21 Apr 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a friend beyond compare, a man lay down his life for his friends, alone, Bible, bitter, cast thy burden upon the Lord, cast your every care upon him, casting all your care upon him, Christ is our best friend, christianity, come unto me all ye that labour, comfort, discouraged, disillusioned, exalt you in due time, faith, family struggles, fellowship, forsaken, God's faithfulness, God's sufficiency, greater love hath no man than this, he careth for you, he shall sustain thee, He will pardon you today, help us through the fog, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, I will give you rest, Jesus, Jesus Christ, John Willard Peterson, loss of freedoms, LOVE, my burden is light, my yoke ie easy, no one understands like Jesus, our souls and spirits rejuvenated, sacrificial praise, salvation, solace, song of praise, the days are dark and grim, the Father of mercies, the God of All Comfort, the gospel truth, the great invitation, the Lord's Day, the presence of the Lord, the throne of mercy, truth, wisdom, you falter on the way
1 Peter 5:7. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Wake up people, it’s the Lord’s day! Time to make our way to His sanctuary, to gather in fellowship, offering thanks and praise, while having our souls and spirits rejuvenated by His awesome LOVE, grace and mercy! And today’s song of praise and worship is an interesting one, written in the later years of the twentieth century by Kansas born Christian musician, Army Air Force Pilot, Moody Bible Institute Attendee, John Willard Peterson (1921-2006) The hymn is titled ‘No One understands like Jesus,’ which is the gospel truth, and it’s one in which we all can find comfort and solace from our worldly problems, just like the author found them when he wrote the song.
The story goes that Peterson was employed by a gospel ministry when a supervisory position came open, and he was led to believe that he would receive the promotion, but instead someone from outside was brought in to fill the position. Obviously he was disillusioned and discouraged but tried not to get bitter. Then one night he happened to meet the said man, who, though he seemed to be a pleasant person, that night made several hurting and caustic remarks to Peterson.
And according to Peterson: ‘Later that evening, after returning home, I was sitting in our living room thinking about the events of the past days and about the bitter experiences of that evening. I began to feel very alone and forsaken. Suddenly, I sensed the presence of the Lord in an unusual way and my mind was diverted from my difficulties to His faithfulness and sufficiency. Soon the thought occurred to me that He fully understood and sympathized with my situation–in fact, no one could ever completely understand, or care as did He.’ And that’s how this immortal, most appropriate song for hurting hearts was born.
So let’s sing it now, raise our voices in sweet, sacrificial praise, in a soulful gospel fashion, echoing all the sincerity and truth it contains. Singing: ‘No one understands like Jesus. He’s a friend beyond compare; Meet Him at the throne of mercy; He is waiting for you there. (Chorus: No one understands like Jesus When the days are dark and grim; No one is so near, so dear as Jesus– Cast your ev’ry care on Him!) No one understands like Jesus; Ev’ry woe He sees and feels; Tenderly He whispers comfort, And the broken heart He heals. (Chorus)
No one understands like Jesus When the foes of life assail; You should never be discouraged; Jesus cares and will not fail! (Chorus) No one understands like Jesus When you falter on the way; Tho’ you fail Him, sadly fail Him, He will pardon you today. (Chorus: No one understands like Jesus When the days are dark and grim; No one is so near, so dear as Jesus– Cast your ev’ry care on Him! No one understands like Jesus When the days are dark and grim; No one is so near, so dear as Jesus– Cast your ev’ry care on Him! Cast your every care on Him, Cause no one understands like Jesus.’
And as we said before, that’s the gospel truth! No human being can ever reach the level of understanding that our Lord and Saviour has for us! And I like how this commentary shows the appropriateness of the song in all of our lives. It says: ‘All of us go through periods when we feel all alone, and nobody seems to care. The problems seem so heavy, and we wish that we just had somebody who could help us through the fog that we face. The difficult times that we are now living in have brought new, heavy tensions. Unemployment, bills, mortgages, illnesses, family struggles, fears, terrorism, loss of freedoms, uncertainty – heavy burdens to bear. Unfortunately, during the past year three acquaintances of mine have committed suicide to escape their troubles. A hymn by John Peterson has often been a comfort to me when I have faced these seemingly “impossible” pressures.’
And no doubt it has also been a comfort to many more of us, especially in the trying and troubled times that we’ve recently been through, and are still going through. So what’s the scriptural basis for the song? Peterson says that as the song came to him he began to write the comforting words from Psalm 55: The Plea of the Fearful, where Bruh David solemnly advises us to ‘Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer (permit) the righteous to be shaken.’ (Ps. 55:22) Now that’s another surefire promise that the Lord will always keep!
Then Peterson, turned to Peter, who had witnessed the perfidy of Judas, and also his own denial of Jesus three times, but then went outside and wept bitterly (John 18:15-27) He echoes the words of Bruh David. ‘Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.’ (1 Pet. 6-7) And nobody knew this better than Peter, because Christ eventually forgave him for his denials.
Christ is also our best friend as the opening verse of the hymn intimates. Remember Christ’s words to the disciples: ‘Greater LOVE hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.’ (John 15:13-15) And there you have the greatest bond between friends, the sharing of knowledge, then Jesus went out and laid down His life for us all! You could not get a better friend than that!
And I believe there’s no better scripture to end with today than Jesus’ Great Invitation, where He invites all and sundry to come to Him, regardless of our trials and troubles. Thus, He says: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me; for I am meek and lowly in heart (gentle and humble): and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt. 11:28-30) Yes my fellow saints, let’s remember those most inviting words and take advantage of them, because we will certainly not find that kind of faithful and true invitation anywhere else. Much LOVE!
…Blessed be God…even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ…the Father of mercies…and the God of ALL Comfort… (2 Cor. 1:3)
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
07 Mar 2021
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name, Aloha, and crown Him lord of all, at the name of Jesus, became obedient unto death, being found in fashion as a man, Edward Perronet, even the death of the cross, every knee shall bow, every tongue confess, exceeding greatness of God's power, given him a name, God also hath exalted him, he humbled himself, Jesus, let angels prostrate fall, LOVE, put all things under his feet, selfless sacrifice, shalom, song of praise, that Jesus Christ is Lord, the eyes of your understanding, the spirit of wisdom and revelation, to him all majesty acribe, to the glory of God the Father, what is the hope of his calling, which is above every name, ye ransomed of the fall
Philippians 2:9. Wherefore God also hath exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
Aloha…Shalom – LOVE, peace, hope, happiness and joy, my Scrip-Bit friends and family! It’s the first day of the week! Yes, Sunday morning has come down and that means ‘gatheration,’ (smile) worship, praise, thanksgiving and all the other good benefits we derive from getting together to offer Almighty God the reverence He so richly deserves. And though the ‘gatheration’ is still mostly through technological means, with the various lockdowns still in place because of the Corona virus pandemic, the physical aspect or site of our worship isn’t as important as the fact that we are indeed worshipping.
