09 Mar 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: about the tough rows I've hoed, according to his riches in glory, all at once, all things work together for good, and was dead, appreciate what we have, battle to the death, be in good health, be of good cheer, Bible, called according to His purpose, christianity, Christians are not pushovers, consider one another, courage, don't know our right hand from our left, don't worry about that much, Drinking from my Saucer, earthly sojourn, eternal second death, ever-faithful, exhorting one another, faith, fellowship, fight the enemy, giving up is never an option, go along life's journey, God never fails, God will provide for all of our needs, God's strength is made perfect in my weakness, gospel truth, have the keys of hell and death, He is faithful that promised, hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, holy spirit, I am alive for evermore, I am he that liveth, I encourage you today, i have overcome the world, I pronounce a blessing on your life, I shall not want, I thank God for all his blessings, I'm already blessed enough, I'm happy anyhow, I've got a friend in jesus, I've never made a fortune, I'll not ask for other blessings, if God gives me strength, in Jesus economy, in me ye might have peace, in the name of Jesus, Jabez, Jesus Christ, learn to be contented, like clockwork, living in LOVE, Lord help me not to grumble and complain, LOVE, mano a mano, may I never be too busy, mercy, my faith wore somewhat thin, never never give up, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves, our cup is overflowing, our Triune God, reaping better than I sow, remain steadfast in faith, salvation, sometimes the going's rough, staying faithful, stop complaining, sweet sacrifices of praise, thanks be to God who gives us the victory, that makes me rich enough, the dark clouds broke, the last days, The Lord is my shepherd, the mercies he's bestowed, the sun peeped through again, times things went wrong, to go on living, to help others bear their loads, to provoke unto love and good works, to them that love God, too late now, trials and tribluations, truth, upon your family, We can do all things through Christ, when the way grows steep and rough, wisdom, you must prosper, you see the day approaching
Hebrews 10:23. Let us hold fast the profession (confession) of our faith (hope) without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
Oh friends, if there’s one thing we know it’s that one day follows the next like clockwork, because that’s the way God made it. That means Sunday always follows Saturday, which further means that it’s time for true believers in Jesus Christ to gather in His sanctuary, or wherever possible, to engage in fellowship with Him and with each other. And we’ll open today’s fellowship with a true and sincere song by Jamaican Gospel Artiste Jabez, titled ‘Drinking From My Saucer, from his album God Never Fails!
And we all know that as gospel truth! So let’s offer up some sweet sacrifices of praise in a mid tempo, soulful rendition of this truth-laden song. But before we sing, we pray: ‘We Worship You Lord, we worship You with all of our hearts, souls, bodies and minds.’ Then, singing: ‘I’ve Never Made A Fortune, And It’s Probably Too Late Now, Oh, but I Don’t Worry About That Much, Cause I’m Happy Anyhow. And As I Go Along Life’s Journey, I’m Reaping Better Than I Sow. I’m Drinking From My Saucer, Because My Cup Has Overflowed.
I haven’t Got A Lot Of Riches, And Sometimes The Going’s Rough, But I’ve Got a friend in Jesus, And That Makes Me Rich Enough. I Thank God For all His Blessings on me, And The Mercies He’s Bestowed. I’m Drinking From My Saucer Because My Cup Has Overflowed. I Remember Times When Things went Wrong, And my Faith Wore Somewhat Thin, But All At Once The Dark Clouds Broke, And the Sun Peeped Through Again,’
(Monologue:) ‘You know, right now you may be going through some rough times in your life, but I’m here to encourage you today, not to give up. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP! I pronounce a blessing upon your life, upon your family. You must prosper and be in good health in the name of Jesus. I believe it with all my heart.’
(Singing:) ‘So Lord, Help Me Not To Grumble and complain About The Tough Rows That I’ve Hoed. I’m Drinking From My Saucer Because My Cup Has Overflowed. And If God Gives Me Strength And Courage to go on living, When The Way Grows Steep And Rough I’ll Not Ask For Other Blessings Jesus, For I’m Already Blessed Enough, And May I Never Be Too Busy, To Help Others Bear Their Loads, Then I’ll Keep Drinking From My Saucer Lord, Because My Cup Has Overflowed! Yes, I’ll keep drinking from my saucer Lord, Cause my cup has overflowed, Oh my cup has overflowed…. Yes My cup has overflowed… Thank You Lord, that my cup has overflowed…’
Ah mih people, almost all of us believers can agree on the truth of those words, encompassing the many trials we’ve experienced, but also the many blessings that the Lord has bestowed on us during our lifetime, especially in those times when we didn’t know our right hand from our left, or what step to take next. And that’s the beauty of our Triune God, He saves us, just when we’re about to go under. And though we might never accumulate many riches, we will always be contented if we walk with the Lord, for as Bruh David says in Psalm 23: ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.’ (Ps.23:1)
Now that should stop all worries, but He’s also promised that we can do all things through His strength, (Phil. 4:13) and will provide for all our needs, (Phil. 4:19), as well as His strength is made perfect in our weakness. (2 Cor. 12:9) And we all know one of His many names is Ever-Faithful, so what’s there to be worried about eh?
Remember what the author of Hebrews also writes: ‘Let us hold fast the profession (confession) of our faith (hope) without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke (stir up) unto LOVE and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.’ (Heb. 10:23-25)
Yes friends, that’s what we ought to be doing: staying faithful, living in LOVE, gathering to celebrate our faith and encouraging each other to do good works. And that’s especially important in these evil and ungodly times, when it seems like the last days are upon us. Now, more than ever, we need to be strong and take on the enemy, mano a mano and let him know that we Christians are not pushovers, but mighty in Christ Jesus, willing to battle him to the death!
