The drama is surely ramping up now! They’re all eating together, but separately, and there are all sorts of thoughts and undercurrents present because no one’s sure of what’s really happening! Bruh Joseph has opened up some, but is still playing his cards close to his chest. The brothers don’t have a clue what’s going on, and though they are eating, apparently joyful on the outside, the ever-present fear of trouble is still only a heartbeat away. And the Egyptians, watching this strange encounter…what are they thinking eh? Who knows? (smile) 

Now, here’s some interesting information from the scholars. They say, as per verse 33 above: ‘And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marvelled one at another. At the dinner the brothers failed to leap to one logical explanation of his (Bruh Joseph’s) behaviour, considering his concern for Jacob (vs. 27), his affectionate favouritism for Benjamin (vs. 29-34), and exact knowledge of the interlocking sequence of births of these sons of four mothers (vs. 33).’ 

And yes, those things should possibly have said something to the brothers, although when you’re filled with fear, your mind doesn’t always work properly. But I find one concern in the scholars’ statements above there. How do we know that it was Bruh Joseph who seated them according to their birth rights eh? Perhaps it was just natural for them to sit at table in that manner, since that kind of tradition was very important in those days. 

Anyway, the scholars continue: ‘The fact that Joseph had the brothers separated from the Egyptians (vs. 32)  – it would have been an abomination unto the Egyptians had they not been separated – suggests that this was a native Egyptian Pharaoh. If it were a Hyksos king (non-native), most likely he would not have demanded such discrimination. Evidently the Egyptians had a deep hatred for Asiatic shepherd (cf. 46:34; Ex. 8:26). Verse 34 suggests that the brothers were not jealous or resentful toward Benjamin because of the preferential treatment; thus they seemingly had a change of heart. But Joseph was going to test them.’ 

Yes friends, although everything seemed somewhat hunky dory on the outside, more alarming situations were in the offing. No wonder the Good Library continues thus: ‘And he (Bruh Joseph) commanded the steward of his house, saying, Fill the men’s sacks with food, as much as they can carry, and put every man’s money in his sack’s mouth. And put my cup, the silver cup in the sack mouth of the youngest, and his corn money. And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken.’ (Gen 44:1-2) 

Bruh Joseph is certainly not making it easy for his brothers. But who knows why he’s setting these traps for them. Is it a matter of deep revenge, or simply playing games, to show them how their actions can have rebounding ramifications? Nonetheless, ‘As soon as the morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses (donkeys). And when they were gone out of the city, and not yet far off, Joseph said unto his steward, Up, follow after the men; and when thou dost overtake them, say unto them, Wherefore have ye rewarded (repaid) evil for good? Is not this it in which my lord drinketh, and whereby indeed he divineth (practices divination)? Ye have done evil in so doing?’ (Gen. 44:3-5) 

Ah mih people, Bruh Joseph certainly wasn’t easy nuh. But who can really blame him after all the trials and tribulations he had suffered because of his brother’s evil machinations. And if God spares life tomorrow, we’ll continue looking at how that most important story in the Good Library plays out. Now, let’s declare (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’ 

And having made that declaration (awright!!!) it’s now our bounden duty to go out and share that amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!

…behold…how good and how pleasant it is…for brethren to dwell together in unity… (Ps. 133:1) 

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Today’s Scrip-Bit    25 September 2023 Genesis 43:28b.

25 Sep 2023 Leave a comment

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

Genesis 43:28b.       And they bowed down their heads and made obeisance (prostrated themselves).

Oh my my, it’s Monday! So what? It’s just another day, except that most of us have to get up and go back out to work after a relaxing and/or a party-hearty weekend. (smile) But that’s nothing new, it’s been happening ever since the devil was a li’l boy, so I don’t see why we get anxious about it every week. With Jesus and His Holy Spirit as our Guide and Leaders, plus the fires of confidence built up in our bellies from Sunday worship, it’s a sure thing that we can handle any and every Monday like the champions we were made to be. So, let’s get out there and do just that nuh! End of Sermon! 

