23 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: and on earth, celebrating the birth of christ, chaos, Christmas Season, faith, fear him which can destroy both body and soul, glorify your father in heaven, Glory to god in the highest, I may know you all the more, increase my awareness of you today, Jesus Christ, lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, let my muscles relax, Let your light so shine before men, LOVE, no weapon formed against thee shall prosper, on earth peace goodwill toward men, quiet my soul, slow my thoughts, strife, the light of the world, the salt has lost its savour, the salt of the earth, they may see your good works, trodden underfoot of men, truth, turning away from God, war, where your treasure is there will be your heart also, your love both surrounds and fills me, your peace and love are present, your unceasing nearness
Luke 2:14. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
And then it was Christmas Saturday! Wow! Already! And though it’s a dark and rainy lazy-day Saturday, and all the preparations have not been completed, the celebrations are underway! That’s just the way it is. We can’t wait to celebrate Jesus until all the preparations are done! No way Jose! Ah friends, it’s good to be alive and celebrating the incarnate birth of Christ, although I do so with a heavy heart, thinking about all those who are unable to do the same because of strife, disaster or some other negative action. But as we said yesterday, prayer is the first avenue we must always consider when adversity strikes.
So, in keeping with that philosophy, that eternal truth, let’s turn to our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer and declare (yesss!!!) it with all sincerity. As one voice. ‘Lord, I want to be with You now. Please slow my thoughts and quiet my soul. Let my muscles relax, my breath deepen. You are here with me – Your peace and LOVE are present. I marvel to think You can’t be contained, that Your LOVE both surrounds and fills me. Thank You for this tenderness, Lord. I praise You for Your unceasing nearness. Increase my awareness of You today, that I may know You all the more. Amen!’
And this Season of Christmas, when the Prince of Peace was born, is the ideal time for a prayer like that; one that opens us up to our great and faithful God, and draws us nearer to Him, to enjoy His peace, joy and LOVE, all the elements of this birthday bash! (smile) The biggest birthday bash ever! We even had angels coming from heaven with the good news of the birth of Christ and choirs of heavenly host praising God and singing: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ (Luke 2:14)
Oh my people, if only we could have much more of that peace and goodwill on the earth that those angels sang about some two thousand years ago, what a wonderful place our world would be! But, unfortunately, those things are sadly lacking, while strife, war, chaos and all kinds of negative activity are prevalent on the earth today. How did we ever get so warlike, hateful and negative eh? Only a generation ago, we were fairly peaceful and LOVING…remember the hippy days of a couple of generations ago, when peace and LOVE were revolutionizing the world? When the young people talked about, focused on peace and LOVE and not rebellion and hate and anger as they are doing nowadays.
Oh, we’ve always had strife in some place or other, and we’ll always have it until Jesus returns and sets up His Millennial reign, but we’ve never had it as widespread as this. Back then, it was easy to count the places where serious strife was occurring, now it’s easier to count the places where serious strife is not occurring. What a mess we’ve made of our world, and ONLY the Good Lord Jehovah can help us fix it. But the sad part of that situation is that many of us are turning away from the Lord God of heaven and earth to follow the evil and ungodly deeds of Beelzebub, and those of us who still profess the faith are not doing enough to stop the exodus and bring unbelievers to Christ.
We obviously are not doing as Jesus requested, when He said: ‘Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour (flavour), wherewith (by what) shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle (lamp), and put it under a bushel (basket), but on a candlestick (lampstand); and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ (Matt. 5:13-16)
There we have it friends, the majority of us supposed Christians have been neither salt nor light to the world, otherwise our world would never be in such bad shape. Don’t tell me that if the body, the church of Christ went into the world and behaved like we ought to behave, as salt and light, that there wouldn’t be a great improvement in all aspects of our world. We are a large enough body to make a substantial difference! We just have to stop wanting to be as comfortable as possible and enjoy all the amenities available, for the worst kind of Christian is a comfortable one.
Also stop being afraid of what the world can do to us, instead let’s remember the awesome and faithful promise of God, made through the prophet Isaiah. ‘No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of (from) me, saith the Lord.’ (Is. 54:17) And unfortunately it doesn’t seem like enough of us believe that to ramp up our faith and get out there and make a positive impact.
Neither do we seem to believe these words of Jesus. ‘And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both body and soul in hell.’ (Matt. 10:28) And that person who can destroy both body and soul is Almighty God, but it certainly seems like we’re more afraid of Satan and his evil cohorts, who can only destroy our body, instead of God, who can destroy both body and soul. But, for whatever reason(s) our witness, our activity as agents and disciples of Christ has not been of sufficient impact to turn others to Christ in the great numbers that’s necessary.
So, if we believers are not making a positive impact on the world, what else can we expect but for more people to turn to evil and ungodly ways; to lay up earthly treasure for themselves here on earth instead of in heaven. And there’s no better way to end than with these wise and encouraging words of Jesus. ‘Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt (ruin), and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt (ruin), and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.’ (Matt. 6:19-21)
And yes, too many of us supposed believers are still too enamoured of the wealth and power of the earth and still insist on running it down and storing it up. But when will we learn that in the long run, the wealth of the world is of no real significance eh, for once we die, we cannot carry any of it with us, we just leave it here for our friends and families to fight over, and consequently the lawyers get most of it in the end. My fellow saints, the long and short of the story is that if want to see a better world, to leave a better world for our descendants, then we must get up RIGHT NOW, and start being what Jesus desires and expects of us; being the salt of the earth, the light of the world and stop laying up treasures for ourselves on earth, but in heaven above! Much LOVE!
…only when Christians behave like true Christians… will there be any godly improvements in our world…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
22 Dec 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a modicum of circumspection, chaos, Christmas, defeat the simmering unrest in our land, disaster, divine help, embrace your love and compassion, Friday chant, good and acceptable in the sight of the Lord, in all goodness and honesty, incompetent and corrupt leaders, Jesus -the reason for the season, Jesus Christ, lead a peaceable and quiet life, LOVE, man's inhumanity to man, mercy, omnipotent help, one God, one mediator between God and men: Jesus Christ, prayer, prayer be made for all men, respect for governmental authority, stand strong and steadfast, strife, TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!, the example we faithful believers set, the Prince of Peace, trusting faith, truth, unexpected storms, wake up and smell the coffee
1 Timothy 2:8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
And you have to block your ears for all the voices around the world shouting, ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday! The Friday of Christmas weekend!’ Yes friends, it’s going to be a marvellous time, with celebrations galore! Sadly though, there will be many places that won’t have any celebrations because of the serious strife and chaos existing in those places…too many places my people! The birth of Jesus ought to be celebrated all over the world with very few, if any, exceptions. But it’s certainly not going to be like that this year, for, unfortunately, this year will mark the most places without Christmas celebrations, because it’s the year, outside of the years of the two world wars, that we’ve had the most strife, disaster and chaos ever in our world. How ghastly!
There’s so much unnecessary strife and suffering on the earth at a time when we should all be celebrating the birth of the Prince of Peace. But there’s not much that most of us can do about it,, except celebrate with a modicum of circumspection, and pray for those who are experiencing the unfortunate miseries of man’s inhumanity to man. Pray, that the Lord in His awesome wisdom and mercy will soon bring most, if not all, of those inhumane activities to a peaceful end, for He’s the ONLY One who has the power and wisdom to mitigate those tragic circumstances.
