Today’s Scrip-Bit   28 July 2022 Philippians 3:14.

28 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

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

Philippians 3:14.      I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

And then it was Thursday, the penultimate day in our workweek, but around here in the Greater Toronto area, not many people are thinking of work, but of the upcoming Caribana weekend and the Simcoe holiday on Monday. Yes friends, this is T.O’s big weekend, where it’s parties galore and the big street parade on Saturday. Oh, sorry, I believe I called the celebration by the wrong name. It’s now something like Toronto Caribbean Carnival, or some such moniker, because of the legal dispute over the ownership of the ‘Caribana’ name. But call it what they will, it will always be popularly known as ‘Caribana.’ End of story! (smile) 

Now, today we are going to consider an interesting writing from our One Year Book of Bible Promises authored by Ruth Harms Calkin, titled ‘It Takes a Lifetime.’ Please read with me. ‘How I LOVE the words of the apostle Paul. ‘I don’t mean to say…that I have already reached perfection! But I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be. 

No, dear brothers and sisters. I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.’ (And it’s noted there that that passage comes from the New Living Translation of Phil. 3:12-14.) 

But then the writing continues: ‘What tremendous encouragement! Paul, who knew Jesus Christ so intimately, whose consuming desire was to please Him, who endured illness, imprisonment, shipwreck, beatings, mockery, and heartache all for the sake of Christ – this very same Paul confessed he hadn’t “arrived.” God was still growing him! I see again, while my conversion took but a moment, my growth takes an entire lifetime. In God’s great wisdom and knowledge He anticipates the finished product while He LOVINGLY takes me through the long, long process.’ 

And is that ever the glorious though difficult truth my fellow believers! It certainly is! Yes, coming to Christ takes but a moment, but becoming like Christ takes an entire lifetime because it is not an easy process. And that is what a lot of us don’t seem to understand. God’s eventual purpose is to make us all over in the image of Christ, as the Good Book says: ‘For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his son, that he might be the first-born among many brethren.’ (Rom. 8:29) 

And to be made over into anything at all doesn’t happen overnight, and to be made like Christ…brother! That will obviously take ages! And, as the writing intimates, if Bruh Paul was so closely involved with Christ, knew Him so intimately and still didn’t consider himself ‘arrived,’ then it’s obvious that those of us who are not as intimate still have a long way to go. As Bruh Paul says in 2 Corinthians. ‘But we all, with open (unveiled) face beholding as in a glass (mirror) the glory of the Lord, are changed (transformed) into the same image (that of Christ) from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.’ (2 Cor. 3:18) 

Yes, it’s the Lord’s Spirit that transforms us into Christ’s likeness from glory to glory or step by step, not all at once. And Bruh Paul assures us earlier on in his missive to the Philippians: ‘Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it (complete it) until the day of Jesus Christ.’ (Phil. 1:6) Oh isn’t that wonderful to know my brethren! God will not stop transforming us into the image of His Son, until his Son comes back to take over His kingdom! Glory Hallelujah! 

That’s why these words of Bruh Paul are so important. And we’ll read them in the more powerful King James version. (smile) ‘Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended (arrived): but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 3:13-14) 

And all of that simply means that he has given up all his earlier accolades, like his great education and position as a powerful Pharisee, in his determined pursuit to know the risen Christ. As he also said earlier on the same letter: ‘But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ….and do count them but dung (rubbish) that I may win Christ.’ (Phil. 3:7-8) So knowing and winning Christ, and the divine prize, that’s ‘the joyful and personal satisfaction of having attained it,’ is all that he was then focused on. 

And it’s all that we should also be focused on, truly knowing Christ should be our life’s goal. So much so that when we come to the end of this earthly stage of life, we can say like Bruh Paul did to Timothy. ‘I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course (race), I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto them also that LOVE his appearing (eagerly await His second coming).’ (2 Tim. 4:7-8) 

Now that’s what we ought to be working towards! And let’s hope that those scriptures we’ve considered this morning will light, or relight the flame in our souls and spirits for Christ, so that we can sincerely put our best foot forward and do His divine bidding with excellence, diligence and a true sense of purpose. And to help us do that, let’s go home now declaring (awright!!!) our Thursday Blessings, which have been so generously bestowed on us to enable us to do our earthly work. 

Altogether now: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! 

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

And having activated those blessings by declaring (steups!!!) them aloud, we must now go out and generously use them in winning souls for Christ! Much LOVE!

…we can’t sincerely press toward the heavenly prize…unless the flame of Christ burns brightly in us… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​        

Today’s Scrip-Bit   21 July 2022 Matthew 7:7.

21 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 7:7.      Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 

So it’s Thursday now…one of those days in the life when things seem all topsy-turvy. First of all, I got up later than usual, only to further find that a couple things I thought I had done, successfully yesterday were actually unsuccessful, so I have to go and do them over again today. It’s frustrating to say the least. And now I’ve got to put that aside and get my head around to writing the Bit. 

But I’m not really worried, just a tad concerned, (smile) because I know in my weakness the Lord will help me, especially since it’s His work I’m trying to do. He’s promised never to leave nor forsake me, and to strengthen me through His most awesome Son Christ Jesus, so that I can do all things that need to be done. Therefore, I ask myself? ‘Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.’ (Ps. 42:11) 

Glory be my people! That’s the beauty of scripture: we can always find a word to uplift our spirits regardless of what we’re going through. The problem though is that we need to seek it out. Sometimes, if we know enough scripture, it might come to us, but generally speaking we need to actually dive into the Good Book and find the right antidote for whatever ails us. That’s what I just did. I didn’t know what I needed, but knew that I needed something to refresh my fallen spirit. The search wasn’t long, but I did have to look for it. And that’s what so many of us refuse to do, actively look for the Lord and His redeeming power. 