So let’s get a move on with our song of praise for today which is titled ‘All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.’And isn’t that of the utmost importance to us believers in Christ? It certainly is, because there is immense power in His name; power like there is in no other name in the universe! Wow! That already raises the passion in my soul! (smile)
It’s a popular hymn sung by many Christian denominations, and is often called the “National Anthem of Christendom.” The lyrics were written by Edward Perronet (1721-1792) a prominent British Pastor, at one time affiliated with the Wesley’s of the Methodist persuasion, but afterwards became a pastor of a dissenting congregation. Just goes to show that there have always been divisions between leaders of the church which have unfortunately brought about way too many denominations and cliques and have consequently led to the disunity and weakness of the church.
But enough talk, time for the raising of voices in sacrificial praise; strong, sincere and passionate ones, in an up-tempo beat, like we really joyful in singing about the power of Jesus’ name. ‘All hail the power of Jesus’ Name! Let angels prostrate fall; Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown him, crown him, crown him, And crown him Lord of all. Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race, Ye ransomed of the fall, Ye ransomed of the fall, Hail him who saves you by his grace, And crown him, crown him, crown him, And crown him Lord of all.
Let ev’ry kindred, ev’ry tribe, On this terrestrial ball, On this terrestrial ball, To him all majesty ascribe, And crown him, crown him, crown him, And crown him Lord of all. O that with yonder sacred throng We at his feet may fall; We at His feet may fall; We’ll join the everlasting song, And crown him, crown him, crown him, And crown him Lord of all. Yes, crown him, crown him, crown him, crown him Lord of all!’
Oh friends, oh friends, our heavenly Father has indeed crowned the first born Son, Lord of all! Hear the scriptures tell it nuh, through these magnificent words of Bruh Paul to the church at Philippi. ‘And being found in fashion (appearance) as a man, he humbled himself , and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:’ (Phil. 2:8-9)
Yuh see that precious people, yuh see what a magnanimous God we worship? He highly exalted Christ for His humility and obedience and selfless sacrifice on the cross at Calvary! So what do you think He would do for us if we were humble, obedient and selflessly sacrificial eh? Exalt us in His own way and time too!
And the Father didn’t merely exalt Jesus with a high name, but hear this: ‘That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of (those) things in heaven, and (those) things in earth, and (those) things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.’ (Phil. 2:10-11)
Yuh see how our God moves in mighty ways mih people! He didn’t just give Jesus a big name, but the biggest name after His, one where in the fullness of time, the whole heaven, earth and everywhere else in the universe, would have to fall on their knees and worship Christ and proclaim that He is Lord over all! Mama Yo!
And Peter, in his famous Pentecost Day sermon did wax eloquent in talking about Bruh David’s seed that the Lord would raise up to sit on his throne. ‘He (Bruh David) seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.’ (Acts 2:31-33)
Yes friends, Peter was telling them that Christ through the promise of God had sent the Holy Spirit down and filled them with new life and understanding that made them able to speak in various languages. Now hear Bruh Paul again, this time to the church at Ephesus, as he prays that they may receive knowledge and understanding.
‘That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him. The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set (seated) him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,
Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world (age), but also in that which is to come. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.’ (Eph. 1:17-23)
Oh friends, we don’t have time nor space to get into all the ramifications of those scriptures, but suffice it say that Bruh Paul prayed that the Ephesians would be given the disposition to see and understand God’s wisdom and revelation. First as it referred to them; the certainty of their heavenly destination, the priceless value of their salvation and the priceless treasure they are to God, which would all lead to a divine strength in their daily walk.
And then, as it referred to Christ, whom He raised from the dead, seated Him at His right hand, and gave ultimate power over all the angelic hosts of heaven and made Him the head of the church, through His great intimacy with that body. And I do hope that I’ve convinced you that there’s power in Jesus’ name and that you’ll look to Him for help from this time forward. Much LOVE!
…our saviour’s name is so powerful…that when trials assail us and we need help…all we have to do is cry out…JESUS…
28 Feb 2021
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a victory to be won, be strong in the Lord, bear up under the pressure, daily walking close to thee, give me the power to go through, glory in my infirmities, I am strong, I am weak but thou art strong, in the power of his might, Jesus keep me from all wrong, just a closer walk with thee, let me walk close to thee, live by the power of God toward you, LOVE, my grace is sufficient for thee, my power is made perfect in weakness, Oral roberts Ministries, Richard Roberts, sacrifice of praise, song of praise, take my hand Lord Jesus, technological means, the Lord giveth power to the faint, the Lord's Sabbath, the one and only superstar, the power of Christ may rest upon me, the Spirit of God is strong in you, there's a race to be run, thorn in the flesh, Triune God, unable to cope, we confess strength with our mouths, when I am weak then I am strong
Ephesians 6:10. Finally, my brethren, Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.
Gather round friends, gather round, it’s that time again, the Lord’s Sabbath! That means it’s time for praise and worship, joyful togetherness by technological means, for our physical sanctuaries are still mostly shut down. But as we keep saying, worshipful togetherness by any means is preferable to no worshipful togetherness at all.
So let’s do away with the talking, (smile) and get on with the praise and worship nuh. And today’s song of praise is one in which we don’t know the author’s name, but its words are so powerful and true that it has lasted for some time and has become a favourite of believers all over the world. It’s titled: ‘Just a closer walk with thee.’
And friends, I can assure us that there’s no better person to walk this earthly journey in companionship with than Jesus Christ! For He is the way, the truth, the life and the light, also the author and finisher of our faith path. Yes, it just makes sense to follow the one who first blazed the awesome path that you desire to tread, because He knows the way best. So let’s raise our sacrifice of praise heavenwards nuh, with loud but sweet harmonious voices, and hearts filled with sincere LOVE for our Triune God.
