Jude 3. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints.
Oh my fabulous Friends in Christ, congrats are in order! I looked through the obits this morning and I didn’t see any of our names, that means we’re still alive and kicking! Praise the Lord! But unfortunately there was one name I knew; Lincoln Alexander, who died last Friday at the ripe old age of 90. And who was Lincoln Alexander, you ask? Well let’s see where to start? I guess the beginning is as good a place as any. He was born in 1922 in downtown Toronto of West Indian parents, in a time when racism was still rife in the country. However Lincoln Alexander grew up to be, not only one of the FIRST BLACK lawyers in the city, but also the FIRST BLACK Member of Canada’s Parliament, the FIRST BLACK Cabinet Minster in the Canadian Government, and finally, the FIRST BLACK Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Ontario. Wow! Imagine a poor BLACK man of West Indian parentage accomplishing all that in those racist times nuh! It seems like he was always chocked full of confidence, but like many truly confident people was still able to be very humble and approachable. I remember when he first became Lieutenant Governor, a lot of folks weren’t happy, but by the end of his term, many of the same ones were pleased with the way he handled himself in the mainly ceremonial post. I don’t know why, in this supposed modern day and age, when BLACK people are very prominent and successful in all walks of life, all over the world, the white populace still gets all up in arms over a BLACK leader. Take for example Barack Obama in the U.S. It doesn’t matter one iota that his mother’s family was and is white, the race card is still being strenuously played. It seems that a dollop of the tar brush is powerful enough to overcome any other colours. Before Obama, they had a fool who ruled for eight years, ran the country right into the ground. But his lack of brainpower and leadership skills didn’t matter because he was white. Then they’re all getting on Obama’s case because he didn’t fix all the wrongdoing in four years, especially with no meaningful cooperation from the other side. Chuh! Anyway, I want to end the comment on Lincoln Alexander with a statement from the current Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, David Onley, as posted in the Toronto Star newspaper “When racism was endemic in Canadian society, he broke through barriers that treated visible minorities as second-class citizens, strangers in their own land.’ And that’s the gospel truth Friends! Onley knows something about discrimination, because he has some physical movement problems and operates from a wheelchair. That was also a sticking point for some people when he was appointed to the post. Anyhow Linc -as he liked to be called- rest in peace my brother. You have been a shining beacon of light to ALL people in this dark world, and for that Jesus will reward you abundantly in the next life. And now, turning to our Bit: ‘Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once (for all time) delivered to the saints.’ I guess you can say Lincoln Alexander did that in his own way. He stood up for his rights and what he believed in, and didn’t let his racist enemies beat him down and give up the fight for a right and good life. Oh Friends, it’s the same way we believers need to stand up strong and fight for our belief in Jesus, because there’s a whole evil world out there trying to put Him down, make Him of no consequence. And sadly, through our less than sterling resistance, they have succeeded in curtailing His importance, position, and power in many aspects of our society and our lives. And if we don’t get serious and truly ramp up our fight against the powerful evildoers, Christ’s church will eventually be decimated and of no use. Now that’s something all of us claim we don’t want to happen, but it won’t be prevented by us merely sitting on our comfortable fat fannies and not putting up strong resistance, and fighting back too. Anyway, what I really wanted to talk about today, is why Jude thought it so very important to write to his friends and fellow believers about earnestly contending for their faith. However, because of time and space constraints, I’ll leave it for tomorrow, when hopefully I won’t have to eulogize anyone else, especially one of our Scrip-Bit family. And we’ll end with an appropriate exhortation on the subject from Bruh Paul to the church at Corinth. ‘Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men (be brave), be strong. Let all your things be done with charity (LOVE).’ (1 Cor.16:13-14) And that’s as it should be my brethren! So let’s relight that fire, that flame of passion we once had for our faith nuh, and rise up in Jesus’ name, like the sure conquerors that we are and fight to the death for what we believe in. That’s the way true believers operate. Much LOVE!…if it’s not worth dying for…then it’s not worth fighting for…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 23 October 2012 Jude 3
23 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: Black Leaders, bravery, confidence, fight for one's faith, humility, leadership skills, Lincoln Alexander, LOVE, stand up and fight, visible minorities, West Indian parents
Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 October 2012 Jude 3
22 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: common faith, confidence, contend for the faith, diligence, fight the good fight, joy of the lord, Jude, LOVE, mercy, Monday Battle Hymn, Monday Monday, peace, renewed vitality and enthusiasm, sure conquerors, taunts, wiles
Jude 3. Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