Remember the words the Lord spoke through the prophet Jeremiah? ‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.’ (Jer. 29:13) Yes, friends, we need to actively seek the Lord if we truly want to find Him and His restoration. It reminds us that Christianity is an active faith, one of plenty action, not mere talk. And Jesus himself encouraged us to stay active, to stay persevering in prayer, when He declared (chuh!!!): 

‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?  If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?’ (Matt. 7:7-11) 

Oh my people, Jesus could not make it any clearer than that! But for our benefit, the scholars try to do so. (smile) They say: ‘Jesus illustrated His point by comparing the willingness of a human father to give his child a gift, with our heavenly Father who will gladly give us what we need. The term evil (vs. 11) is used here of man’s sinful nature. Even sinful men are kind to their children; therefore, how much more shall your heavenly Father delight to answer your prayers.’  

However, the scholars also say, that though ‘Prayer includes asking and getting answers from God… It is more than just asking; it is confession, adoration, thanksgiving, and fellowship with God. By its nature, prayer is talking with God. It is the basis of the successful Christian life, and is so important that not praying is considered a sin. (1 Sam.12:23)’ And I do hope that all of that ramps up the importance of prayer in our individual and corporate lives, for without prayer we’re nothing, our communication with our heavenly Father will be non-existent. 

Now, let me spoon feed us with that verse above from 1 Samuel that indicates that not praying is sin. Samuel was appealing to his people Israel to serve God and be His people, when he said: ‘Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.’ (1 Sam. 12:23) In other words, Samuel would not give up the fight to teach Israel the right way. He would consistently do his divine duty. 

And so should we all today my faithful brethren. It’s our bounden duty to do right and to teach those around us what is right. Unfortunately, we are not doing such a good job of it, that’s why there’s so much evil and evildoing in our world. And though we are doing some praying, I guess we might not be praying for the right things as James, Jesus’ brother says in his epistle. 

‘From when come wars and fightings (conflicts) among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts (desires for pleasure) that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill (murder), and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war (battle), yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts (desires of pleasure). ‘ (James 4:1-3) 

Yes friends, a lot of what we ask for is not in God’s will for us. Our prayers are often pleasure driven not God centred. And thus, as the scholars point out. ‘James emphasizes the strife so common among his readers, stemming from their unsatisfied, selfish, desires. Instead of wrestling with God in prayer, these believers are striving with one another.’ And sadly, nothing has changed today, for instead of going to God in prayer we are still striving with each other over selfish and sinful desires. It seems that the more things change, the more they stay the same. 

But thankfully, some of us, though certainly not enough, have decided to stick with the Lord through thick and thin, and thus He has bestowed on us several blessings to enable us to do His earthly work. So, let’s activate what we term our Thursday Blessings right now nuh, that we can be refreshed and maintain our sincere witness for Christ. 

As one voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! 

I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, let’s get out into the evil world and use those heavenly blessings to raise up the name of Christ in all the earth, as He expects us to do! Much LOVE!

…it’s okay to ask…but we must ask for the right things… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​     

Today’s Scrip-Bit   14 July 2022 Psalm 73:26.

14 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 73:26.      My flesh and my heart faileth; but God is the strength (rock) of my heart, and my portion forever.

And it’s another bright, sunshiny, cool summer’s day in my neck of the woods! Glory be! We had better thoroughly enjoy each day yes, because with them just a hurtling by, it will be soon cold, locked up weather again. (smile) And winter doesn’t pass half as quickly as summer. But have you ever noticed how the good times in life pass ever so quickly, but the bad ones just seem to drag on forever? 

That’s why we need a strong foundation to sustain us, and the ONE and ONLY foundation strong enough to do that is the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, because He is the One who created the heavens, the earth and all therein and still maintains and controls it.  Bruh David puts it very simply but clearly in Psalm 24, when he proclaims: ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods (rivers).’ (Ps. 24:1-2) 

And He’s such a wonderful God that He even sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross, to shed His sinless blood to wash our souls clean of the abominable sins that had made us His enemy. So, who better to turn to for strength and succour eh? Nobody! And I believe that this poem from our One Year Book of Bible Promises with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin, aptly titled ‘The Living God,’ admirably speaks to and supports that claim. 

Please read with me: ‘I place my whole confidence In the Living God. Not because things Are going my way. Not because I have what I want. Not because I understand All the unexplainables Or because I am immune To problems and pain and sorrow. But despite my questions My reversals, my disappointments Despite my sorrow and tears I place my whole confidence In the Living God For He alone can see me through. He alone is worthy of my trust.’ 

Now, is that ever the indisputable truth my brethren! Jehovah God is the ONLY One in this crazy world that’s worthy of our trust! That’s why the psalmist penned these magnificent sentiments. ‘While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have my being. Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man (human beings), in whom there is no help (salvation). His breath goeth forth (his spirit departs), he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish. Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is the Lord his God: which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever.’ (Ps. 146:2-6) 

Yes friends, that’s whom we must put our wholehearted trust in, Almighty God; our Creator and Controller. That only makes logical sense (smile). If He created us and still controls us, then why should we put our trust in any other being eh? No reason whatsoever! Now, here is the Bible Promise associated with the poem we just shared. It comes from that magnificent psalm of Asaph, Psalm 73, when he was dealing with the problem of seeing the wicked prosper. He acknowledges: ‘But as for me, my feet were almost gone I had almost stumbled); my steps had well nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish (boastful), when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.’ (Ps. 73:2-3) 

And sadly, today many of us, like Asaph back then, are still finding it difficult to deal with that particular problem. Yes, the wicked do seem to prosper in their wickedness. But thankfully, Asaph finally understood the end of the wicked when he went into God’s sanctuary. (vs. 17) The Lord has indeed ‘set them in slippery places, and castedst them down into destruction.’ (vs. 18) But all in His own time. That’s what we need to understand. The Lord has made it very clear in many instances in His word that the wicked will face destruction, but only when He is ready to do it. 