And although many of us are still finding the going tough, believe me, we’re living better than most of the world, so let’s stop complaining and appreciate all that we have, for compared to may others, our cup is truly overflowing, so that we must drink from our saucer. Let’s also remember, that in Jesus’ economy, giving up is never an option. Those words don’t occur in His vocabulary.
And we need to hold on to this awesome promise found in Romans: ‘And we know that all things work together for good to them that LOVE God, to them who are called according to his purpose.’ (Rom. 8:28) That assures us that although things might go wrong during our earthly sojourn, in the end, the Lord will make it all right. Remember how Cousin Sol said it in Ecclesiastes: ‘Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.’ (Eccl. 7:8)
In other words, ‘The end of a matter being better than the beginning highlights the importance of perseverance. We are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith and actions.’ And that’s what following Jesus is all about; remaining steadfast and strong, true and faithful, despite the trials and tribulations we will undoubtedly face. And what better words to end with than these most reassuring one from Jesus, where He encourages the disciples thus: ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ (John 16:33)
And we know that’s true because Bruh Paul says it in his first letter to the Corinthians: ‘But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (1 Cor, 15:57) Meaning that ‘Jesus broke the power of sin and its relationship to death. His death on the cross paid for our sins so that believers will not face the eternal second death. His resurrection from the dead conquered death.’ And if you don’t believe Bruh Paul, you might believe Jesus Himself when He says to John in Revelation: ‘I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell (hades) and death.’ (Rev. 1:18)
Now, if you can’t believe Jesus, then something’s seriously wrong with your faith, and you’d better check it out immediately. Much LOVE!
…though trials will come…if we stand steadfast and true…the faithful promises of God…will help us triumph over them…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
02 Mar 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a peculiar people, according to the riches of his grace, after offering once and for all time, all blessings to impart, all glorious in the sky, all glory to his name, as a cloud, as a thick cloud, be acceptable in thy sight, believest thou this, Bible, blotted out, break forth into singing ye mountains, champion his cause, Christiaity, eternally to save, exalted there on high, exhort, expresses the confidence, faith, fellowship, for I have redeemed thee, from the depths of degradation, from the depths of our hearts, future generations, glorified himself in Israel, grants me daily breath, he lives, he lives to bring me safely there, he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth, he that believes in me, his own special people, his sinless life for our redemption, holy spirit, I am the resurrection and the life, I know that my Redeemer lives, I shall conquer death, in a spot of bother, in gratitude to Christ, in whom we have redemption, Jesus Christ, judge him favourably, let everything that hath breath praise the Lord, let no man despise thee, let the words of my mouth, looking for that blessed hope, LOVE, loves me to the end, mercy, my ever living head, my hungry soul to feed, my kind my wise my heavenly friend, my mansion to prepare, my Prophet Priest and King, my Saviour, O Lord my strength and my redeemer, on the cross of Calvary, Praise ye the Lord, prayer, purify unto himself, reading of God's word, rebuke with all authority, recorded for posterity, redeem us from all iniquity, restore your faith in God, salvation, salvation is God's greatest gift, Samuel Medley, shout, shout Hallelujah, sinful ingrates, Sing O ye heavens, still the same, sweet sacrifices of praise, the forgiveness of sins, the glorious appearing of the great God, the Lord hath done it, the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, the meditation of my heart, the shed blood of Christ, the sweet joy this sentence gives, these things speak, though he were dead yet shall he live, through his blood, thy sins return unto me, thy transgressions, to bless me with his love, to calm my troubled heart, to comfort me when faint, to grant me rich supply, to guide me with his eye, to hear my soul's complaint, to help in time of need, to plead for me above, to silence all my fears, to wipe away my tears, triumphant from the grave, truth, vindicate him, what comfort this sweet sentence gives, while he lives I'll sing, who once was dead, whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die, wisdom, worship, ye lower parts of the earth, zealous of good works
Job 19:25. For I know that my redeemer (kinsman) liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter (last) day upon the earth.
Come on down friends, it’s Sunday once again, that means despite the cold weather, (smile) it’s time to join in fellowship in the Lord’s sanctuary with other believers and renew and restore your faith and confidence in Almighty God, through worship, prayer and the reading of His Holy Word! And on tap for today’s worship session is an old 18th century hymn written by ex-army officer turned pastor, Samuel Medley (1738-1799). We know it as the old faithful ‘I know that My Redeemer Lives.’
And surely He does, for Jesus Christ after offering once and for all time, His sinless life as a sacrifice for our redemption is alive and kicking, sitting at the right hand of the throne of God waiting for His enemies to be made his footstool. (Heb. 12-13) So, in sweet sacrifices of praise, let’s offer up this champion song in gratitude to our Lord and Saviour, in a soulful but joyful mid-tempo version, revealing from the depths of our hearts, that we truly believe what we’re singing.
As one joyful and grateful voice: ‘I know that my Redeemer lives! What comfort this sweet sentence gives! He lives, he lives, who once was dead; he lives, my ever-living head! He lives triumphant from the grave; he lives eternally to save; he lives all-glorious in the sky; he lives exalted there on high. He lives to bless me with his love; he lives to plead for me above; he lives my hungry soul to feed; he lives to help in time of need.