And what a weekend this will be, with many people taking today off from work and not having to return until next Wednesday, making it a truly long weekend. (smile) But whatever the length of our weekend, please, let’s remember that it’s come about all because of the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Let’s try and keep that fact uppermost in our minds, as we rush around to finish our Christmas shopping and the many other preparations we plan to accomplish before the big day on Monday.
Yes, you might be tired hearing me say that Jesus is the reason for the season, but it’s ever so necessary to reinforce that fact because the commercial and ungodly world is fast forgetting it, and so it’s up to us faithful believers to keep reminding them of it, or else in another few years it’s totally possible that no one will remember the real reason behind the celebrations of Christmas, and consider it just another holiday period. Amen! End of Sermon! (smile)
And friends, I’m not only smiling, but also chuckling,. Why? Because we were just talking about prayer, and as I opened the Good Library, it miraculously opened unto the first Book of Timothy, where Bruh Paul exhorts him to prayer. Now is that a coincidence or what? (smile) It might be, but I’d prefer to look upon it as a moment of divine guidance. And if that’s true, then we’ve got to engage in that particular scripture. So please read with me, Bruh Paul’s instructions to Timothy on the subject of prayer.
‘I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayer, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority (a prominent position); that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all goodness and honesty (reverence). For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not:) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity (truth). I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.’ (1 Tim. 2:1-8)
Oh my fellow saints, those exhortations of Bruh Paul are ever so important if we truly desire to live a peaceful and reverent life. We need to pray for all of our leaders, from those in the lowest to the highest positions. And the scholars offer some good explanations on the passage. ‘A quiet and peaceful life: The word quiet means “not troubled from without”, that is, intercessory prayer enables good government to ensure that its citizens are not troubled by enemies or forces outside its borders. “Peaceable” means “not troubled from within”, that is, the church’s prayer also aids competent government in maintaining law and order within its own borders.’
And if that is truly so friends, then it’s obvious that we have not been praying, or not praying enough for our leaders because there’s lots of strife and violence both outside and within our borders. And the scholars further explain: ‘The translation godliness and honesty is unfortunate, for the exercise of these virtues is not dependent on good government; they can be cultivated even in poor political management and persecution. The text should read, “That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life with the utmost reverence and respect.” This respect is for governmental authority. Respect can best be realized when rulers are competent and rightly discharging their duties. Otherwise, it is difficult to respect rulers when they are incompetent and unjust.’
Now, is that ever saying something, for there is absolutely no respect for most of our leaders these days because so many of them are incompetent, unjust and also corrupt! I don’t believe I’ve ever seen so many incompetent and corrupt leaders as we have today. And sadly, that’s an avowed fact all over the world. But yuh know what, as Bruh Paul says, prayer is ever so important, and it’s also our biggest privilege, as well as our chief method of communication with our heavenly Father. So please, let’s use it wisely nuh, by going to the throne of grace, through our Friday Chant and laying it all out to the ONLY One who can help us turn things around.
As one voice: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… because our many serious problems are escalating instead of improving. And it’s obvious we can’t fix them on our own, so Lord, we’re desperately crying out for your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. We therefore ask you Lord to give our leaders the wise guidance to handle these unexpected storms properly. And please help the rest of us to be responsible and to stay safe amidst all the anxiety and confusion of these ungodly times.
We fervently pray too Lord that you’ll use the discontent and dissatisfaction in our land as a means of restoring faith in you. Return backsliders to your fold. Show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. So that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’
And as our prayer implies, if we want divine help, then we first have to set a good example of being faithful believers. It’s as simple as that! Much LOVE!
…three of the most important things in a believer’s life…prayer…prayer…and more prayer…because prayer is basically communicating with our heavenly Father…and we can never have too much of that…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
03 Feb 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, a godly reason for being alive, a little folding of the hands to sleep, a little slumber, a means of restoring faith in you, anger, anxiety, apathetic, as one that travelleth (a prowler), cast off the works of darkness, compromising, confusion, consider her ways and be wise, embrace your love and compassion, evil traits of the enemy, fearful, Friday chant, go to the ant thou sluggard, hatred, how long wilt thou sleep O sluggard, it is high time to awake out of sleep, it takes two to tango, laziness, LOVE, materialistic, omnipotent help, pandemic, prepare for predictable circumstances, procrastination, put on the armour of light, resentment, return backsliders to your fold, self-starters, so shall thy poverty come, stand strong and steadfast, strife, taking the Great Invitation to heart, TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!, Thank God we're alive and kicking, the day is at hand, the error of their ways, the light of the world, the night is far spent, the salt of the earth, thy want as an armed man, trusting faith, unexpected storm, wake up and smell the coffee, when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep, wise guidance, yet a little sleep
Proverbs 6:9. How long will thou sleep (be lazy), O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep (laziness)?
Oh what a bright and sunshiny Friday! But the wind’s in a tizzy though, from since last night, thus making it seem even colder than the minus 14 it’s supposed to be. And though you have to be careful how you navigate out there, it doesn’t stop us from saying a loud and hearty “TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday! And Thank God that we are alive and kicking to see and enjoy it!’ We’ve obviously been blessed, and there’s also a purpose, a godly reason that we’re still going strong on God’s great earth.
As the saying goes, we were made for a time such as this. And that’s no lie. God put us here right now with all the qualities and gifts we require to do a special job for Him. So please let’s stop wasting precious time, get serious and do whatever it is, for He is depending on us to provide that special link in the overall chain that only we have the ability to provide. Remember, a chain is only as strong as it’s weakest link. Therefore, let’s endeavour to not be the weakest link in God’s mighty chain nuh. (smile)
And unfortunately, right now too many of us believers are fighting for that dubious honour by not doing what we’re supposed to, by not living the life Christ envisioned us living. We’re not taking His Great Invitation to heart, to spread His word to all and sundry, and make disciples of all nations. We’re not being the salt of the earth and the light of the world He requires us to be, if our world is to come back to its senses and return to fully worship Almighty God. We’re too lazy, fearful, apathetic, loveless, materialistic and compromising. And those are definitely not the traits expected of Christ’s followers.
But like Bruh Paul wrote to the church at Rome: ‘And that knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than we (first) believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly (properly), as in the day; not in rioting (revelry) and drunkenness, not in chambering (licentiousness) and wantonness (lewdness), not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.’ (Rom. 13:11-14)
Oh my people, those words apply so aptly to us that I’m ashamed to say it. But we are in a stupor of darkness and fleshly lusts. The enemy has found his way into our hearts and souls, making us insensitive to the demands of Christ in our lives. And please remember the coming of Christ draws nearer every day, and we don’t want him to return and find us living in the darkness of the enemy, rather than in His bright and shining light. So it’s indeed high time that we wake up and ‘cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armour of light’ that comes from Jesus.