And until we understand that, we will continually have a problem seeing the wicked prosper and being sorely tempted, like Asaph, to follow their example and sell our souls to Beelzebub instead of the Lord God Jehovah! But hopefully, also like Asaph we will come to our senses, sooner, rather than later. 

Here’s how he describes it. ‘How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors. As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou wakest, thou shalt despise their image. Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins (pierced in my mind). So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee. Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden (held) me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.’ (Ps. 73:19-24) 

And isn’t that the awesome truth! The Lord will destroy the wicked as He has promised and receive the righteous to glory, just in His own time. And as Asaph finally declares (steups!!!): ‘Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth; but God is the strength (rock) of my heart, and my portion forever.’ (Ps. 73:25-26) 

Yes my fellow saints, that’s the conclusion we must also come to, if we are to live the enjoyable and abundant life that Christ died for us to have. And by the way, those are the verses, the Bible Promises associated with the poem. (smile) I guess I just found it necessary to give us a fuller understanding of the situation, put it into better context. 

And having said that, then there is no reason to exclude the last two verses of the psalm, which are also very enlightening and reassuring. ‘For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee (who are unfaithful to You). But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare (yesss!!!) all thy works.’ (Ps. 73:27-28) Hopefully, those words will also confidently rise up from our hearts and sincerely fall from our lips as we place our eternal trust in the Lord our God. 

Now, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) and thus activating our Thursday Blessings, the many blessings He’s so generously bestowed on us to do His earthly work. Altogether now: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

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

And if we’re true and faithful, we’ll now go out and put those blessings into action on God’s behalf! Much LOVE!

…true safety is ONLY found…in Christ Jesus… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​         

Today’s Scrip-Bit   7 July 2022 John 11:25.

07 Jul 2022 Leave a comment

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

John 11:25.      Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live. ​

Ah Lord eh! These days I’m not anxious to open e-mails from friends that I don’t normally correspond with, because they always seem to bring negative news. I got one such e-mail this morning from an old friend from university days, about the passing of another old friend from back then. Her name was Maxine Roberts. I haven’t seen her since back then or heard much about her, but it appears she carved a very good path for herself in the Jamaican Diplomatic Service as an Ambassador for her country. Now that doesn’t surprise me because I remember her as a bright and lively young lady, some fifty odd years ago. May you rest in peace Maxine. And my condolences to your family. 

But it is a tad difficult to hear of the passing of people you haven’t interacted with for a long time, since it then gets you to thinking about the times you shared, be they good or bad, and wondering if they ever remembered those same times before they moved on to the other life. And the sad part is that many of our friends pass on with negative thoughts about us, thoughts that we had hopes of one day fixing, but never got around to. And then suddenly, it’s too late. But, as they say, that’s life! 

And it doesn’t make sense worrying about it, but it should make us aware of how short life is, and the suddenness with which it can end, therefore energizing us to make whatever amends we need to make with our surviving friends and family as soon as possible. We all know that we came from the dust of the earth and that someday that’s where our bodies will return, but fathoming death, especially a sudden and unexpected one, is still hard for the human nature to accept. But accept it we must, if we want to live out our own lives in a positive and godly manner. 

And as believers in Christ Jesus, it is easier for us to accomplish than for unbelievers. That’s because we have the ever-faithful promise of salvation and eternal life through belief in Christ. Jesus Himself said it to Martha when He came back to Bethany after her brother Lazarus’ death. Martha though, wasn’t happy with Jesus’ late arrival and said to Him. ‘Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.’ (John 11:21-22) 

Now that is what you call strong faith! And some of you might say that’s because Jesus was very friendly with her family. But Jesus was friendly with a lot of other people, including His own family, who didn’t believe in Him. The Good Book continues: ‘Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?’ (John 11:23-26) 

And that’s the very same question that Jesus is asking many of us today? Do we truly believe in Him and the power He has to grant eternal life? Now Martha didn’t have the benefit of the scriptures we currently have, nor of yet seeing Christ crucified and risen, but her answer was quick and unequivocal. ‘She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.’ (John 11:27) How many of us would answer Jesus’ question so plainly and quickly today eh? I really don’t know nuh, but I’m sure it wouldn’t be sufficient to make a significant difference in our current evil and ungodly world. 

And there are so many examples of Jesus trying to instill into us the major benefit of believing in him, but we just won’t listen. Let’s see if I can drum up a few more instances of Jesus talking about the importance of believing in Him to receive eternal life. And we don’t have to look very far to find this scriptural gem. It’s one we all know and like to quote, but don’t seem to really believe since we still don’t acknowledge Jesus as the resurrection and the life. Jesus said it loud and clear: ‘For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ (John 3:16) 

Now my brethren, tell me how much clearer can that get eh? It’s simple: if you don’t believe in Jesus, you are not going receive eternal life, instead you will perish! And are you willing to take the chance that Jesus is wrong? For your sake I hope not. Then there was the Samaritan woman who came to the well to draw water and engaged Jesus in conversation. That alone was itself a poignant and unnatural moment for Jews and Samaritans, though related, didn’t mix, in fact detested each other as the latter had intermarried with Gentiles during the Assyrian captivity. (2 Kin. 17:24-41) 

And as the woman so knowingly pointed out when Jesus asked her for a drink of water. She said to Him: ‘How is it that thou being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.’ (John 4:9-10) The woman then proceeded to question Jesus’ ability to draw water from the well. 

