Psalm 126:5. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
Oh Friends, like the old Jamaican music icon Prince Buster says in his song: ‘I feel so mash up today.’ Unfortunately though, it’s not from excess sexual activities, as he means (smile) but from the ravages of a cold and fever that’s been attacking my ole body for the last two days. And sadly it’s still not done yet. Ah mih breddren, I haven’t had a cold like this, what the ancients would call a real fresh cold, with my nose constantly blocked up but yet running, since I don’t know when. And I haven’t had a fever for even longer than that. Subsequently I’ve forgotten how lousy and miserable they make you feel. The fever was a real eye opener yes! I ached and pained in places I didn’t even know I could ache and pain in. Hn! Sometimes I didn’t even know whether I was coming or going. I’ve seen how it affects the duchess, but as they say, you never know what something is really like until you experience it yourself. Internally, I felt as cold as ice, while externally my body felt like it was on fire. Chuh! And obviously when I enquired of the Lord as to the purpose for this unexpected suffering, I got no answer. But I was lucid enough between my moans and groans to give Him thanks and affirm that though I didn’t understand or like what was happening, I was confident that it would pass – the problem though was how soon – and He would eventually work everything out for my good as He has promised in His Word. But Friends, I must admit that the Lord was merciful in one respect. He didn’t allow the cough to come on too. Otherwise that would have been the end of me, for the few times I chucked, it felt as though my head would split open. And the coughing would only have brought on my asthma. So at least I have that to be thankful for. (smile) Anyway, enough of my problems, some people have plenty worse ones. Let’s turn to our Bit: ‘They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.’ Yes my brethren, that’s the Lord’s promise to those who believe in Him and faithfully walk His path regardless of whatever comes against them. Now let’s continue to look at some scripture that reflects that promise. We’ll begin way back in the days of Ezra, when some of the Jews returned to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon and began rebuilding the Lord’s sanctuary. ‘And when the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, they set the priests (the priests stood) in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites the sons of Asaph with cymbals, to praise the Lord, after the ordinance of David king of Israel. And they sang together by course in (responsibly) praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth forever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice, and many shouted aloud for joy; So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off. (Ezra 3:10-13) Oh my brethren, yuh see how great was the joy of the people, especially the old folks who had known the old temple and never believed they would live to see the foundations of a new one laid. You couldn’t even discern the shouts of joy from that of the weeping. They had sown in tears of faith in their long exile and captivity in Babylon, and eventually the Lord had worked on the hearts of the pagan kings to give them permission and provision to return to their homeland, so they were able to shed tears of joy at the rebuilding of the Lord’s house. Our next scripture comes from Galatians, where Bruh Paul warns the believers: ‘Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not (do not lose heart). As we therefore have opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.’ (Gal.6:7-10) Oh Friends, in truth, what we sow, we shall surely reap. But hear the greatest promise of all nuh. It comes from Revelations, where John sees the new heaven and the new earth. ‘And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle (presence) 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 he shall 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) Oh my people, if we stay faithful and strong, sowing good seed even in our time of misery and disaster, all those tears of sorrow, will be replaced by ones of Joy, when Jesus returns to claim His kingdom. So please, let’s hold on tightly to that most magnificent promise, and stay rooted and purposed in Jesus, whatever comes our way. Remember, the smart money is on Jesus. Much LOVE!…whatever the problem…we can overcome it…through steadfast faith in Jesus…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 January 2013 Psalm 126:5
22 Jan 2013 Leave a comment
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: corruption, do good unto all, everlasting life, fever, fresh cold, giving thanks, joy, no more negativity, Praise the Lord, reap in joy, sow in tears, sow to the flesh, sow to the Spirit, steadfast faith in Jesus, we can overcome, whatever we sow we shall reap, with trumpets and cymbals
Today’s Scrip-Bit 21 January 2013 Psalm 126:5
21 Jan 2013 Leave a comment
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: aura of love, bringing in the sheaves, communion with Jesus, holy spirit, humble servants, joy, Monday Morning, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, reap in joy, rejoicing, rejuvenation of spirit, sow in tears, sure conquerors, TGIM, Thank God it's Monday, weary souls
Psalm 126:5. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