Aye Friends, mercy, peace and LOVE be unto you this chilly, autumn, Monday morning, or whatever the weather is like in your area. The fact of the matter is that it’s time to go out and labour once again. And since our spirits are usually lethargic and full of rebellion on Monday mornings, we need to uplift them, so that we can fight a good fight in Jesus’ name, in the evil, ungodly world that constantly tries to batter and bully us and steal our joy. But since the JOY of the Lord is our strength (Neh.8:10) we certainly can’t afford to have that stolen. Therefore, in order to boost our tired, unenthusiastic, ebbing spirits, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in strong voice with sincere hearts. As one big, harmonious earthly choir now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Wow mih people! That was wonderful; definitely energetic and exhilarating! All the heavenly host stood with mouth-opened awe, then gave a rousing ovation of ‘Hallelujah!’ at the end. Now let’s carry that strong, enthusiastic, faithful, battle hardened attitude out into Lucifer’s domain, and let him and all his wicked cohorts sit up and take notice nuh. But please note, we can’t just run on adrenalin alone, we also have to be ‘wiswise’ (use wisdom), as we live in accordance with our Bit. ‘Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once (for all time) delivered unto the saints.’ Ah Friends, it’s what I’m also trying to get us to do, don’t know with how much success though. (smile) Jude here, is reputed to be Jesus’ half brother. ‘Is this not the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?’ (Matt.13:55) In Greek, Jude is really Judas, but it’s translated as Jude to avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot. And it’s interesting as one scholar notes, that instead of being a name dropper and saying he was Jesus’ brother, Jude instead opens his missive as ‘Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James…’ (Jude 1) He shows real humility. But I have to laugh at the mysterious ways in which our God certainly moves, re how Jesus’ family rejected Him when He walked on earth with them, but afterwards that same family, in particular James and Jude found the faith and had successful ministries. Just like Jesus said, two verses later, when the crowd in His hometown were offended by His Messianic claims. ‘A prophet is not without honour, save (except) in his own country, and in his own house.’ (Matt.13:57) And that’s the gospel truth my brethren! But getting back to our Bit, here’s the scholar’s general take on it. ‘Beloved indicates the close relationship between Jude and his readers. Jude was evidently planning to write a less urgent doctrinal letter but was forced by developments to pen this earnest exhortation. Jude conceives of Christian faith as having a definite, unchanging and unchangeable content.’ One scholar believes that Jude had intended to write about ‘common salvation,’ it’s joys and benefits, but was steered by the Holy Spirit towards the more pressing problem of believers diligently fighting to protect and further their faith. And that’s quite possible and very plausible, as I have received such change of direction many times over the years. And by the way, ‘common salvation’ doesn’t mean it’s common in a derogatory or negative sense, but rather that it was meant as a gift that could be received by everybody. As Bruh Paul greets Titus: ‘Titus, mine own (my true) son after (in our) common faith:’ (Titus.1:4a) Ah Friends, I sure hope that the Bit makes sense because I have so much information I want to share, but since you’re all wise believers, I know you’ll be able to fathom it all. (smile) Now let’s end with a similar exhortation from Bruh Paul to the Philippians. ‘Only let your conversation (conduct) be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or also be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of the gospel; And in nothing (no way) terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token (a proof) of perdition (destruction), but to you of salvation, and that of God.’ (Phil.1:27-28) Yes Friends, that’s the only way to go! More on this tomorrow, provided we’re still alive and kicking. Till then, may God bless and keep us, so that we can walk worthy of Him. Much LOVE!…a true believer’s earthly walk must show confidence…since he’s assured of salvation…through Jesus Christ…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 October 2012 Proverbs 15:8
07 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: abomination, Christ's Church, faithfulness, fellowship, gentle reminder, humble walk, joyful worship, LOVE, obedience, One Body, outward show, religious ritual, righteousness., Sabbath Day, sacrifice, sincerity, spiritual reality, wickedness
Proverbs 15:8. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
Buenos dias mi amigos! That’s Espanol, Spanish for Good Morning Friends! What a way the ole fella is waxing linguistically these days eh! (smile) But please don’t ask me to say much more than good morning or good evening cause the old brain, through lack of use, has forgotten most of the French and Spanish it once knew. Now just a gentle reminder for those who celebrate the Sabbath on Sunday, that it’s very important we get together with other believers and encourage ourselves in our wonderful God with praise, thanksgiving and joyful worship. Remember Christ’s church is ONE body, though made up of many individual parts, and unless those parts work together in harmony, meaning believers working in faithful tandem, the body won’t progress, won’t stay strong and grow, but will regress and eventually fall apart like our human bodies do when we abuse or don’t take good care of them. And we certainly don’t want Christ’s church to fall apart, so, if at all possible, let’s get out today and celebrate the awesomeness of the God we so enthusiastically serve and worship. That brings us to our Bit: ‘The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.’ That’s the living truth my people! The Lord doesn’t want anything to do with the wicked. Hear the scholars comment on it. ‘The best that the wicked can offer God religiously is completely rejected.’ And why not, since they are not sincere in their efforts. What the Lord desires more than anything else is sincerity in our dealing with Him, and for that matter, also with our fellow man. As our Bit rightly declares; ‘but the prayer of the upright is his delight.’ And remember Friends, we can fool ourselves and each other, like the Pharisees, with our outward show of righteousness, but we can’t fool God, who looks at the motives of our hearts and not simply our outward actions. We all know the famous words of Samuel to Saul, when he disobeyed God’s orders to destroy all of the Amalekites and their property, but he saved the king, Agag, and allowed the people to keep spoil to offer blood sacrifice. ‘Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft (divination), and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.’ (1 Sam.15:22-23) It’s the same relationship we cultivate with our children, where we want them to do as we ask, rather than what they think we want. And the scholars note that: ‘Those verses reinforce the Old Testament viewpoint that religious ritual devoid of spiritual reality and a life of total allegiance to a sovereign LORD is worthless. (cf. Ps.40;6-8; Is.1:10-20; Mic.6:8)’ Absolute truth my people! And since I know many of you won’t look up the scriptures provided, I’ll include some of them here. In Psalm 40, Praise for answered prayer, Bruh David proclaims: ‘Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume (scroll) of the book it is written of me. I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.’ (Ps.40:6-8) And that’s how it should be! Now listen to this excellent example of the ritual worship, when Isaiah calls to the people of Judah to repent. ”Hear the word of the Lord ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah. To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the Lord: I am full of the burnt offering of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread (trample) my courts? Bring no more vain oblation (futile sacrifices); incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with (endure); it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting.’ (Is.1:10-13) The scholars have an excellent commentary on that: ‘The prophet addressed the people of Judah as if they were the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah. His criticism of their hypocritical religion should not be taken as a rejection of the divinely ordained sacrificial system. Rather, it is a condemnation of their superficial worship. They were merely going through the ritual of religion with no real heart for God. Vain oblations are worthless offerings. Even the solemn meeting became nothing more than a sinful gathering because of their wrong motives.’ Unfortunately though Friends, a lot of that stuff is also happening today. Too many of us are just talking God, with no serious intent in our hearts, merely going through the outward motions. But that doesn’t sit well with our God at all. If there’s no genuine delight in Him, and a faithful following of His dictates, then all our prayers, sacrifices, etc, will be worthless. And we’ll close with the poignant words of Micah on the subject. ‘Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my first-born for my transgression, the fruit of my body (my own child) for the sin of my soul? He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to LOVE mercy (LOVING-kindness), and to walk humbly with thy God?’ (Mic.6:6-8) Nuff said my people! Please, let’s allow wisdom to lead and guide us in the dealings with our God. Much LOVE!…the words and actions of an insincere heart…will never get God’s attention…much less His approval…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 October 2012 Psalm 139:17
03 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: anger, believer in Christ, darkness, destroy, fear God, God's attributes, hate, interesting adventures, Jesus leads, light, LOVE, precious thoughts, surrender, wisdom
Psalm 139:17. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
Ah mih people, another day is upon us, possibly filled with the same old, same old, but the good thing about being a believer in, and a follower of Christ is that our lives are never the same every day. That’s because Jesus leads us on so many different and interesting adventures, that we never know what to expect from one day to the next. Walking with Jesus is full of ups and downs, but it’s certainly never dull, but always interesting and adventurous. And if you’re following Jesus and your life is not interesting and adventurous, then something is definitely wrong. You’re not following Jesus as closely as you ought to, for when you’re walking closely with the Saviour, wherever you are, there’s always an opportunity to do something good in His Name. Therefore Friends, let’s all take a closer look at whatever is happening around us, so that we can spot those easy to miss opportunities to serve Christ. Now here’s an interesting story, I read in the Toronto Star newspaper, I believe it was back in August. It deals with then President Richard Nixon’s farewell emotional speech on August 9 1974 in the White House, surrounded by his staff, family and friends We all know he left in disgrace, because of the Watergate fiasco. Apparently, as he was about to end, he raised his arm as if to point out the importance of his next words. Then he said: “Always remember, others may hate you, but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them, and then you destroy yourself.’ Wow Friends! What words of wisdom! The article ends with the thought that Nixon had learned that lesson a little too late, for he had already destroyed himself, through the hatred that he’d perpetrated and inspired. The sad part though my brethren is that too many of us still live our private lives in a world of hate, bitterness, anger and resentment. Those negative emotions are already too prevalent and pervasive in our society, we don’t need them in our private lives too, or else we’ll just end up destroying ourselves like Nixon, but then it will be too late. Consequently, let’s try and learn from his mistake and that of so many others nuh, and put hatred and enmity aside, and instead live in LOVE, the wonderful, uplifting LOVE of Christ! It’s the only answer to the problems that surround us. And we have such a wonderful example of that caring attitude of our God in our Bit today. ‘How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!’ Oh Friends, yuh think Beelzebub really cares about like that? No Way! But our heavenly Father surely does, because every day He blesses us with new mercies and whatever else we need to make a successful pilgrimage down here on earth. And though our earthly journey might be difficult, it is still filled with an inner joy because of His unconditional LOVE and faithfulness. Meanwhile all that ‘thiefing’ joker, Beelzebub wants to do is just steal our joy and drag us down to his abysmal level, living a constantly depressed and miserable live, encompassed by anger, hatred and resentment. Now yesterday we looked at some scriptures that showed us the awesome thoughts and plans the Lord has in store for us. Today we’ll look at a couple more, starting with words of Bruh David from Psalm 40, Praise for answered Prayer. There he joyfully proclaims: ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward; they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ (Ps.40:5) And isn’t that the living truth Friends? Our God has done so much through the ages, is still doing a lot, and has lots of great plans for our future. So why should we jeopardize all that beneficence by associating with Lucifer and his evil morons eh? No reason whatsoever my people! The purveyors of evil and darkness can NEVER do for us what the God of LIGHT and LOVE can. Remember whenever LIGHT shows up, it always overtakes, overpowers darkness, which only proves that LIGHT is more powerful than darkness. The crowning glory of all that my Friends is highlighted by these words of our God, spoken through Isaiah. ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’ (Is.55:8-9) And that’s how it ought to be my people! A God’s ways and powers must be higher and stronger than those of His subjects, otherwise He’s no god at all, and we don’t need him. And to prove that point, we’ll end with some interesting thoughts from the scholars, re the comparative attributes of God. ‘Psalm 139. The comparative attributes of God contrast human abilities with the divine nature. Everyone has some knowledge, but only God has all knowledge (omniscience). Everyone has presence, but only God has presence at all times everywhere (omnipresence). Every person has some degree of power, but only God has unlimited power (omnipotence). Illustration: Psalm 139 lays a foundation for understanding the comparative attributes. The omniscience of God is seen in verses 1-6. The omnipresence of God is seen in verses 7-11. The omnipotence of God is seen in verses 12-16. Application: A Christian’s response to the comparative attributes of God, should be to surrender to His leadership because He is wise, He is able to protect us, and He knows the true way to life with Himself. (Gen.3:8, Ps.139:1, Eph.1:8) What more can I say eh Friends, than that’s gospel truth, and we should do as it says. Please read the scriptures at the end too, for they are very informative. Much LOVE!…be not wise in thine own eyes…fear the Lord…and depart from evil…It shall be health to thy navel (body)…and marrow (strength) to thy bones… (Prov.3:7-8)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 October 2012 Psalm 67:4
01 Oct 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: adrenalin, complaining, enthusiasm, evildoers, invincible, Jesus Christ, LOVE, majesty, Monday blues, praise God, rejuvenation of spirit, renewed vitality, righteousness., spiritual armour, strength, sure conquerors, whining
Psalm 67:4. O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.
Oh Friends, mankind is really something else yes! We’re like chameleons, constantly changing from one minute to the next, to suit our current desire. I’ve been thinking about how joyful most of us were on Friday, high-fiving each other and shouting ‘TGIF! Thank God is Friday!’ But today, on Monday, only a couple days later, all I can hear is a set of moaning and whining: ‘Yuh mean to say is really Monday already? Ah really have to go to work today boy? Ah wonder how much sick time I have left eh…or which of mih family hasn’t died yet…? And besides, just look at the rain pelting down out there nuh…or the snow and the sleet…Mama Yo! And yuh see how the wind blowing crazy out there? It must be a hurricane or something yes! And they want me to go out there in that kinda weather…Steups!’ Hn, hn, hn! Yes Friends, that’s the way many of us behave, come Monday morning. We’ll use every trick in the book, find every excuse not to go to work. But you know, as true followers of Jesus, we’re not supposed to do that, especially in these precarious times when jobs are scarce and hard to come by, plus many of us are in debt way above our heads. But to help us overcome our lack of enthusiasm for work this morning, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, loud and strong, as though we really mean it, and eventually it will become the reality. As one now, let’s make Jesus proud of us: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Now doesn’t that make us feel better? The natural adrenalin, plus the deep LOVE for Jesus has awakened the sleeping, tired tiger in us, so that we’re just rearing to get out into the evil world and clean up those evildoers! (smile) Ah mih people, I wish it was that easy, but we all know it’s not. However, to enable us to keep our light, enthusiastic frame of mind, I’ve found an uplifting, positive Bit, and some uplifting, positive scriptures to back it up. So let’s get into our Bit. ‘O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.’ Yes my brethren, let’s pause and consider that statement for a moment. It’s just chocked full of truth; all nations ought to sing and jump for joy because we have such a just and righteous leader in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, or Elohim, the God of all people! Now hear these moving, positive and truthful words from Psalm 93. ‘The Lord reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the Lord is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself; the world also is stablished, that it can not be moved (shaken). Thy throne is established of old: thou art from everlasting.’ (Ps. 93:1-2) And if you don’t believe that, then listen to this from Psalm 96; A call to praise God. ‘O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear (tremble) before him, all the earth. Say among the heathen (Gentiles) that the Lord reigneth: the world also shall be (is firmly) established that it shall not be moved (shaken): he shall judge the people righteously.’ (Ps.96:9-10) Now listen to this from Psalm 68, God has gone before his people. ‘Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol (praise) him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH (Lord), and rejoice before him. A father to the fatherless, and a judge (defender) of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.’ (Ps.68: 4-5) Words of absolute truth my people! And we’ll end appropriately with the words that follow our Bit. ‘Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase (give her produce); and God, even our own God, shall bless us. God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.’ (Ps.67:5-7) And that’s gospel my brethren! So please, I implore us to encourage ourselves and each other in our wonderful God, today and everyday, to do our best to sincerely live our faith in this evil world that surrounds us, so that the heathen will see our great joy in the Lord of Hosts, and thus desire to know and LOVE Him too. That’s our purpose down here on earth. Much LOVE!…to know, know, know Him…is to LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Him…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 27 September 2012 Ephesian 6:12