Now let’s reconnect with the exciting and intriguing story of Bruh Joseph. We last saw him when his brothers came down the second time with his younger brother Benjamin. And when Bruh Joseph saw Benjamin, he told his steward to take them to his house, for they would have lunch with him that day. Now the Good Library describes the situation thus: ‘And the men (Joseph’s brothers) were afraid, because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, because of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first time we are brought in: that he may seek occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us as bondmen (slaves), and our asses (donkeys).’ (Gen. 43:18) 

And there’s definitely nothing wrong with that reasoning under the prevailing circumstances. But being Jacob’s sons, they were not quite innocent in the games of life. The Good Library continues: ‘And they came near to the steward of Joseph’s house, and they communed with him at the door of the house, And said, O sir, we came indeed down at the first time to buy food: and it came to pass when we came to the inn, that we opened our sacks, and behold, every man’s money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have brought it again in our hand. 

And other money have we brought down in our hands to buy food: we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks. And he (the steward) said, Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon (the brother that was in jail) out unto them. And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet, and he gave their asses (donkeys) provender (feed). And they made ready the present against Joseph came (for Joseph’s coming) at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.’ (Gen. 43:19-25)

 Oh friends the suspense as well as the fear must have been very palatable around them, for although they now knew how the money got in their sacks, they still couldn’t fathom the reason behind it, nor why they had been invited to lunch, at Bruh Joseph’s house, and all they could probably see were further problems down the line. But they had no choice but do like Portia and face up to life. That’s a reference to an old radio soap that ran many moons ago in T&T called: ‘Portia faces Life’ (smile) 

‘And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in their hand into the house, and bowed themselves to him to the earth.’ (Gen. 43:26) Yes friends the great dramatist, Jehovah God, reminds us one more time of the truth of Bruh Joseph’s dream, with his brothers again prostrating themselves before him. Bruh Joseph must have had a small inner chuckle at that, because it was the same dream that got him sold into slavery in Egypt some twenty years previously. And I believe that’s just the Lord’s way of telling us to never refute someone’s dream out of hand. 

‘And he (Joseph) asked them of their welfare (well-being), and said, Is your father well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive? And they answered, Thy servant our father is in good health, he is yet alive. And they bowed down their heads and made obeisance (prostrated themselves).’ (Gen. 43:27-28) There we have that bowing down again. The Lord just won’t let us forget it. (smile) 

‘And he (Joseph) lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, Is this your younger brother, of whom ye spake unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son. And Joseph made haste for his bowels did yearn upon his brother (his heart did yearn for his brother); and he sought where to weep; and he entered his chamber, and wept there.’ (Gen. 43:29-30) And it’s quite understandable that Joseph’s heart yearned for his brother, his mother’s other son, for when he left home at around seventeen, Benjamin was a young pup, but now he was a big, strapping man in his twenties. 

Ah mih people, life hands us so many unexpected twists and turns that it’s only with the help of the Good Lord that we can ever expect to navigate them successfully. That’s why it’s necessary for us to go to the throne of grace right now, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn to seek God’s divine help with our many earthly problems. So as one sincere voice: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. 

Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

Oh, my fellow saints, we just said it ourselves; if we want to receive divine help, then we’ve got to turn from our evil ways and sincerely seek God’s face. That’s the only way! Much LOVE!

…when the storms of life surround us…turn them over to Jesus…for He is the only true Storm Calmer…  

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 August 2023 Isaiah 30:21.

09 Aug 2023 Leave a comment

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

Isaiah 30:21.       And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left hand.

Oh friends, I can’t believe it’s already Wednesday nuh! The days are flying by so quickly,  leaving me helplessly in their wake, unprepared and not doing any of the things I desire to do. But it’s a beautiful summer’s day in my area though, bright, sunshiny and cool, and if I’m smart, I’ll enjoy it to the last drop, because soon there won’t be any more of these kinds of days. 

In fact, as soon as September begins, with the passing of Labour Day, the cold weather creeps back in and drives the beautiful thoughts and actions of summer away. But that’s just how it is in these northern climes. You know it, but never get accustomed to it, always longing for the sunshine and warm weather. 

Anyway, with the Holy Spirit of Jesus in us and by our sides, leading and guiding us in the good way, we have nothing to worry about, regardless of what comes against us. But that doesn’t happen automatically. No sir. And why not you ask? Because we’re in a covenant relationship with Christ, which means we also have a part to play; that’s to listen to the Holy Spirit and then follow His godly guidance. 