He lives to grant me rich supply; he lives to guide me with his eye; he lives to comfort me when faint; he lives to hear my soul’s complaint. He lives to silence all my fears; he lives to wipe away my tears; he lives to calm my troubled heart; he lives all blessings to impart. He lives, my kind, wise, heav’nly friend; he lives and LOVES me to the end; he lives, and while he lives, I’ll sing; he lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.
He lives and grants me daily breath; he lives, and I shall conquer death; he lives my mansion to prepare; he lives to bring me safely there. He lives, all glory to his name! He lives, my Savior, still the same. Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives: I know that my Redeemer lives! He lives; all glory to his name! He lives, my Savior, still the same. Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives: I know that my Redeemer lives!’
And if you don’t truly know and believe that friends, then I’d say you’re in a spot of bother, and ought to get it fixed right away, for all that the song says of Jesus is true, and the Bible proves it. And we can begin with this assured confirmation from the mouth of the patriarch Job. After the Lord had humiliated him, and his supposed friends were crying him down, he turned on them and proclaimed: ‘For I know that my redeemer (kinsman) liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter (last) day upon the earth.’ (Job 19:25)
Oh my people, let’s hope that we’re all as sure of those two facts as Job was…our Redeemer lives, and He will be standing beside us on the last day! I like how the scholars put it; ‘But from the depths of degradation he (Job) expresses the confidence that if his case could be recorded for posterity (vs. 23-24), future generations would judge him favourably. Furthermore, he knows confidently that he has a Redeemer. One who will champion his cause and vindicate him. Clearly Job viewed God Himself as the Redeemer.’
And it so happens that Job’s words were saved for posterity, and we do judge him favourably, and Jesus Christ has redeemed us all, through His shed blood on the cross of Calvary. And the word ‘redeemer’ has been used of God all through the Old Testament, for example in Psalm 19:14, a verse which we all know well. Bruh David writes: ‘Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength (rock), and my redeemer.’
Isaiah also talks about it when he reminds Israel on God’s behalf that although they were sinful and disobedient, God will not forget them. “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins return unto me; for I have redeemed thee. Sing, O ye heavens; for the Lord hath done it: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified himself in Israel.’ (Is. 44: 22-23)
Now that’s exactly what we should be doing; singing, breaking forth in true joy, or as Psalm 150 says; ‘Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord (shout Hallelujah)!’ (Ps. 150:6) That’s because the Lord our God has most definitely redeemed us through His Son Jesus Christ! And of a fact, Salvation is the greatest gift our God could ever have given us sinful ingrates!
And who can deny these poignant and powerful words on the subject of redemption that Jesus spoke to Martha, Lazarus’ sister before He raised Lazarus from the dead. ‘Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead (may die), yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?’ (John 11:25-26)
Now friends, that’s a most important question we should all be asking ourselves, and if the answer is no, then get to changing it immediately! And Bruh Paul made it very clear to the Ephesians that their redemption in God, was brought about through Jesus Christ: ‘In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.’ (Eph. 1:7)
And we could not end with better verses of scripture on the subject of redemption, than these three from the Epistle of Titus. ‘Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people (his own special people), zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.’ (Titus: 2:13-15)
What more can I say friends, but exhort us to go and do as the apostle says, if we consider ourselves true believers. Much LOVE!
…Jesus became the Redeemer of mankind…because He was the ONLY One capable of doing it…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
02 Feb 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a grave, a grave in the angry deep, a great storm of wind, a raging storm, and of the Holy Spirit, and of the son, asleep on a pilow, baptizing them, Bible, Bill and Gloria Gaither Homecoming, blessed time, bring you successfully through the storm, bringing order to a chaotic situation, calm the storms of our lives, carest not that we perish, chaotic state of the world, christianity, clinging tightly to Jesus, demons, divine help, each moment, even the winds and the sea obey him, even to the end of the world, evil men, faith, fellowship, fellowship with God, get down on your knees, get up Jesus, go ye therefore, God is always with you, God will give you peace, having Jesus as Lord and Saviour, He will never leave nor forsake you, He will sustain you, holy spirit, how can you lie there asleep, how is it that ye have no faith, I am with you always, I have commanded you, in all of your needs, In the Midnight Hour, in the name of the Father, in the stern of the ship, in times of storm, Jessy Dixon, Jesus Christ, Jesus constantly questions, Jesus is the only answer, Jesus reveals His authority and power over nature, joy, last days, LOVE, make disciples of all nations, Mary A Baker, mercy, no help is nigh, no shelter, no water can swallow the ship, overshadowed with blackness, pass over unto the other side, peace be still, praise, put your trust in the Lord, quiet the storm, rebuked the wind, regain our focus, renews our faith, restores our confidence, said unto the sea, salvation, shall obey thy will, so madly is threatening, start taking the battle to the enemy, sweet sacrifices of praise, talk to Jesus, teach all nations, teaching them, tempestuous times, thanksgiving, the best defence is strong offence, the billows are tossing high, the Great Commission, the Lord can speak peace to your situation, the Lord will give you peace, the Lord's saving power, the Master of the ocean earth and sky, the Prince of Peace, the sea of Galilee, the sky, the storms of life come your way, The tempest is raging, the tempestuousness of the times, the vim and vigour, the waves beat into the ship, the wind ceased, the winds and waves, the wrath of the storm tossed sea, there was a great calm, time to gather in the Lord's sanctuary, to do the Lord's work, to heart, to observe all things, to spur people to deeper trust, truth, when you feel lonely, wherein lies the master, why are ye so fearful, Wilfred Graves, wisdom, words of encouragement, worship
Mark 4:40. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?