27 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: anger, awesome truth, bounden duty, cruelty, encourage yourself in God, encouragement, enthusiasm, false doctrines, flesh and blood, giving, greed, hate, high places, hope, LOVE, oppression, prayer, righteousness., salvation, showing, sincerity, spiritual armour, suppression, truth, violence, wickedness
Ephesians 6:12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Oh Friends, oh Friends, the ole fella’s extremely bright and bubbly this morning! Wow! I can’t even wait to write the Bit, my enthusiasm level is so high. Don’t ask me why I’m so enthusiastic this early in the morning, because nothing in particular happened over the past twenty four hours to excite me this much. I can only guess, that like Bruh David, my efforts to encourage myself in the Lord are working. (1 Sam.30:6) And all I can say is: ‘Praise be to the Lord our God, who never rejects those who seek him with sincere hearts!’ Now here is a chorus from a song by Ras Shiloh that I heard yesterday and found it rather appropriate to our current world situation. Ras Shiloh melodiously chants: ‘Give a little LOVE. Show a little LOVE. Live in righteousness. Give a little LOVE. Show a little LOVE. That’s what the world needs today.’ And isn’t that the God awesome truth my people! LOVE given and shared is about the only thing that will tone down the raging fires of hate, anger, greed, violence, cruelty, oppression and suppression that are terrorizing our wonderful world today! And undoubtedly that giving and showing of LOVE needs to start with us Christians, because the evildoers are not interested in the beautiful emotion of LOVE. However, LOVE is the mainstay of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, that’s why He sacrificed His, Holy, sinless life for us. If the Godhead that we worship didn’t LOVE us so much, none of that would ever have happened. So it’s our responsibility to keep that LOVE going…and remember, with no conditions attached – unconditionally. That’s a very important part of the whole equation my brethren. It’s our bounden duty to rise up and further the LOVE Revolution that Jesus started. And here’s the best way to begin doing so. It comes from the title of another song, one by Mavado, simply titled, ‘HOPE and PRAY.’ Yes Friends, before we can achieve anything worthwhile, we first have to engage in those two actions; HOPE and PRAY. For without HOPE we won’t last very long in, or be very attentive to any activity in which we’re involved. And without PRAYER… Oh Friends, I don’t need to tell us that without SINCERE PRAYER to our heavenly Father, most, if not all of our activities will get bogged down in failure. That means we need to first have HOPE for our families and ourselves, our neighbours, our nations and our world. Then we have to PRAY SINCERELY for the Lord to bless us and move the LOVE, mercy, forgiveness, truth, wisdom and understanding that He’s already sown in our souls, in a faithful and positive manner, so that we can make serious inroads into the evil that currently has our world in its vice-like grip. It means that we ‘be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.’ (Eph.6:10) Unfortunately though my brethren, the wickedness of Lucifer has spread all over, upstairs, downstairs and sideways, like the tentacles of an octopus. That’s why our Bit warns us so strongly about the fight we’re in. ‘For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world (age), against spiritual (hosts of) wickedness in high places.’ It’s obvious that a lot of the evil that’s permeating our world must be in the high echelons, otherwise it wouldn’t be as pervasive and powerful as it is. Many of us would be surprised to know of the great amount of demon worship that happens in high places. It brings to mind the high places in the Old Testament where the Israelites in their rebellious times worshiped foreign gods. The only difference now is that we’re doing it much more secretively. That’s why Bruh Paul says we need to ‘Put on the whole armour of God, that we may be able to stand against the wiles (evil schemes) of the devil.’ (Eph.6:11) And the armour of God, as Bruh Paul declares in Eph.6:13-18, consists of; the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the belt of truth, the sandals of peace, the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit, the Good Book. Oh Friends, unless we’re fully dressed in that spiritual armour, we’ll have an exceedingly hard time fighting the evil demons that are trying to take over our world. So please, everyday we awaken, let’s first dress ourselves in that armour. Even if we’re not leaving home, it’s still important to put it on, because we never know how, when and where Lucifer and his evil minions will strike. They can attack us right in our own homes. And we’ll end with some interesting and important words on the subject from the scholars. ‘Several activities in the Bible may involve demons. Sometimes they cause physical disease or mental suffering. However, not all mental disorders are demonic in origin. Demons also tempt people into immoral practices. They originate and propagate false doctrines taught by heretical religious groups (1 Tim.4:1). The Bible also teaches that some people were possessed by demons (Mark 1:23). Although demons are committed to do evil, God will use them to accomplish His plan during the end of the age (Rev.16:14) Illustrations: Demons are also objects of worship in various occult practices forbidden by God. These include divination (an illegitimate means of determining the will of God), necromancy (efforts to communicate and interrogate the dead), magic (using formulas and incantations), sorcery (perhaps the nonmedical use of drugs), witchcraft, and astrology (Deut.18:10-12) Application: When the Ephesian Christians who were “dabbling” in the occult repented, there was a great revival in that place. No Christian can ever justify his participation in demonic activities. (Ex.7:11; Eph.6:12; Heb.1:4) There you have it Friends. No participation in demonic activities. Rather fight them to the death in our spiritual armour. Please pay serious attention to this message, because if we’re not prepared, Lucifer will breach our souls and cause us much heartache. Much LOVE!…if you’re not properly attired for battle…then you’ve lost before you’ve even begun… P.S. Please read the scriptural references provided by the scholars. They are authentic and will give us greater understanding of the subject. Much LOVE!