It’s like Isaiah said to the people of Israel, re God’s graciousness and mercy. ‘And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers. And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left hand.’ (Is. 30:20-21) 

Yes friends, that’s the way the Holy Spirit operates, guiding us with a still, small voice, that we can only hear if we’re paying attention. However, not paying attention, not listening for that still, small voice is what so many of us supposed believers are doing, that’s why so many of us are going astray, and thus ‘eating the bread of adversity, and drinking the water of affliction.’ The scholars tell us that ‘the reference to the bread of adversity and the water of affliction shows that God teaches us lessons through circumstances when we will not listen to our teachers who call us to walk in the way (i.e., the way of God).’ 

Oh my people, that’s why it’s of the utmost importance to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit if we desire to know the true direction the Lord wants us to follow. That was Jesus’ direction to the disciples when He told them of the Holy Spirit’s coming. He said: But the Comforter (Helper), which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ (John 14:26-27) 

And it’s that peace of Jesus that enables us to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. And if we don’t have that peace, then we cannot listen, and thus cannot be taught. And that’s the sad part of Christianity today. Too many of us don’t have the peace of Jesus, and therefore allow the loud noises of the world to drown out the whispers of the Holy Spirit. Our hearts have become hard, by being too much in LOVE with the things of the world, consequently we cannot hear the quiet guidance of God’s Spirit, and then, when we’re overwhelmed by our negative circumstances because of our unwise decisions, we’re quick to blame God. 

But the fault is usually ours, for being too much in LOVE with the deceptive and perishable wealth and things of the world, and not enamoured enough of the imperishable things of God. Remember what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount about the best way to live. ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) 

Yes my brethren, if we seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness first, God will ensure that we do not lack anything. And remember, He owns the universe and all therein, and if He wants to make you filthy rich, He can, just like He made Cousin Sol the richest and most powerful man ever, although he did not ask for riches or glory, but wisdom and strength to guide his people. And there are many filthy rich and powerful believers out there in the world, so it’s not like we can’t acquire the good things that the world has to offer, but we have to do it through the auspices, the power of God and not of men or of Satan. 

And there’s some more stuff I’d like to talk about, but it will make the Bit too long, (smile) so we’ll leave that until tomorrow, the Lord willing. Now let’s go home declaring (steupsss!!!) our Wednesday Wail letting all and sundry know of our marvellous position in Christ Jesus. 

Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’ 

And there’s this added incentive, that if we endure right down to the very end with Jesus, that future will be even more glorious than we can ask or imagine! Wow! Hope to see you there! Much LOVE!

…without the peace of Christ in our souls…we won’t hear the voice of the Holy Spirit…  

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   1 June 2023 Ephesians 2:8.

01 Jun 2023 Leave a comment

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

Ephesians 2:8.       For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.

Come Thursday, everything will be all right! Yes friends, it’s Thursday, and all’s right with the world, it’s moving along as it should. (smile) And just for your information, it’s also the first day of June 2023. Wow! Have we already reached the middle of the year? Yes! And in record time too! (smile) 

Ah mih people, the days certainly seem to be flying along like there’s no tomorrow. I guess we’re so busy with our many problems that we don’t have time to pay attention to the individual days, as they go sailing by, which brings us to a different problem. If the days are going by quickly, that means the time for Jesus’ return is also coming up quickly and will most certainly come as a thief in the night, that’s unexpectedly, without warning. We then have to ask if we’re ready for such a momentous occasion, because if He returns and we’re not ready, then things will be really bad with us. 

We’ll be facing eternal separation from our Maker and eternity in hellfire with Satan. And I’m sure however you look at that situation it cannot be an encouraging one. And the ONLY way to avoid such a terrible situation is by receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, and thus be entitled to salvation and eternal life with Him in heaven, or wherever He chooses to be. And that life with Him will be extraordinary; one of peace, LOVE and joy. 

Now here’s a little insight into what life with Jesus will be like in the days of eternity. John writes it thus in the Book of Revelation. ‘And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 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. 21:3-4) 

Mama oh Mama! What a wonderful life that sounds like it will be! With Almighty God dwelling right there with you, and no more pain, death, tears, etc. etc. Wow! You can’t beat that my brethren! Furthermore, John informs us: ‘And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle (lamp), neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light : and they shall reign for ever and ever.’ (Rev. 22:5) 

Oh my people, it couldn’t get any better than that! No long, dark, arduous nights to go through…and the light of Almighty God constantly shining around you! Wow! Yes, that’s all I can say! (smile) Life with Jesus through eternity is obviously going to be a good, blessed life, the best there can be. But the only way to be there to enjoy it is to accept Him as Lord and Saviour before you die or He returns, for if either one of those things happen and you’re not ensconced in His LOVING arms, your name’s not written in His Book of Life, then you’ll be S.O.L. 