But ‘Jesus answered and said unto her. Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again. But whosoever drinketh of the water I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be like a well (fountain) of water springing up into everlasting life.’ (John 4:13-14) And although the woman didn’t fully understand what Jesus was talking about, she was wise enough, wiser than many of us today, to understand the importance of His words, Therefore, she ‘saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.’ (John 4:15) 

Another instance where there was much less knowledge of Jesus than we have, but greater trust and faith! And just in case you won’t believe Jesus, then let’s see if you’ll believe John the Baptist when he says: ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth (remains) on him.’  (John 3:36) Yes friends, the anger of God remains on those who don’t believe in His Son Jesus Christ. 

Now, for those of us who believe, and are doing our best to convince others, let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Thursday Blessings, which have been generously bestowed on us by God, so that we can do His earthly work. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

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

And having activated those blessings, let’s go out now and use them generously on Christ’s behalf! Much LOVE!

…only believe…that’s all Christ is asking…one has nothing to lose…and so much to gain…if one only believes… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​      

Today’s Scrip-Bit   30 June 2022 Isaiah 55:6.

30 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

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

Isaiah 55:6.      Seek thou the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.

Ah friends, our God is a great and good God, no doubt about that, but sometimes I don’t appreciate his sense of humour nuh. Remember, yesterday I wrote that it was cloudy in my area, but no sign of rain? Well, would you believe that when I went upstairs after writing the Bit, the rain was falling. 

Ah Lord eh! And it fell for a while too, though not a big downpour, but a steady drizzle. I can imagine how my Scrip-Bit family members in the area must have chuckled as they read it while the rain was falling. But I guess as the wise folks say, the best laid plans of mice and men usually go astray. 

Or as Cousin Sol declares in Proverbs: ‘A man’s heart deviseth (plans) his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.’ (Prov. 16:9) And so He does, because He is sovereign over everything in His universe. And who shall say Him nay eh? Not a single soul! And as Cousin Sol reinforces in a later chapter of Proverbs. ‘There are many devices (plans) in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.’ (Prov. 19:21) 

So, although sometimes I might not appreciate His humour, I have no choice but to grin and bear it and gracefully and gratefully say: ‘Thank You Lord!’ But the truly great thing about God is that though we don’t like His moves, we can go to Him in proper reverence and explain our situation, and instead of turning us away in anger, He will comfort us in our disappointment. No other supposed god does anything like that. That’s why He, the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is the GREATEST! 

And consequently why the prophet Isaiah could shout to the people of Israel: ‘Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.’ (Is. 40:1) He was looking beyond Judah’s imminent captivity in Babylon to the day of salvation that was in their future. He was letting them know that though their sins ran red with blood, and they would pay for them, comfort is always available through trust in the Lord. 

Yes friends, even in our sorriest times, we can always find comfort through trust in our heavenly Father. It won’t always change our circumstances, but we will feel a peace that passes all understanding, one that will allow us to handle the circumstances in a positive manner. And no other supposed god makes a free offer of mercy to all and sundry like our God does. I like how He says through Isaiah. ‘Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. 

Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness (abundance). Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make a covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. 

Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee. Seek thou 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. 55:1-7) 

Oh my people, yuh see how long God has been making His free offer of salvation to all who will receive it. And He’s still doing it today, a couple thousands of years after sending His One Son Jesus to fulfill the covenant to the Gentiles. However, just like Israel back then didn’t listen, so we are not listening to the heart-felt call of the Lord God Almighty. 

The scholars explain it thus: ‘Those who are spiritually hungry and thirsty may come to eat and drink without money (or freely). He promises an everlasting covenant to the Gentiles like the one He established with Israel. His invitation to all men is clearly stated by the appeal, Seek ye the Lord and call ye upon him.’ 

Yes mih bredrin, I don’t know what else we expect the Lord to do for us nuh, so that we will willingly come to Him for help and refuge. Is our inherent sin nature so powerful that it completely blinds us to the irreparable damage it’s doing to our hearts, souls, bodies and minds? Does Satan have so great a hold on us, the chains he’s wrapped us in, so tight, and the darkness he’s enveloped around us, so thick that we can’t break free, that we can’t see or desire anything besides his evil doings? 

Almighty God has bent over backwards to help us, to give us another option besides the evil one, including sacrificing His Son Jesus Christ. However, it seems like many of us still blindly and foolishly prefer the company and doings of his satanic majesty. But please remember there will come a time when we will ALL be called to order, even his satanic majesty himself. As the Good Book tells us: ‘And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement.’ (Heb. 9:27) 

Please remember that after death, or Jesus’ Second Coming, it will be too late to make any changes to our beliefs or anything else, so I implore us to make whatever changes are necessary, RIGHT NOW, since we have no idea when any of those things will occur, only our heavenly Father knows the day and time of all things. And He’s not sharing. (smile) 

But for those of us who already believe and are doing our best to work for the good of Christ’s kingdom, let’s go home declaring (steups!!!) what we call our Thursday Blessings, blessings bestowed on us by our Creator to enable us to do His earthly work. So as one confident voice. ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

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

Now, let’s go out and unselfishly put those blessings to work like Christ desires of us nuh. Much LOVE!

…only two options are open to man…heaven or hell…it’s our choice…let’s make the wise one before it’s too late… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​  

Today’s Scrip-Bit   23 June 2022 Proverbs 16:1.

23 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

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

Proverbs 16:1.       The preparations of the heart in man (the plans of the heart belong to man), and the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. 