Time to stop all the dishonest and wanton living like the world does. To stop seeking opportunities to satisfy our deep-seated desires of our sinful nature, but rather seek occasion to show works that are consistent with our new and wonderful life in Christ Jesus. For our world is abuzz and an aflame with the evil traits of the enemy; anger, hatred, strife, resentment, greed, jealousy, covetousness, none of which should be named among the traits of a true believer in Christ. and it’s ONLY through us, sincere believers, that any worthwhile changes can and will be made. That’s why it’s essential that we wake up RIGHT NOW and begin doing our bounden duty in Christ.
And if perchance Bruh Paul didn’t get through to us, let’s see if Cousin Sol can, (smile) as he chips in his two cents worth, with this strong and true advice. ‘Go to the ant, thou sluggard: consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide (leader), overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat (food) in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.’ (Prov. 6:6-8) Now that’s golden advice for free! You can’t beat it, for the ants has no leader but they do what they have to do, like gather and store food in the summer for the harsh winter months. Likewise, we supposed Christians ought to be up and about Christ’s Business while we still have time to do it. Be self-starters like the ants and prepare for predictable circumstances.
And Cousin Sol continues in a powerful vein: ‘How long will thou sleep (be lazy), O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep (laziness)?’ (Prov. 6:9) Now that’s a most pertinent question! When will we believers get up and get going for Jesus eh? Why you ask? Listen as Cousin Sol provides the answer. ‘Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth (a prowler), and thy want (need) as an armed man.’ (Prov. 6:10-11)
Yes friends, our continued laziness and procrastination will inevitably bring sudden and dire poverty as an unexpected robber who takes away our possessions. And that will not do! So please, let’s wake up right now, and with prayer and thanksgiving, through our Friday Chant, go to our wonderful God and ask for His divine and most merciful help.
Altogether now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the confusion and anxiety caused by the pandemic and our many other serious problems. We can’t fix them on our own Lord, so we desperately need your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, without further serious setbacks.
And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe. And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to return backsliders to your fold, show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic, the bubbling discontent and dissatisfaction in our land, as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’
Remember, it takes two to tango, so it’s up to us now to do our part in the partnership, so that the Lord can do His. Much LOVE!
…we can’t do God’s part…and He won’t do ours…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
01 Jan 2023
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a banner year for peace and love, bare our sins in his own body, be made the righteousness of God in Him, being dead to sins, blessed assurance, by whose stripes we were healed, Christian walk, Fanny Crosby, greed, Happy New Year, hunger for power, joyful in the Lord's strength, live unto righteousness, LOVE, made him to be sin for us, praising my saviour all the day long, seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, selfishness, strife, the hand of God, this is my song, this is my story, what a foretaste of glory divine, who knew no sin
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
2 Corinthians 5:21. For he (God) hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
And then it was New Year’s Day! Wow! Christmas of 2022 is in the books and the new year of 2023 has begun with the same rush as the old one went out in! (smile) Anyway, we’re wishing a Happy New Year of 2023 to all our Scrip-Bit friends and families all over God’s great earth! And we hope and pray that this year will be better than the last, but let’s remember that any improvement must begin with each of us first improving our individual selves, then getting together in sincere fellowship and building Christ’s body, His church!
Now let’s also hope that we did not party too much in the New Year’s Eve celebrations last night, to remember that today is Sunday, the Lord’s Day, and we needs must get up and go to His sanctuary and praise and worship Him with other believers for His wonderful deeds to the children of men. And as always, we’ll begin with a song of praise, but for this New Year’s Day I wanted something special, a song that would give us some encouragement and hope for this upcoming year, which won’t be an easy one.
Let’s not fool ourselves into thinking that 2023 will be a banner year for peace and LOVE. Much as I desire it to be so, the current worldwide situation doesn’t promise it. Yes friends, with all the anger, strife, greed, selfishness, hunger for power and jealousy currently permeating our world, it only portends, is a sign of tougher times. But then again, we have Jesus, so there’s no need to be overly concerned. If we do our best, He’s promised to do the rest. And He is a faithful keeper of His promises.
Anyhow, getting back to today’s song, I believe it’s a perfect fit for all that we’re going through on this first day of 2023. It’s one of our favourites, aptly titled Blessed Assurance; one of the many beautiful hymns written by blind American hymn-writer Fanny Crosby. The story goes that ‘One evening in 1873, Fanny’s friend and composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp was visiting and played a tune on the piano, asking Fanny what it sounded like. Fanny responded, “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine!” Phoebe and Fanny then continued to sing the melody and write the lyrics together.’
Isn’t ‘it awesome how songs of worship come together so quickly and unexpectedly. The hand of God is definitely involved in the writing of each one. But enough talk, (smile) it’s time to offer up our sacrificial praises to God and heaven, this New year’s day of 2023. So, in loud, but sweet harmony, in an up tempo beat, because we’re joyful in the Lord’s strength and promises, let’s offer up a rousing, heartfelt rendition of Blessed Assurance.
Singing: ‘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 Saviour all the day long; This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Saviour 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 Saviour 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…. Yes, This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long )’
Oh friends, that was a marvellous rendition! And heaven just LOVED it! (smile) And does the song ever ring out with truth, for every day we sing praises to Jesus, thankful for all the undeserved blessings He so generously and mercifully bestows on us. And all we can say is ’Thank You Jesus! Thank You for coming to earth to save us as the baby born in the manger, then dying for us on that old wooden cross of Calvary on Good Friday, taking all of our sins upon you and giving us your righteousness!’
Like Bruh Paul says: ‘For he (God) hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.’ (2 Cor. 5:21) And Peter reiterated it thus: ‘(Jesus) Who in his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes (wounds) ye were healed.’ (1 Pet. 2:24)
Oh my fellow believers, that is the ultimate in selflessness! Christ died so that our sins could be forgiven! What more can we ask eh? NOTHING! What greater gift could He have bestowed eh? NONE! And all He asks of us is to be appropriately grateful and live in the righteousness that He died for us to have!
But that’s exactly where we are falling down in our Christian walk; we’re not living in sufficient righteousness. We still have too much of the old sinful, worldly man in us. We’re still too intimidated and persuaded by the secular and unrighteous ways of the world. And understandably, since we’re only humans, it’s not easy to overlook the beautiful baubles and bangles that the world dangles in front of us, but with Christ living within us through His Holy Spirit, ostensibly to lead and guide us in righteous ways, we should be doing much better than we are.
And any true believer who is worth his salt, on self-examination, will tell you that! The negativity that’s currently flooding our world is largely because we supposed Christians have not done the job we were given; we have not fulfilled the Great Commission enough, so that Christ’s church could have the upper hand. We have sat on our laurels way too much, enjoying the good and easy material life the world promotes, foolishly and fearfully forsaking the righteousness of Christ’s kingdom.
Oh friends, in this year of 2023, let’s promise ourselves to do much better nuh. For our children’s sake, so much better that we will reverse some of the negativity in our world by promoting the righteousness of Christ. This year, please let our motto be truthfully the words of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: ‘But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;’ so that all the things we truly need will be added to us by our heavenly Father. That’s the ONLY way to turn things around! Much LOVE!