You won’t see heaven and spend eternity with Him. And I’m sure none of us want to miss the good things and times slated to happen with Jesus during that long time called eternity, because the only other option is hellfire and damnation with Satan. And I don’t think that really compares to heaven any which way you shape it. That’s why it’s of the utmost importance that we get ready RIGHT NOW since we don’t know the time of our death, or that of Jesus’ return, either of which could happen at any time without any warning. 

Therefore, like the old people would say, make hay while the sun shines, for you can’t do it when it rains. Meaning we have to come to Jesus NOW while we’re alive and He’s yet to return. And how do we do that, you ask? It’s a simple process. You confess that you’re a sinner and ask the Lord to come into your life and make you what He wants you to be, and promise to be obedient to His will and word. 

And once you accept Him as Lord and Saviour His Holy Spirit, the third member of our Triune God will come to dwell in you to lead and guide you along the narrow pathway that’s the Christian life. It’s not necessarily an easy life with so many people and things coming against believers, but it’s always interesting, adventuresome and very worthwhile, especially the ending of heaven, with eternal life and good times with Jesus. 

It’s important to note though, that your big part in the process of salvation is accepting it. That’s because, as Bruh Paul said to the Ephesians: ‘For by grace are ye (you have been) saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.’ (Eph. 2:8) Salvation is God’s gift to mankind. He LOVED us so much and saw that we were headed inexorably to hell through our disobedience and idolatrous ways, that He wanted to provide us with another much better option. 

It meant Him breaking His own heart by sending His Son Jesus to die to pay the price necessary to wash away our sins. But that’s how much He LOVED us, His most precious and favourite creation. The Bible puts it thus: ‘But God commendeth (demonstrated) his (own) LOVE toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ (Rom. 5:8) 

That’s the wonderful kind of God we serve my fellow saints. So, I don’t understand why we can’t respond with the same sort of LOVING reaction to Him. But that’s why He gave us free will, to make our choice whether we want to dance with Him in heaven or with Satan in hell. It’s all the individual’s choice. End of sermon! 

Now let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Thursday Blessings so that they can be activated and become available to us to use in God’s great work here on earth. Altogether now: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

It now behooves us to go out and share those blessings just as generously with others as the Lord shared them with us! Much LOVE!

…there are only two eternal options…heaven or hell…the choice is ours… 

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   29 May 2023 Matthew 24:13.

29 May 2023 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.

Prologue: Ah friends, I know it’s long and late, but life happened to the ole fella… and is it ever so good. (smile) 

And the unbreakable cycle of our working lives continues its everlasting journey, revolving once more to park for a brief moment of time on the day we call Monday; the day we all LOVE to hate. (smile) Unfortunately though, it’s all a part of the Creator’s great plan for our universe, and unless we want to live it despondently and without the joy we were meant to have, then we’d best learn to grin and bear it, making the best of our earthly days, which, though sometimes rather short, can be very enjoyable, especially if we know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. 

In fact, Christians ought to be the most joyful people on the earth, with all the many promises of our faith, like salvation and eternal life with Christ through His earthly ministry, where He died on the cross to pay for our sins and set us free from the impending doom in hellfire with the evil Satan. But sadly, many of us who consider ourselves believers, tend to eke out a miserable existence, always sour and unhappy with life, whether it’s because of our unfortunate circumstances and not trusting God to help us fix them, or because of the false belief that Christians should always be poor and metaphorically dragging themselves in the dirt, the picture painted of the old-time pilgrims. 

But if that’s true, then Christ wasted His time in dying for us. Why die, if we would still be the scum of the earth? On the contrary, Jesus said: ‘I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ (John 10:10) And I’m sure the abundant life is not one of just getting by in a continuously troubled and unhappy frame of mind. But as they say, to each his own, and I’m going to make sure I enjoy my life to the fullest, making Jesus my Number One priority, for I know that with Him at the helm of my good ship Life, I’ll be as safe and comfortable as heavenly possible. (smile) 

And while we in Canada and many other parts of the world go out to work today, the U.S will be commemorating their Memorial Day Holiday. ‘That’s a holiday dedicated to those who died while serving in America’s wars. To commemorate the day, which falls on the last Monday in May, people flock to Washington to decorate the graves of fallen military service members, attend parades and visit national monuments.’ And it’s certainly sad and disheartening to think that despite the many who have fallen unnecessarily and uselessly in the wars over the years, that wars and rumours of wars are still such a big part of our human existence. 

