Today’s Scrip-Bit 4 February 2013 Psalm 8:9

04 Feb 2013 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 8:9.     O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

Oh Friends, it’s Monday…! And my pronouncement brings a sudden burst of joyous shouts of ‘TGIM! Thank God it’s Monday! Time to get out there and work for Jesus!’ Wow! Wonders never cease, but daily they increase! Ah mih people, I’m not idly day-dreaming, for if we live long enough, sooner or later we’re going to get that energetic and enthusiastic response on a Monday Morning. Right now the response is not as good as it could or should be, but it’s getting better with each passing week, and when the LOVE Revolution gets into full stride, that’s the genuine response Christ’s people will have. They’ll be ever so eager to get out into the wicked world and join the battle with Beelzebub and his evil cohorts. But until then, we still need to sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn to put us in the mood, to kick start our motors. So let’s raise our voices in song to heaven with much enthusiasm. Fake it if you have to. (smile) But do raise your voices loud and clear. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once your powerful, protective aura hovers over us. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that your Holy Spirit lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Now that wasn’t too bad, but definitely not as good as it has been. There were too many obvious fakers. Anyway, the most important results were obtained; it got our adrenalin bubbling, and our minds focused on Jesus. Now let’s turn to a most appropriate Bit for today. ‘O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!’ And all God’s people declared: ‘Glory Hallelujah! Our God is indeed great! He is the ONE AND ONLY TRUE GOD, and most worthy to be praised!’ And that’s the gospel truth Friends! Our Bit comes from Psalm 8, where Bruh David talks about God’s glory and man’s honour. But my people, are we truly upholding those two principles? When you look at the evil, ungodly way our society behaves, you tend to doubt it very much. But it’s what we ought to do, how we ought to behave. It’s our bounden duty as believers to exalt and glorify our God, and to live honourably with each other. But sadly in these evil, disastrous times, those are two other things that have become the exceptions rather than the rule. When we should all be running to God for succour and solace, foolishly, we are running away from Him. My brethren, please listen to what our actions should rightly be, coming from Psalm 113 – God’s mercies are many. ‘Praise ye the Lord (Sing Hallelujah). Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord’s name is to be praise. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high, who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!’ (Ps.113:1-6) Yes Friends, that’s what our words and behaviour ought to proclaim! Now let’s reinforce that with more truthful words from Psalm 148 – All creation to praise the Lord. The psalmist first calls out individually to each of God’s creations to praise Him, then ends: ‘Let them praise the name of the Lord: for his name alone is excellent (exalted); his glory is above the earth and heaven. He also exalteth the horn (strength, dominion) of his people, the praise of al his saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the Lord (sing Hallelujah).’ (Ps.148:13-14) Oh my people, why aren’t God’s creations praising Him the way we should eh? And don’t say because we’re too busy living our daily lives, for that’s hogwash, since our God desperately wants to get involved in all that we do, morning, noon and night. If anybody should be involved in all aspects of our lives, it’s Him! The truth I believe, is that we’re too taken up with false glitz and glamour of the world, and are constantly pursuing and acquiring its wealth and material possessions. That obviously leaves little or no time for God. Plus we feel that if we are true to God, then we’ll have to give up the things of the world. Now that’s true to a certain extent, especially when we begin to worship them, to see them as the be all and end all of our lives. But true believers, as I keep saying, have nice worldly things, not in spite of, but because they are blessed by God for their faith and sincere fellowship with Him. Remember Jesus also told us in no uncertain terms that if we set the kingdom of God as our first priority, that all of our needs would be met. (Matt.6:33) Obviously we all won’t live in wealth and splendour, but we won’t lack for anything in our day to day existence. But that doesn’t seem good enough for too many of us, so therefore we keep running down the things of the world. And don’t forget what the preacher told us in yesterday’s Bit; that it’s useless, futile, and vain to spend our lives amassing worldly possessions, since we can’t take any of them with us, when we return naked to the dust from whence we came naked. (Eccl.5:15) And we’ll end with some more truthful words from Psalm 113 – The greatness of the Lord and the vanity of idols. ‘Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; praise him, O ye servants of the Lord. Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praise unto his name; for it is pleasant…. For I know that the Lord is great, and that out Lord is above all gods.’ (Ps.135:1-3, 5) That says it all Friends! So today, let’s seriously ponder our reactions to the things of the world and to the things of God, and begin having them lean towards the latter nuh. That’s the ultimate in wisdom. Much LOVE!…a fool and his earthly possessions…are soon parted…but a wise man in tune with Jesus…lives richly forever…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 21 January 2013 Psalm 126:5