An easy rocking but passionate version. ‘I am weak but Thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long As I walk, let me walk close to Thee. (Refrain: Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea, Daily walking close to thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.) Thro’ this world of toil and snares, If I falter, Lord, who cares? Who with me my burden shares? None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee. [Refrain]When my feeble life is o’er, Time for me will be no more; Guide me gently, safely o’er To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore.
[Refrain: Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea, Daily walking close to Thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.) Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. There’s a race to be run, there’s a victory to be won, every hour, give me power to go through. Take my hand and let me walk with thee, Blessed Jesus let it be…’
Oh mih people, what wonderful, passionate sacrificial praise! All heaven was singing along with us. And why not eh, since we were praising the One and Only Superstar in the universe! Now hear what the website Hymnary.org tells us re the song. ‘In that song, we acknowledge our human inability to live righteously, but we also express awareness of the grace and strength that God gives us in our daily walk. Even such an esteemed saint as the apostle Paul acknowledged his need for this grace: “But he [God] said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” … For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9a, 10b ESV)
Yes friends, when Bruh Paul asked the Lord three times to take away the thorn from his flesh, whatever it was, the Lord simply looked at him and calmly told him to ignore the thorn, for His grace was sufficient for him to handle the problem, because our weakness brings out His perfect power and strength. What more could Bruh Paul say to that statement eh, but: ‘Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities (weaknesses), that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.’ (2 Cor. 12:9b-10)
Glory be, mih people! That means when we are weak the power of God takes over on our behalf! What could be better than that eh? Nothing really! That’s why the Good Book tells us in Joel: ‘Let the weak say I am strong.’ And I discovered an excellent explanation on that subject by Richard Roberts of the Oral Roberts ministries. He writes: ‘The Lord promises again and again in His Word that He will strengthen us. He knows that, as human beings, we often feel our weakness to the point where we don’t believe we CAN be strong.
In Joel 3:10 we read, “Let the weak say, I am strong.” Notice that strength is first something we confess with our mouths. We SAY to ourselves, “I am strong.” Note, too, that the Bible doesn’t say we were strong or that we will be strong. It says we are to speak to ourselves in the NOW of our circumstances and say, “I AM strong!” What a good word that is to us when we are feeling weak…unable to cope or to bear up under the pressure, to be patient or have courage. In that very moment…in that very circumstance…we can claim, by our faith, the provision of God to us: “I AM STRONG!”
On what is our strength based? Our strength is not in ourselves but in Christ Jesus who lives within us by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Isaiah 40:28–29, the prophet said, “Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.”Our strength does not come from our own abilities or power, but from the wisdom and power of God, which is poured into us on a daily basis any time we admit our weakness and ask Him to replace our weakness with His strength.’
I like how he explains that. I hope you do too. Then there’s this further scripture from Bruh Paul to the Corinthians. ‘Since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live by the power of God toward you.’ (2 Cor. 13:3-4) Now isn’t that marvellous and very reassuring? Yes, it certainly is. The same power that was with Christ in His weakness, will also be with us in ours! No wonder we worship and glorify Him and call Him Lord and Saviour.
And we’ll let Richard Roberts have today’s last word. (smile) ‘The apostle Paul wrote, “Finally, my brethren, Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.” (Ephesians 6:10). Take that as God’s word to you today! You can be strong in any situation or circumstance you face today because the Spirit of God is strong within you!’ Much LOVE!
…God plus you…equals Almighty strength…
27 Sep 2020
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a constant affair, a contrite spirit, a crown of righteousness, a life relationship, cast all your cares on Him, crushed in spirit, darkening the church doors, doing life with God, don't give up, ease the pain, encouraging words, eternity, fear of Covid -19, God is the answer, God why, gospel truth, he saveth such as be of, heavenly rewards, humility of Spirit, Judith Gayle, my mouth shall show forth thy praise, only one place we are safe, open thou my lips, relieved of your burdens, revive the heart of the contrite ones, revive the spirit of the humble, song of praise, Stay with God, the comforting arms of Jehovah God, the great invitation, the heartaches are severe, the Lord is nigh, the Lord's Day, the only sensible way, the road gets rocky, them of a broken heart, thou delightest not in burnt offering, thou desirest not sacrifice, to all life's cares, under the rock
Psalm 34:18. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit (crushed in spirit).
The Lord’s day, the Lord’s Day, it’s here mih bredrin! But sadly, we not breaking down the doors of His sanctuary to gather together in worship, as there are still restrictions and many people are still anxious about darkening the church doors for fear of the Covid-19 virus. But as Bruh Paul said to the church at Rome: ‘nothing can separate us from the LOVE of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ (Rom. 8:30) And that’s the gospel truth! So though all of us can’t gather to worship as we desire, there are ways for all of us to worship, if we so desire. (smile)
And today in our song of praise, one a friend recently acquainted me with, and from the time I heard it, I knew we had to sing it this Sunday. (smile) Thanks friends, for all the good and useful stuff you all send me through WhatsApp. And today we slowing it down, we going soulful, getting it straight from the heart in a contemporary Christian song by Jamaican gospel singer Judith Gayle, titled ‘Stay with God!’ And if that isn’t the best news in the world, then I don’t know what is nuh! So in strong and soulful voice, with sweet harmony, let’s raise our sacrifice of praise to high heaven, pouring out our hearts in utter sincerity.
‘I know the mountains get so high sometimes I know the valley seems so wide It seems this journey, it will never end, And you keep asking the question: God why? I know the road it gets so rocky at times Ahhh, I know the heartaches are severe Oh, It seems like life will never change its tide But there’s an answer to all of life’s cares. (Chorus: Stay with God In spite of what you see or feel Stay with God In spite of how things may appear Come on, Stay with God It doesn’t matter what may come our way There is only one place we are safe Stay with God.)
I know the way you feel says give up now I know you feel you can’t hold on You’re not the only one who is carrying your load Remember He said to cast all your cares on Him. I know you cry and tell everyone you meet Because you feel that will ease the pain But if you just believe your life is in God’s hands Then today I tell you your mountains have to disappear. (Chorus – twice) Ooh yeah You got life in Him There is hope in Him There’s a bright future Just stay with him yeah just stay with him yeah Oh he’ll never leave you He’ll never never forsake you no
Just cast all your cares upon Him Don’t give up now Don’t give in no Whatever may come your way God is always there, Stay with God In spite of what you see or feel Stay with God In spite of how things may appear Stay with God It doesn’t matter what may come our way There is only one place we are safe Come on, Stay with God Stay with Jesus Stay with Jesus Stay with God Eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God yeah Stay with God…Stay with Jesus…Stay with God…right until the end…Stay with God…’
Oh friends, those are the most truthful and encouraging words you can ever say to another human being! Why? Because there’s only ONE place in this world where you can be sure of safety and comfort and care: in the LOVING and comforting arms of Jehovah God, that’s under the rock that’s higher than we are and thus safer too. The Lord God Almighty is the answer to ALL of life’s cares.