Like the human animal is not satisfied unless he is constantly clashing swords with his fellow man. And now, at the height of our intelligence, technology and prosperity, instead of using those tools to work towards peace, LOVE, understanding and godliness in our world, we are still trying to outdo each other in building a bigger, better and more reprehensible weapon of mass destruction; one that will most likely annihilate everything within many, many miles of the eye of its atomic explosion, like the force of a hurricane radiates outwards from its eye, from its centre. 

And that’s the kind of foolish, short-sighted, greedy, egomaniacal, evil and ungodly world that’s highlighted in our 21st century. But then again, we might only be fulfilling the prophecy of Jesus found in Matthew 24, where He expounds to the disciples re His Second Coming and the end of the world. ‘Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers (various) places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.’ (Matt. 24:4-8) 

So, when the many wars and natural disasters begin occurring in our world, it’s not yet the end of the world, but just the ‘beginning of sorrows’ or the beginning of the end. And I doubt that anyone currently alive will doubt that all those things Jesus spoke about are happening with alarming frequency and heightened tension right now in our world. That brings us to Jesus’ continuation of the prophecy. ‘Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted (for tribulation), and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity (lawlessness) shall abound, the LOVE of many shall wax (grow) cold. But he that shall endure unto the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations: and then shall the end come.’ (Matt. 24:9-14) And all of God’s people said a loud and grateful: ‘Amen!’ 

 So there we have it friends, the decline in goodness and godliness and the rise in evil and hatred, that will preface the end of this church age. And we have seen all of those sad happenings down through the last years; the many false prophets and messiahs that have arisen and are still arising, preaching false doctrines, and leading many astray into false religious cults. Then there’s the increasing frequency and devastation of famines and pestilence and natural disasters all over, as well as worldwide tribulation, with an increase in hatred, as well as the abounding lawlessness that now has our world in its evil grip. 

And there’s absolutely no doubt that the LOVE of many, have indeed waxed or grown cold. I don’t know that there’s ever been a time when LOVE has been so absent from and so badly needed in our world. But the two most important aspects of it all my brethren are that the gospel of Christ will be preached all over the world. The missionary expansion of Christ’s church must first be accomplished to all the inhabited world, and we’re steadily getting there with all our new technology, so it shall not be too long before we also reach that prophesied goal. 

However, the clincher in all of that rhetoric my people, are these few but life-saving and life-giving words of Jesus. ‘But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.’ (Matt. 24:13) Now those are the words we should be most concerned with, for we cannot do anything much about the condition of our world, but we can certainly save our souls by hanging on tightly to Jesus, like white on rice. And to help us do that, let’s go, right now, to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, seeking wisdom and guidance during this upcoming week. 

As one voice: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. We desperately need Your divine help, for You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Heavenly Father, we admit that we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but we know that You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. 

That’s why we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading with You to give us wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems.  And Father, we pray that you will ease the pain of the many who are suffering from negative situations. Please show them Your awesome grace and mercy, and keep Your promise that You’ll hear our prayer, forgive us, and heal our land if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

Now, its’ time for us to step up to the plate, change our evil ways and endure right down to the very end with Jesus! Much LOVE!

…the ONLY hope for man…is embracing Jesus…and NEVER letting Him go…

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

Today’s Scrip-Bit   20 March 2023 Psalm 23:1.

20 Mar 2023 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 23:1. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Oh friends, on this sunny but chilly Monday morning, we want to open with some monumental news! Yes, it is a momentous occasion! One where we hear and understand that The Bible is God’s Word to us. That it is still fresh through all the ages, and if we read it, we will find God’s exceptional wisdom on its pages! Wow! What magnificent news that is my people! Because it means that all of us who are sincerely seeking wisdom just have to read the Bible, God’s Word to find it. 