21 Jan 2013 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 126:5.     They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
 
Aw Friends, it’s Monday again… And behold I am suddenly bombarded by hooting and hollering, clapping and joyful shouts of ‘TGIM! Thank God it’s Monday!’ Hn! And see me just standing there nuh, rooted to the ground in shock, my mouth and eyes opened wide in surprise and amazement. Okay, okay, so I have the cold, and it might just be making me a touch light-headed. But doesn’t that reaction to a Monday morning just sound wonderful? God’s children ecstatic to go out on the first day of the work week, couldn’t be anything but wonderful…and miraculous too! That’s what I’m hoping for, working towards and praying on. And one day, with the Good Lord’s help obviously, I’m going to achieve that goal, because I believe, and I have faith. (smile) Oh my people, for the few that are above par this morning, and for the many that are sub-par, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn as if we really mean it nuh. Let’s put our whole being into it. Let’s wake up the heavenly hosts this morning with a real rousing rendition of our battle Hymn. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Awright mih breddren! All heaven sat up and took notice, riotously applauded and even gave us a Standing O. Wow! Let’s go out now and put all those daring words into action and make Jesus real proud of us. Yes my fellow followers of Christ, though it’s hard on plenty of us this Monday morning, let’s get out there and bring what our Bit says to fulfilment. ‘They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.’ And that’s the gospel truth Friends! As the verse after the Bit rightly declares: ‘He that goeth forth (to and fro) and weepeth, bearing precious seed (for sowing), shall doubtless come again with rejoicing (shouts of joy), bringing his sheaves with him.’ (Ps.126:6) And I’m talking here from hard, personal experience, not hearsay, because right now I’m feeling crappy, what with the constant sneezing, my nose sore and running like a pipe and all the various other aspects of the common cold, but the Lord, in His eternal wisdom raised the level of joy in my spirit, caused me to write our entertaining intro, then led me to an appropriate Bit. There were some other interesting ones, but as soon as I saw that one, I knew that it was destined for today. Chuh! I hate having to stop every so often and gingerly wipe my sore nose! But anyway mih people, let’s ramp up our joy today nuh! As I keep reminding us, Christians should be the happiest and most joyful people on planet earth. What with all the good news and stuff we have to look forward to in communion with Jesus, who wouldn’t be joyful eh? But sadly, we’re still some of the most rude, grouchy, unmannerly, gloomy, miserable, resentful people around, even though we live in one of the most prosperous and free areas of the world. Now let’s look at some scripture that talks about the joy of the believer, the joy inherent in believing. First off is Isaiah, re Israel restored to the glory of Zion. ‘And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.’ (Is.35:10) And Isaiah was so sure of that promise, that he repeats it almost word for word in Chapter 51:11. Please read that for yourself. Meanwhile, Jeremiah, also in talking about the restoration of Israel, proudly proclaims: ‘They shall come with weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk by the rivers of waters in a straight way, wherein they shall not stumble: for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my first born. Hear the word of the Lord, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles (coastlands) afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock. For the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he. Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the Lord, for wheat, and for (new) wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a (well) watered garden; and they shall not sorrow anymore at all. Then shall the young virgin rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow. And I will satiate (fill) the soul of the priests with fatness (abundance), and my people shall be satisfied with my goodness, saith the Lord.’ (Jer.31:9-14) Oh Friends, I didn’t plan to put in all of that, but after reading it, and hearing the wonderful promises, I had no choice. That means we’ll have to leave the rest until tomorrow, God willing. But my people, what more can we ask of our great, LOVING, merciful and forgiving God eh? Nothing really! For He’s kept all of His promises, given us His heart of LOVE, His Holy Spirit, and His sacrificed Son. There’s no more left to give, so let’s appreciate it, and as obedient followers, go out and do the same; give of ourselves, sow good seeds even in our most difficult times, so that eventually we shall reap an abundant harvest of joy. That’s our raison d’être here on earth. So let’s do it without too much complaining. Remember, Jesus never complained about the terrible ordeal He suffered to save our unworthy sinful souls, and neither should we. Much LOVE!…remember that old hymn…bringing in the sheaves…bringing in the sheaves…we shall come rejoicing…bringing in the sheaves…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 January 2013 John 4:10

14 Jan 2013 Leave a comment

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

John 4:10.    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.