…if you can’t accept and believe Jesus’ words and promises…then whose can you accept eh…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ
25 Oct 2022
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a very present help in trouble, always go to God first, another day in paradise, be careful for nothing, but in every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, casting all your care upon him, come unto me all ye that labour, come unto me and I will give you rest, fear thou not, fornicating with the enemy, God is our refuge and strength, he shall direct thy paths, hurry, hypocritical ingrates, I am the beloved of god, I am thy God I will strenthen thee, in all thy ways acknowledge him, in god's eyes, keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus, lean not unto thine own understanding, LOVE, no unity no peace or prosperity, run crying to God, set out troubles at the feet of Jesus, share His love with my neighbours, sincere heart-felt action, strife, surrender, the greatest prob, the greatest problem solver Jesus, the heifer dust hits the fan, the peace of God which passeth all understading, therefore will we not fear, though the earth be removed, though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea, trust, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, trust my friend Jesus, Tuesday Mantra, worry
Psalm 46:1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present (an abundantly available) help in trouble.
It’s another beautiful, warm, sunshiny day in paradise friends! Please give thanks that we have been blessed to see it. For no matter how grave and unsurmountable our problems might seem, I’m sure we are all mighty glad that we woke up this morning to have another go at solving them. (smile) And please don’t forget that we follow the greatest problem solver ever, Jesus Christ, He who calms the stormy seas and quiets the howling winds.
And believe me, if He can quiet the seas and the winds, then He can most certainly handle any of our mortal problems. But first we have to believe that He is able to do it, and then take those problems to Him, for He can’t solve what He doesn’t know we need solving. Oh, in His omniscience He certainly knows our problems, and might solve some of them of His own accord, but in general we need to take them to Him, not just wait on the off chance that He will do it on His own.
And I guess that’s one of the problems many of us face in these trying times; for whatever reason, we don’t take our problems to Christ, or at best we only take them when we cannot solve them in our own strength. But that’s not wisdom my people. The first place we should take our troubles to is at the feet of Christ, not the last place, like so many of us unwisely do.
Please remember these strong and encouraging words of the sons of Korah from Psalm 46. ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present (an abundantly available) help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst (the heart) of the sea. Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.’ (Ps. 46:1-3)
Yes friends, our Creator and omnipotent God has all the parts to solve any problems in which we find ourselves immersed. Why not take them to Him eh? And His Word tells us so often, that that’s the very thing to do when troubles arise. So, let’s take a look at some of the many scriptures that encourage us thus nuh, hopefully then we’ll remember and go to God first, the next time we are tried and troubled. (smile)
Now, these next verses, wise words of Cousin Sol, are ones we all know and claim to LOVE, but obviously don’t sufficiently put into action, otherwise our problems would not be as overwhelming as they are. He wisely advises us to: ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.’ (Prov. 3:5-6)
And if we truly believe in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, then that is Scripture 101! It’s the very essence, the very purpose of believing. Yes, you ought to trust and surrender your life to the one you claim to believe in, otherwise believing is just a figment of your imagination. And sadly, it’s that way with many of us supposed believers, because we only talk a good talk, but don’t walk it, and continue to live our lives in our own strength…until the heifer dust hits the fan. Then we run crying to God to fix it, and expect Him to do it, and do it immediately too!
Oh, what a bunch of sad, hypocritical ingrates we are my people! That’s why our lives and our world is so messed up. And why shouldn’t it be eh, when some of us are trying to push God out of His own creation, while some of us who claim to believe are not walking in true faith, not doing what true faith calls for, either sitting on the fence or happily fornicating with the enemy. What we unfortunately lack is unity, true unity, not just talk unity. And where there is no unity, there cannot be peace or prosperity, only confusion, strife, and all the negative problems those things bring.
And that’s why Bruh Paul so painstakingly advised us in his letter to the Philippians: ‘Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall keep (guard) your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:6-7)
Yes my brethren, if we desire true peace in our souls, then we have to begin by taking EVERYTHING, yes EVERYTHING to God in prayer! And it doesn’t matter whether it’s big or small, significant or insignificant. Once it’s in our lives, then it’s also a concern of our God, for He is interested in EVERYTHING that goes on in our lives.
Why do you think the Lord caused the prophet Isaiah to write to his people in the time of their trouble: ‘Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.’ (Is. 41:10) And why do you think Peter wrote these wise words to the early believers? ‘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. 5:6-7)
Yes my people, our Creator, our God, our heavenly Father indeed cares for us, else why would He send his sinless Son, Christ Jesus to die on the cross of Calvary to save our sinful souls eh? But we must take what He says and what He expects of us seriously, meaning be obedient to His Word, to His dictates. It’s foolish to expect to be disobedient, yet blessed with divine attention. And when we talk about our God so intently caring for us, how can one get any more explicit and understanding than these comforting words of Jesus from His Great Invitation. ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ (Matt. 11:28)
Oh my fellow saints, that says it all! Jesus is the answer to ALL of our problems, for EVERYTHING in our lives! And until we get that straight in our hearts and minds, and begin truly behaving in the appropriate manner, our trials and tribulations will continue to perplex and discombobulate us. Anyhow, for those of us who are sincerely trying to live for Jesus, let’s go home now declaring (awright!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting the whole world know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel.
As one strong and sincere voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’
Now, let’s go out and do just that nuh; share the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…true trust and surrender are not found in mere talk…but in sincere, heart-felt action…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ
29 Jul 2022
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a bishop must be blameless, a means of restoring faith in you, act like adults, an internal cleansing, back-biting, bring backsliders back to your fold, but when I became a man I put away childish things, Caribana weekend, coming to terms with our misdeeds, controlled by fleshly passions, evil doing, forefront of this unexpected storm, Friday chant, give up our childish behaviour, given to hospitality, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, introduce a whole new flock, LOVE, materialism ill befits one called to care for the spiritual welfare of souls, not greedy of filthy lucre, omnipotent help, one that ruleth well his own house, poor leadership qualities, possessing good judgment, promises are not made to be broken, resentment, sensual appetites', show them the error of their ways, spiritual sobriety, Steelband Competition, strife, TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!, the pastor is responsible to God, the spiritual welfare of the church, when I was a child
1 Corinthians 13:11. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
Well, it’s here at last…so let’s shout it out nuh: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday and the long Caribana weekend has begun!’ And this evening I’m going to attend the only function on the calendar that I do nowadays, that’s the Steelband competition. Yes friends, that’s what it’s finally come down to. (smile) As they so truthfully say, after one time is two. But the fact of the matter is that the ole fella can no longer handle the long walking and the pushing and shoving of the young people.
In my time, we knew how to party, but these days that wisdom seems to have gone by the bye. And the costumes and music are not as nice as before. Like life, and so many other things nowadays, the standards have fallen and it all seems watered down now… at least in my opinion. (smile) So, since I can’t handle it physically and emotionally, I just keep myself to myself, and only check out the pan competition which is always a blast; you see people you haven’t seen in ages, plus you make new friends, and don’t forget the numerous arguments and controversies, especially over the judges’ decisions at the end.
