Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 April 2024   1 Corinthians 3:18.

09 Apr 2024 Leave a comment

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

1 Corinthians 3:18.       Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world (age), let him become a fool, that he may be wise.

And then it was Tuesday; the day we use to recover from our Monday inefficiencies and insecurities. (smile) Now, since we’ve had fellowship with the Lord and other believers in His sanctuary on Sunday, we ought to be rearing to go on Monday. But it’s not until Tuesday that we really have it all together and our work week running smoothly. Somehow, despite all our good intentions, we never seem to get it right on Monday, possibly because it’s seemingly ingrained in our minds as the bad boy of the week, therefore, we always seem to stump our toes on Monday. 

But if that’s the way it is, then we just have to learn to live with stumped toes on a Monday. (smile) All the Lord can do is give us the power, the grace, the mercy, the anointing, whatever we need to do His will, but it’s ultimately up to us to use the tools He provides. 

And today, the Good Library opened unto the first Book of Corinthians, and, most appropriately, the first words I saw were these: ‘Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world (age), let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, the Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain (futile). Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours. Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.’ (1 Cor. 3:18-23) 

Ah friends, wonderful words of wisdom. Man ought not to take himself too seriously, but trend more towards God. As Cousin Sol  so wisely says in Proverbs: ‘Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.’ (Prov. 3:7) And when Bruh Paul talks about the Lord taking the wise in their own craftiness, he is there quoting from Job 5:13. Now since the Lord knows whatever we are up to, and since most of it is vain and futile in His eyes, why do we still hunger for the wisdom of man and not that of God eh? I guess it’s a combination of our free will and our foolish pride. But the immediate question is why did Bruh Paul pen those words to the church at Corinth? 

Because there was still a lot of envying and strife amongst the congregation. At the beginning of the chapter, he writes: ‘And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat (solid food): for hitherto (until now) ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions (dissensions), are ye not carnal (fleshly), and walk as men (according to man)? 

For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but that God giveth the increase.’ (1 Cor. 3:1-7) 

Oh my faithful brethren, unfortunately the church is still in a state of carnality after all this time. Too many of us are still only able to drink spiritual milk and not eat spiritual solid food, we only know the elementary aspects of our Christian faith, and cannot handle the more serious doctrines. Why? Because  there’s still a lot of strife, envying and fleshly lusts in Christ’s church, that keeps it seriously divided and thus unfulfilled. That means we are nowhere near fulfilling the work that Christ expects of us. And like the factions that destroyed the unity in Corinth, the ones who are destroying today’s unity are not walking in the Spirit but allowing the flesh of man to dictate their ungodly behaviour. 

And Bruh Paul continues his discourse on the subject. ‘Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are all labourers (God’s fellow workers) together with God: ye are God’s husbandry (field), ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.’ (1 Cor. 3:8-11) 

And there we have the crux of the problem: the ONLY foundation worthy of being built upon is that laid by Jesus Christ! But sadly, many of us are building on foundations not laid by Christ, and some who are building on Christ’s foundations are using different materials to build upon it. However, Bruh Paul further explains: ‘Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble (straw); every man’s work shall be made manifest (become evident) for the day (judgement day) shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try (test) every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide (endures) which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved: yet so as by (through) fire.’ (1 Cor. 3:12-15) 

Yes my fellow believers, come the judgement day, our works will be tried by fire, and if they stand up strong like the incombustible elements mentioned above (gold, silver, precious stones), we will receive a reward. However, if we build with combustible elements, like wood, straw and hay, then our work will be consumed by the fire, meaning our work was not satisfactory, and though we will be saved, our rewards will be negated. 

So what do we get from all of this eh? First that we Christians are all One; labourers in Christ, and as followers of Christ we are thus children of God, therefore everything that we have comes from the Father, and consequently our differences and divisions based on allegiances to mere men are absurd and ungodly. But then too we need to build our earthly work on the foundation laid by Christ, that’s His gospel and the examples He set for us, and take care to build with good, strong materials, that can withstand God’s judgement. 

And now my fellow saints, it’s all up to us. So let’s go home declaring (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry 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!’ 

And having said that, we now need to go out and 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!

…it’s high time believers become spiritually mature…stop drinking spiritual milk…and begin eating solid, spiritual food…

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ

Today’s Scrip-Bit   6 April 2024 John 13:34

06 Apr 2024 Leave a comment

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

John 13:34.        A new commandment I give unto you, That ye LOVE one another; as I have LOVED you, that ye also LOVE one another.

And it’s a bright, sunshiny, lazy-day Saturday in my area, with spring time temps. One suitable for either going out and enjoying the outdoors, or just staying at home and hibernating. Whatever you do though, please be sure to keep Jesus first place in your mind, for He’s the One who makes it all happen for us! 