Today’s Scrip-Bit 26 September 2012 Psalm 130:7
26 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: abundance, blessings, compassion, encouragement, forgiveness, god, God's image, graciousness, LOVE, mercy, redemption, rend your heart, right heart, seek God, sincerity, strong faith, trials, tribulations
Psalm 130:7. Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.
Oh mih people, it’s a brand new day, with brand new mercies, blessings and forgiveness from our wonderful God! Wow! What a God! So let’s rejoice and be thankful in it nuh. And all God’s people shouted a loud and grateful, ‘Praise ye the Lord, for He is worthy to be praised!’ Yes Friends, our God is indeed worthy of all the praise we are capable of giving, and then some more, for He’s promised that all who come to Him in sincerity of heart will be accepted, LOVED and cared for until eternity. That’s why I’m telling you today, that ‘In dreams and in LOVE, there are no impossibilities!’ Now I don’t remember where I got that quote from, but it’s been up on my office wall, in big red letters, for the longest time, and after noticing it earlier on today, I decided to share it with you. At times like these, I ask myself why put up all those words of encouragement around the office, when I don’t pay any attention to them? I guarantee that there’s enough stuff on the walls, my desk, and my filing cabinet to encourage me in whatever situation is necessary. But do I go to them, as I should, when my spirit is at low ebb, or do I even read them as I pass by them everyday? No. And as I look over to the wall on my right, I notice a calendar that’s still turned to May, while we’re in September, almost October. Hn! I have an excuse for that though; two other smaller calendars on my desk. (smile) But that calendar still shouldn’t be saying May in September, when I pass by it quite a few times everyday. Anyway friends, please don’t be like me. If you put up stuff to encourage you, then read them, so that you’ll be encouraged, otherwise it’s a waste of time and effort. And I promise to do better also. (smile) Now let’s turn to our Bit. ‘Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy (LOVING-kindness), and with him is plenteous (abundant) redemption.’ Yesterday we dealt with the first part that speaks of HOPE in the Lord. Today we’ll check out the second half that talks about His mercy, LOVING-kindness and plentiful redemption. And believe me Friends, our God is full to overflowing with all those things. If we live till eternity, we’ll never see the end of His awesome cache of mercy and redemption because that’s simply a part of His nature. And it would certainly stand us in good stead if we developed some of those attributes ourselves, for we’re supposed to be a reflection of our Creator, made in His own image, which means we also need to have plenty mercy and forgiveness. Now let’s check out some scriptures that validate the truthfulness of the second half of our Bit. We’ll start with Psalm 86, a prayer of Bruh David, when he bemoans: ‘Teach me thy way O Lord.’ In verse 5, he declares with strong faith: ‘For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.’ (Ps.86:5) Then again in verse 15, he staunchly declares the goodness and mercy of our God. ‘But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long-suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.’ (Ps.86:15) Ah mih breddren, I don’t know what would become of us with our sinful, rebellious nature if our God wasn’t so kind, patient and merciful with us nuh. Next we’ll turn to Psalm 145, where Bruh David talks about the Lord’s graciousness. He states these facts with utter certainty. ‘The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.’ (Ps.145:8-9) There is no hint of doubt in them Friends, because Bruh David lived them; saw and experienced the mercy, kindness and compassion of the faithful God of his fathers. So if Bruh David, a man like us with plenty faults, and bigger problems than we’ll ever encounter, can put his trust in and depend wholeheartedly on the Most High God, why can’t we do likewise eh? Please remember though that the Lord didn’t just flood Bruh David with His mercies and kindness, he had to work and struggle too, with the many personal enemies, including Saul and his own son Absalom, plus those of His nation Israel. But whatever came against him, he stood strong and firm in his faith, and for that the Lord considered him righteous. Please note my brethren that Bruh David’s heart was right from the very beginning, as Samuel told Saul when the Lord took away the kingdom from him. ‘The Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart.’ (1 Sam.13:14) We obviously have to clean up our own hearts too, and bring them into right standing with God, before we can expect a whole lot of good stuff to happen to us, amongst all the trials and tribulations we’re normally going to bear in this sinful world, and even more so as followers of Jesus, since that’s where the Lord looks before He decides how to react to our prayers and actions. Hn! A sentence worthy of Bruh Paul. (smile) As Isaiah so rightly proclaims: ‘Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.’ (Is.55:6-7) Oh my people, there is NO God like ours; Jehovah, the ONE, TRUE GOD, Creator and Controller of the universe and all therein! Please believe that and act accordingly. And we’ll end with some more wonderful words on the nature of our God from the prophet Joel, when he called Israel to repentance. ‘Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning; And rend (tear) your heart, and not your garments, and turn (return) unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great (LOVING) kindness, and repenteth him of the evil (relents from doing harm).’ (Joel 2:12-13) Yes Friends, that’s the wonderful Deity that we serve and worship! But as His word dictates, we have to draw near to Him, seek Him with all our hearts, minds, bodies and souls, if we want to enjoy His many blessings and mercies. Much LOVE!…let him who has ears…hear and repent…or he will eventually feel…the might of God’s wrath…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 24 September 2012 Psalm 117:1
24 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: accept Christ, battle hymn, believers, conquerors, follow Christ, Gentiles, hope, humble servants, invincible, LOVE, Monday, Praise the Lord, the Holy Trinity, unity, wisdom
Psalm 117:1. O Praise the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.