Sunday, Sunday, most welcome Sunday! That blessed time for believers to gather in the Lord’s sanctuary and observe His special day with praise, worship, joy and thanksgiving! And that’s a must, especially in these turbulent and tempestuous last days, because fellowship with God and with others, renews our faith, restores our confidence and gives us the vim and vigour we so desperately need to get out into our troubled and evil world and do the very important work that Jesus desires of us, as stated in our Great Commission:
‘Go ye therefore, and teach (make disciples of) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.’ (Matt. 28:19-20) And from the very chaotic state of our world, it’s obvious we haven’t being our duty to the best of our ability, that’s why we need to regain our focus and start taking the battle to the enemy, instead of waiting for him to come to us. Remember, the best act of defence is strong offense.
So, today, we’re going to open our worship session with a very appropriate song for these tempestuous times, titled, ‘The Tempest is Raging!’ It’s a Mary A Baker composition, wonderfully done by the Chicago Gospel Artist, Jessy Dixon in concert with the Bill and Gloria Gaither Homecoming Ensemble. So, without further ado, let’s open our hearts, mouths and voices in sweet sacrifices of praise, as we render a most soulful and heart rending version of this marvelous song.
Singing: ‘Master, the tempest is raging, Oh, The billows are tossing high The sky is o’ershadowed with blackness Oh, No shelter, no shelter or help is nigh – Carest thou not that we perish? How canst you lie, How canst thou lie there asleep When it seems like each moment so madly is threatening, Oh A grave. a grave, a grave in the angry deep?
Get up Jesus because! The winds and the waves shall obey thy will. All you got to say is, Peace, be still, Peace, be still, Peace, be still, Peace, be still. Whether the wrath, the wrath of the storm-tossed sea, Or demons, or evil men, or whatever it be No water can swallow the ship wherein lies The Master of the ocean, the earth and sky They all shall sweetly obey thy will, If You say, Peace, peace, be still They all shall sweetly obey thy will, If You say, Peace, peace, peace, be still.
The Lord will give you peace, He wants to give you peace, In the midnight hour, When there’s nobody else there, God will give you peace, When you feel lonely, You have someone who will give you perfect peace. He‘ll be your friend, Yes He will, The Lord will give you peace, If you’re looking for peace, in all of your needs, in all of your days, get down on your knees and talk to Jesus, Yes talk to Jesus. Yes whenever the Lord says, there will be peace, there will be peace, For He knew it, yes He knew it, Peace, be still, Peace, be still, Peace, be still Peace, be still…..’
Oh that was wonderful my fellow believers! And yuh know why, because it truly evoked the tempestuousness of the times we’re living in, as well as the unsettled and unpeaceful situations in so many of our own personal lives. And the only way to handle both a tempestuous world and a tempestuous personal life is by having Jesus as Lord and Saviour and clinging tightly to Him. For remember, He is the Prince of Peace! (Is. 9:6) And ONLY He can calm the storms in our world and in our own lives. Or as the song says, ‘No water can swallow the ship wherein lies The Master of the ocean, the earth and sky.’
And we all know the story on which the song is so competently based. Mark tells it thus: ‘And the same day, (Jesus, after speaking in parables to the multitudes), when the even (evening) was come, he saith unto them (the disciples), Let us pass (cross) over unto the other side. (The other side of the sea of Galilee). And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there was also with him other little ships. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full (already filling).
And he (Jesus) was in the hinder part of the ship (the stern), asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master (Teacher), carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this (who can this be), that even the winds and the sea obey him.’ (Mark 4:35-41)
And that last question is an easy one to answer. The wind and sea obey Him because like us, He is their Creator and Controller and sets their boundaries and directions. Meanwhile, as per Jesus’ question to the disciples about their lack of faith, the scholars tell us that ‘Jesus constantly questions in order to spur people to deeper trust.’ And since many of us can use a sense of deeper trust in these tough times, we should possibly ask that question of ourselves right now: why is our faith not as great as it ought to be? And then turn to the Lord and ask for it to increase. (smile)
Now, let’s end on this note of encouragement from an article by Wilfred Graves on the subject of ‘Peace be still.’ He writes: ‘In our text, Jesus reveals his authority and power over nature by bringing order to a chaotic situation. He says to a raging storm, “Peace, be still!” Immediately, the winds and waves obey his command. No matter what you may be going through in your life right now, the Lord can speak peace to your situation.
When the storms of life come your way, you can put your trust in the Lord and He will sustain you. He is always with you and He will never leave nor forsake you. The Lord will either quiet the storm that you are in or He will bring you successfully through the storm. Sometimes God saves us from trouble; sometimes he saves us in trouble. In either case, divine help comes to those who put their trust in the Lord’s saving power.’
Oh friends, I could not have said it any better. So let’s take those words of encouragement to heart nuh! Much LOVE!