He’s invited you to come to Him and be relieved of your burdens through His Great Invitation. (Matt. 11:28-30) He’s also told you to cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. (1 Pet. 5:7) He’s also promised ‘never to leave nor forsake you.’ (Heb. 13:5) And when you endure to the end with Him, there’s a bright and glorious future in store for you, with a crown of righteousness and magnificent heavenly rewards.
But friends, to be able to do all of that successfully, you must give your life over to God, surrender your life to Him, and then spend time in prayer, or conversation with Him, while reading and meditating on His holy word with obedience to it a priority. There also needs to be humility of spirit, no false human pride, and a contrite heart.
Isaiah puts it this way. ‘For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.’ (Is, 57:15) And Bruh David said it twice. In Psalm 34 – The Lord hears the righteous – he proclaims: ‘The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit (crushed in spirit).’ (Ps. 34:18)
And then in that powerful psalm 51 – A prayer for cleansing – when he finally admits to his sins with Bathsheba, after the prophet Nathan drapes him up, Bruh David declares (awright!): ‘Oh Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall show forth thy praise. For thou desirest not sacrifice; else I would give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.’ (Ps. 51:15-17)
Yes friends, those are some of the basic ways we ‘Stay with God.’ And please remember, it is not a one time, one and done thing, but it has to be a constant affair, for staying with God means you are always around Him, and He is always around you. It’s a life relationship; even till after death. In fact, eternity is the time when it gets real good! (smile) So on this last Sunday in September, of this crazy and tumultuous year of 2020, when the worse possibly hasn’t happened as yet, let’s remember that the best way to face life is to ‘Stay with God!’ Much LOVE!
…doing life with God…that’s the ONLY sensible way to go about it…
14 Jun 2020
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a Christian grandmother, actions calls for sacrfice, blessed assurance, carefully explained the Bible, corporate worship, descriptive abilities, dwells in all of His saints, dying for our sins, echoing straight from our hearts, every knee should bow, every tongue confess, Francis Jane Crosby, heir of salvation, humbled himself, Jesus is mine, keep us apart, let this mind be in you, nurtured her spirit, Phoebe Palmer Knapp, physically but not spiritually, pray to God for knowledge, sacrifice of praise, song of praise, talk is cheap, Thank you Jesus, the mighty Spirit of Christ, the perfect way to worship, which was also in Christ Jesus
Philippians 2:5. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
And here we are again, another Sunday without corporate worship! But friends, they might be able to keep us apart physically, but never spiritually, for the mighty Spirit of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ dwells in all of His saints and can traverse physical space so that we can still come together in worship through the technological revolution. How can they keep God’s people apart eh? Never! But enough talk, (smile) let’s get to some worship. And today’s song of praise is a wonderful, well-known hymn by blind hymn writer Francis Jane Crosby, better known as Fanny Crosby.
And the website Godtube had this to say about the hymn. ‘Each and every day we sing praises to His name. We are thankful for all of the blessings that He bestows upon us. The lyrics of the classic hymn ‘Blessed Assurance’ is the perfect way to worship. And when you hear the story behind the hymn, you will be even more in awe of His amazing grace. Thank you, Jesus, for dying for our sins!’
And the synopsis of the story is that Fanny Crosby, born in 1840, became blind as a baby through a badly treated eye infection. Then her father died shortly thereafter, and while her mother went out to work to support the family, she was raised by a Christian grandmother who ‘became her eyes, vividly describing the physical world.’ This obviously helped to develop Fanny’s descriptive abilities. She also nurtured Fanny’s spirit. ‘She read and carefully explained the Bible to her, and she always emphasized the importance of prayer. When Fanny became depressed because she couldn’t learn as other children did, Grandmother taught her to pray to God for knowledge.’
At 12 years of age, Fanny entered the New York Institute for the blind and never looked back after that, eventually teaching at the school for some 23 years. The story continues that while visiting one evening with Fanny, her friend, composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp played a tune on the piano for her and asked what she thought it sounded like. Fanny’s reply was, ‘Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine!’ And the rest is history; they continued singing the melody and writing the lyrics together. Now isn’t that a wonderful story? It surely is, showing the power of God’s Spirit, what we can do with a li’l help from our supportive friends and family!
So let’s finally sing that wonderful hymn ‘Blessed Assurance’ nuh. (smile) In strong voice, in perfect harmony, with deep soulful feeling, echoing straight from our hearts, let’s offer up our sacrifice of praise. ‘Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchase of God, Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood (Chorus: This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long.)
Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture now burst on my sight; Angels, descending, bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love. (Chorus…) Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Savior am happy and blest, Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. (Chorus: This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long…. Praising my Savior all the day long.)’
Oh my people, heaven was touched! And as always when we sing praises to Jesus, all of heaven joins in, even the Father, for He is indeed worthy of much praise and worship and glory. And while all of the praise and worship is going on, Jesus just sits there blushing, with a shy smile on His face, for He still not enamoured of the limelight. (smile)
And to justify it all, the Good Book explains: ‘Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made (coming) in the likeness of men. And being found in fashion (appearance) as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of (those) things in heaven, and (those) things in earth, and (those) things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.’ (Phil. 2:5-11)
Ah friends, Jesus’ sacrifice was no easy task, but because of the LOVE for His Father and perfect obedience to His will, He endured the shame and ‘sufferation’ of the cross. Oh, if we could only have a li’l more LOVE for the Father, who LOVES us so much, that He sacrificed His only Son for us, and be just a tad more obedient to His holy will, our world would be such a wonderful place, not the crazy, troubled maelstrom that it now is.