As He so eloquently states it in the Word. ‘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. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto (for) you.’ (John 15:4-7) 

Ah my people, it could not be put more clearly than that. Jesus is the One around whom all of our faith revolves; our author and finisher. If He is not front and centre in our lives, then we’ll just wither away, and end up like withered branches, burned in the fire of uselessness. But if we keep the faith, live by His words, then all that we ask will be done for us. Now, please note, that that doesn’t mean any and every foolish or worthless thing we ask for, but whatever we ask that’s in God’s will. 

Too often many of us take that to mean we can ask for whatever carnal or selfish stuff we need and expect it to be given to us, and when it isn’t, we get angry with God and blaspheme Him for His supposed unfaithfulness. But God is only required to give us what falls under His will, and nothing else. Now, sometimes He will go against that rule and give us the carnal desires of our flesh just to show us the inappropriateness of our desires, so that we will fall back into line with His will. 

That ought to show us  the wisdom of Bruh Paul’s words in his second letter to the church at Corinth, where he writes: ‘Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.’ (2 Cor. 3:5) And that’s the gospel truth my brethren! God is our Creator and Controller and we don’t do anything without Him allowing it. The problem is He’s given us free will to choose our lifestyle, hoping that we’ll choose Him. But if we don’t, He won’t interfere with our decisions, just allow us to suffer the negative consequences, always hoping that they will turn us back to His wise and wonderful way of thinking and living. 

Oh friends, our God is a good God, but He is not an intrusive God, and won’t intrude on our will unless we desire Him to. And since He’s provided a way for us to gain forgiveness of sins, salvation and eternal life through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus, then it’s now up to us to come to Him and gain all the wonderful stuff that He’s provided. And Jesus made it ever so plain when He says: ‘As the Father hath LOVED me, so have I LOVED you: continue ye (abide) in my LOVE. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my LOVE; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His LOVE. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and your joy might be full.’ (John 15:9-11) 

Yuh see that mih people…living for Jesus is all about LOVE and obedience! Just like He LOVED the Father and obeyed His commands, so are we Christians expected to LOVE Christ and obey His commands. And what are His commands? Here is the basic, the foundational principle of Christ’s teaching. ‘A new commandment I give unto you, That ye LOVE one another; as I have LOVED you, that ye also LOVE one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have LOVE one to another.’ (John 13:34-35) 

There you have it friends, clear and precise, as it always is from Jesus. The basic quality Christians ought to show is LOVE for each other, so that the unbeliever can know that we belong to Christ. But unfortunately down through the years the church has become so divided and fragmented, alienated and spilt up into so many different denominations, cliques and what have you, with so much strife and bad blood between us, that LOVE for each other is something we now possess very little of, and thus we don’t show it in sufficient amounts to make a positive difference in our ungodly world. 

How sad my fellow saints, that we’ve disobeyed Christ’s basic commandment. For without true LOVE amongst the brethren, Christ’s Spirit will not work. Just like He could not do much stuff, many miracles, in His hometown of Nazareth, because of their unbelief, (Matt. 13:53-58) likewise He won’t be able to do much in these desperate times if believers don’t get together, put aside their differences, many of which are selfish and petty, and begin LOVING each other for Christ’s sake. End of Sermon! 

And no, I have not forgotten our Lazy-Day Saturday prayer, it just seemed more appropriate to have it at the end today. So please pray with me. ‘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 if we’re sincere, then I know that we will indeed receive what we’ve asked for, because God’s LOVE, peace and presence are all in His will for us. Much LOVE!

…behold…how good and how pleasant it is…for brethren to dwell together in unity… (Ps. 133:1)

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ

Today’s Scrip-Bit   2 April 2024 Matthew 6:12.

02 Apr 2024 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 6:12.        And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

Then it was Easter Tuesday, time to get back to working for a living, therefore, most of the Easter hoopla has now been toned down. But not the celebrated Easter Tuesday Goat Races in that picturesque, seaside village of Buccoo in sweet Tobago. Ah friends, that’s gotten so big and popular now that in recent years they built a stadium to house those goat races. I remember the days when it used to be just an open field in the village betwixt some houses, with parties galore happening all around, and people standing along the side lines, shouting for their favourite goat or crab. 

Obviously the event was much more raucous and spontaneous. But apparently, as things grow bigger, they need to be better handled and managed, thus the building of the stadium. However, to a certain extent that quells the natural spontaneity of the event, making it less colourful. But in some quarters, that’s called progress, (smile) and as it’s still a colourful event, we’ll see you later down in Buccoo at the Goat Races. Party Time! 