…in times of storm…Jesus is the ONLY answer…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
12 Jan 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a grain of mustard seed, accept calamity, all the days of my life, an encouragement to many people, bankrupt the business, Bible, blessed be God, bnelievers in Christ Jesus, burn out, Christian, christianity, comforts us in all tribulation, curse God and die, don't lose faith, eliminate debts, faith, fellowship, for being god in my valley, God on the Mountain, God will come through for you, have faith in God, He'll make them right, holy spirit, I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever, I will fear no evil, in God's name, in the presence of mine enemies, is still god in the bad times, is still god in the night, is the God in the valley, it's down in the valley, Jesus Christ, life is easy when you're on the mountain, loaded with debt, LOVE, make serious inroads into, mercy, mired in negative situations, my cup runneth over, not receive evil, O ye of little faith, our God is a good God, receive good at God's hand, retain your integrity, retake the world, reverence God, salvation, surely goodness and mercy shall follow me, sweet sacrifices of praise, swimming pools, talk a good talk of faith, talk comes easy, thank you locrd, the evil world system, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the gifts we're given to share with others, the God of Comfort, The God of the day, the God of the good times, the God on the mountain, the grace to comfort others, the valley of the sahdow of death, therapy, things change, thou anointest my head with oil, thou art with me, thou preparest a table before me, though I walk through, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me, Tracy Dartt, trials and temptations, truer words were never spoken, truth, up on the mountain, up our ante, wake up from slumber, we are comforted by God, we can comfort those in trouble, when life's at its best, when things go wrong, when you're down in the valley, where your faith is really tested, why are ye fearful, wisdom, worship, you have peace of mind, you're never alone
Psalm 23:4. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Now, the year 2025, and the month of January seem to be making a headlong dash for some unknown winner’s wire, because both of them started out so quickly. We just celebrated New Years, and the month is already half done. That means we believers in Christ Jesus have to up our ante right away, if we intend to make any serious inroads into the evil world system. And this Sunday, the second of the year gives us the opportunity to do just that, as we gather in the Lord’s sanctuary to fellowship, worship, give thanks and receive encouragement in our faith.
So let’s get to some worship right away, by singing that soulful, but oh so true song, written by Tracy Dart, in the mid 1970’s, so aptly titled ‘God On the Mountain.’ Yes, let’s offer up sweet sacrifices of praise in a soulful, heartfelt version, sincerely meaning all we say. Singing: ‘Life is easy, when you’re up on the mountain And you’ve got peace of mind, like you’ve never known. But things change, when you’re down in the valley. Don’t lose faith, for you’re never alone. For the God on the mountain, is the God in the valley. When things go wrong, He’ll make them right. And the God of the good times is still God in the bad times. The God of the day is still God in the night.
You talk of faith when you’re up on the mountain. But talk comes so easy when life’s at its best. But it’s down in the valley, of trials and temptations That’s where your faith, is really put to the test. For the God on the mountain is the God in the valley. When things go wrong, He’ll make them right. And the God of the good times is still God in the bad times. The God of the day, is still God in the night. The God of the day, is still God in the night.’
And isn’t that the living truth my fellow believers! Our God is the One and Only True God; meaning He’s there in the day and the night, in the tough times and the good ones, as well as up on the mountain top or down in the valley. He is omnipresent, all-pervasive, as no other supposed God is! That’s why we worship and LOVE and give Him the thanks and praise that we do!
And the story behind the birth of that song is really interesting. Apparently in 1974, Dartt and his wife were building swimming pools in the California desert, in partnership with a friend. Things were going well, and they even founded a country gospel group called the ‘Country Congregation’ that sounded pretty good, with Dart writing most of their music. However, as life unfurled, their business began to fail, and eventually his partner, who had suffered a severe case of burn out while trying to right the business, gave the business to him loaded with debt and no money to build the swimming pools they had on order.
But our God is a good God, and if you believe and have faith, even as much as grain of mustard seed, He will come through for you. Mr. Dart writes: ‘In the midst of the turmoil, I awakened from a troubled sleep one night. It was two o’clock in the morning. A tune was echoing in my troubled brain. I picked up a tablet and a pencil and began to write, “Life is easy when you’re up on the mountain, and you’ve got peace of mind like you’ve never known. But, when things change and you’re down in the valley, don’t lose faith, for you’re never alone.”
“Thank You, Lord,” I prayed, “for being God in my valley.” The chorus came, “The God on the mountain is still God in the valley. When things go wrong, He’ll make them right…” In all, it took about thirty minutes. I again prayed, “Thank You, Lord,” and then settled back down to sleep. Morning came, breakfast and prayer time. “Lord, show us Your will.” I went off to work.
Shortly after arriving at the office, the phone rang, “Mr. Dartt, could you please help us?” I grabbed my brief case and went to see the people who had called. Their son was a gifted athlete, but had been in a motorcycle accident and was paralyzed from the waist down. His doctor had recommended a swimming pool for the therapy the young man needed in order to walk again. I began the process of designing and building a pool for them.
A few days later, another call came, “Mr. Dartt could you come talk to me about a pool?” So, through the off-season, we ended up selling and building 12 pools in all, at a time when no one else was building pools. The building season came, and all of a sudden, we were able to finish all of our construction and eliminate our debts. We were free and clear, without having to bankrupt the business. God had taken us through the valley.’
What more can you say eh? And that’s precisely why we praise and worship and glorify the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! Now,the song has been recorded by numerous artists and translated into several languages. And as Dartt says: ‘This simple little song, comprised of 72 words and 4 chords, has been an encouragement to thousands of people. “Thank you, Lord, for the mountains and the valleys, and the gifts we are given to share with others.” And that’s exactly how our great God works; giving us gifts in times of need to share with others.
And what better scripture to reflect that, than these famous words of Bruh David from Psalm 23: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil: my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.’ (Ps. 23:4-6) Truer words were never spoken my people!