And yuh know, all this turbulence that we’re currently experiencing, that the enemy is perpetrating, that God is allowing, is just a simple cry from Him for us to turn back to Him, not try and shut Him out of our society, for He knows that without Him, we are nothing, our lives would be total chaos. Jesus didn’t mince words, He said it plainly: ‘I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.’ (John 15:5)
How long is it going to take us to realize that’s the gospel truth eh friends? We need to have the same mind that Jesus had, as Bruh Paul describes it: ‘Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same LOVE, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem (the) other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but also every man also on the things of others.’ (Phil. 2:2-4)
Yes friends as believers in Christ, we are to live harmoniously, like He did, otherwise all our big talk is worthless, and more a hindrance, rather than a help to the kingdom! Much LOVE!
…talk is cheap…but action calls for sacrifice…
15 Mar 2020
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: angels will attend, bless the LOrd o my soul, blessed be God, Booker T Washington, burdened with a load of care, cannot be reckoned up, count your blessings, Covid-19 scare, do not be discouraged, evil, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, forget not all his benefits, gather together, God is over all, grateful for the good things, in heavenly places, Johnson Oatman Jr., life's billows, more than can be numbered, physical worship, see what God hath done, song of praise, spiritual blessings in Christ, stop and give thanks, stop counting our troubles, strife filled, the happiest, the Lord's Day, those who do the most for others, thy thoughts to us-ward, unhappy about the bad things, wishy-washy, wonderful works
Psalm 40:5. Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up (recounted) in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.
Well since the physical church is closed because of the Covid-19 scare, and we can’t gather together in physical worship, it looks like our li’l service here on the Bit has become even more important. (smile) But we can’t allow the Lord’s Day to pass without some form of praise and worship and hearing of His marvellous and life-giving Word. So let’s have church, and we’ll begin with a most appropriate song of praise in these tumultuous, disastrous, scary and panicky times.
It’s an old favourite written by Johnson Oatman Jr. (1856-1922), a New Jersey born and bred, pastor/cum businessman. The story goes that ‘his father was an excellent singer, and it always delighted the son to sit by his side and hear him sings songs of the church.’ And no doubt that was a most important factor in the young Oatman eventually writing over three thousand hymns; ‘so that no gospel song book is considered as being complete unless it contains some of his hymns.’
Wow! Over three thousand hymns! And I looked at a partial list and there are a few well known ones. And that’s just another example of how important it is to get the Lord and His Word into our children at an early age if we want them to grow right. And all God’s children said a loud ‘Amen!’ (smile) But enough suspense, the name of today’s praise song is ‘Count Your Blessings!’ And oh, if many more of us would just do that, our hope, our faith and our world would be so much less wishy-washy, evil and strife-filled!
But let’s concentrate on the singing nuh. Therefore, as one strong, harmonious, soulful and sincere voice, let’s raise our sacrifice of praise to heaven, letting them know that we are indeed grateful for ALL our blessings, those we enjoy down here on earth, and those stored in heaven. ‘When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. (Refrain: Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.)
Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings, ev’ry doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by. [Refrain] When you look at others with their lands and gold, Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold; Count your many blessings, money cannot buy Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high. [Refrain] So, amid the conflict, whether great or small, Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end. [Refrain] 2’
Oh my people, if we’d only stop a moment when times are rough, like they are now with the Corona virus, and count the many blessings with which we have been bestowed over the years of walking with Christ, as I said earlier, we won’t be as scared and panicked as we are. Yes, we will be concerned, but not thinking the worse! And I have some interesting words to share on the subject. First off, the basic meaning of Count Your Blessings. One dictionary puts it thus: ‘to be grateful for the good things in your life, often to stop yourself from becoming too unhappy about the bad things.’
And is that ever so true; just like we ought to be doing right now so we can stop thinking about the bad things that are currently happening. Now hear this quote from the renowned African American Educator and Adviser, Author and Orator, Booker T Washington (1856-1915). ‘Those who are the happiest are those who do the most for others.’ And if you’re a true believer, then you know that’s gospel truth! Then there’s this from somebody, I’m not sure whom, (smile) but it certainly hits the nail on the head. ‘If you always find yourself numbering your troubles, you will never find time counting your blessings. There is no use becoming frustrated in your difficulties while you have all opportunities hiding in them for a turnover.’
Oh friends, it’s time to stop counting our troubles and count our blessings instead, for within those same troubles are opportunities for us to overcome the troubles! And this last quote from the web site godtube. ‘God truly gives us so many blessings each and every single day. Some may even be so small that we might overlook them. The classic hymn ‘Count Your Blessings’ truly reminds us to stop and give thanks for all God has done in our lives. This is definitely a pause we all need to take. Amen.’ I couldn’t have put it any better my faithful brethren.
And we find Bruh David doing it way back when in Psalm 40 – Praise for answered prayer, as he sincerely declares: ‘Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up (recounted) in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.’ How true my fellow believers. But sadly, we pay more attention to the problems rather than the blessings, that’s why our souls are always in so much turmoil.
And please remember Bruh Paul’s marvellous words to the Ephesians re Spiritual blessings in Christ. ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.’ (Eph. 1:3) Yes friends, lots of spiritual blessings have been granted to us when we became believers, but are stored up in heaven and are ‘being progressively dispersed to us on earth in accord with our need and Christian growth.’
And we’ll end, most appropriately with these wonderful words of warning and encouragement from Bruh David from Psalm 103 – Thanksgiving for God’s mercy. ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits…’ (Ps.103:2) Then he goes on to list a whole lot of benefits we enjoy when we walk with Jehovah God through His Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Oh friends, hopefully, today we’ll take these words seriously and diligently ponder them as we take account of our lives. Much LOVE!
…wisdom wisely cries out…count your blessings…not your troubles…
26 Jan 2020
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a sacrificial lamb, all creation praise the Lord, awesome wonder, bled and deied, confidence, exalt, face the evil world, fear the Lord, fellowship, for God so loved the world, free will, grace, have everlasting life, he gave his only begotten son, his son not sparing, How great thou art, joy, like a heap, LOVE, mercy, my burden gladly bearing, my saviour God to thee, once to die, peace, put that in yuh pipe, rebellious, recharged batteries, reverence, sacrificial praise, should not perish, shouts of acclamation, smoke it, song of praise, spiritual strength, stand in awe of him, stubborn, that whosoever believeth in him, the breath of his mouth, the judgement, the waters of the sea, then sings my soul, to take away my sin, when Christ shall come, who doesn't hear will feel
John 3:16. 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.