‘Good morning neighbuh!’ the stocky, middle aged woman greets the younger woman across the fence, as they simultaneously open their front doors and step out on to their respective porches. ‘What’s so good about it eh?’ the younger woman replies in an irritated voice. ‘Oh, but look,’ the other woman enthusiastically answers, ‘the sun’s shining, the birds’ singing, you alive, and you have a steady job to go to.’ ‘So…’ the younger lady churlishly mouths. ‘So you should be happy,’ the neighbour answers.  ‘Steups! You doh know nuh woman,’ comes the reply. ‘Is Monday, and I’m just too tired to go to any blooming work this morning yes!’ Then with a thoughtful frown, she continues. ‘You wouldn’t by any chance want to get dressed and go and do this work for me…this work you so badly want?’ ‘Oh Miss Janice,’ the woman replies, a bit perturbed, ‘you know I couldn’t do your high class work, cause I don’t have your education and training.’ ‘Too bad yes,’ the young woman replies, as she turns on her heel and goes back inside to get ready to go to her high class job, leaving the older lady shaking her head in sad bewilderment, and asking,’ What happen to these young people nowadays eh?’  Oh Friends of mine, I sure hope none of you are to be found numbered amongst that miserable, unmannerly, unappreciative ungodly lot this morning, for it would certainly break Jesus’ heart. Anyway, to get over that surly, grouchy, Monday morning mood, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn with much verve and gusto. Even fake it if you have to, cause as they say, if you fake it long enough you’ll end up doing it for real. Now as one trilling and thrilling earthly choir, (smile) let’s bombard the heavens with song. ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Oh my brethren, I hope all that brought a chuckle, a bit of levity to your soul, raised your adrenalin level, but also encouraged you to get a move on. Now let’s get into our Bit: ‘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.’ Ah Friends, trust Jesus to tie up the poor woman’s brain. Anyway, yesterday we talked about ‘the gift of God,’ in that passage, and discovered it to be God’s wonderful, unmerited, undeserved grace. Today, let’s check out ‘the living water’ scenario. And that basically means the Holy Spirit. That’s how it was sometimes referred to before Jesus finished His earthly work and returned to heaven. And we all know that the Holy Spirit wasn’t noised abroad to each and every believer before Pentecost, when the Apostles sitting in the upper room suddenly felt this rush as of a mighty wind from heaven. ‘And there appeared unto them cloven (divided) tongues as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.’ (Acts 2:3-4) But that doesn’t mean the Lord’s Spirit wasn’t involved with mankind before that. It came upon all the great leaders, prophets, and whomever the Lord singled out to do His bidding before Christ’s coming. Isaiah talks about it in Chapter 12, re thanksgiving for God’s mercies. ‘Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he has also become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.’ (Is.12:2-3) And Isaiah again refers to it in Chapter 44, the Spirit of God to be on Israel. ‘Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, whom I have chosen. For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring. And they shall spring up as among the grass, as willows by the water courses.’ (Is.44:3-4) Now here’s the definitive word on the subject from Jesus Himself, at the Feast of the Passover in Jerusalem. ‘In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly (heart) shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.’ (John 7:37-39) So there we have it Friends, plenty to ponder on this Monday morning as we journey out to continue our LOVE Walk with and for Jesus, in this evil, ungodly world. May He strengthen, and enable us with living water, keep us safe and peaceful, as we do His earthly bidding. Much LOVE!…living water…the Holy Spirit…can only be found at its true source…the fountainhead…Jesus…
 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 24 December 2012 Luke 2:19