Aw Friends, it’s Monday again… And behold I am suddenly bombarded by hooting and hollering, clapping and joyful shouts of ‘TGIM! Thank God it’s Monday!’ Hn! And see me just standing there nuh, rooted to the ground in shock, my mouth and eyes opened wide in surprise and amazement. Okay, okay, so I have the cold, and it might just be making me a touch light-headed. But doesn’t that reaction to a Monday morning just sound wonderful? God’s children ecstatic to go out on the first day of the work week, couldn’t be anything but wonderful…and miraculous too! That’s what I’m hoping for, working towards and praying on. And one day, with the Good Lord’s help obviously, I’m going to achieve that goal, because I believe, and I have faith. (smile) Oh my people, for the few that are above par this morning, and for the many that are sub-par, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn as if we really mean it nuh. Let’s put our whole being into it. Let’s wake up the heavenly hosts this morning with a real rousing rendition of our battle Hymn. All together 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!’ Awright mih breddren! All heaven sat up and took notice, riotously applauded and even gave us a Standing O. Wow! Let’s go out now and put all those daring words into action and make Jesus real proud of us. Yes my fellow followers of Christ, though it’s hard on plenty of us this Monday morning, let’s get out there and bring what our Bit says to fulfilment. ‘They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.’ And that’s the gospel truth Friends! As the verse after the Bit rightly declares: ‘He that goeth forth (to and fro) and weepeth, bearing precious seed (for sowing), shall doubtless come again with rejoicing (shouts of joy), bringing his sheaves with him.’ (Ps.126:6) And I’m talking here from hard, personal experience, not hearsay, because right now I’m feeling crappy, what with the constant sneezing, my nose sore and running like a pipe and all the various other aspects of the common cold, but the Lord, in His eternal wisdom raised the level of joy in my spirit, caused me to write our entertaining intro, then led me to an appropriate Bit. There were some other interesting ones, but as soon as I saw that one, I knew that it was destined for today. Chuh! I hate having to stop every so often and gingerly wipe my sore nose! But anyway mih people, let’s ramp up our joy today nuh! As I keep reminding us, Christians should be the happiest and most joyful people on planet earth. What with all the good news and stuff we have to look forward to in communion with Jesus, who wouldn’t be joyful eh? But sadly, we’re still some of the most rude, grouchy, unmannerly, gloomy, miserable, resentful people around, even though we live in one of the most prosperous and free areas of the world. Now let’s look at some scripture that talks about the joy of the believer, the joy inherent in believing. First off is Isaiah, re Israel restored to the glory of Zion. ‘And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.’ (Is.35:10) And Isaiah was so sure of that promise, that he repeats it almost word for word in Chapter 51:11. Please read that for yourself. Meanwhile, Jeremiah, also in talking about the restoration of Israel, proudly proclaims: ‘They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first born. Hear the word of the Lord, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles (coastlands) afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock. For the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he. Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for (new) wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a (well) watered garden; and they shall not sorrow anymore at all. Then shall the young virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow. And I will satiate (fill) the soul of the priests with fatness (abundance), and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the Lord.’ (Jer.31:9-14) Oh Friends, I didn’t plan to put in all of that, but after reading it, and hearing the wonderful promises, I had no choice. That means we’ll have to leave the rest until tomorrow, God willing. But my people, what more can we ask of our great, LOVING, merciful and forgiving God eh? Nothing really! For He’s kept all of His promises, given us His heart of LOVE, His Holy Spirit, and His sacrificed Son. There’s no more left to give, so let’s appreciate it, and as obedient followers, go out and do the same; give of ourselves, sow good seeds even in our most difficult times, so that eventually we shall reap an abundant harvest of joy. That’s our raison d’être here on earth. So let’s do it without too much complaining. Remember, Jesus never complained about the terrible ordeal He suffered to save our unworthy sinful souls, and neither should we. Much LOVE!…remember that old hymn…bringing in the sheaves…bringing in the sheaves…we shall come rejoicing…bringing in the sheaves…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 December 2012 Luke 2:11
25 Dec 2012 Leave a comment
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living Tags: Christ the Lord, Christmas, Christmas presents, Everlasting Father, glory hallelujah, God's LOVE, good news, grace of God, holy spirit, Hugs, Jesus, Jesus saves, joy, Merry Christmas, mighty god, mind yuh business, prince of peace, Prosperous New Year, reason for the season, saviour, snow, Wonderful Counselor
Luke 2:11. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
MERRY CHRISTMAS 2012!