And Sunday, the great day of wonderful fellowship has arrived! Not that fellowship can’t happen at other times, but Sunday has been set aside by the Lord as the day He wants as many believers as possible to gather together in His sanctuary to sing and praise and exalt His holy name, to hear His amazing Word, then leave there with batteries thoroughly recharged, filled with LOVE, joy, grace, peace, mercy, spiritual strength and confidence to face the evil world in which we dwell!
So let’s make a special effort to gather in the Lord’s house today nuh my people, so that we can have joyful communion with our great God and with fellow believers! Steups! Like I can’t spell believers either! Ah Lord eh! And in a most appropriate manner, let’s open the proceedings with a favourite song of praise that tells of the true greatness of our magnificent God, one aptly titled ‘How Great Thou Art!’ Oh, some people leave out the second verse, but I think that’s wrong, because like the first it describes God’s great work in nature. So we won’t leave out anything that glorifies our God! (smile)
In full voice, like one harmonious whole, let’s raise our voices to heaven in sacrificial praise, sincerely believing the words we sing: ‘O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder Consider all The works Thy Hand hath made, I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder, Thy pow’r throughout The universe displayed, (Chorus: Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art!)
When through the woods And forest glades I wander I hear the birds Sing sweetly in the trees, When I look down From lofty mountain grandeur And hear the brook And feel the gentle breeze, (Chorus:) And when I think, that God His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in. That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing He bled and died, to take away my sin. (Chorus: )
When Christ shall come, With shouts of acclamation, And take me home, What joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow In humble adoration And there proclaim, “My God, how great Thou art!” (Chorus: Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art!’
Oh friends what a joyful and grateful song! The Lord was most pleased with our praise. How could He not eh, when the words were oh so true and the sentiments sincere? For throughout the scriptures there are acknowledgments of all that we have sung above. And it’s said nowhere better than in Psalm 148 – All creation to praise the Lord.
Please declare with me: ‘Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah): Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah) from the heavens: praise him in the heights. Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts. Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the Lord: for he commanded, and they were created. He hath also stablished (established) them for ever and ever: he hath made a decree which shall not pass.’ Ps. 148:1-6)
Yes friends, it’s all been the Lord’s doing! As another psalmist gave voice: ‘By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap: he layeth up the depth (deep) in storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded and it stood fast.’ (Ps.33. 6-9) What an omnipotent God we serve and worship my people!
But yuh know what, the second half of our song is even greater than the first half, because it shows God’s true greatness through His mercy, grace, compassion and LOVE for us sinful children of men. Only a truly great, and in total control Deity could have espoused a scheme so magnanimous as sending His only Son to pay for our sins as a sacrificial lamb on the cross of Calvary. The old song says that ‘Only a fool breaks his own heart,’ but our God was no fool nuh when He broke His own to save us from eternal separation from Him. That just showed the immense LOVE He had for His creation, though that creation had turned against Him.
Here these poignant words of Bruh Paul nuh: ‘But God commendeth (demonstrated) his LOVE towards us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ (Rom. 8) And Jesus Himself made it very clear with these awesome words: ‘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.’ It couldn’t get any better than that nuh friends! The Creator giving up His Son, His sinless wonderful Son to save a bunch of reprobates like us…
Chuh! I don’t see how we could not sincerely LOVE, worship, reverence, exalt and be obedient to Him nuh, after all that He’s done and has faithfully promised to do for us. But since we have free will, freedom to choose whom or what we serve, we getting stubborn and rebellious. Remember though friends, our God might be a compassionate Deity, but He’s also a God of justice and righteousness, and one day we all will have to answer to him for our earthly behaviour. Hebrews warns us quite clearly: ‘And it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement.’ (Heb.9:27) Please put that in yuh pipe and smoke it. Much LOVE!
…he who doesn’t hear…will certainly feel…
05 Jan 2020
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: Advocate, at the Father's right hand, bringeth forth much fruit, but thou aret strong, Calvary's cross, close proximity to Jesus, counterfeit Christians, darkened the church doors, enjoy each other's comapny, fakes, fellowship, gather together, gospel truth, he that abideth in me, human inability, I am the vine, I am weak, I in him, in weakness, just a closer walk with thee, let it be, my burdern shares, my feeble life, my grace is sufficient, my power is made perfect, our sufficiency is of God, refresh, renew, reprobates, self-satisfied, sin of pride, sing and praise the Lord, song of praise, stressful week of work, take my hand Lord Jesus, the power of God, this world of toil and snares, thy kingdom shore, to live righteously, true believer in Christ, turbulent times, without me, ye are the branches, ye can do nothing
John 15:5. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
And yes, I know some of you are patting your chests, feeling self-satisfied and proud as a peacock, because you have now darkened the church doors on your usual two occasions for the year; at Easter and Christmas. And I still don’t understand why you go at all because twice a year is certainly insufficient if you consider yourself a true believer in Jesus Christ! Church ought not to be a sometime thing. The Lord planned it to be a regular occurrence, and if you think twice a year is sufficient, then you are totally fooling yourself and seriously suffering from the sin of pride, which the Lord abhors more than most others.
Church was made for fellowship, so believers could gather together and enjoy each other’s company, encourage each other, sing and praise the Lord and hear His enlightened Word, thus refreshing and renewing our tired minds, bodies and spirits from a stressful week of work, so that we can begin the cycle all over again on Monday. Anyway, mine is not to judge, just to point out the inadequacies. (smile) So let’s get the show on the road with today’s song of praise. And since we’ve all resolved to have a closer walk with Jesus this new year of 2020, I figured the most appropriate song would be the old faithful: ‘Just a closer walk with thee.’
But before we get into it, here is something from the website Hymnary.org, which gives us food for thought as we sing. ‘In this song, we acknowledge our human inability to live righteously, but we also express awareness of the grace and strength that God gives us in our daily walk. Even such an esteemed saint as the apostle Paul acknowledged his need for this grace: “But he [God] said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” … For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9a, 10b ESV).’