And another famous scripture on faith during adversity is this one from Job, when the Lord allowed Satan to bring him low. While Job was scraping the boils from his body in the ashes, his wife said to him: ‘Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive (accept) good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil (accept calamity)? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.’ (Job 2:9-10) I wonder how many of us could have lost all of our many material possessions and children through no fault of our own, and still retain our integrity like Job did? Not many.
And we’ll close with this all embracing and true scripture passage, titled the Comfort of God. Bruh Paul writes to the Corinthians: ‘Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble (tribulation), by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.’ (2 Cor. 1:3-4)
Yes friends, our God can comfort us in any situation, and that also gives us the grace to comfort others who are mired in negative situations. What a great and merciful God we serve! And if we truly reverence Him, then, please, let’s wake up from our slumber and retake the world in His awesome name nuh! Much LOVE!
…why are ye fearful…oh ye of little faith… (Matt. 8:26)
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
20 Oct 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: all ye that labour and are heavy laden, as the manner of some is, as ye see the day approaching, assurance of being heard by God, Bible, Christ as a son over his own house, come boldly to the throne of grace, come to seek and save, come unto me, confidence by faith in Christ, draw near with boldness, encouraging, exhorting one another, faith, fellowship, find grace to help, find rest unto your souls, freedom of speech, gentle and humble, god, guilt and sin, have stopped my mouth, he that built all things is God, holy spirit, I will give you rest, in time of need, in whom we have boldness, Indian summer, Jehovah is the sinner's freind, Jesus Christ, Jesus fills the throne, know the hell of sin within, lay your load at Jesus feet, lean of me, LOVE, makes the blind to see, meek and lowly in heart, mercy, my burden light, my yoke is easy, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves, obtain mercy, pay our sin debt in full, poor bankrupt souls, reassuring, salvation, set the prisoner free, sweet sacrifices of praise, sympathize with our weaknesses, take my yoke upon you, that which was lost, the great invitation, the Lord will take you in, the Lord's Sabbath, the right of entering into god's presence, the sinner lost He came to save, the Son of man, touched with the feeling of our infirmities, truth, was in all points tempted like us, was without sin, we have not a high priest, wisdom, ye wretched sinners come
Hebrews 4:16. Let us therefore come boldly (confidently) unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
And another beautiful Indian summer day is in the offing for the Lord’s Sabbath. That makes it even more encouraging and intriguing for us to make our way to His sanctuary to give Him praise and thanks for all His many blessings and to fellowship with other believers, as it is right to do. The Bible tells us in no uncertain terms: ‘Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.’ (Heb. 10:25)
And it is necessary to pray on one’s own, but worshipping together gives the chance to encourage each other, to strengthen and stir up each other which can only be gained by fellowshipping together. And having said all of that, let’s get right to our song for today. It’s one we all know and like, with the apt title of ‘Come Boldy to the throne of Grace.’ Yes, it’s very encouraging and reassuring, so let’s offer up sweet sacrifices of praise in a sincere, soulful, mid-tempo version of this marvellous song.
Singing: ‘Come boldly to the throne of grace, Ye wretched sinners come, and lay your load at Jesus feet, And plead what He has done. How can I come? Some soul may say, I’m lame and cannot walk; My guilt and sin have stopped my mouth, I sigh, but dare not talk. Come boldly to the throne of grace, Though lost, and blind, and lame; Jehovah is the sinner’s friend, And ever was the same. He makes the dead to hear His voice; He makes the blind to see, The sinner lost, He came to save, And set the prisoner free.
Come boldly to the throne of grace, For Jesus fills the throne; and those He kills, He makes alive; He hears the sigh or groan; Poor bankrupt souls, Who feel and know, the hell of sin within; Come Boldly to the throne of grace; The Lord will take you in. Come Boldly to the throne of grace; The Lord will take you in…the Lord will take you in…Yes the Lord will take you in…take you in.’
And that’s no lie my brethren! If you come boldly or confidently to the throne of grace, our ever-faithful God will surely take you in. That’s one thing about Him, He never turns away anyone who comes to Him in all sincerity and truth. And what’s the basis for this confidence? It all springs from these Bible verses in Hebrews.
‘For we do not have a high priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities (is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses), but was in all points tempted like as we are (but one who was tempted in every way that we are), yet was without sin. Let us therefore come boldly (confidently) unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain (receive) mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.’ (Heb. 4:15-16)
Oh friends, isn’t it wonderful that we have a high priest who can empathize with our problems, because He also faced them, but was without sin, thus was eligible to die on the cross at Calvary and pay our sin debt in full? It most certainly is! That means we can take any problem to Him and He will understand. There are also a couple of other scriptures that encourage us to have confidence and boldness in our faith.
This one also comes from Hebrews. ‘For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God. And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after (afterward); But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.’ (Heb. 3:4-6)
Yes my people, every one else is a servant in someone else’s house, but Christ as the Son of God, has His own house to which we belong, if we continue to be confident and faithful to Him. And this scripture from the passage in Ephesians that speaks about the Unsearchable Riches of Christ also encourages us to have boldness and confidence. It says: ‘In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of (in) him.’ (Eph. 3:12)
And the scholars explain it thus: ‘This verse affirms that Christians have boldness (freedom of speech before God) and access (the right of entering His presence) with confidence (assurance of being heard by God), by the faith of him (through relying upon Christ to gain God’s ear).’ We certainly can’t ask for any more than that my fellow believers. But the wonderful thing about our God is that He gives us more through Christ Jesus, even though we don’t deserve it.