Well Friends, neighbours, fellow believers, and also you unbelievers, it’s CHRISTMAS DAY! Glory Hallelujah! At last the big day that’s been causing so much confusion in our already confused world has arrived. Merry Christmas to one and all! And believe me, the ole fella is shaking it a tad on the rough side this morning, because I went to church last night and didn’t get to bed until the wee hours of the morning. And when the Lord woke me up, some half an hour ago, at minutes to six, I really didn’t feel like getting up. But in good Jesus fashion, I forced myself to get up, because there was the Lord’s work to be done, a Bit to be written. Even now, I’m still a bit dozy, waiting for my two helpers, the caffeine and the Holy Spirit to kick in and raise my level of awareness. (smile) Chuh! I just turned around to take a sip of coffee and found that it all gone, so I have to settle for some water. Anyway Friends, as usual, the Lord’s in my corner and is guiding my every word, so I’m not worried. He’s so wonderful that He led me to Today’s Bit, as soon as I opened the Good Book, and has already shown me what He wants me to say, so it’s only left up to me to pull myself together and do His will. And since I try my best to be obedient, here goes. First off, let me say that I got two wonderful Christmas presents last night. The first one being my two daughters going to church with me. And a loud and grateful ‘Glory Hallelujah!’ rises up to heaven. I had asked them earlier on to go with me, but since they hem and hawed, I just decided to go by myself. But lo and behold, when I was ready to leave, they duly informed that they were coming. How can I look a gift horse in the mouth eh! Then on the way to church, I asked what had made them come. They informed me that that was my Christmas present, and gave me a big ‘Merry Christmas Daddy!’ Now I certainly would never look askance at my daughters going to church with me, for whatever reason. Then, wonder of wonders, when I got to church, I saw a long lost parishioner, one of my favourites, who had stopped coming to church for a while. Now don’t be jealous the rest of you, cause I have plenty favourites at church. (smile) But my heart definitely leapt for joy, and I said a heartfelt, ‘Thank You Lord!’ because he’s been an integral part of our leadership group, and it certainly hasn’t been the same these many months without him. Welcome back James! The Lord definitely moved you to return to the fold of St. Francis at a most appropriate time. Now what else did I want to say…? Oh yeh! On coming out of church after midnight, we discovered some wet snow gently falling. The Lord was obviously covering all His bases, giving the snow enthusiasts a little bit, so that when they sang about a white Christmas, they wouldn’t be lying. And strangely enough, there’s still a smattering of the white stuff in the area, so those who like it will wake up to it, though I guess it will all be melted away by lunch time. One more thing before we get into our Bit. Last week a fellow church member gave some of us a wonderful flyer explaining ‘WHY GOD MADE HUGS!’ AndI think it’s very worthwhile to be shared on this blessed day. Please say with me: ‘Everyone was meant to share God’s all-abiding LOVE and care; He saw that we would need to know a way to let these feelings show. So God made hugs – a special sign, A symbol of His LOVE divine, A circle of our open arms To hold in LOVE and keep out harm. One simple hug can do its part To warm and cheer another’s heart. A hug’s a bit of heaven above That signifies His perfect LOVE.’ And isn’t that the gospel truth my brethren! That’s exactly why Jesus came to earth – because of the Father’s great LOVE for us. And at the bottom of the flyer, there’s a coupon that’s good for one free hug, along with the admonition, ‘Hug someone you LOVE today!’ Please, please my people, let’s ensure that we do that on this special day nuh. If possible, hug many, but please hug at least one person today, show them God’s true LOVE, which is what the season is all about, as our Bit so nicely puts it: ‘For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.’ Oh mih breddren, that’s definitely the best thing that ever happened to our world! Isaiah prophesied it so beautifully centuries before it was fulfilled. ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ (Is.9:6) And all those things surely describe Jesus to a T. But the last one, ‘Prince of Peace’ is what He particularly wants us, His followers, to focus on. He desires us to be peaceful souls and not the snarky, resentful, jealous, greedy people we can too often be. And according to our Bit, Jesus is also our ‘Saviour.’ Listen to how the angel of the Lord explained Mary’s predicament to her betrothed, Joseph. ‘And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS (SAVIOUR): for he shall save his people from their sins.’ (Matt.1:21) Now hear the scholars’ timely comments on that verse. ‘Call his name JESUS: The name of the child Jesus (Heb. Yehoshua) means “Jehovah Saves.” This points to the very purpose of Christ’s coming into the world – to save sinners. Placed early in the New Testament, this statement becomes the foundational concept of the gospel. Jesus, by His very name and nature, is the Saviour.’ Yes Friends, Jesus surely did save us from the penalty of death, which we so rightly deserved for our abominable sins, and for which we should all be eternally grateful. And as to being ‘Christ the Lord,’ listen to Peter tell it in his famous speech at Pentecost. ‘For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Until, I make thy foes thy footstool…Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.’ (Acts 2:34-36) There you have it Friends, the fulfillment of the scripture. So let not your hearts be troubled. Our God is still on His throne running things. But please, please Friends, on this Christmas Day of 2012, let’s all take time out from all the fun and frolic, to have a quiet moment and seriously ponder, and sincerely appreciate the true reason for this glorious season; the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Now go and have a good time with your friends and families, but remember, DRUNK OR SOBER, MIND YUH BUSINESS! Don’t give the evil, ever-lurking Beelzebub even one iota of a chance to disrupt the proceedings and steal your joy. MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR! Much LOVE!…what a truly wonderful world this would be…if we took the joy, the good news and the grace of God…through Jesus Christ…out into the world everyday…instead of just at Christmas time…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 December 2012 Psalm 116:7
08 Dec 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: abundance, bountiful, Comforter, confidence, distress, good times, grace, gracious Lord, grateful hearts, hearts, heavy burdens, inclement weather, joy, LOVE, loving kindness, merciful, mercy, minds, praise, prosperity, provider, rest, righteousness., sincerity, sing unto the Lord, souls, thanks, trust, truth
Psalm 116:7. Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.
Ah Friends, it’s another grey, cloudy, rainy morning in my neck of the woods. But despite the inclement weather, life is good, and for that we are all very grateful. Therefore, let’s raise a mighty shout of joy to heaven, praising and thanking the Lord God Jehovah for His goodness, LOVING-kindness and mercy towards the undeserving children of men. And all God’s people declared in loud voice, with grateful hearts: ‘Almighty God, we praise You, and bless Your Holy Name, for all you’ve done and are planning to do for us!’ And we find a poignant example of praise for God’s goodness in Psalm 116, Praise for deliverance from death. ‘I LOVE the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me (hath listened to me), therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. The sorrows of death compassed (surrounded) me, and the pains (distress) of hell gat (laid) hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. Then called I upon the name of the Lord; O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous, yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped (saved) me.’ (Ps.116:1-6) Yes Friends, the Lord of hosts is our refuge, our hiding place, our rock, our shield, our provider, our comforter! In times of want and trouble, He is the first One we ought to call upon. Now don’t forget to give Him thanks and praise in the good times too. So in other words, believers ought to be doing as Bruh Paul advised the Ephesians: ‘Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;’ (Eph.5:20) And not only that, but also as He told the Philippians: ‘Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.’ (Phil.4:4) Oh my people, whatever life brings us, lemons or honey, we ought to rejoice and give thanks to our great God! It’s as simple as that. Note I didn’t say easy, but with God’s help and some practice, it’s certainly doable. That’s why the psalmist in our Bit today, could say with great confidence and joy: ‘Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.’ That Friends, is the wonderful modus operandi of our God; dealing bountifully with those who cry out to Him in all sincerity and truth! But far too many of us are too proud, stubborn, rebellious and independent to ask for help, as Jeremiah shows, when talking about the destruction of Judah. ‘Thus saith the Lord, stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.’ (Jer.6:16) Oh what stupidity we embrace my brethren when we refuse to walk in the traditional ways of true righteousness! Doing our own thing only leads to disaster and destruction. But our God LOVES us so much, that even when we blatantly ignore Him and choose to go our own way, He still doesn’t give up on us. Listen to Jesus with this great invitation: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me; for I am meek (gentle) and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt.11:28-30) Oh Friends, there’s no better invitation than that to be found anywhere in this whole wide world. For who doesn’t want rest for their weary soul in this evil, ungodly, tiresome, fraudulent, busy world? And Jesus is willing to bear our heavy burdens, like He bore the cross all the way to Calvary, and our sins all the way to eternity. So why are we so reluctant, or should I say adamant in not putting our trust in Him eh, especially when we see the sorry state of our world, because we have placed our trust in unworthy, unfaithful man? Fellow believers, it’s time to put our utmost and entire trust in Jesus, since He is the only one who can help us escape from the deep mire in which we’re now wallowing. In Psalm 119, the psalmist wisely asked the Lord to ‘Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.’ (Ps.119:17-18) Those are the kinds of things we ought to be asking for Friends; the ability to live righteously and abide in His Word, discernment and focus through His Holy Spirit, so that we can understand and enjoy all the wonderful things that He’s provided for us in His law. When we do those things, then like the second half of our Bit, we’ll be able to say in all truth, that the Lord has dealt bountifully with us. And like Bruh David, we can also confidently declare: ‘I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.’ (Ps.13:6) Yes my people, when we diligently and sincerely seek the Lord and try to do His will, then He deals bountifully with us, even more bountifully than we can ask or imagine! So what’s holding us back eh? Let’s come to the Lord today in all diligence and sincerity, surrender our lives to Him, rest under His strong, protective wings, that we may find the peace and joy He’s faithfully promised, and last but not least, enjoy the prosperity and abundance that comes to those who open their hearts, minds and souls to Him. That’s wisdom at its zenith, my brethren! Much LOVE!…to know, know, know Him…is to LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Him…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 October 2012 Revelation 4:9
09 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: appreciation, giving thanks always, glory, honour, Jesus Christ, joy, keys of hell and death, praise, thanks, the First and the Last, warriors for Jesus, wisdom, worship
Revelation 4:9. And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever.
Well my people, the Thanksgiving Celebrations are over for another year!Now it’s back to the daily grind and common task. And sadly, I know that some of us are going to have a hard time getting up and going to work this Tuesday morning because of our over giving of thanks yesterday. (smile) But as they say, when the Piper plays, you’ve got to pay! So just suck it up now like real warriors and get out there and work for Jesus! You certainly weren’t complaining when you were feeding your face and carrying on yesterday, so please don’t complain now. Please note too, that though the official day for giving thanks as a nation has passed, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t give thanks individually, as families and as fellow worshippers, because giving thanks is an integral part of who we are as believers. As Bruh Paul told the Ephesians, we should be ‘Giving thanks ALWAYS for ALL things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (Eph.5:20) And that Friends is, or should be a major building block in our faith walk, since there are so many things in our everyday lives to give sincere thanks for. Then there’s the natural fact that when we tell each other thanks for whatever we’ve done for the other, it raises our level of joy and appreciation. In the same manner when we give God thanks for His goodness to us, it warms the cockles of His heart and makes Him want to bless us even more. Wow! I can’t get over it Friends; the awesome God we serve and worship! And don’t think that only on earth there’s thanks and praise. No way! There’s even more thanks and praise going on in heaven! As John describes in Revelation 4, around God’s throne is constant singing and giving of praise, honour and glory to the Most High! He saw four beasts around the throne; ‘And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest (cease) not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.’ (Rev.4:7-8) Yes Friends, a continual giving of thanks and praise to God goes on on high! Now here’s the scholars’ opinion on those verses: ‘The four beasts or living creatures (lit. “living ones”) are probably angels (cf. Ezekiel 10:15-22) who guard the throne of God. The eyes symbolize wisdom, and the wings depict movement. They worship God as did the seraphim in Isaiah’s vision (cf. Is.6:1-3). The lion represents strength (cf. Ps.103:20), and the calf service (cf. Heb.1:14), the face of a man intelligence (cf. Luke 2:52), and the eagle swiftness (cf. Dan.9:21). The angelic vision has a strong allusion to Ezekiel 1:4-14.’ Please take a moment and check out those scriptures Friends, for it will help you to understand where the scholars are coming from. Then we come to our Bit: ‘And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever.’ You know what happens when those beasts chant and sing my brethren? ‘The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created (by your will they exist). (Rev.4:10-11) Words of awesome truth my people! The scholars explain it thus: ‘All of heaven worship the Father. The angels extol His character, and the elders (church) extol His creative powers. God has the right to rule and the sovereign authority to judge the earth, because He is both holy and the Creator of it all.’ That is also awesome truth Friends, as corroborated by the Son of Man when John saw Him in all His flaming glory. John solemnly declares: ‘And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write these things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be (take place) hereafter.’ (Rev.1:17-19) Now who else has the power or authority to make such a definitive and powerful proclamation eh my brethren? NOBODY but our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! So please, let’s truly worship Him in spirit and in truth as He desires. Let’s show Him true appreciation for all that He so selflessly sacrificed for us, and the awesome plans He has for us with Him, after the demise of this earth. No greater words can be found in any earthly language than a sincere and heartfelt, ‘THANK YOU JESUS!’ Please, let’s remember that, and do accordingly. Much LOVE my people!…the giving of thanks…both to God and our fellow man…ought to be a continuous act…on the part of every believer…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 September 2012 3 John 4
17 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: enthusiasm, evil, genuine faith, glorious kingdom, Jesus Christ, joy, Lucifer, Monday blues, Monday Morning Battle Hymn, positives, spiritual armour, spread the gospel, vitality, walk in truth, working for a living
3 John 4. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Today’s Scrip-Bit 20 August 2012 Psalm 37:8
20 Aug 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: advice, anger, awe, conquerors, dreams, enthusiasm, evil, eyes of faith, fear, humble servant, imagination, invincible, joy, pride, prosperity, righteous, sin, songs of praise, vitality, wisdom, wrath
Psalm 37:8. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Today’s Scrip-Bit 19 August 2012 Psalm 37:8
19 Aug 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: anger, controversy, downtrodden, eternal life, evil, evildoers, greed, humble, humility, Jesus, joy, Lake Ontario, LOVE, meek, needy, party, peace, poor, pride, resentment, salvation, selfishness, sick, Toronto, worry, wrath
Psalm 37:8. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Oh Friends, yesterday was one of the many perfect summer days we’ve recently experienced in the Greater Toronto Area; bright sunshine, a cool breeze and a multiplicity of (plenty, plenty) LOVE and JOY floating all around! (smile) And speaking of LOVE and JOY, I also discovered an amazing truth: nobody can party like Christians when they truly let their hair down and decide to party. In actual fact, logic dictates that by reason of our overwhelming LOVE for each other and the abundant JOY that dwells in our souls, both so freely granted by Christ, the Master of LOVE and JOY, we ought to be the heartiest partiers around, since partying is a direct derivative of those two outstanding emotions. ‘Elementary, my dear Watson!’ as the renowned British sleuth, Sherlock Holmes would say to his sidekick. (smile) And I proved it yesterday, when my local church had a boat cruise out on Lake Ontario. Oh Friends, a day cruise on a lovely summer’s day around Toronto’s harbour is a joy to experience. To the waterfront side, you have the daily increasing concrete jungle cluster of high-rise buildings lining it as far back as you can see, with the C.N. Tower, towering majestically above it all. Meanwhile, out on the water, the many sailboats and different kinds of watercraft dance all around on the beautiful but deceitful and treacherous waters of Lake Ontario, weaving in and around the outlying islands which all have their own activity. I even saw one lone, brave sailor paddling his little canoe over the swells, way outside. Better him than me yes! The only thing that possibly beats that sight is a night time cruise, which shows up the sparkling lights of the buildings and the outlying islands. And