So as we sing, as we raise our voices to high heaven in perfect harmony and true sincerity, let’s contemplate the sentiments we utter in that light nuh. All together now: ‘I am weak but Thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long As I walk, let me walk close to Thee. (Refrain: Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea, Daily walking close to Thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.) Thro’ this world of toil and snares, If I falter, Lord, who cares? Who with me my burden shares? None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee. [Refrain]
(And Anne Murray inserts this chorus here: ‘Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. There’s a race to be run, there’s a victory to be won, every hour, give me power to go through.) When my feeble life is o’er, Time for me will be no more; Guide me gently, safely o’er To Thy kingdom shore, to Thy shore. [Refrain] (Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. Take my hand Lord Jesus, take my hand. There’s a race to be run, there’s a victory to be won, every hour, give me power to go through.) Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea, Daily walking close to Thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be. Just a closer walk with thee, Dear Lord let be…let it be…’
Ah mih people, the only way to walk this earth successfully is to be continually in close proximity to Jesus; the One who bore all our sins on Calvary’s cross, then rose triumphantly from the dead and ascended into heaven where He sits at the Father’s right hand advocating on our behalf. Glory Hallelujah! And if you don’t believe me, then hear it from Jesus Himself: ‘Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.’ (John 15:4-5)
Now if that isn’t telling it in plain and straightforward language, I don’t know what is nuh! Yes friends, if we don’t stay tightly attached to Jesus then we’ll be lost like sheep without a shepherd, headed straight for naïve and innocent slaughter by falling for the enemy’s lies and deceit. That’s the gospel truth! Jesus is the ONLY ONE who can provide us with the strength and the wherewithal we need to make it through these dark, dismal and turbulent times!
And Bruh Paul puts it thus to the Corinthians in the last chapter of his second letter, when he speaks of his coming to them and warns of prevalent sin in their church: ‘For though he (Jesus) was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates (unless you don’t stand the test, are counterfeit Christians)?’ (2 Cor.13:4-5)
Ah mih people, in this new year, these trying times of history, it’s ever so necessary for each and every one of us to examine ourselves and make sure we’re not fakes, counterfeit believers! If we’re true believers, then Christ ought to be in us. And if Christ is in us, then we have the awesome responsibility to act and behave in a manner that is worthy of Him. That means bearing the fruit of the Spirit: LOVE, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness (kindness), goodness, faith (faithfulness), meekness, temperance (self-control).
Today, let’s take a few moments and examine ourselves to see if we are bearers of such fruit nuh. And whether we are or not, let’s sincerely ask the Lord to help us bear such fruit so that we can exalt and glorify His most worthy name through His Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Much LOVE!
…not that we are sufficient of our selves…to think any thing as of ourselves…but our sufficiency…is of God… (2 Cor.3:5)
29 Sep 2019
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: according to their works, brigh cloudless morning, cast into the lake of fire, Come Sunday morning, death, eternal deaht, eternal punishment, eternal salvation, eternal separation, faith, fellowship with other believers, give Him thanks, going to church, guilty sinner, hades hell, he who has ears to hear, hear God's word, I'll be there, is called up yonder, James Milton Black, lake of fire, let him hear, of the Lamb, over on the other shore, receive strength and guidance, righteousness., second resurrection, sing His praises, song of praise, stand before God, surely feel, thanksgiving, the Book of Life, the dead in Christ shall rise, the morning breaks, the redeeming blood, the saved shall gather, the trumpet of the Lord, the unbelieving dead, the upcoming week, their home beyond the skies, they were judged, time shall be no more, unsaved person, when the roll, white raiment, whosoever was not found
Revelation 20:15. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Come Sunday morning…I will be going to church! Come Sunday morning…to fellowship with other believers…to hear God’s word…sing His praises…give Him thanks…and receive strength and guidance for the upcoming week! That’s what I’m going to do, come Sunday morning! Yeh friends, Sunday is the day most believers set aside for going to church, so let’s do just that this morning nuh.
And you know we always begin the proceedings with a song of praise and thanksgiving, so let’s belt out this 1893 hymn by James Milton Black that’s still a crowd favourite. It’s titled: ‘When the roll is called up yonder.’ ‘This hymn’s central theme is being in Heaven when your time has come and not missing out on the eternal salvation of God.’ And since all of us expect to be there, let’s sing it in loud voice, with the appropriate enthusiasm and sincerity and all the background voices that makes it such a sweet hymn. (smile)
As one harmonious choir: ‘When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more, And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there (Chorus: When the roll…when the roll… is called up yon-der, When the roll…when the roll…is called up yon-der, When the roll…when the roll…is called up yon-der, When the roll is called up yonder I’ll be there.)
On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise, And the glory of His resurrection share When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. (Chorus…When the roll…when the roll…I’ll be there) Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun, Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. (Chorus: twice. When the roll…when the roll…is called up yonder, I’ll be there.)’
What a joyous day that will be my fellow believers! There’ll be singing and dancing and joyful shouting as each name is read from the Book of Life. Unfortunately though, some of us might be disappointed when we don’t hear the names of some friends and family. But they will only have themselves to blame, as they had every opportunity like we had to come to Jesus and surrender their souls to Him. And before we get into the scriptural aspect of the Bit, let’s get some idea of how the hymn came about, as per the web site God Tube.
They say it ‘was inspired by the idea of The Book of Life mentioned in the Bible, and by the absence of a child in Black’s Sunday school class when the attendance was taken. The thought of someone’s being not in attendance in heaven haunted Black, and after visiting the child’s home and calling on a doctor to attend her for pneumonia, he went home and wrote the song after not finding one on a similar topic in his hymn collection.’ Ah mih people, these wonderful old hymns we sing nowadays have such diverse and inspirational backgrounds, and sadly we don’t know the inspiration behind many of them.
Now let’s check out some relevant scripture. Those of us who get to heaven will have complied with the messages Jesus sent to a couple of the churches in His Revelation to John. In the message to the church at Thyatira, He promises: ‘And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over nations.’ (Rev.2:26) And the scholars explain that thus: ‘3-26-29. The obedient believer will be given a reward of power or authority in the millennial kingdom as he reigns with Christ (12:5; 19:5; 20:4).’
And to the church at Sardis, the conclusion of the message was: ‘He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment (garments); and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.’ (Rev.3:5-6) And this is the scholars’ explanation: ‘3:5-6. The one who has genuine faith in Christ has the righteousness of Christ accounted to him through the redeeming blood of the Lamb. This is the white raiment (cf.7:14).
The book of life is a list of the saved of all ages (cf. Phil.4:3; rev.20:12, 15). The promise not to blot out his name out of the book of life is an emphatic assurance of the eternal security of the true believer. The statement in Greek contains a double negative, which may be translated, “I will be no means blot out his name.” Christ will confess the name only of genuine believers (cf. Matt.10:32-33).’