Now let’s get serious about the real ramifications of this Easter weekend. On Good Friday, Christ sacrificed His sinless life on the cross of Calvary so that our sin debt could be paid in full. That was the exorbitant price required by the Father for that situation to be solved. And Christ paid it without any hard feelings, despite the gross ‘sufferation’ He was forced to endure. As Isaiah so rightly says: ‘All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.’ (Is. 53:6) 

Yes my fellow believers, the Lord laid ALL of our abominable sins on the shoulders of Christ that Good Friday day two thousand years ago. Meaning He was totally weighed down with, and made responsible for our ungodly transgressions. That means we now have forgiveness of our sins. However, that doesn’t come automatically or naturally. No! As Jesus said to the Jewish Leader, Nicodemus: ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, (or from above), he cannot see the kingdom of God. … Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.’ (John 3:3, 5) 

Now, that means to be forgiven of our sins and thus be able to enter in God’s kingdom we also have to do something. And what’s that, you ask? Listen to Jesus tell it. ‘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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten son of God.’ (John 3:16-18) 

There you have it friends; what we need to do so that we can be saved. It’s simple and straightforward: Believe in Christ Jesus! Believe that He is the Son of God; the promised Messiah; be born again of the Holy Spirit and be baptized in water, as an outward show of our inner sincerity! That makes us saved and eligible to enter heaven. But within that new born again life there are a couple of things that are necessary to live the Christian life; the life Christ died for us to have. As He says: ‘The thief cometh not, but for (except) to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ (John 10:10) 

So, if we believe in Jesus and live the way He desires of us, we will have an abundant life beginning right down here on earth. But before we move on to heavenly matters, (smile) there is one earthly thing we must remember and get absolutely right, and it deals with the forgiveness of sins. Christ died so that that could be achieved, that we could renew a right relationship with the Father, but there’s one codicil to it, that regarding the sins of the individual. Jesus specifies it quite plainly in His Sermon on the Mount, when teaching His disciples to pray. It’s this simple but ever so important line of what we call the Lords’ Prayer. ‘And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.’ (Matt. 6:12) 

Oh my people, that is the most important thing we need to remember and do after we believe in Jesus. Otherwise, He continues: ‘For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.’ (Matt. 6:14-15) It could not get any clearer than that my brethren. Forgiveness of other’s sins against us must be meted out, if we want forgiveness from our heavenly Father. But sadly, in this strife-filled, angry and hateful world, unforgiveness is one of the major drawbacks in turning things around. 

Our human selfishness is showing up ever so greatly with our refusal to forgive others the way we want the Lord to forgive us. And that’s what causing so much of the negativity in our embattled and turbulent world. Now we all know that a lot of harsh and hurting things are done each and every day to numerous people, and it’s very difficult to forgive some of those trespasses, but the fact is that we must try, through prayer and heavenly help, if we want our own sins to be forgiven and our world to therefore become a better place. 

And it’s so sad to realize that much of the strife and hatred now in place began centuries ago, and some of those now involved in the negativity don’t even know what they’re really fighting and hating for. That’s how bad our inhumanity and unforgiveness has become. What more can I say eh friends, when these days, finding a country where there’s no strife or very little, is like searching for the proverbial needle in a haystack. And unfortunately, things will not get better until we begin forgetting and forgiving the sins and trespasses of our individual neighbors and those worldwide. 

And if God spares life, tomorrow we’ll continue with the heavenly mattes we spoke about earlier on. (smile) But for those of us who are trying to live the abundant life in these tough circumstances, let’s go home now declaring (yesss!!!) our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong, lock 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!’ 

And having said that, it now becomes our bounden duty to go out and 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!

…to be forgiven…one needs to forgive…

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ

Today’s Scrip-Bit   9 March 2024   John 15:12 & 17) 

09 Mar 2024 Leave a comment

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

John 15:12 & 17.         This is my commandment, That ye LOVE one another, as I have LOVED you… These things I command you, that ye LOVE one another.

And like the weather forecasters got it right! This lazy-day Saturday has started out wet, windy and cloudy, let’s hope that it will improve as the day goes along. And even if it doesn’t, we still have Jesus! Glory be! We have Jesus to ease our problems, give us His peace and comfort us, guide us in the direction He desires us to go, and so many other wonderful things, that with Him, we want for NOTHING in this world! As Bruh Paul so confidently and truthfully writes; ‘We can do ALL things, through Christ who strengthens us.’ (Phil. 4:13) And just as importantly and truthfully: ‘My God will supply ALL your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19) 

And with those two foundation scriptures bubbling in our souls, let’s turn our eyes and hearts heavenward and offer up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer. As one sincere 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!’ 