24 Dec 2012 Leave a comment

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

Luke 2:19.     But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
 
Oh Friends, it’s Christmas Eve…and Monday too! And though it’s the holiday season, because of the 24/7 society we now live in, it means many people still have to go to work, and plenty of us still have last minute shopping to do and seasonal preparations to complete. So without further ado, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud and in especially thankful voice, for the most wonderful present ever given, Jesus Christ. As one 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!’ Ah Friends, this Christmas Season can be such a wonderful time, with all the friendly greetings and such! Why can’t we do it all year round eh? It would certainly lessen the tension in our stressed out, strife-filled world. Oh, I know it’s asking a lot. But I can always hope, can’t I? Anyway, today I want to continue looking at some of the abnormal situations Mary, Jesus’ mother, experienced because of His special status, and her reaction to them. Yesterday we stopped where Simeon and Anna blessed Him in the temple, and spoke such awesome words re the direction and challenges of His life. Today, we move forward some twelve years later where Jesus accompanies His family to the feast of the Passover in Jerusalem. Now when they began the journey back home, unbeknown to His parents, Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. They assumed that he was with their relatives, but on looking for Him after a day’s journey they couldn’t find Him amongst the company. So in obvious worry, they returned to Jerusalem. ‘And it came to pass that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors (teachers), both hearing them and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us (done this to us)? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing (anxiously). And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist (knew) ye not that I must be about my father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.’ (Luke 2:46-51) Ah Friends, no doubt Mary is hurt and aggrieved when her 12 year old son upbraids her thus. But then we encounter again that silent internal strength of hers, where she experiences stuff she doesn’t understand, but knows she has to endure it because of Jesus’ special status. Let me mention one theory of the scholars here, that’s the supposition that Mary herself was the source of Luke’s intimate knowledge of the details of Jesus’ birth. And it’s a prudent supposition, because only his gospel includes all those closely held family details. Now after that we don’t hear about Jesus for twenty years, until He begins His ministry being baptized by John the Baptist. The Good Book just says: ‘And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.’ (Luke2:52) It seems He settled down to a normal human life and obeyed His parents as good Jewish children would. The next instance I want to mention is where Jesus is out preaching, and someone tells Him that His mother and family want to talk to Him, but because of the crowd, they couldn’t get close to Him. And what was Jesus’ reply? ‘My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.’ (Luke 8:21) I don’t know if that statement ever got back to Mary, but if it did, it surely hurt and tied up her heart in knots too, as well as making people around Him consider Him somewhat insensitive. But it’s this next interaction between mother and son that I particularly like. This time though, Mary has the upper hand. It’s at the wedding in Cana of Galilee, where Jesus, His disciples and Mary are all at. And behold, of all the unlikely things, they run out of wine at the wedding. ‘And when they wanted (ran out of) wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee (what does your concern have to do with me)? His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.’ (John 2:3-5) And we all know that eventually He told the servants to fill up the six nearby water pots with water, then to draw out the contents and present it to the master of the feast. And it was the best wine ever! I like how Mary just told Him what was needed, then flounced off and left Him with the servants. She obviously had more than just an inkling of His capabilities and also the goodness of His heart. Now Friends, this next interaction between mother and son is the last, but it’s certainly the one that hurt the most. This takes place at Jesus’ crucifixion. The Good Book describes it thus: ‘Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he LOVED (John), he saith unto his mother, woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.’ (John 19:25-27) Even in all that unbearable suffering, Jesus shows His caring for Mary by having John look after her. But nonetheless that must have been the worst pain Mary ever felt, seeing her beautiful son impaled on that wooden cross, all battered and bruised, and it must surely have brought back the words of Simeon , spoken some thirty three years earlier at Jesus’ presentation. ‘(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’ (Luke 2:35) Ah Friends, the lives of all mothers are filled with worrisome thoughts and concerns over their children. But I doubt that any other mother in history ever went through the agonizing cycle that Mary went through, right from the announcement of Jesus’ impending birth, up to His crucifixion. But please note the faith and fortitude with she bore it all, no unnecessary whining or complaining, because she knew that all the stuff was happening for a godly and most important purpose. Likewise, most of the things happening in our lives are also for godly, important reasons. Therefore, we also ought to bear them in like fashion. As our Bit describes it: ‘But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.’ Much LOVE!…our reaction to hardship and misfortune…shows the level of our wisdom, understanding and maturity…in Christ Jesus…
 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 December 2012 Psalm 11:5

17 Dec 2012 Leave a comment

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

Psalm 11:5.     The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.