Oh my people, hopefully we will be in the first resurrection (Rev.20:5) which includes the resurrection of Christ, of the Church (the dead in Christ), and of Old Testament and Tribulation saints. The second resurrection though will be for all the unbelieving dead of all ages. ‘And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.’ (Rev.20:12-13)
And the scholars explain. ‘20:12-13. The unbelieving dead are judged from two sets of books. The books contain the record of every unsaved person’s life. Each unsaved person is judged in accordance with his works (cf. Rom.2:6; 16), which clearly show that each one is a guilty sinner (cf. Rom.3:9-19) deserving of eternal death (cf. Rom.3:23; 6:23). The book of life contains the name of every saved person who has received eternal life through faith alone (cf. John 20:31; 1 John 5:11-13). These unsaved people are shown that they did not take advantage of the offer of eternal life through faith (cf. Rom.9:32; 10:3) Death and hell (Hades) are the temporary holding places of unsaved men’s bodies and souls, respectively (cf. Luke 16:19-31).’
So what happens after that? ‘And death and hell (Hades) were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.’ (Rev.20:14-15) That says it all people! As the scholars explain: ‘20:14-15. The second death is eternal punishment in the lake of fire, experienced only by the unsaved. Once this final judgement occurs, there is no further need for either death or hell (Hades) (cf. 1:18, 6:8; Is.25:8; 1 Cor.15:26, 55). An eternal separation is now made between those who have life, and those who have “death” (cf. Dan.12:2; John 5:29).’
Oh friends, there are a lot of scripture references and plenty stuff that will happen when the time comes, but all you need to worry about is basically getting saved through faith in Jesus, obeying His words, and thus having your name written in the Book of Life! Much LOVE!
…he who has ears to hear…let him hear…else he will surely feel…
12 Dec 2018
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a glorious future, association with Jesus, cymbals, encouragement, every creature, every tongue shall confess, everything that breathes, excellent greatness, firmament of power, four and twenty elders, four beasts, gifts and joys of heaven, glad, glad to be alive, glory, grin and bear it, hands on the plough, honour, in heaven, in the face of adversity, in the Lord's time, Jesus christ is Lord, looking straight ahead, loves, not looking back, on earth, organs, people pray, power, praise, Praise ye the Lord, riches, sanctuary, shout Hallelujah, song of praise, stand strong and steadfast, stringed instruments, surgery postponed, the Big Day, the breath of life, the Good Book, the joyfulness of our hearts, the Lord is still in control, to the glory of the Father, Top o' the morn, under the sea, Wednesday Wail, worthy is the Lamb
Psalm 150:1. Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah). Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power (mighty firmament or expanse).
Top o’ the morn my wonderful friends and Scrip-Bit family! It’s indeed a new day and are we ever grateful for having been allowed to see it. But fortunately or not, this IS NOT going to be the Big Day! Steups! Ah Lord eh, as the old people would say, ‘the best laid plans of mice and men usually go astray,’ as well as, ‘while man plans, God laughs!’
Hn, hn, hn! I can only laugh yes! But the long and short of the story is that yesterday afternoon around two o’clock, while waiting for a call from the hospital to let me know what time to come in today, I got a call from them saying that they had been forced to postpone the surgery until next Wednesday because of some unspecified emergency. So I have another week to wait.
I’m laughing here wondering whether I’m really to do this surgery, because it’s the second time it’s been postponed right at the last minute. I don’t know how many of you remember that way back in March, I went in there to have it done, and after some tests they claimed that my heart was much better and I didn’t need the device, so they sent me home the next day without it. Then 8 months later, they called and said I needed it. Now this!
But not to worry friends, the ole fella is doing okay, I know that I just need to grin and bear it, for the Lord is still in control, so if He wants it done, it will be done…but just in His time! However, I am very grateful for all your prayers and words of encouragement that I’ve received, and please don’t stop praying, because I need the encouragement to stand strong and steadfast in the face of this adversity. (smile)
And I know that the Lord is glad -Chuh! like glad is my new misspelled word – because many people prayed, who might not have ordinarily done so, and we know that heaven is always overjoyed when people pray, so let’s keep it up nuh. And where do we go from here? I really don’t know nuh. But give me a minute or two, let me see where the Good book will guide us. Soon come!
And would you believe I opened that most memorable and worthy tome to the last page of the psalms, where I read from the last one: ‘Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah). Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power (mighty firmament or expanse).’
And is that ever the best thing we can do, especially when in doubt friends! The Lord our God LOVES to hear His praise being sung by His people, because that’s one of the reasons why He created us in the first place! When praise rises up to heaven, especially to just praise Him from the joyfulness of our hearts, there is great celebration in that majestic place! Glory to God!
Hear the psalmist continue nuh: ‘Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet (cornet): praise him with the psaltery (lute or lyre) and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high-sounding cymbals. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah!)’ (Ps.150:2-6)
Ah mih people, praise to our great God is not only becoming, but it’s expected! Hear what the scholars say: ‘As the final song of praise, it appropriately answers four key questions about praise. (1) Where should God be praised? Everywhere, from His sanctuary on earth to His heavenly creation (v.1). (2) Why should God be praised? For His powerful deeds on behalf of men and for His inherent greatness (v 2).
(3) How should God be praised? With every suitable instrument man can offer with His God-given creativity and artistry (vs.3-5). (4) Who should praise God? Everything that breathes (v.6). Though every verse of the psalm is cast in the form of a call to praise, the hymn is certainly prophetic of a day when every creature will in fact bow in praise to the Almighty God. (Phil.2:11; Rev.5:8-14).’
Yes my faithful brethren, EVERYTHING that moves in this God created universe, ought to praise God and give Him the glory He so deservedly desires! And it will happen one glorious day, as Bruh Paul tells the Philippians: ‘And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.’ (Phil.2:11)
And John the Revelator describes how ‘the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb…And they sung a new song, …Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
And EVERY creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and ALL that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.’ (Rev.5:8; 12-13).
Yes friends, if the Lord says it’s going to happen, then believe…it will happen…in His glorious and perfect time! Now let’s go home declaring our position in Christ to all and sundry by broadcasting our Wednesday Wail in strong voice, with sincere hearts (smile). Altogether now: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday!
Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’
Yeh mih people, let’s just keep fixating on that glorious future we’ll spend with Jesus till eternity! Glory Hallelujah indeed!
Much LOVE!…only by association with Jesus…can we enjoy…all the wonderful gifts and joys of heaven…
Previous Older Entries
SCRIP-BITS 