believe me, yesterday between 12 and 4 p.m. the St. Francis congregation, our friends and families, we mash up the T.O. harbour on the Riverboat Gambler, an old paddle wheel cruiser! Chuh mih people! I didn’t see any of the many other boats out there, big or small, with a party as hearty as ours! Even the broken and lame, like myself, were hopping and rocking! Ditto for several people who were in wheelchairs! To tell you how good it was, I sat next to a grandmother soon to be ninety seven years old. Yes Friends, 97 large ones, and she was as aware and sprightly as a young doe! (smile) Well just a little exaggeration really. She reminded me of my ole mother Mols, who’s partying somewhere up in heaven now. Anyway mih brethren, the food was good, the beverages wet and refreshing, and the music was most excellent! It was strictly ‘big people music,’ as Dr. Jay, a local D.J. calls it. None of the chupidness that the young people nowadays call music. Call it ole school, or whatever, but when the rockers, the soca and the funk cascaded across the deep, dark green waters of Lake Ontario there wasn’t a foot not tapping or a finger not drumming to the scintillating riddims! I never knew that some of those people who look so serious and sedate in church could step that well. And the best part is that it was all led by our partying leader, our very own Pastor Jeff. He definitely set the tone for the afternoon’s proceedings right from the very start. And it’s amusing that as we were leaving the boat, one of my faithful readers told me that he was sure to read about it in Today’s Bit. At the time though I wasn’t even thinking about the Bit, but concentrating on my aching knees and what the later hours would bring. But it seems like you were right Scottie. And James, you missed an excellent gathering of God’s people, dancing, singing and giving praise to their Creator. So yuh see Friends, that’s why people ought to come to know Jesus. Not so much for. the partying, which is surely interesting, but for the abundant LOVE and JOY He instils in the hearts, minds, bodies and spirits of His followers. And that’s exactly why Bruh David so strenuously and sincerely warns us about the true state of the wicked in our Bit: ‘Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil (for it only causes harm).’ Now that’s undoubtedly gospel truth mih breddren! And here’s why: ‘For evildoers shall be cut off (destroyed): but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider (look diligently for) his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.’ (Ps.37:9-11) Oh Friends what better life can you desire, and above all, also get on earth, than that which Jesus promises… no, not only promises, but also faithfully delivers to all those who wisely choose to put their belief, faith and trust in Him eh? NONE WHATSOEVER! So why are so many of us so reluctant to accept the abundance of LOVE, JOY and PEACE He offers here on earth, then SALVATION and ETERNAL LIFE with Him when we depart this evil and troubled earth? It surely boggles my mind. Many even become angry and violent, at the very mention of His Name. There must be something awfully powerful about Jesus yes, if He could bring out such contrasts in humans. No other name in history has ever caused, or will ever cause so much controversy. Oh Friends, just reading the gospel stories about Jesus, His humility, His LOVE for mankind, especially the poor, the downtrodden, sick and needy, His constant willingness to help, the way He bore His burdens, including the physical cross and the sacrifice of His sinless life on it without a whimper, how can you not feel close to Him, not LOVE him eh? Only if your heart, mind and spirit are wrapped up in evil, false pride, selfishness and greed could you fail to understand and comprehend His great gift and selflessness to mankind. And as we like to do whenever possible, we’ll end with some definitive words on the subject from Jesus. ‘The thief cometh not but for (except) to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.’ (John 10:10-11) Nuff said my people! More on this tomorrow if God favours us with the breath of life. Till then, please let’s seriously consider the true state of our lives nuh, ensuring that we embrace Jesus, so that it will be well with us. That is certainly wisdom at its zenith! Much LOVE!…as for me and mine…we’ll most definitely follow Jesus…hope you and yours…come to the same wise conclusion too…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 August 2012 Psalm 135:1
18 Aug 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: friends, glorify God, Jesus Christ, joy, praise, Praise the Lord, pride, the Comforter, the Great Commission, the Helper, the Holy Spirit, the kingdom of righteousness, the Word, vanity
Psalm 135:1. Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; praise him, O ye servants of the Lord.