‘Oh be still my racing, astonished heart!’ I commanded that powerful organ. Then I asked in excited wonder: ‘Can it really be true Lord?’ And with an amused smile, the Lord answered. ‘Yes my son, it’s really true. In my universe, wonders never cease, but daily they increase.’  I just chuckled and shook my head in wonder. And I know you all so ‘farse’ and inquisitive that you’re racking your minds, trying to figure out what I’m talking about. (smile) Well prepare yourselves for an astonishing act, cause just as I had trouble fathoming it, so will you. And some of God’s impatient people ‘steupsed’ and complained: ‘Stop with the Hitchcock drama and tell us what yuh talking about nuh!’ Okay. I just hope you all are ready for this. I just saw a group of believers down the street, dancing, clapping and singing; ‘TGIM! TGIM! Thank God it’s Monday!’ Yes Friends, as they say, what ain’t meet you, ain’t pass you. But miracles are still happening in this wicked world. Believe it my brethren. If the Lord brings you to it, then He will bring you through it. So let’s give vent to our feelings of great joy, that it’s Christmas time, and that believers are actually happy that it’s Monday, even thanking God for it. Let’s raise our voices heavenward in loud harmony and make the heavenly hosts sit up and take notice as we trill our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Yes mih people! All heaven was proud of us, especially Jesus. So let’s go out into the evil, ungodly world now and use that same bold, brave attitude to fight with a true sense of purpose, thereby making Jesus even prouder. Now turning to our Bit: ‘The Lord trieth (tests) the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.’ And both parts of that statement are living truth my people. Our God desperately dislikes wicked and violent people, but though He LOVES the righteous, He tries, tests them to see what their true character is like. And yesterday we saw how He tested Abraham, asking for the sacrifice of his most prized possession, his son Isaac. But Abraham in strong faith, passed that test with flying colours, and was subsequently made the father of many nations, as God had promised. Yes fellow believers, wondrous things like that happen when we listen to God’s directives and faithfully obey them. And I seriously doubt that the Lord will give us any tests of the magnitude of Abraham’s, so technically we should all be able to obey and pass our tests of faith and trust also with flying colours. Now here are some scriptures that deal with testing. I think we ought to be aware of them, as they will most likely come in handy when we are tried. They both come from James. In the first, talking about faith and humility, he says: ‘Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that LOVE him.’ (James 1:12) And there’s no disputing that statement Friends, as we have so many examples, from Noah to Jesus, who obeyed and received the crown of life. And later on, in dealing with patience in affliction, James wisely advises: ‘Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy (blessed) which endure. Ye have heard of the patience (perseverance) of Job, and have seen the end of (intended by) the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful (compassionate), and of tender mercy.’ (James 5:10-11) Ah Friends, unfortunately, to achieve anything worthwhile in this life, we must stand strong in the three ps’; practice, patience and perseverance. That goes for maturing in God’s Word too. So please, let’s not faint or get weary when we’re tried and tested. Let’s remember that our God is true and faithful, and will never give us more than we can bear or handle. We just need to do our part, obey, and He will do His. That’s what covenants, contracts are all about. Much LOVE!…the purpose of God’s tests…that he might humble thee…and that he might prove thee…to do the good at thy latter end… (Deut.8:16)
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 November 2012 Psalm 124:1

12 Nov 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 124:1.     If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may Israel say;

Oh Friends, it’s Monday, that glorious day that begins our work week! Oh please stop the foolish moaning and groaning! Yuh know how many billions of people around the world would give their eye teeth to have what we have! Hn! hn! Haven’t heard that one in a while. Yes mih people, it’s time we cut out this bad habit of complaining and feeling blue every Monday morning. We all want the benefits, but not the hassles of going to work. Remember what Job told his wife when she advised him to curse God and die? He wisely informed her that we can’t expect to receive only good and no bad, because that’s just the way the universe is set up. (Job 2:9-10) And furthermore, that’s definitely not Jesus’ style! He knew His earthly purpose and took it seriously, getting up early every morning to talk quietly with the Father, to get strength and encouragement before hitting the dusty road to heal, teach and generally do good. Now if we’re truly Jesus’ followers, then that should also be our modus operandi, instead of the whining and complaining, that’s possibly caused by too much partying on the weekends, plus a natural laziness that’s recently been bred into our dissolute culture.  By the way, today is certainly a glorious day for some of us who don’t have to go to work because Remembrance Day, yesterday, fell on a Sunday, which means we get Monday off for the holiday. And many of God’s people joyfully cried out: ‘Praise the Lord!’ (smile) But unfortunately many of us still have to go out and labour today, so to help and encourage them, let’s all sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud voice, with strong conviction. All together now. ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Ah mih friends, that was wonderful! Actually, the ones who aren’t going to work sang more lustily than those that have to go. (smile) But that’s the nature of the beast! Anyway, with that boost to our spirits Friends, please let’s go out there and battle mightily for Jesus. For as our Bit so rightly says: ‘If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may Israel say;’ It’s all about praise and deliverance from enemies my brethren. And who knows more about that than Bruh David eh? That’s why he could continue: ‘If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us: Then they had swallowed us up quick (alive) when their wrath was kindled against us: Then the waters had (would have) overwhelmed us, the streams had gone (swept over) our soul: Then the proud waters had gone over (would have swept over) our soul.’ (Ps.124:2-5) Ah Friends, those are the same things our forefathers were able to say because they had the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob as their stalwart knight in shining armour, fighting their battle for them. But our generation has become so proud and full of itself, beating its puny chest in false self-sufficiency, foolishly believing that we have no use for God. Oh my brethren, that is such a fallacy, such a foolish notion, as is being proven everyday by the degeneration of the supposedly Christian nations of the world. But we either refuse to see it, as the saying goes, there’s none so blind as he who refuses to see, or Lucifer’s evil machinations have simply blinded us, made us desensitized and thus indifferent to the sinful, ungodly lives we’re now not only living, but even worse, craving to live. However, Bruh David was so encouraged by the valiant help of the God of his fathers, that he further enthused: ‘Blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us as prey to their teeth. Our soul is escaped, as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers (bird trappers): the snare is broken, and we are escaped. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.’ (Ps.124:6-8) And all God’s people declared a mighty ‘Glory Hallelujah! Praise be His Holy Name!’ And that’s the gospel truth my people! The psalmist in thanksgiving for the Lord’s salvation even went as far as to proudly declare: ‘The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?’ (Ps.118:6)And the truthful answer to that Friends, is a big, fat NOTHING! Thus Bruh Paul could also boldly declare to the church at Rome: ‘What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?’ (Rom.8:31) And the answer to that my brethren is one single word ‘NOBODY!’ Please then Friends, I’m imploring us, just like Bruh David and Bruh Paul did so valiantly, let’s rise up in faith and with the help of our omnipotent God, powerfully fight the evil spiritual forces that are trying to conquer us and lead us to everlasting death. But we can only do that when we truly and sincerely surrender our souls and put our unending trust in the ONE and ONLY TRUE GOD of the universe – the Lord of Hosts is His Name. Much LOVE!…onward Christian soldiers…marching as to war…with the CROSS OF JESUS…going on before…