Yes friends, wisdom is right at our finger tips, no further than the Bible that sits looking pretty on your desk or table, but is truly gathering dust, since you don’t read it. And by the way, here’s this other piece of monumental information: One truth from the Bible is worth more than all the wisdom of man! That’s worth another Wow! Yes mih bredrin! Imagine that nuh. One li’l truth from God’s Word is worth more than all of man’s wisdom! Meaning to say that man’s wisdom is not worth very much, especially when compared to God’s.

 So why then do we all insist on learning and spouting the wisdom of man and not God’s eh? If man’s wisdom is worth so little, we should all be hungry and thirsting for the wisdom found in God’s Word. But to get that means reading God’s Word, the Bible, which so many of us claim to be too busy to do. That’s why so many of us are unwise in an unwise world, because the world doesn’t value God’s Word and His immortal and infinite wisdom. 

And it’s the basic answer to all of the earth’s problems. If you ignore the Word of the Creator of the universe and all therein, and the amazing truths it contains, how can you ever live a successful life, either individually or communally? No way Jose! The fly in the ointment here is that in addition to His Word, God also gave us free will to do as we please, sincerely hoping though that we’d be wise enough to read His Word and then follow His plan for our lives. But unfortunately, too many of us are trying to do it our own way without God’s help, and that is a sure and perfect recipe for disaster. 

Jesus Christ. God’s Son, whom He sent to earth to help us see the light said it quite simply and clearly. ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt. 6:33) Now that’s one of the essential truths of God’s Word. If we seek His kingdom and His righteousness before anything else, then we will have all our needs fulfilled. How did Bruh David put it in that marvellous psalm that we all know and revere with our mouths but not our hearts: ‘The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want.’ (Ps. 23:1) 

And what does a shepherd do for his sheep eh? ‘A shepherd is committed to a flock and the one responsible for guiding the sheep, protecting them, and attending to their needs. So, to serve as a shepherd means to demonstrate commitment to the well-being of other people. It involves watching out for them, helping them, and teaching them.’ Therefore, that means if the Lord God Almighty is our shepherd, then He is thoroughly committed to our well-being. And His Son Jesus Christ said it in so many words. ‘I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.’ (John 10:11) 

And that’s exactly what He did; gave His sinless life on the cross of Calvary so that we, His sheep could be saved, could have victory, salvation and eternal life. So why is it so difficult to follow him eh? So hard to read God’s Word, believe it and then live it, despite all the marvellous examples of great men of God laid out in that Good Library, we call the Bible? I truly don’t know. Instead, we’re all going crazy for the things of the world and its evil doings, which don’t truly satisfy, and therefore we have to continually run them down, regardless of how much we have already accumulated. 

But friends, here is another word of wisdom for us. When you live for Christ, you don’t have to run down anything because God’s favour, grace and blessings run you down! But I guess we all have to find out the uselessness in running down the things of the world for ourselves before we believe. Meanwhile, here are the words of Bruh David, who as we all know personally lived them, and consequently experienced the joy of God’s favour. Hopefully, hearing them again will light a spark in our own souls and lives and wake us up to the reality that God, through Jesus Christ is the ONLY WAY to go. 

Please read with me: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil: my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.’ (Ps. 23: 1-6) 

Oh friends, if we look at all the things Bruh David wrote there, we will see that he experienced it all. His life wasn’t easy, but God never promised us an easy life. He promised us a full, abundant and interesting one. And that’s a big part of our problem as believers. We think that because we’re following Jesus, life should be easy. But that’s the furthest thing from the truth, because Jesus said it quite clearly. ‘If any man will come after (follow) me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.’ (Luke 9:23) That doesn’t mean easy living my brethren, but rather a sacrificial sense of purpose, because Christianity was not made for cowards. 

So now that we’ve acquired some godly wisdom, (smile) let’s go to God, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn and place all our problems before Him, as He’s said in His Word that we ought to do. Altogether now: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. We desperately need Your divine help, for You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. 

Heavenly Father, we admit that we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but we know that You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. That’s why we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading with You to give us wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. 

And Father, we pray that you will ease the pain of the many who are suffering from negative situations. Please show them Your awesome grace and mercy, and keep Your promise that You’ll hear our prayer, forgive us, and heal our land if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

And having said all of that, it now behooves us to turn our words into sincere action, so that the Lord can do His part. Much LOVE!

…if you’re seeking wisdom…why go anywhere else than to the fountainhead…Almighty God…

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

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