Well, sunny days are here again…Glory Hallelujah! Yes friends, summer seems to have gotten into full swing right away, and we are indeed glad for that after the long dreary, winter months, but right now we could use a li’l rain, a li’l heavenly blessing to ease the pressure, ease the thirst of the plants. (smile) They haven’t been able to drink of their creator’s elixir for several days now, and that just makes them listless and faint and dulls their amazing beauty. So please, let’s pray for a few renewing showers. Not floods, but just enough to keep everything strong and beautiful, the way the Lord intended it to be. 

And I find it difficult to believe that today is already Thursday, the penultimate day of our workweek, and also that we are nearing the end of June which just began. Can somebody please tell where the time is going, because it seems to be flying right by and sadly leaving me behind in its riotous wake. (smile) Every day I ask the duchess about it, and she just smiles benevolently and replies that time waits on no one, so I had better get my act together. 

And I do try, but something always crops up that forestalls my best laid plans. I guess that I either plan to do too many things or am simply not interested in doing them and find excuses not to do them. I also ask the Lord for help, but He seems to be ignoring me. It’s either that He wants me to go along and do just what I’m doing, or He’s waiting for me to get up off my fat, no, off my lean fanny, and get moving on my own. And don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I am not doing stuff, but there’s so much I want to do, but what I’m actually doing doesn’t satisfy my ego or pride, or whatever you call it. 

So, what is one to do eh? I guess that I will keep calling on the Lord for help and doing what I can in my own strength, or weakness, for as Cousin Sol so wisely says in Proverbs: ‘The preparations of the heart in man (the plans of the heart belong to man), and the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits… A man’s heart deviseth (plans) his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.’ (Prov. 16:1-2, 9) 

The scholars tell us that means ‘the Lord is sovereign even over a man’s thoughts and words, over his scheming and planning. He is also the great discerner of motives.’ And if we believe His word, then that’s obviously true. So how do we accomplish anything then eh? Cousin Sol also provides the answer to that question. ‘Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.’ (Prov. 16:3) 

Now, if the Lord is indeed sovereign over man’s thoughts, words and plans, then that makes perfect sense. We ought to first go to Him and consult Him on what plans He has for us, because He has a detailed plan for each of our lives, which dovetails with a general one for all of His creation. It’s like Bruh David says in Psalm 37 – The true state of the wicked. ‘Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in him: and he shall bring it to pass.’ (Ps. 37:4-5) 

And that’s excellent advice; advice that both Burh David and Cousin Sol took, that’s why we are reading about them thousands of years later. But all of that is comparatively easy when you take these other words of Bruh David into account. ‘Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices (schemes) to pass.’ (Ps. 37:7) 

Now that’s the difficult part for most of us; waiting on God’s timing, especially in this now for now society, and when we see the wicked prospering and the good not getting ahead like them. However, we need to be patient and believe God’s promises. As Bruh David wisely advises. ‘Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil (for it only causes harm). For evildoers shall be cut off (destroyed): but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth.’ (Ps. 37:8-9) 

That’s the cut-tail part of it all my brethren; waiting on the Lord’s timing. It’s not easy, but if we want to prosper in His kingdom, we need to learn that most important lesson, because there’s no getting away from it. The Lord moves in His own time. And though it seems like He’s always holding us back, like He has us on a tight rein, He is never late! He’s always right on time! I can vouch for that from personal experience. Many times in difficult situations I’ve wondered where He’s been, but He’s always showed up before disaster strikes. He’s never left me in the lurch. 

Therefore, if you follow the advice of Bruh David and Cousin Sol, especially the waiting on His timing, you’ll do very well. It won’t always be easy, especially with disaster staring you in the face, (smile) but the wait will surely be worth it. And having said all of that, it’s now time to turn to our Thursday Blessings, undeserved blessings bestowed on us to enable us to accomplish God’s work, for our God doesn’t ask us to do anything without giving us the wherewithal, the tools, the grace to do it. 

So let’s declare (brother!!!) those Thursday Blessings right now so we can activate them. In confident and sincere voice. ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! 

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

Now, my fellow saints, it’s time for us to get out into the evil world and use those blessings just as generously as Christ shared them with us, to encourage others to come to Him. Much LOVE!

…wait in faith on the Lord…wait… I say…on the Lord… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   16 June 2022 Ecclesiastes 11:1.

16 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

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

Ecclesiastes 11:1.       Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.

So then, we come to Thursday, the penultimate workday before our glorious weekend, which has opened fairly sunny, despite the few spoiler clouds hanging around. (smile) And surprisingly, yesterday did turn out to be a good, sunshiny and warm day, despite the early morning darkness, with not a drop of precipitation. But one cannot be bothered by the eccentricities and vagaries of the weather these days, else it would drive you crazy, since there seems to be no rhyme nor reason to its recent behaviour. 

And now that we have dealt with the oddities and idiosyncrasies of the weather, it’s time to deal with ours… And do we ever have many, so much so that the Lord shakes His head every morning we arise, wondering what foolishness, disobedience or sin we’re going to engage in that day. (smile) And that’s why these verses of scripture from Cousin Sol operating as the Preacher in Ecclesiastes are ever so important to us. Please read with me these opening verses of chapter 11, subtitled, ‘Charity enjoined.’ 

‘Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth. If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be. He that observeth the wind shall not sow: and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. 

As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit (wind), nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper (which shall succeed), either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.’ (Eccl. 11:1-6) 

Ah friends, what true words of wisdom! Cousin Sol was indeed a wise man, at least in his early years. (smile) And what does all of that mean eh? Let’s listen to the scholars explain it. ‘11:1-6. These verses contain a series of sayings about the uncertainty of human industry, and are held together by the fourfold occurrence of the expression thou knowest not. Although man cannot comprehend God’s work, nor predict success, he needs to be involved in life’s activities and trust God for the results.’ 