 

 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 1 October 2012 Psalm 67:4

01 Oct 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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 23 July 2012 Revelation 21:4

23 Jul 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , ,

Revelation 21:4.    And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Oh Friends, it’s Monday, it’s Monday, the day we’re all learning to LOVE! What you say, LOVE Monday? Yes! Because we’re realizing it’s a day that provides wonderful windows of opportunity; for we get to go to work and interact with all sorts of people, where we can joyfully witness for Christ and personally testify to His sacrificial, undying LOVE for all of humanity. And isn’t that our basic purpose here on earth; to win souls for Christ and further His righteous, glorious kingdom? So let’s be up and about our heavenly Father’s business nuh! Let’s chase away those evil, ungodly, lazy Monday blues by singing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn as though we really mean it, with great gusto and enthusiasm. So as one loud, sweet voice now, let’s sing: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Now that surely makes us feel better, gets the adrenaline liberally flowing through our entire bodies! And my fellow believers in Christ, today we should be twice as joyful because of our wonderful Bit: ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.’ Wow! Now who wouldn’t be happy, in fact ecstatic about such a divine promise eh? No more pain, sorrow, tears or death! That’s pure heavenly stuff Friends, and certainly attainable when and if we hang with Jesus until the very end! Yes my brethren, all the smart money is on Jesus, not that evil, lying fool Lucifer. The undeniable, unassailable fact is that Lucifer can’t offer us any of those things that Jesus offers in our Bit, but Jesus can surely give you all the worldly things Lucifer can, and more too, if He so chooses, if it falls into His plan for your life. So where are you going to put your money? On Jesus of course, cause He’s the only sure thing in this universe! And as the Lord would have it, I just heard two appropriate kaisos on the T&T radio station, Power 102.1 fm. The first wisely proclaimed that we adults and parents should restrict our own selfish desires and ‘Think about the children.’ And that’s ever so true Friends, because we have done our children a very serious injustice by not teaching them properly about God and the wealth of evil found in this world. That’s why such a high proportion of them are falling for the worthless, glitzy things of the world being brandished before them by Lucifer as the things and lifestyle to work towards. And we all know that to be an utter lie! For the things of Jesus and the lifestyle He personifies are what they should be seeking after. But sadly too many parents never followed the wise advice of the Good Book, which instructed us to ‘Train up a child in the way he should go: and (even) when he is old, he will not depart from it.’ (Prov.22:6) And that’s the gospel truth Friends, as many of us old timers can testify to, because all of us at some time in our lives get lost and stray from God for a while, but once we have that solid foundation built into us in our youth, we always find our way back to the straight and narrow path. But it has to be instilled from young, otherwise you won’t truly know right from wrong and will thus be susceptible to anything. And the second kaiso wisely advises us to ‘Look on the bright side, I see a silver lining. Look on the bright side, for the bright side is where we going.’ Now that’s certainly also gospel truth Friends! For the bright side is the one with light, which means Jesus’ side, and that’s exactly where we’re going. So taking into account all of that, then Christians should be the happiest people on Planet Earth! But sadly that is not the case, for too many of us walk around with a sour looking, poor me one disposition and demeanour. That’s why our LOVE Revolution, our witness for Christ is not picking up as much speed and people as it should, for who would want to be associated with sour, miserable people eh? Anyway Friends, the good news is that it’s not too late for us to increase our enthusiasm and passion for Jesus, and consequently our efforts to further His glorious kingdom. My people we need to get a move on with our winning of souls because it certainly seems that the end times are in the offing and there are still too many people who have not even heard about Jesus, much less accepted Him as their personal Lord and Saviour. So if we hope to realize the Father’s dream of not losing even one soul to Beelzebub, we have to get a determined, diligent move on RIGHT NOW! So mih breddren, this Monday morning let’s ponder these things and raise our level of involvement in God’s work. It’s the wisdom for the ages! Much LOVE!…who is the Truth…the Light…the Way…Jesus Christ…the ONE who died for us at Calvary… nobody else ever did such a selfless act for all mankind…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 July 2012 Psalm 102:15