Oh my wonderful Friends in Christ Jesus, we’re on the cusp of another beautiful day on God’s great earth! And all God’s people raised a mighty and grateful shout of joy heavenward: ‘Thank You Lord!’ Now why are we still here breathing the earth’s air; refreshing in some places, almost poisonous in others, and not up yonder enjoying the excellent life eh? Because there’s still work to be done down here; lots of it too. That work includes spreading the Word of God, and the right and true way of Jesus, as He asked us to do in what’s termed the Great Commission. (Matt.28:19-20) So let’s roll up our sleeves and seriously get going on that nuh my people. A very large percentage of the world has never heard about the wonderful God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, nor of His Redeeming Son Jesus, neither of the divine Helper and Comforter, the Holy Spirit, and it’s our job to introduce them to all of that, help them to believe, then seek the kingdom of righteousness thereafter, so that their souls can be saved from eternal death and separation from God in the last days, that might soon be upon us. And how do we do that? By educating them on the Word, by encouraging them in difficult situations, by practical and/or physical help, and very importantly by being worthy examples of all that we preach and teach. And last, but definitely not least, let us not forget another important aspect of our faith walk; the aspect of Praise! Yes Friends, Praise is of the utmost importance in a believer’s life, but sadly, I don’t think we do enough of it, that’s why I chose our Bit today from Psalm 135, re the greatness of the Lord, and the vanity of idols. ‘Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; praise him, O ye servants of the Lord.’ And why should we do that? The psalmist continues by telling us: ‘Praise ye the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant… For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.’ (Ps.135:3,5) Without a doubt my brethren, our God is a great God and worthy of our praise! It says so numerous times in the Good Book, with good reason too. Let’s look at a few of those scriptures, beginning with Psalm 50; a Psalm of Asaph, superscripted, God is the judge. And Asaph loudly and truthfully proclaims: ‘Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation (conduct) aright will I show the salvation of God.’ (Ps.50:23) Yes my people, one of the reasons our God created us was to glorify Him, and one way of doing that is by showering Him and His Holy Name with praise! Meanwhile, Psalm 33, titled Praise to the Lord for his creation, opens with this wonderful declaration: ‘Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.’ (Ps.33:1) Once again Friends, we’re advised that praise to the Most High God Jehovah is right and comely for all those who worship and believe in Him. And isn’t that the living truth! Then Psalm 111, Praise the Lord for His care, tells us: ‘Praise ye the Lord (sing Hallelujah)! I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the Lord are great, sought out of (studied by) all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth forever.’ (Ps.111:1-3) And the Psalms are not the only place where praise is declared unto God, though it’s found there more than anywhere else in the Good Book. Now listen to Daniel, after the Lord showed him the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king’s dream. ‘Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the season: he removeth kings, and setteth (raises) up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know (have) understanding: He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him. I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired (asked) of thee: for thou hast now made known unto us the king’s matter.’ (Dan.2:19-23) Oh my brethren, isn’t that just cause for great praise? It surely is! Now listen to Moses immortalize praise for God in his song of victory over Pharaoh’s army: ‘Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods (mighty ones)? Who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?’ (Ex.15:11) And the answer to ALL those questions Friends, is an unequivocal NOBODY! And in Deuteronomy, Moses again encourages the Israelites to praise the God of their fathers. ‘Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave (hold fast), and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done terrible (awesome) things which thine eyes have seen. Thy fathers went down into Egypt with threescore and ten persons; and now the Lord thy God hath made thee as the stars of heaven for multitude.’ (Deut.10:20-22) Most excellent reasons to serve and praise the Lord my people! And not to disappoint you all, I will end with a few words from Bruh David, (smile) who praised the Lord more than most. This comes from Psalm 52, caution to the prideful wicked. ‘Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness (destruction). But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God (see Jer.11:16): I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever. I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.’ (Ps.52:7-9) And all God’s people uttered a loud and glorious ‘Praise the Lord, for He is worthy to be praised! Amen!’ Yes Friends, our God sure is worthy to be praised. So let’s go out and prise Him today and for ever more nuh. That’s wisdom at its highest! Much LOVE!…praise to our great God…is what He rightly deserves…
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