And that’s the living truth my brethren! We don’t know what will happen in any particular day or time in God’s universe because He’s placed it all under His own control, but it is indeed essential for us to take a constructive and productive part in life’s activities and then leave the rest to God, trust Him, believe in His utmost faithfulness, since He’s promised to work it all out for our good. That brings us to these other marvellous and wise words of Cousin Sol, this time from Proverbs. ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct (make smooth or straight) thy paths.’ (Prov. 3:5-6) 

Now that should be simple common sense if we believe that God is our Maker and Controller. However, too many of us talk that sentiment but don’t truly believe it, or act like we do. We still try to fashion our lives after our own plans and not after God’s, which is paramount to foolishness and disobedience. And right here the Holy Spirit just led me to consider my own life; what it was before the Lord took a stronghold on me, and what it would have been like if I hadn’t listened to him way back then. 

And I don’t even want to think about what it might have been like. Oh, I was doing materially okay, but something was missing in my soul. I was searching for something that I just couldn’t seem to find. Then the Lord called me to write this Scrip-Bit and I laughed because I definitely didn’t have the knowledge or wherewithal to write about scriptural matters. But He persisted, and I eventually gave in. Please note though, that whenever the Lord comes calling, for your own sanity, please say yes, the first time, because He’s not going to stop and will make life miserable until you agree to do His bidding. 

And as I’ve often said, when I began writing the Bit it was often a scripture verse or two, but through the Lord’s faithfulness and my discipline, some fifteen years later I’m now writing too much. (smile) Yes friends, one thing I can surely vouch for is the Lord’s faithfulness; He helps you, sticks by you and gives you the necessary tools to do whatever He’s asked you to do. But again, you have to trust in Him, surrender your life completely to Him. And no, it won’t be easy, because He tests you along the way. 

And I’m chuckling here, because many a day I’ve written stuff in the Bit, and before I had even finished, I was tested on what I had written (smile). And don’t worry, the Lord knows that we won’t pass all the tests, some we’ll have to take over and over. (smile) But once He sees the sincerity in our hearts and attitudes, He will help us. No doubt about that, because He desires us to grow and become as close as possible in attitude and behaviour to his first-born Jesus Christ. And I can guarantee that this promise that Bruh Paul wrote to the Philippians is ever so true. ‘Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform (complete) it until the day of Jesus Christ.’ (Phill. 1:6) 

Yes, my fellow saints, once we’re alive and living for Christ, the Lord will continue growing us until the day He takes us home, or Jesus returns, whichever comes first. And one of the ways He does that is by bestowing us with many undeserved blessings so that we can do His earthly work. We call them our Thursday Blessings. So, let’s declare and activate them right now nuh. 

As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! 

I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’ 

Now, it’s our bounden duty to go out and walk worthy of those undeserved blessings, by sharing them as generously with others, as the Lord has shared them with us. Much LOVE!

…talk is cheap…but action calls us to pay the price… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​         

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 June 2022 Hebrews 11:3.

09 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

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

Hebrews 11:3.      Through faith we understand that the worlds (ages) were framed (prepared) by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear (are visible).

And just as I queried, yesterday’s bright sunshine did not last, for by the afternoon the clouds came rolling in, then by evening time, the rain began and drizzled through most of the night. Now, today, Thursday has opened cloudy and wet, but the rain has stopped and hopefully by lunchtime the sun will have come out bright and warm. (smile) And isn’t that what hope and faith are all about? For sure; the evidence of things not seen, but eagerly and expectantly hoped and waiting for! 

As Chapter 11 in Hebrews, that great chapter on faith tells us: ‘For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds (ages) were framed (prepared) by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear (are visible).’ (Heb. 11:2-3) Yes friends, in this life, we need to believe a lot of things we can’t see or conceive of, meaning that everything we do depends to some extent on faith. Even when we sit in a chair or lie on a bed, it’s faith that makes us believe they won’t crumble under us. 

But it’s even more important for us to have a strong and bubbling faith when we come before God. Cain’s faith was not as righteous as Abel’s, that’s why God refused his sacrificial offering. Abel’s offering was of a sacrificial nature, the first and best of his flock, and apparently his heart motives were right, while Cain’s were not. (Gen. 4:3-7) And again, we cannot please God unless we truly believe that He is who He says He is, and does all that He says He can do. 

Please note these scriptures on some of our fellow believers who wrought much because of their faith. ‘By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear (reverence), prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.’ (Heb. 11:7) Now that was something else, because it took exceptionally great faith and trust to do what Noah did. 

According to the scholars, ‘Noah was asked by God to do in faith things that were incongruous (not in harmony) with his former experience. He had never seen rain (Gen. 2:5), and yet God told him to build and ark because of a coming flood (Gen. 6:13-17).’ Now, how many of us would have accepted such a backbreaking and seemingly impossible task eh? Not many. But Noah believed the Lord and did as He asked. And that’s why he was chosen to replenish humanity after the catastrophic flood that destroyed all the other abominably sinful human beings. 

The same thing could be said of Abraham when the Lord suddenly showed up and told him to pack up and leave his pagan gods and family and go wither he knew not. The Good Book tells it thus: ‘By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went (where he was going).’ (Heb. 11:8) 

Once again, how many of us, especially at seventy-five years of age, would have simply packed up and left our families on the promise of a supposed god that we did not know eh? Only a few. But Abraham did. And, ‘By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange (foreign) country, dwelling in tabernacles (tents) with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise.’ (Heb. 11:9) Yes, he left his comfortable home and became a nomad, wandering a country he didn’t know, living much less comfortably than if he had stayed at home in Haran. 