16 Jul 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Psalm 102:15.     So the heathen shall fear the name of the Lord, and all the kings of the earth thy glory.

Oh Friends, our God is truly something else yes!  Remember yesterday I implored us to pray for rain to quench the parched earth? Well shortly after I sent out the Bit, I went outside and saw a hazy darkness hovering over the land. My passion rose immediately, and I went ‘Wow!’ I thought that it was surely a quick working of our prayers, even though some of us had not even yet read the Bit. However, a couple of hours later, not a drop of blessing had fallen and the sun was out big and bright and hot. Hn! Yeh, though our God is great and all that, in reality, it was a just little too good to be true. But hang on, in mid-afternoon, the skies again became dark, this time with Thor pounding some on his anvil with his hammer. Then around 5.30, wonder of wonders, the welcome noise of raindrops hitting my window began. It was one of those sounds that makes your heart lurch in thanksgiving, and brings a tear of gratitude to your eyes. However that feeling of thanksgiving and gratitude were short-lived, just like the rain, for in less than minutes, after a couple of scattered showers it was all over, and the mighty sun came shining through again. Chuh! I don’t know if the showers of blessing even made a dent in the parched land. It’s like when you’re dying of thirst and all you can get is a mere mouthful of water. That got me to wondering if enough righteous people didn’t pray, or that we just don’t have sufficient righteous people in the first place? (smile) But as the old people would advise, let’s just be thankful for small mercies. At least it rained some. And now after all that preamble, and possibly having said nothing therein, (smile) let’s get down to brass tacks nuh. It’s Monday my Friends, and many of us are singing the Monday Morning Blues because we have to get up and go out to make a living after a lazy weekend. But please remember people that we’re true followers of Jesus, and though He never took an easy step in His earthly life, He always went out with LOVE and joy in His heart and a big, beautiful smile on His face, because he knew that He had to go out and do the Father’s work, regardless of His feelings or opinions. The same applies to us Friends. We’re not going eat or have a roof over our heads unless we go out and labour. And in the course of that labouring, we’re also required to show our LOVE for God and our neighbour, as well as LIVE our Faith, and SPREAD the good news of Christ’s gospel. That means we have to be strong, faithful, diligent, fortitudinous, persevering and NEVER GIVE UP people! Oh my brethren, I know that living for Jesus is a tough row to hoe, but that’s just the way it is. Jesus doesn’t deal in mediocrity. He’s always in pursuit of excellence. So let’s chase away those vapid Monday Morning Blues and instead put on our spiritual armour, sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, then head out into the evil, ungodly world and win some souls for Christ. All together now Friends, in one loud, enthusiastic, meaningful voice: ‘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!’ And now that Jesus is pulsating in our very souls Friends, let me go and find a suitable Bit, because this is one of those times where the Spirit just gave me a starting thought, then allowed me free rein to run with it. And you all know how I like that. (smile) Oh Friends, I’m back in less than two minutes! Our God is so good to me eh! The Good Book was already opened at Psalm 102, so I decided to peruse it, and voila there was our Bit! ‘So the heathen (nations, gentiles) shall fear the name of the Lord, and all the kings of the earth thy glory.’ Now isn’t that exactly what we’re called to do my brethren; bring the Word of our God, His omnipotence, glory, mercy, forgiveness and LOVING-kindness to unbelievers?  Remember Jesus’ last command to the disciples was to spread the gospel to all the world, (Matt.28:19-20) and since we’re now the current disciples, that’s become our duty. Now listen to these wise words of Cousin Sol when he dedicated the temple. ‘Moreover concerning a stranger, that is not of thy people Israel, but cometh out of a far country for thy name’s sake; (For they shall hear of thy great name, and of thy strong hand, and of thy stretched out arm;) when he shall come and pray toward this house; Hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to thee for: that all people of the earth may know thy name, to fear thee, as do thy people Israel; and that they may know that this house, which I have builded, is called by thy name.’ (1 Kin.8:41-43) Yes mih people, our duty is to go out into the highways and byways, wherever there are unsaved people and bring them to a knowledge of Jesus, of the Holy Spirit, and of the Father, so that the name of the Holy Trinity will become a household name in all the world and our wonderful Three In One God glorified. Please, let’s go out this Monday Morning full of vim and vigour, with hearts filled with a burning passion for Jesus, so that we can increase our efforts to do our bounden duty and bring untold glory to God’s kingdom. Much LOVE!…oh what joy there is in heaven…when even one sinner repents…and today there’ll be lots of joy up yonder…because many sinners shall repent…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 2 July 2012 2 Peter 1:8