If you’ve ever been to a Steelband competition, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. (smile) And strangely enough, I find that one occasion satisfies my Caribana weekend. Once upon a time, if I didn’t get down to the Saturday parade early, I’d be rather unmannerly to those who kept me back. My family could certainly tell you about that. (smile) But thankfully, along with age comes that very important thing called reason. That reminds me of the scripture in 1 Corinthians that says it so wisely. ‘When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.’ (1 Cor. 13:11)
Ah friends, that’s exactly what a lot of us need to do in these uncertain, disastrous and turbulent times; give up our childish behaviour and act like the adults we’re supposed to be. We certainly don’t need all the resentment, strife, evil-doing, back-biting and scandalous behaviour that has become so much a part of our current society. And those ungodly actions are not only running rampant in the outside world but unfortunately also in the church of Christ! Obviously, that’s not welcome behaviour in the body of Christ, but who’s going to change it eh?
Only we, the supposed believers in and followers of Christ can do that. The problem though, is do we really want to change our unchristian ways? Some of us do, but others don’t. So what’s going to happen eh? Christ’s church obviously cannot be allowed to continue being as sinful and ungodly as the world. And the sad part is that a lot of this behaviour comes from the leaders not from the basic congregations. In fact, some leaders consciously promote that behaviour. It’s obvious that they are not obeying the words of Bruh Paul to Timothy:
‘This is a true saying, If a man desire (aspires to) the office of a bishop (overseer), he desireth a good work (a noble task). A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant (temperate), sober (sober-minded), of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to (able to) teach. Not given to (addicted to) wine, no striker (not violent), not greedy of filthy lucre (for money); but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity (reverence); For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God? (1 Tim. 3:1-5)
Now that’s a very good question? If a man cannot run his own house in a godly manner, how then can he run Christ’s church properly eh? And the scholars tell us this about the Pastoral Office. ‘The pastor, who shepherds’ today’s church, also fulfills the New Testament role of elder and bishop (overseer), and is responsible to God for the spiritual welfare of the church (Acts 20:28). When Christ returns, He will judge and reward these pastors (elders) according to their faithfulness in leading the church to accomplish God’s will (1 Pet. 5:4).’ And I do hope that some of those leading Christ’s flock today would read that and understand it and change from their evil ways.
But let’s look at some deeper explanations of the duties Bruh Paul associated with a godly leader. ‘Blameless means irreproachable, that is, impeccable in reputation. The husband of one wife, faithful to his wife. Vigilant means temperate. This speaks of spiritual sobriety; not intoxicated or controlled by fleshly passions and sensual appetites. To be sober is to be of sound mind; that is, not of frivolous disposition, but serious and possessing good judgement. Of good behaviour means orderly in life, habits, and work. One who is given to hospitality receives strangers warmly and treats guests generously.
To be apt to teach is to be skillful in teaching Scripture. Not given to wine means not addicted to wine. No striker means not physically violent. Not greedy means not fond of dishonest gain. Patient means not quarrelsome, peaceable; that is does not argue over minor matters or always seeks to have his own way, but defers to the wishes of others when no cardinal doctrine or policy is sacrificed. Not covetous, literally, “not a lover of money.” His main priority is not the acquisition of money. Materialism ill befits one called above to care for the spiritual welfare of souls.’
And that’s the gospel truth! However, unfortunately many of our current leaders do display too many of the ungodly traits described above. Now, it must be stated that a lot is expected of them, and since they are mere men like us, they do have human drawbacks and frailties, and will have occasional lapses in godly behaviour, but the unfortunate truth is that too many of our leaders have poor leadership qualities and are thus leading Christ’s church astray, that’s why it’s in such bad shape today.
But we cannot put all the blame and responsibility on our leaders, we the congregation also need to take some of it, for both allowing the leaders to do some of the ungodly stuff they do, and also for following them when we full well know that their actions are wrong and totally ungodly. And the only way for the church to get cleaned up is by both congregation and leaders deciding to clean it up. That’s seriously looking at themselves and doing the things they know that ought to be done. This will have to be an internal cleansing, coming to terms with our misdeeds and deciding to change our ways, with God’s help obviously.
And there’s no better time to start than right now. So, let’s go to God in prayer, through our Friday Chant, laying our cards sincerely before Him. As one voice: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… what with all the anxiety, the confusion and havoc that the Covid-19 virus and our many other problems are causing. We can’t seem to fix it on our own Lord, that means we desperately need your help. Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat both the virus and the unrest in our streets.
So Lord, we sincerely ask you today to give the governments and those involved in the forefront of this serious and unexpected storm, the wise guidance to handle the situation properly, with the least amount of loss to life and property as possible. And please help those of us who must go out to work amidst all the confusion, to be responsible and to stay safe, and avoid any more serious setbacks. And Lord, we fervently pray that You’ll use this situation to bring a lot of backsliders back to your fold, show them the error of their ways.
And please introduce a whole new flock, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. Yes Lord, please use this pandemic and the unrest in the streets as a means of restoring faith in You, so that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’
And now that we’ve pleaded for divine help and made promises, let’s go out and keep those promises, otherwise we won’t receive that divine help. It’s as simple as that. Much LOVE!
…promises are not made to be broken…but to be kept with a sincere and honourable heart…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8
31 Mar 2022
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: be thankful unto God, bless His name, bounden duty, challenge our beliefs, Christians fight against Christians, come before his presence with singing, curse, divine promotion, enter into his gates with thanksgiving, evil doing, filled with mother-lode scriptures, forgive us our debts, give us this day our daily bread, he is divided against himself, his mercy endureth for ever, his truth endureth to all generations, id Satan cast out Satan, into his courts with praise, joy in living for Christ, lean not on your own understanding, living for Christ, LOVE, make a joyful noise unto the Lord, negative vibes, negative word, overflowing grace and mercy, resentment, self-control. self-discipline, serve the Lord with gladness, strife, success, the Christian life in a nutshell, The Lord is good, The Lord is my shepherd, the Lord's prayer, the sheep of his pasture, the wellspring of God's word, thine id the power the kingdom and the glory, Thursday Blessings, Togetherness, unconditional love of God, unity
Psalm 100:1. Make a joyful noise (shout joyfully) unto the Lord, all ye lands (all the earth).
One more day people, one more day! Yes, through God’s overflowing grace and mercy, we’ve been granted one more day to enjoy the fruits of His great earth, in addition to His unconditional and everlasting LOVE! What a marvellous Deity we worship; One who has such care and compassion for us. That’s why scriptures like Psalm 100 – A call to praise the Lord – should continually be in our hearts and mouths. So please declare it with me this bright, sunshiny spring Thursday morning, the last day of March in this contrary year of 2022.
Let’s ‘Make a joyful noise (shout joyfully) unto the Lord, all ye lands (all the earth). Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves, we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.’ (Ps. 100:1-5)
Oh my fellow saints that is the indisputable truth, and if we could just keep those sentiments in our minds and spirits and live by them, what beautiful, God-filled lives we would share! You know, a lot of us believe we must know the Bible backwards and forwards to live righteously, but that’s a big fallacy. In reality, we only need to know a few strong scriptures that embody the word of God, that speak of praise and worship, of forgiveness, of wisdom, of LOVE, and live by them.
Scriptures like this Psalm 100, like the Lord’s Prayer: ‘Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (the evil one): For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.’ (Matt. 6:9-13) That’s the Christian life in a nutshell my brethren!