Wow! It never ceases to amaze me, how such a simple, heartfelt prayer can usher us into the presence of God, just have His amazing and calming presence engulfing us with His awesome LOVE and compassion! But that’s what prayer is all about my people; to bring us closer to God, and allow us to pour out our hearts to Him, and then listen for His answers to our concerns. Prayer is indeed the greatest privilege we have as believers, but so many of us refuse to believe in it and thus don’t use it, thinking it’s a complete waste of time. Some of us have indeed prayed but did not receive the answers we were looking for, and were thus soured on it. 

But let’s remember that prayer is a convenience granted to us by Almighty God to help us do His Will, not to foster our own advantages. Thus, if you don’t pray in God’s Will, then obviously your prayer won’t be answered. For God is not a doting grandfather who just sits there waiting to do our every selfish and evil bidding. That’s why James admonishes us: ‘From whence come wars (conflicts) and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts (desires for pleasure) that war in your members? 

Ye lust, and have not: ye kill (murder), and desire (covet) to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war (battle), yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not , because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts (pleasures). Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that friendship of (with) the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will (wants to) be a friend of the world is (makes himself an) enemy of God. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy (yearns jealously)?’ (James 4:1-5) 

No, the scripture does not lie. That takes us back to the very  beginning, where the word says: ‘And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination (intent) of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.’ (Gen. 6:5) That’s why the Lord chose to destroy the world in a flood. Oh friends, the same situation exists in our world today; evil thoughts and intents abound from North to South and East to West. There is such widespread strife, hatred and anger like we’ve never seen before. 

And most of it stems from exactly what James writes about; our unsatisfied, selfish desires. As supposed believers, we ask the Lord for stuff to satisfy our lustful pleasures, instead of to do His holy will, and when we don’t get it, we end up striving and fighting with each other. And as the scholars explain: ‘As Israel was a spiritual adulteress, unfaithful to God, so the church is a spiritual adulteress when she is the unfaithful bride of Christ. (cf. Hos. 2:5, 19-20; Matt. 12:39). One cannot be both a LOVER of God and a LOVER of the world.’ 

And believe me, today’s church is certainly something else! The many unnecessary denominations, cliques, petty squabbles over doctrine and other even pettier stuff, plus the too many evils that go on in it, makes Christ church a laughing stock amongst the heathen, who gleefully apply the moniker ‘hypocrite’ to us all. And they’re not  wrong nuh, for too many of us talk one talk, then walk an entirely different walk. And if a bunch of people who claim to believe in the same Leader, cannot get along, and show the Leader’s major attribute to each other, how can others be expected to believe in that Leader and His cause eh? 

Ah mih people, Christianity will never conquer the world until Christians learn to live and work together and get rid of all the petty stuff that’s keeping them apart. So please, on this dreary-looking lazy-day Saturday, let’s spend some time pondering these ever so important words of Jesus re His followers. ‘This is my commandment, That ye LOVE one another, as I have LOVED you… These things I command you, that ye LOVE one another.’ (John 15:12, 17) 

Yes my fellow saints, the most important thing that should be happening between us is the LOVE of Christ! But sadly, that’s exactly what’s not happening! No wonder the world is in such an evil and ungodly mess like way back before the Lord destroyed it. And yuh know what, this time the Lord won’t even have to destroy us, because if we continue along our current path, we will eventually destroy ourselves. Please ponder the foolishness and lack of wisdom in that nuh, when the Lord has given us such a glorious universe and earthly life to enjoy! Much LOVE!

…if Christians can’t show LOVE for each other…then how can we expect the heathens to show LOVE for us…

 Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ

Today’s Scrip-Bit   1 January 2024 Proverbs 29:18.

01 Jan 2024 Leave a comment

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

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

Proverbs 29:18.       Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Oh my Script-Bit friends and families, I do wish all of us a happy and prosperous 2024, with all of God’s grace and mercy enlivening our spirits, causing us to draw closer to Him and do better work on His behalf! That’s because our New Year’s resolution is to become more intimate with Him. (smile) And now that we’ve had some snow, but still no sunshine, and the big New Year’s bash is over for another 365 days – no 366, as this year is a leap year, what’s the result eh? Tiredness and/or inebriation from too much drink and too much partying, but everybody will agree on how they had such a great time. (smile) 

All to what purpose, for nothing has changed since last night, and most likely nothing will change for better, but more likely for worse soon. Today there are still wars and rumours of wars, violence, strife, hatred, anger and all the evil and negative things promoted by the prince of this dark world. Hunger and poverty, economic deprivation and homelessness, as well as health care and education are still major problems in our world. But no one ever considers spending the money we spend on things like New Year’s Eve on those immediate and moral necessities. 