02 Jul 2012 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2 Peter 1:8.    For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Oh Friends, unfortunately it’s Monday! Please no moaning and groaning, (smile) because it means labouring time again…except for us lucky ones in this great, north country of Canada, where we’re celebrating our 145 Birthday. Happy Birthday Canada! But since the first of July fell on a Sunday, today, Monday becomes the de facto holiday. And yuh better believe the birthday party is going to go right down to the wire tonight, with barbecues flaming, fireworks lighting up the night skies, and a good time being had by all. But a word of caution Friends. As Granny used to say: ‘Sonny boy, drunk or sober, please remember to mind yuh business.’ Yes Friends, it’s ever so important that we don’t overdo the good times, and be very careful not to give the evil enemy any leeway into our lives. Now, for the benefit of all those who have to go out and face the evil hordes of Beelzebub this morning, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn in loud voice, as one. All together now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Awright mih people, that should hold us in good stead, give us a strong foundation as we go out to do the Lord’s work today! But here’s some more help that comes from our Bit: ‘For if these things be in you (are yours), and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren (useless) nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.’ And what are these things Friends, that Peter’s talking about that shall make us abound and be fruitful in Christ? Well to find out the things that will help us to grow in grace, we just have to look to the verses before our Bit: ‘And beside this (also for this very reason), giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control): and to temperance patience (perseverance); and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (LOVE).’ (2 Pet.1:5-7) Oh my brethren, without a doubt, if all those good and excellent things abound in us, how can we not grow in Christ and be exceedingly fruitful eh? Now here’s what the scholars have to say about those character builders: ‘In this section Peter urges his readers to grow to spiritual maturity. Add to your faith indicates the areas of growth that follow after salvation. Virtue is moral excellence. Knowledge is spiritual truth. Temperance is self-control. Patience is endurance. Godliness is God-likeness. Brotherly kindness (Gr. philadelphian) is brotherly LOVE. Charity (Gr. agapen) is volitional LOVE. This process is a lifelong cycle of spiritual growth for all believers.’ Oh Friends, I’m sure when some of us look at all those requirements for spiritual growth, we’ll get cold feet. But please don’t be afraid, for we’re not expected to develop that Christ-like character overnight, but it’s a process we have to go through, like the making of steel from basic iron ore, and it takes time, sometimes our entire lives. And be sure that if you’re serious, and your heart’s in the right place, the Lord will see it and offer all the help you need. In Jesus’ words: I am the true (genuine) vine, and my Father is the husbandman (the vinedresser). Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth (prunes) it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” (John 15:1-2) So we don’t have to worry, our God will guide us kindly and carefully. Remember His yoke is easy and His burden light, (Matt.11:30) so He won’t try to force it all on us at once. He knows what we’re all capable of and will guide us at the speed to which each of us is capable. And finally, as Bruh Paul told the Philippians: ‘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.’ (Phil.1:6) Yes Friends, rest assured that whatever work the Lord begins in us, He will finish. He will continue working in us until Jesus returns. Re the scholars: ‘This speaks of the Christian’s eternal security. For God had a purpose in view when He began His saving work in the Philippians, and that purpose will neither be abandoned or unrealized.’ My people, the same reasoning applies to us. God will never leave nor forsake us. Please, let’s write that indelibly in our hearts, minds and souls, so that we can stand strong in Jesus. Much LOVE!…to be LOVED…to be LOVED…oh what a feeling …to be LOVED by Jesus…

 

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