Likewise, are those verses Prov. 3:5-10; all about trusting in God and not ourselves and sharing our first fruits with Him. The same thing goes for Psalm 23, that magnificent treatise of Bruh David’s on God’s goodness, that we affectionately refer to as ‘The Lord is my shepherd.’ And there are several other scriptures that fall into that category, which we don’t have the time nor space to get into.
But each of us should personally search the Good Book and find scriptures that apply to our own situations and hold on to them tightly to serve us in time of need. And believe me, we will each have times when we desperately need strong scriptures to lean on and hold on to. So, yes, we do need to have a good grounding in the Good Book so that we can fight the many challenges that come against us, but for basic living, we only need a few verses that encompass the basics of Christian living.
When we have the sentiments and guidance of scriptures like mentioned above, written deep and indelibly in our souls, hearts, spirits and minds, then we don’t have to fight to live the Christian life, it just comes naturally from that wellspring of God’s word buried in us. But until we have solid scriptures living within us, scriptures that automatically rise up to boost our faith, living for Christ will always be an inconvenient struggle.
Now, regardless of the great faith we feel we possess, there will always be times when doubt will rear its awkward head and seriously challenge our beliefs, but generally speaking, when we are filled with mother-lode scriptures we will have comparatively smooth sailing. (smile) Remember too, that the higher we go in God’s kingdom, the greater our faith needs to become, because temptations become bigger and more plentiful as the cream rises to the top. For Satan doesn’t bother those who don’t do good and important work for Christ.
Why would he eh? That’s because if you’re not working for Christ, then you are obviously working for him. (smile) It reminds us of how the Pharisees said of Jesus casting out demons: ‘This fellow doth not cast out devils (demons), but by Beelzebub, the prince (ruler) of the devils (demons)… Then Jesus replied: ‘And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?’ (Matt. 12:24, 26)
That brings us to the question of the day; if Christians fight against Christians, like we are constantly doing, how then will the kingdom of Christ stand, and even more importantly move forward and grow? It won’t be able to do either, because standing strong and moving forth depends on unity and togetherness.
And sadly, I don’t think we can genuinely say that these days Christians are united and working together for the good of Christ’s kingdom, since there is so much infighting, resentment, strife and evil-doing currently existing in the body of Christ. And it’s only when we give up those negative vibes and start living as Jesus truly desires of us, in unity and harmony, despite our many differences and disagreements, that the kingdom of God will draw unbelievers to its fold and move forward in true righteousness!
And it’s not like we don’t have the tools and the wherewithal to do Christ’s work properly, because we do, it’s just that we are not putting our noses to the grindstone. We’re talking about tools we call our Thursday Blessings that the Lord has generously bestowed on us to do his earthly work. Now, those tools aren’t operational until we declare them, so let’s do that right now nuh.
Altogether: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection!
I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’
And now that we’ve declared those blessings and thus made them operational, it’s our bounden duty to go out and share them with others just as generously as Christ shared them with us! Much LOVE!
…there’s such joy in living for Christ…when we’ve mastered the basic principles…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8
28 Dec 2021
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a state of upheaval, a taste of the good life, an everlasting sign, be led forth with peace, between good and evil, bickering over petty stuff, calamity, call ye upon him while he is near, climate change, disaster, go out with joy, God's Sovereignty, he will have mercy upon him, hurry, I am the beloved of god, in god's eyes, incomprehensible God, it shall accomplish that which I please, it shall not return void, Jesus is the life, let the wicked forsake his way, like hot bread from an oven, LOVE, my thoughts are higher than your thoughts, natural and human induced, New Year's celebrations, our God will abundantly pardon, pandemic, partisan poltics, racial tumult, resnetment, seek ye the Lord while he may be found, self-righteousness, selfishness, share His love with the world, so are my ways higher than yours, strife, the battle for supremacy, the call of the Grim Reaper, the journey of salvation, the way the truth and the light, the wisest choice of help, trust my friend Jesus, Tuesday Mantra, worry
Isaiah 55:6. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.
And then it was Tuesday, and all the partying done for a few days, time to go back to work. But by Friday, the party scene going to start back up in full swing for the New Year’s celebrations. Don’t know how much we have to celebrate this year’s end nuh, with all the disaster and calamity that’s taken place, both natural and human induced. What’s there to celebrate when we can’t get together and solve even a few of our many problems, and some of them are very petty and simple to fix, but ignorance and selfishness and self-righteousness prevent us from doing anything to help our overall cause.
Steups! What can be more foolish eh, than a lack of cooperation when it only makes matters worse in all of our lives. And they call man the smartest of all God’s creations…Hn! I certainly question that after all the unwise and foolish stuff that I’ve seen mankind do in the last couple of years. The resentment, the strife, the enmity between family and friends over unbelievable stuff is unbelievable! Between partisan politics, the pandemic, racial tumult, climate change and a host of other problems, the world is in a state of upheaval that I don’t think it’s ever seen before.
When yuh hear we even want to kick Almighty God out of our society, foolishly thinking that we no longer have any need for Him, then you’ve heard it all! Because He is the ONLY ONE who can bring us together and solve our problems! But like so often before, once we get a taste of the good life, we start believing that it’s our doing, and so we get a tad too big for our britches, and the Lord has to bring us back to reality. Well mih bredrin, this is certainly a time of reality.
But yuh know what? Too many of us are still not waking up to it. Some of us are seeing it in rose-coloured glasses, while others are covered with darkness all round them, but unfortunately the reality is none of those scenarios. The reality is that Jesus is the light, the life, the way, the truth, the Lord and Saviour of this embattled world! And until more of us realize it, and decide to stop the foolish bickering over petty stuff, and sit down and talk seriously about the important things, the battle for supremacy between good and evil, between right and wrong will continue with neither side gaining any useful traction, much less being able to win!
And we go right back to the wise words of the prophet Isaiah, when he declared on the Lord’s behalf: ‘Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.’ (Is. 55:6) Oh my people, that would be the wisest decision we could ever make in this quickly deteriorating and sinking world of ours! And sincerely seeking the Lord is not the complete answer to the problem. Hear Isaiah put it all into proper perspective. ‘Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.’ ( Is. 55:7)
Now isn’t that so very encouraging, mih people? It certainly is, but we’re not paying attention, merely continuing in our stubborn, hard-headed ways, which unfortunately will only lead us further down the path to destruction. And if these next two verses don’t smarten us up, make us wake up and take notice, then I don’t know what will nuh. Listen up to Isaiah again, as he delivers the one two knockout punch. ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’ (Is. 55:8-9)
Doesn’t that just make you put your finger to your lips and go ‘Hnnnn!’ all lost in thought, as you consider the truth of those words? It ought to, because it is the reality of the situation. When are we going to learn that since we have no say in how long we live, or what condition we live in, means we are not rulers of the universe? All the money and power we possess doesn’t stop us from succumbing to the call of the Grim Reaper, whenever he calls.