So why did he do it eh? The Bible tells us: ‘For he looked for (was waiting for) a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker was God.’ (Heb. 11:10) Wow! What monumental faith! That’s why the Good Book says: ‘And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.’ (Gen. 15:6) Although, as the scholars explain, that happened after the Lord took him outside to look at all the numerous stars in the sky and promised that his descendants would be as numerous. So, it was not his original act of faith, but further evidence of his confidence in God. 

The same thing goes for Sarah. Although she first laughed when God said she would have a son after many barren years and at an old age. ‘Through faith also Sarah herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of (bore) a child when she was past age; because she judged him faithful who had promised.’ (Heb. 11:11) Yes friends, only the miraculous work of our omnipotent God could have allowed Sarah and Abraham to have a child when she was ninety and him a hundred years old! 

And no, Abraham and Sarah did not have it easy, wandering all over the land as a nomadic tribe, but they saw enough faithfulness in God’s promises that made them continue on the route that He had plotted out for them. And that’s why today we talk about the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; he and his descendants stood strong in faith with God. 

The Good Book continues: ‘These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded (assured) of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country (homeland). And truly if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned, But now they desire a better country, that is a heavenly; wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.’ (Heb. 11:13-16) 

Yes my fellow saints, earth is not our eventual home, but that doesn’t mean we are not meant to enjoy it as much as we can, until we get to the heavenly place that God has created for us, where there are no tears, no pain, no death, no sorrow, just continual communion, praise and worship with our heavenly Father. But it all comes through faith, and unless you sincerely believe, surrender and trust in the promises of God you will never see that heavenly home. 

In the meanwhile, let’s go home today declaring (chuh!) our Thursday Blessings that have been so generously bestowed on us to do God’s work down here on earth. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

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

Now, let’s go out and use those marvellous blessings to bring others to Christ, as He desires of us. Much LOVE!

…there is little hope for man…unless he succumbs to faith in Almighty God…the Creator and Controller of this universe… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​          

Today’s Scrip-Bit   2 June 2022   1 Corinthians 13:13.

02 Jun 2022 Leave a comment

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

1 Corinthians 13:13.      And now abideth faith, hope, charity (LOVE), these three; but the greatest of these is charity (LOVE).

Well, it looks like the real hot days are gone for the rest of this week. And, on this Provincial Election Day in Ontario, we are back to barely crossing the twenty degrees mark, with a cool breeze continually blowing. The truth be known, it’s not quite summer as yet, so those past few really hot days are merely a harbinger of the days to come. (smile) 

And just now, while skimming through the Good Book looking for a topic to talk about, I came upon this wonderful chapter, one that is near and dear to all our hearts, and I immediately knew that my search was ended. (smile) It’s the scripture we call the Chapter of LOVE or the Way of LOVE! And believe me friends, do we ever need that thing we call LOVE, true brotherly or ‘agape’ LOVE, in this strife-filled, immoral, evil and ungodly world of ours. A world where everything else but LOVE seems to exist in great proportions. 

And the thought is that if we talk about it today, some will rub off on us and thus help create a better, more Christ-like world (smile) So let’s hear what Bruh Paul had to say to say on the subject, to the church at Corinth in his first letter. ‘Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity (LOVE), I am become as sounding brass, or a clanging symbol.’ (2 Cor. 13:1) And do we ever have plenty of those in our society today, who claim to speak in tongues, in the language of God, but are truly only clanging cymbals, only making a setta blooming useless noise because they don’t have any true godly LOVE in their souls. 

Then Bruh Paul continues: ‘And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity (LOVE) I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity (LOVE), it profiteth me nothing.’ (1 Cor. 13:2-3) 

Oh my people, yuh see the great emphasis that’s put on LOVE? It’s so great that even if you have all of the other supposed attributes of God, but you don’t have that main one of LOVE, then you don’t have anything, you’re nothing, all that other stuff profits you nothing! And sadly, our current world is filled with those kinds of people, who claim to have all the God-given attributes, but lack the most important one, that’s LOVE! And how do we know that eh? Because their actions don’t show it. For LOVE is an action word! It’s all about doing, doing what needs to be done, not talking up a great storm of nothing, making a set of noise but not really doing anything useful or LOVING. 

Now here is how Bruh Paul characterizes true LOVE. ‘Charity (LOVE) suffereth long, and is kind; charity (LOVE) envieth not; charity (LOVE) vaunteth not (does not brag on) itself, is not puffed up (arrogant). Doth not behave itself unseemly (rudely), seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil (keeps no account of evil). Rejoiceth not in iniquity,  but rejoiceth in the truth. Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity (LOVE) never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail (cease); whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away (cease).’ (1 Cor. 13:4-8) 

Oh friends, it’s true that LOVE like that as described by Bruh Paul is indeed difficult to come by, but as Christians, as faithful believers in Christ Jesus, it is our bounden duty to try and acquire as much of it as possible, because that’s the only way our world and that of our descendants will ever improve. And the only way we can increase our LOVE quotient is by sticking as close to Christ as possible, because He is the reservoir, the fountainhead of LOVE! 

And please note that Jesus didn’t just talk LOVE, but showed it in His everyday actions, especially by His sacrificial death on the cross for a bunch of ungrateful sinners! And sadly, two thousand years later, even with the greater knowledge we have of God and His Word, of His attributes and His desires, so many of His creation are turning away from Him at this crucial time of strife, hatred and the burgeoning of evil. 

I don’t know what else to say or do nuh my people, so that I can impress the importance of God’s agape or brotherly LOVE on the health and future of our world, which Satan now holds in a death-like choke hold. We are going under friends, there’s no doubt about it, and if we keep on following this path of destruction that we are currently on, it’s only a matter of time before our world implodes or explodes. And believe me, the only thing available to turn our situation around before it’s too late is the quick rising, the improvement of our LOVE situation. 