And if we look at the statements of the song, they all claim that we are lost, blind, lame, unworthy, sinners, guilty etc., not worthy to come to Jesus, but there are many facts to the contrary. Remember what Jesus Himself said? ‘For the Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost.’ (Luke 19:10) He is also the friend to each and every sinner. Was from the beginning, and will be until the very end. But this one line tells the whole story ‘Ye wretched sinners come, and lay your load at Jesus feet.’
For what does Jesus offer to those who are overburdened? The Great Invitation! ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of (from) me; for I am meek and lowly in heart (gentle and humble): and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt. 11:28-30)
Yes my fellow saints, that’s Christ invitation to all and sundry to come to Him, regardless of your woes. There’s no one He will refuse. So please, let’s take advantage of the invitation today nuh, and go to Jesus for help, whatever kind of help we may need, because He is the ONLY ONE who can solve all our problems, and will certainly not turn us away, despite our sorry plight. In fact, the sorrier our plight, the more Jesus desires us to come to Him for help. Let’s never forget that! Much LOVE!
…Jesus is only a sincere plea away…for help
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
06 Oct 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: 50th anniversary, a need, a reason for the hope in you, a sun-kissed day, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, an overwhelming need for God, as sin hath reigned in death, being prepared to make a defense, by Jesus Christ our Lord, cling to Him, come boldly unto the throne of grace, come unto me, faith, fellowship, find grace to help, find rest for your souls, grace di more abound, holiness in christ in me, holy spirit, honour Christ as holy, I am free, I find my rest with you, I need you every hour, I will give you rest, I'll fall on you Jesus, in time of need, in your hearts, Jesus Christ, learn from me, Lord I need you, LOVE, meek and lowly in heart, mercy, my burden is light, my hope and stay, my one defense' my righteousness, my yoke is easy, obtain mercy, on the strength of Jesus' work, our most important need is Jesus, run to Him, salvation, sanctyfying our hearts, so might grace reign through righteousness, something that's necessary to sustain life, St Francis of Assisi, sweet sacrifices of praise, teach my song to rise to you, trust God with everything, truth, unto eternal life, we feel so blessed, we need God in our lives every day, we wonder why, when temptation comes my way, when we feel desperate, where sin abounded, where sin runs deep, whetehr it's painful or hard, wisdom, your grace is more
Matthew 11:28. Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Oh friends, thankfully we’re alive to enjoy another sun-kissed day on God’s great earth! And it’s a Sunday too, the Lord’s Day, which means fellowship and worship are in order in His sanctuary, or wherever two or three are gathered together in His name! And my church, St Francis of Assisi Anglican are celebrating our 50th anniversary service today, with all kinds of luminaries, from the first priest to the current Bishop. A fine time of worship and fellowship will certainly be had by all.
And to open our worship today, is a contemporary Christian song titled ‘Lord I Need You,’ speaking of our overwhelming need for God in our lives. As one definition tells us: ‘A need is something that is necessary for an organism to live a healthy life.’ And without a doubt, our most important need to live a good Christian life is Jesus! So let’s sing this beautiful and most encouraging song, offering up sweet sacrifices of praise in a soulful, sincere, but lively and uplifting mid tempo version, a la that of the famous Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.
Singing: ‘Lord I come, I confess Bowing here, I find my rest Without You, I fall apart You’re the one that guides my heart (Chorus) Lord, I need You, oh I need You Every hour, I need You My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You) Where sin runs deep, Your grace is more Where grace is found is where You are And where You are, Lord I am free Holiness is Christ in me (Chorus)
So teach my song to rise to You When temptation comes my way And when I cannot stand, I’ll fall on You Jesus, You’re my hope and stay (Chorus. Lord, I need You, oh I need You Every hour, I need You My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You You’re my one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You My one defense, my righteousness Oh God, how I need You…’
And yuh better believe it my people, we need Christ more than anything else in this whole wide world! As the opening verse of the song so rightly says: ‘Bowing here I find my rest. Without You I fall apart.’ And that’s the gospel truth! Without Jesus we have no rest and we therefore fall apart!
That brings into play His Great Invitation: ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of (from) me; for I am meek and lowly in heart (gentle and humble): and ye shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ (Matt. 11:28-30)
Oh my fellow believers, where else in this world can you find rest, comfort, and LOVING care like that eh? Absolutely nowhere else but in Jesus! And the chorus tells it with heartfelt depth how badly we need Jesus; every hour. He’s also truly our ‘one defense and our righteousness.’ For because it’s on the strength of His work on the cross at Calvary that we’ve been made righteous, justified, sanctified, etc. etc.
And there are a couple of scriptures that could possibly be quoted to satisfy the sentiments in the chorus. The first is this marvellous one from Hebrews: ‘Let us therefore come boldly (confidently) unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.’ (Heb. 4:16)
Then there’s this one from Peter which we’ll quote from the English Standard Version as it makes it much simpler than our usual King James Version. (smile) ‘But in your hearts honour Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.’ (1 Pet. 3:15)
In other words, Peter is exhorting oppressed Christians to respond to attacks, not with mere reason, but with the Lord Christ sanctifying our hearts. To be always ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope that’s in us through Christ Jesus, but to do it with gentleness like Jesus.
And I like this line from the song; ‘Where sin runs deep, Your grace is more…’ because it reminds me of these majestic verses from the pen of Bruh Paul to the church at Rome. ‘Moreover the law entered that the offence (sin) might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (Rom. 5:20-21)
Yes my fellow saints, sin doesn’t stop grace from flowing, but grace stops sin. And furthermore, whenever and wherever sin abounds, grace, that goodness of God, His unmerited gift that we don’t deserve, abounds even more. As sin increases, so does God’s grace. That obviously means sin cannot ever overcome God’s grace! Oh my people, what a wonderful God we serve! How can so many of us refuse to serve and worship Him eh? But maybe these two testimonies on the effects our song ‘Lord I Need you,’ had on two persons, might just turn some unbelievers around.