And until we fully realize that we are just a created being with a limited shelf life, we will always fall prey to the deceit and lies of the foolish enemy Satan, who unfortunately thought that he could wrest power from the Creator of the universe, Almighty God, and suffered an ignominious defeat; that a humiliating, embarrassing, mortifying defeat! Disgracefully cast out to the fires of Hades, he is now seeking revenge by taunting and inducing fear into the lives and hearts of those who want to believe. And seeing that Satan had no power to stop himself from being kicked out of heaven, why do we foolishly believe his lies and deceits that he can do anything worthwhile for us eh?
Now let’s hope that these words of scripture make it clear, once and for all time, who is the King of glory, the Creator and Controller of this wonderful universe, so ruined by man and the devil. Isaiah puts it forth: ‘For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void (empty, without fruit), but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir (cypress) tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.’ (Is. 55:10-13)
Oh my people, can the evil one, the prince of darkness make such a faithful promise? Obviously not, because he doesn’t’ have that kind of power. But the Lord God Jehovah has, and He showed His faithfulness when two thousand years ago, he sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to be sacrificed on the cross of Calvary to save our sinful souls. Now has Beelzebub ever done anything even close to that? And an emphatic ‘NO’ is the answer! So why do we still believe Him over the Lord God Almighty eh? I don’t know nuh.
But listen to the scholars’ explanation of those verses. ‘55:8-13. God’s sovereignty and omniscience are extolled by the statement that His thoughts (i.e. purposes or intentions) and ways (directions) are higher than ours. While God may certainly be known by men, He is still incomprehensible in the totality of His person and purposes. Therefore He reveals Himself to men by His word, which shall not return to Him void (in vain). The Word of God, therefore, accomplishes His purpose in announcing salvation to all mankind.’
Yes friends, we can never fully comprehend the Lord’s purposes and ways because of our inferior intelligence. But through His awesome and faithful Word, He lets us know what’s happening, and it’s in this Christmas season, with the birth of Christ that He began the journey of salvation, of bringing us back into His fold, making us know of His exceeding LOVE and tender care. Now if all of that doesn’t touch a tender spot in your heart and soul, and make you seriously consider seeking Him, then I don’t know what else to do. I can only tell it like I know it.
However, for those of us who already believe and are doing our best to stay connected to Jesus, let’s go home now, sincerely and loudly declaring (steupsss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting everybody know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel. Altogether now: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with the world. Amen!’
Now let’s take all that LOVE and friendship to market and sell it like hot bread from an oven! (smile) Share it with all we meet, for that’s Jesus’ desire. Much LOVE!
…the wisest choice of help…our Creator and Controller…who else eh…
P.S. I know it’s somewhat long and late, but I think it’s good, (smile) so please take it seriously. Much LOVE!
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8
01 Dec 2021
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a hot bed of grumbling and complaining, be in the world not of the world, both to will and do his good pleasure, Christ's Church, complaining, disobedience to Almighty God, do all things without murmurings and disputings, endure to the end, everything will work out for good, foolish pride, glorify your father in heaven, I am halfway home, I'm not turning back, impervious to defeat, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, it is God which worketh in you, Let your light so shine before men, LOVE, mind-blowing times, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, my hands are on the plough, never give up, strife, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the Lord chastised the Israelites for complaining, the sons of God, there is no legitimate reason for murmurings and disputings, they may see your good works, think victory all the time, tirelessly fighting for supremacy, to a glorious future with Jesus, unconquerable spirit, Wednesday Wail, with fear and trembling, without rebuke, work out your own salvation, ye may be blameless and harmless, ye shine as lights in the world
Philippians 2:14. Do all things without murmurings (grumbling) and disputings.
Well, we’ve opened unto a fairly decent Wednesday, the first day of December; with no snow and some sunshine. Yes, the clouds are there, tirelessly fighting for supremacy, but the sun is in ascendance right now. Thank the Lord! But friends, how I do wish that we, the followers of and believers in Christ had that unflagging, indomitable, unconquerable spirit like those clouds have as they fight the sun’s awesome power, where we never give up, where we are impervious to defeat and only think victory all the time!
That’s the kind of faith and spirit we need more than ever in these over-the-top, mind-blowing times that none of us have ever before experienced. And instead of complaining like we do, we ought to be crying out to Jesus and living the way He wants us to, believing, as He faithfully promised, that everything will work out for good in the end, for those who sincerely LOVE and abide in Him. And as we promised yesterday, if God spared our lives, which He’s obviously done (smile), we’ll continue talking about that disgusting and ungodly attitude that we too often have, called ‘Complaining.’
Now yesterday we saw back in olden times where the Lord chastised the Israelites for too much complaining, especially when He was keeping them in food and drink. They didn’t like manna, and wanted meat, so He gave them so much meat that it eventually turned their hearts against it, became loathsome to them. And I theorized that the same thing is happening to us today with all the disasters, both natural and manmade, as well as the Covid plague that just won’t go away, because of our stubborn, foolish pride and disobedience to Almighty God.
But enough of my theorizing, let’s turn to the New Testament for some words on the subject of complaining, since some of us wrongly believe that the Old Testament has nothing to offer us in these supposed modern times. And Bruh Paul, the wise man that he was, spoke to the subject in no uncertain terms in his letter to the Philippians. Listen as he tells them. ‘’Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.’ (Phil. 2:12-13)
And we know that means not literally working for our salvation because that’s a free gift given by God, and has nothing to do with our works, but the carrying out of it to its logical conclusion depends on us. We need to work out the new life not just for our profit but for the benefit of others also. And if we work out and show the new life divinely worked in us, we will live worthy of the gospel, in harmony with each other, seeking the progress of the gospel. We will also regard each other as more important than ourselves, be concerned with the needs of our fellow brethren, and make the appropriate sacrifices in obedience to God, as did Jesus.
In doing all of this, we will work out or express the new life we have through Christ. And having said a lot of that in the beginning of the chapter and elsewhere in his letter, Bruh Paul continues: ‘Do all things without murmurings (grumbling) and disputings. That ye may be blameless and harmless (innocent), the sons (children) of God, without rebuke (fault), in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation (generation), among whom ye shine as lights in the world.’ (Phil. 2:14-15)
Bruh Paul couldn’t be any clearer than that! Christians are not to be continual grumblers and complainers and disputers! Now remember, it’s God who is working in us, for us to do His good will and pleasure, and that can ofttimes be difficult, calling for sacrifices and such, but don’t lose sight of the fact that in the end it will all work out to our benefit.
And I like the scholars’ explanation of verse 14. They say: ‘Since God is producing in the Philippians the willing and doing of His good and perfect will (vs.13), there can be no legitimate reason for murmurings and disputings. Not only are they forbidden to complain about the difficulties and persecutions that will befall them in carrying out God’s good pleasure, but quarreling among themselves is also prohibited.’