That’s why Bruh Paul closes the chapter with these memorable words of truth. ‘And now abideth faith, hope, charity (LOVE), these three; but the greatest of these is charity (LOVE).’ (1 Cor. 13:13) And that’s the gospel truth my fellow saints, LOVE is the greatest; that’s why God made us and why He sent His Son to save us. Bruh Paul said it thus to the church at Rome. ‘But God commendeth  (demonstrated) his LOVE toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ (Rom. 5:8) 

And Jesus made it known to all and sundry: ‘For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ (John 3:16) And it’s not like the Lord didn’t give us the necessary tools to do His earthly work. He did, and very generously too. And those tools are encompassed in what we call our Thursday Blessings. 

So, let’s declare them now so that we can activate them. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! 

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

That means we have all we need to go out now and do God’s will. So please let’s do that nuh. Our God, our children and our world deserve our stepping up to the plate and being better people. Much LOVE!

…only a great dose of agape LOVE…provided by Christ’s followers…will ever bring joy to our sad, misguided world… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​       

Today’s Scrip-Bit   26 May 2022 Isaiah 52:7a.

26 May 2022 Leave a comment

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

Isaiah 52:7a.      How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings (good news),

And we’ll open Today’s Bit with the all-important question that the lady in the song is asking: ‘If Jesus comes tomorrow, or if Jesus comes this afternoon, will you be ready?’ Now that should make us all stop and ponder our personal situations for a few moments. And if the answer is yes, then we can continue along the same basic path. 

However, if the answer is no, then we’d better hurry up and get ready because Jesus said it Himself, that He‘ll be coming like a thief in the night, when no one expects Him. And after He comes, there’ll be only one option available: hellfire and damnation with Satan. So, if we want to go with Jesus whenever He comes, we must get ready asap, else we’ll be left behind to face the Tribulation and whatever else the darkness of the enemy hides. 

And as I was just thumbing through the Good Book for a scripture to use, I came upon this marvellous verse from the prophet Isaiah, where he speaks on the Lord’s behalf. ‘How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings (good news), that publisheth (proclaims) peace; that bringeth good tidings (good news) of good (things), that publisheth (proclaims) salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!’ (Is. 52:7) And there’s absolutely no doubt that our great God reigns supreme my fellow believers! 

Listen to the psalmist tell it from Psalm 93 nuh. ‘The Lord reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the Lord is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is established, that it cannot be moved (shaken). Thy throne is established of old: thou art from everlasting.’ (Ps. 93:1-2) And that’s the indisputable truth! Our God has been around from the beginning of time, and possibly even before. (smile) He created the world and all therein, and still runs it as He pleases. It’s his fiefdom and no one can say Him nay! 

And only when we have those basic facts fully entrenched in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls, can we appreciate the true majesty and wonder of our God, and believe and behave like the prophet Isaiah continues. ‘Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together they shall sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again (back) Zion. Break forth into joy, sing together ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the Lord hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. The Lord hath made bare his holy arm (revealed his awesome power) in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.’ (Is. 52: 8-10) 

And if that isn’t the gospel truth, then I don’t know what is! For the Lord has indeed redeemed, comforted and brought salvation to His people, in fact to all the nations of the earth, through the sacrificial death, resurrection and ascension of His wonderful Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!  And that’s something to be indeed glad of and to shout about with indescribable joy! 

Oh friends, by now we all ought to know that our God doesn’t make idle promises, and He faithfully keeps them all. And the first coming of Christ got the ball rolling in God’s promise of good news, redemption, comfort and salvation. And like the prophet says, beautiful are the feet of those who bring good tidings of good things, especially good news of good things like peace, and salvation. Oh yes, we are always ready to meet and greet those who come bearing glad tidings, good news. 

And that’s what Jesus came bearing. So why are so many of us adamantly refusing to accept Him eh? Because we are foolish, and our inherent sinful nature is getting the better of us. We prefer to live in the darkness of Satan, where our evil deeds can be hidden, because we know all too well that once we accept Jesus, who is the light, our evil deeds will be most certainly exposed, and our shame will there for all the world to see.  And if we accept Jesus, then we’ll have to give up those awful sins. 

But some of us just can’t bear to give them, because they are so deeply entrenched in us, and we find them so wonderful. So, foolishly, unwisely, we stick with the enemy, enjoying the perishable things of the world, instead of turning to the imperishable things of heaven that come with the acceptance of Christ Jesus as Lord and Saviour. 

But be that as it may, those of us who believe have the duty to go about spreading that good news, bringing those good tidings of salvation and eternal life to all who will listen. Jesus was very decisive when He gave what we call the Great Commission to the disciples, and subsequently to us. ‘Go ye therefore, and teach (make disciples of) all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matt. 28:19-20) 

Now we could not require a more direct directive than that to let us know that we must be amongst the beautiful feet on the mountains that carry the good news of Christ’s salvation to ALL the world. And, can we sincerely say that we’re doing as Jesus commanded? I do hope so. Because we have no good excuse not to do as he requires. We can’t even complain that Jesus didn’t give us the tools to do His earthly will, because He’s certainly bestowed blessings on us that we do not deserve, but are there to help us do His work. We call them our Thursday Blessings, but we need to activate them by declaring (steups!!!) them out loud. 

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

And having activated those marvellous blessings, we now need to go out and action them, use and share them with others, just as generously and unselfishly as Jesus shared them with us. Much LOVE!

…it’s time for Christians to get our beautiful feet moving…so that we can spread the good news of Christ…that the world so badly needs to hear… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8​       

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