A wise and wonderful Monday morning to all you believers in Christ! Awright, so we’re not all so wonderful or wise in our everyday lives, but we’ve surely made the wisest and best decision of our lives to follow Jesus, and that says a great deal about us. Yes my Friends, those who accept Christ as their Lord and Saviour, and stand steadfast and strong in their belief are the wisest people in this wicked and cruel world controlled by the arch enemy and master criminal Lucifer. But Jesus has already conquered him and his evil world, (John 16:33) so there’s no need to be anxious or worried about Lucifer’s bombastic carrying’s on. We just have to keep on HEARING the Word, LIVING it, and LOVING our wonderful THREE in ONE God, with all our hearts, minds, bodies and souls. What a joy that is my brethren! And yuh know, even that TRINITY of SPIRITS that’s our DEITY, speaks volumes re the power, glory and magnanimity of our Creator! And so, to give us the boost, the jolt we need, like our first cup of hot, strong java, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn to get us in fighting mode. So with all the sincerity and enthusiasm we can muster, let’s sing! ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Wow Friends! Isn’t that a better ‘perker-upper’ than a cup of coffee? For sure! Now since we’re all perked up, let’s get out on to the battlefields of this ungodly world to put up one helluva fight for Jesus: the BEST THING that ever happened to mankind! No wonder our Bit today strongly and joyfully proclaims: ‘O Praise the Lord, all ye nations (gentiles): praise (glorify) him, all ye people.’ Yes my brethren, that’s exactly what the whole world needs to do. Why? ‘For his merciful (LOVING) kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord.’ (Ps.117:2) Now here’s some interesting info from the scholars: ‘Psalm 117. Well known as the shortest chapter in the Bible, this little psalm contains a great message. Though some have denied it an independent existence, attaching it to Psalm 116, Psalm 117 has all three elements of the hymn of praise: a call to praise (v. 1), a cause for praise (v, 2a, b), and a conclusion, which, in this case, is a simple praise ye the Lord (v. 2c). The fact that the nations and people (lit., “peoples”) are addressed in verse 1 makes this psalm the only one in the Psalter addressed in its entirety to the Gentile world. Its evangelistic mood was still baffling to some of Paul’s readers. This is one of four passages that Paul quotes from the Old Testament in Romans 15, to prove that God is interested in saving the Gentiles.’ And so He is my people. Now let’s check out some of the scriptures that the scholars talk about in Romans 15, which deals with Unity in Christ, in the section titled, ‘The Gospel to the Gentiles.’ Bruh Paul declares thus: ‘Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister (became a servant) of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers. And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy, as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. (quoted from Rom.14: 1,3, and Rom.5:20) And again he saith, Rejoice ye Gentiles, with his people. (quoted from Deut.32:43) And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud Him all ye people. (quoted from Ps.117:1) And again, Isaiah saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. (quoted from Is.11:1,10) And all of that comes from Rom.15:7-12. Just goes to show Bruh Paul’s high standard of education and his incredible ability as a wordsmith. And the scholars explain Bruh Paul’s motives thus: ‘Since God’s purpose has been to unite both Jew and Gentile into one body, diverse convictions and practices in doubtful matters should give way to harmony and unity.’ Oh Friends, if only that would happen in our world eh! Anyway, let’s close with a blessing from Bruh Paul that ends that section, the Gospel to the Gentiles. ‘Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.’ (Rom.15:13) And all God’s people said a loud and prayerful, ‘Amen!’ Much LOVE my brethren!…peaceful unity of all God’s creation…that’s Jesus’ purpose…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 September 2012 Zephaniah 2:1
22 Sep 2012 Leave a comment
in Inspirational Living Tags: antagonism, Democrat, depression, forgiveness, gather together, humility, LOVE, manna, mercy, one accord, oppression, poverty, repentance, Republican, righteouness, rumours of wars, sickness, tearing each other apart, the Lord's anger, wars, wisdom
Zephaniah 2:1. Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired.