No, there’s never any money to do those things, that’s why our modern-day society, which is rolling in material wealth, is in such misery and has become more beggarly than ever. Charitable associations abound, with everybody begging for a handout, supposedly to help others right in the rich, supposed first world countries. Why do we need so many charitable institutions eh? And where does all the money they collect go to eh? What gets me annoyed is that even the ones you give to, keep asking for more, and some you don’t even know about write for donations. These days when I go to the mailbox, if there are ten pieces of mail, at least eight are from Charitable Organizations asking for donations. 

Meanwhile, in all this flurry of materialism and greed, the things of God; LOVE, peace, joy, wisdom and understanding, compassion and humanity are being relegated to the back burners of our society. In fact, in the last few days, several players in the war games have ramped up their positions, getting ready for possible engagement before long. What is it with the human soul, mind, body and spirit that we are so enamoured with war and violence eh, with gross inhumanity to our brothers, both literally and figuratively? 

You certainly don’t hear of any countries ramping up for gospel revivals, or LOVE Revolutions, or any of those things that have to do with Almighty God. No, that would not be tolerated, but warmongering will always be welcome! Ah Lord eh! I believe that our sad situation has to do with two basic scriptures. The first being the wise words of Cousin Sol in Proverbs. ‘Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.’ (Prov. 29:18) Yes friends, where there is no prophetic vision, no redemptive revelation of God, the people perish because they cast off restraint and do as they want. But he who keeps God’s moral law, as well as the law of man will be blessed. 

It’s as simple as that my brethren. If there’s no godly wisdom and leadership in a society, it will obviously crumble in short time. And we have a very good example of that back in the days of the judges of Israel, when the Good Book tells us: ‘In those days there was no king In Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.’ (Judg. 21:25) And that was definitely a chaotic time in Israel. These words from the first book of Samuel also illustrate the malady that happens when God is not present in a society. ‘And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious (rare) in those days; there was no open vision.’ (1 Sam. 3:1) 

The scholars then explain: ‘The severity of Israel’s apostasy (turning away from God), as we see in the quote from Judges above, caused a dearth of God’s revelatory work. The condition was perpetuating and self-defeating as Cousin Sol says in the Proverbs quote. By God’s grace the prophetic institution would receive renewed impetus and standardization in the person and work of Samuel (cf. 3:21; 10 20) That’s where the Lord spoke to Samuel. 

And the prophet Amos said the very same things. ‘Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the word of the Lord. And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and from to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it.’ (Amos 8:11-12) Oh my people, back then Israel suffered from a famine of the heart, a lack of God’s words to guide them, just like we are suffering from the same malady today! 

It’s the same way that Bruh Paul warned Timothy. ‘This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous (money lovers), boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers (irreconcilable), false accusers (slanderers), incontinent (without self-control), fierce (brutal), despisers of those that are good. Traitors, heady (reckless), highminded (haughty), lovers of pleasures more (rather) than lovers of God. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.’ (2 Tim. 3:1-5) 

Ah my fellow saints, unless you are living on a different planet, you will undoubtedly see the wisdom of Bruh Paul’s words, for those negative things are rather prevalent in our world today. And there’s only ONE way to combat them; that’s sincerely seeking the wisdom the revelation of God’s Word, and putting it into practice. And to help us do that we need to go to God for His divine help, since we can’t do it on our own. And there’s no better time than on this New Year’s Day, the first day of 2024, to go to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, seeking God’s face and His help. 

Altogether now: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face. 

So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’ 

And the moral of the story is that if we turn from our evil ways, the Lord will prosper us. So let’s enjoy the day, but remember to keep God first place in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls! Much LOVE!

…the Lord will prosper us…in direct proportion to our obedience… 

Hear our podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/3aVfqIC1CqwGybISs9dZ                   

Today’s Scrip-Bit   23 December 2023 Luke 2:14.

23 Dec 2023 Leave a comment

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

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          

Today’s Scrip-Bit   22 December 2023   1 Timothy 2:8.

22 Dec 2023 Leave a comment

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

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         

Today’s Scrip-Bit   3 February 2023 Proverbs 6:9.

03 Feb 2023 Leave a comment

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

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           

Today’s Scrip-Bit   1 January 2023   2 Corinthians 5:21.

01 Jan 2023 Leave a comment

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

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        

Today’s Scrip-Bit   25 October 2022 Psalm 46:1.

25 Oct 2022 Leave a comment

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

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             

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