Wow! Now that declaration also stands for us today my fellow believers. And how I wish we could all function in such a Christian manner. But unfortunately, Christ’s church right now is a hot bed of grumbling and complaining, of cliques and groups resentful and jealous of each other, of a whole lot of antagonism and evil doings in the body of Christ! If we follow verses 12 and 14, then we would become blameless and harmless. But due to the significant amount strife in the current church this is presently not true
And are we ever living in the midst of a perverse, crooked, evil and depraved world. Thus, we are expected to help the lost, since that’s the only way that they will ever know Christ. However, in doing so, we must try and not call our witness into rebuke or disfavour by behaving like the world. Instead, as Christ Himself describes us: ‘Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid….Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.’ (Matt. 5:14, 16)
Oh friends, our crazy, discombobulated world desperately needs us to be bright lights shining in its evil darkness! Please, please, let’s come up higher nuh, so that we can be the kind of light that Jesus desires us to be. And one way to do that is by stopping the grumbling and complaining that we do daily, over petty and unimportant stuff. Don’t you think it’s breaking Jesus’ heart when He sees the disgusting and disturbing state of disrepair that His church has fallen into? I’m sure it does. And we can’t give Him wrong if sometimes He even asks Himself if His life sacrifice was worth it, considering our willful disobedience and unchristian behaviour.
So we all need to look in the mirror and truthfully ask ourselves if we are indeed shining lights in the world’s darkness, or just adding to its darkness. Now, for those of us who are sincerely trying to be lights, let’s go home declaring (awright!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful and enviable position in Christ Jesus.
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!’
And we need to be in it for the long haul, because those who endure to the end will find that the future is even more glorious than we can ask or even imagine! Much LOVE!
…Christians ought to…be in the world…but not of the world…
P.S. Please excuse the lateness of the Bit, but life, as it is wont to do, unexpectedly intervened and delayed my writing. Thanks for the forgiveness! (smile) Much LOVE!
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8
27 Oct 2021
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a christian's lifeline, a form of godliness, a light unto my path, a meeting of the minds, all scripture is given by inspiration of God, apostasy, blasphemers, boasters, covetous, different doctrines and guidelines, disobedient to parents, dissension, disunity, endure to the end, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, for reproof, given by inspiration of God, Guidebook for earthly living, hands on the plough, I am halfway home, is profitable for doctrine, live it through His Holy Spirit, lost track of time, LOVE, lovers of pleasures, lovers of their own selves, more than lovers of God, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, not turning back, our go to person, our sounding block, read the Word of God, so glad to be alive, storm-driven society, strife, thank God, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the Holy spirit to keep me anchored, the supernatural guidance of the Spirit of God, thy word is a lamp unto my feet, to a glorious future with Jesus, Wednesday Wail
2 Timothy 3:16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Wait nuh…is it really Wednesday already? But it was just Monday! Hn, hn, hn! I guess with the constant rain and darkness over the last few days, I’ve lost track of time. It seems dry now, but still somewhat cloudy. And it’s a good thing I had the Holy Spirit of Christ to keep me anchored, otherwise I might have lost track of myself too. (smile)
Now that just goes to show how important the Holy Spirit is in a believer’s life. It keeps us anchored in Christ, our feet on the ground, so that we don’t lose our way. Without the Holy Spirit’s wise guidance we’d indeed be lost and ever so vulnerable to the enemy’s wiles and deceitful schemes. But He is our sounding block, our go to person in times of doubt and trouble, He holds our reins and guides us along the paths of righteousness. He leads us to the appropriate word of the Father when we need it, because as the scriptures tell us: ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.’ (Ps. 119:105)
And in all truth, there’s not a problem we face in this life that we can’t find a wise word from the Good Book to show us the right way, the best decision to make. Remember, it’s our Guidebook for earthly living. Just like you look at all the guidebooks when you travel to see the best places to go, likewise, we ought to continually look within the Lord’s Word to see how we ought to live our lives.
Bruh Paul said it thus to Timothy in his second letter. ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished (equipped) unto all good works.’ (2 Tim. 3:16-17) Now those are remarkable words my brethren, words that we ought to take to heart and follow as best we can, because they were written for our edification and benefit, so that we can grow and mature as true Christians.
And the scholars offer some interesting explanations on those verses. ‘3:14-17. Inspiration of God (lit. “God-breathed”) describes the unique character of Scripture. It is not only written by men, but authored by God. Inspired by the supernatural guidance of the Spirit of God, so that what they wrote was the divine Word of God, transcribed accurately, reliably, and without error in the original manuscripts.
For doctrine means to tell one what to believe. For reproof means to tell one what is wrong. For correction means to tell one how to correct wrong. For instruction in righteousness means to tell one how to live. Perfect (proficient, capable) is having everything to do what God wants. Thoroughly furnished means “thoroughly equipped.” God’s inspired Word properly used and applied, provides all we need for life and ministry.’
And the most important words there my brethren are ‘properly used and applied.’ Yes, if we don’t learn the Word of God and apply it properly it will be useless, just like any other guidebook not followed properly. And that’s one of the problems facing the church these days; too many different interpretations and directives of the same scripture.
That means different doctrines and guidelines, which consequently lead to serious disputes amongst the brethren. And since no one wants to believe or admit that their interpretation is wrong or faulty, or that there could possibly be a meeting of the minds, Christ’s church is filled with dissension and disunity, strife, anger, and all the negative stuff that pleases the enemy and has Him laughing all the way to his lair in hell.
Oh my fellow believers, we cannot win souls for Christ, or even get them to consider living for Christ if we as Christians can’t live in peace with each other. And to make matters even worse, the way our society functions today does not lend itself to godliness. As Bruh Paul so accurately described it to Timothy. ‘For men shall be LOVERS of their own selves, covetous (money LOVERS), boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
Without natural affection, trucebreakers (irreconcilable), false accusers (slanderers), incontinent (without self-control), fierce (brutal), despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady (reckless), high-minded (haughty), LOVERS of pleasures, more than LOVERS of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.’ (2 Tim. 3:2-5)
And if that isn’t the gospel truth regarding our current society, then I don’t know what is! Yes friends, apostasy, or the rejection of Christianity is happening in droves, since the culture of the society will not tolerate our standards of godly living. And as Bruh Paul told Timothy, re a form of godliness, where all we have is mere religion and no power or true spiritual life, is exactly what’s happening today!
Our world has certainly gone bonkers with supposed Christian leaders watering down the Word and using it for their own evil purposes. The enemy even has flowering organizations working under Christ’s name. So, what else can we expect but strife and confusion in our unanchored, storm-driven society. It’s truly unfortunate friends, that when civilization has reached its highest pinnacle in terms of learning, of knowledge and understanding in things like science and technology, it has also reached a sad low point in godliness, truth, peace and LOVE!
However, there is yet hope for some turn around through our relatively small group of faithful believers. And size doesn’t really matter, since we have Almighty God working with us. Remember what the twelve…or eleven disciples of Jesus did, a couple of thousands of years ago? They began proselytizing the world, saving it from sin and Satan, and it’s our bounden duty to continue that awesome work. So please, let’s stand strong and work smart, guided by the Word of God and His Holy Spirit!
Now, for those of us who are seriously endeavouring to do just that, let’s go home declaring (steups!!!) our Wednesday Wail, letting all and sundry know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus. As one strong and sincere voice: ‘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!’
Now, having said all of that, we also need to remember that if we endure with Jesus to the very end, that the future will be even more glorious than our puny, finite minds can ever imagine! Much LOVE!
…a Christian’s lifeline…read the Word of God…believe it…and live it through His Holy Spirit…
Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZJ8
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