Oh Friends, another day has dawned bright and beautiful, though a bit chilly in my area, but still with all the blessings that our faithful God has promised, and has faithfully provided everyday. Blessings like life, mercy, manna, LOVE and forgiveness, just to name a few. But for some reason, many of us either don’t know about, or seem to appreciate these daily blessings, which unfortunately keeps us at loggerheads with each other, which in turn wreaks havoc in our society. Listen to the chorus of this song I recently heard on a T&T radio station. It’s an old fashioned type calypso, apparently penned for T&T’s fiftieth anniversary of Independence, celebrated this past August 31. It says: ‘My prayer dear Lord, is that you keep us in one accord. And if there is a plan, for the destruction of our land. Ah beg you, dear Lord, please stay your hand. My prayer to you dear Lord. Please don’t allow us to continue tearing each other (our nation) apart. Dear Lord, that’s the prayer of my heart.’ Oh my people, that’s a prayer that can be raised up to heaven for almost every nation in our world, because almost all of them are in some sort of turmoil. It can therefore be also applied to our entire world, which is in a truly sad state, with wars and rumours of wars abounding; economic depression, gross poverty and untold sickness in a world of plenty and marvellous medical science, religious confrontation and oppression, and generally speaking very few areas of agreement. Why are we so antagonistic towards each other eh, even in the smallest group, the family? I guess with the exceedingly quick pace of life nowadays, and with all the modern technology and the numerous distractions now available, plus the lack of godly instruction in homes and schools, it’s harder for even families to see eye to eye. And if the smallest and supposedly most close-knit group are at such wide and varied odds, what does that say for the society as a whole eh? It surely doesn’t instil much confidence that we’ll be getting better any time soon. A glaring example of that is the current U.S Presidential campaign. Firstly it’s very partisan, either Republican or Democrat, with no middle ground. Then it’s become so nasty, expensive and more focussed on the personal lives of the candidates, than the numerous serious problems affecting the country and their plans to fix them. Neither side seems truly concerned about the effects that style of campaigning is having on the country, but are both merely concerned with pushing their own agenda in the wild grab for power. And sadly, though not as much as before, as the U.S. goes, so does the rest of the world. So is there no help for us, you ask? Oh yes Friends, surely, for while there is life, there’s always hope. But what’s the help? My people, we can find it in our Bit and the two verses that follow it. ‘Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired (undesirable nation). Before the decree bring forth (is issued), before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgement (upheld his justice); seek righteousness, seek meekness (humility): it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.’ (Zeph.2:1-3) Yes Friends, Zephaniah was desperately calling on the meek to seek the Lord, because of Judah’s ungodliness, and letting them know how terrible it would be when the Lord’s anger strikes. But they paid no heed and when the conquering forces of Babylon ravished them, everybody just held their heads and bawled. But Friends, it was too late then, and if we don’t smarten up and truly seek the Lord today, we will eventually face the same unwanted, but much deserved fate for our ungodly, evil way of life. Oh my brethren, the day of the Lord will not be forestalled, and the scope of divine judgement will be worldwide and truly harsh. Only the meek and righteous will stand a chance of not being utterly consumed. A lot of societies today take the Word of the Lord for a joke, heaping ridicule on it, but if we really looked at the horrible situation the children of Israel faced for their disobedience in the Old Testament, we wouldn’t take it so lightly. And what do you think will be the Lord’s reaction to those who refused to place their faith in His Son Jesus Christ, whom He innocently sacrificed so that His fallen children could be reconciled to Him? I doubt that His reaction will be very wonderful, for although He is indeed a God of LOVE, mercy and forgiveness, Hs is also a God of justice and righteousness and cannot tolerate sin around Him. And we’ll end with some interesting words from Joel, when he called Judah to repentance and fasting because they were living the same wicked, unrighteous lives that we’re now living. ‘Blow the trumpet (ram’s horn) in Zion, sanctify (consecrate) a fast, call a solemn (sacred) assembly: Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breast (nursing babes): let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet (dressing room). Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen (nations) should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people (peoples), Where is their God?’ (Joel 2:15-17) Oh my brethren, we certainly don’t want the heathen to rule over us, or to feel the Lord’s full anger, we’re already feeling some with all the calamity that’s befalling our world. So I implore us to all try and improve ourselves, by raising our individual righteousness and humility, thus setting a good example, then start to encourage those around us, friends, families and co-workers to do the same. That’s what we need to do, if we want to see brighter days. It’s the wisdom that’s called for in these turbulent times. Much LOVE!…humans divided…whether in families or nations…will never achieve God’s greatest promises…