The first testimony reads: ‘God has used this song so much in my live over the past couple of months. There are moments when we feel desperate, when we wonder why, we feel alone, we are so joyful, we feel so blessed…or we ask that God would show us what He wants from us and how to live.
And that’s where these words touch my heart so much… ‘Lord I need You, oh I need You. Every hour I need you. My one defense, my righteousness, oh God how I need You.” He is ALL that we need. That’s what He wants from us. For us to run to Him, cling to Him and trust Him with everything we’re going through. Whether it’s painful and hard, or joy filled and exciting! We need Him!’
No doubt about that! And the second testimony is shorter, but just as sweet and riveting. It says: ‘This is a very beautiful song. It makes me look at God and see how much I need Him in every situation in my life. It makes me want to worship every time I sing it. It surely is a blessing.’ No doubt about that either my brethren!
And having heard the song, the scriptures invoked by it, and the testimonies, I hope we’ll be encouraged to spend some time today contemplating just what God, His amazing LOVE and grace means to us individually. In our present disaster-filled world, we certainly need to look to Almighty God more than we’re currently doing! Much LOVE!
…we all need God in our lives…because He created us with that special need for Him…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
15 Sep 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a just man falls seven times, a time of sorrows, a year of sorrows, beauty these eyes have seen, Bible, by faith alone, christianity, confidence, Contemporary Christian songs, crushed in spirit, delivers them out of all their troubles, dreams, ever merciful, evil shall slay the wicked, face the raging seas, faith, fallen on my knees, fellowship, god, God is always with us, God proved His love for me, he shall not be utterly cast down, held them in my hand, His eyes were watching me, his seed are blessed, his seed begging bread, holy spirit, hope and wait quietly for the Lord's salvation, I have not seen the righteous forsaken, I will hope in him, i've been young, in spite of the storm, in the night, it is good that a man, Jesus Christ, journeyed through the long dark night, Judith Gayle, Lawrence Chewning, lends, life after the storm, LOVE, lover's rock, many are the afflictions of the righteous, mercy, only grains of sand, out on the open, Ray Boltz, renew our faith, righteousness, rises up again, salvation, saves those of a contrite heart, sight unknown, strength, stumble into calamity, Sunday, sweet sacrifices of praise, the anchor holds, the Lord delivers him out of them all, the Lord hears, the Lord is my portion saith my soul, the Lord is nigh unto them of a broken heart, the Lord's Day, the righteous cry, the sails are torn, the ship is battered, the soul that seeks him, the steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, the wicked shall fall into mischief, through the storms of my life, truth, visions, wisdom
Psalm 34:17. The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
Here it comes again friends, Sunday, the Lord’s Day, the first day of this new week, when we get together in fellowship and worship in the Lord’s house and find strength and confidence to both build and renew our faith so we can handle all the problems of the upcoming week. And this week’s song of worship is certainly an interesting and very appropriate one for these troubled and trying times. It’s one of our favourite Contemporary Christian songs titled, ‘The Anchor Holds.’
And the story behind the song is definitely a moving and uplifting one. It seems in 1992, the writer, Lawrence Chewning and his wife were experiencing some real tough times. He later termed it the year of their sorrows. His father had died, and He was a burned out pastor in a church that was having problems, then to further complicate matters, his wife had her third miscarriage. It was truly a time of sorrows.
He then took a six months sabbatical and spent most of his time simply playing the piano. And it was during that period of difficulty and discouragement, of loss and lack of direction that the Lord opened his heart and filled it with that song. How marvellous and mysterious are the ways of our wonderful God! He’s always with us and never allows us to struggle more than is necessary. Whenever the time is right, He does something awesome to bring us out of our misery.
And in God’s awesome agenda, He later led Chewning to speak with singer Ray Boltz about his difficult times and the song the Lord had poured into his heart. Boltz took the song remodelled to its current form, then in 1995, recorded it and made it a hit. And it’s still going strong today, having been recorded by several people in several genres. But today we’ll do a reggae, lover’s rock version as done by Jamaican Christian singer, Miss Judith Gayle.
So, let’s offer up our sweet sacrifices of praise in a sincere, heartfelt manner, remembering the many times when the storm raged around us, but the anchor held fast because Jesus was our pilot and our anchor. Singing: ‘I have journeyed, Through the long, dark night Out on the open sea By faith alone, Sight unknown And yet His eyes, were watching me. (Chorus: The anchor holds, though the ship is battered. The anchor holds, though the sails are torn. I have fallen on my knees, As I face the raging seas, But the anchor holds, In spite of the storm.)
I’ve had visions, I’ve had dreams, I’ve even held them in my hand, But oh Lord, I never knew, They would slip right through, Oh my Jesus, Like they were only grains of sand. (Chorus: But the anchor holds…) Oh, I have been young, but I am older now, thank the Lord, And there has been beauty, that these eyes have seen, But it was in the night, through the storms of my life, Oh, that’s where God proved, His LOVE for me.
(Chorus: And the anchor holds, though my ship is battered. The anchor holds, though my sails are torn. And I have fallen on my knees, As I face the raging seas, But the anchor holds, In spite of the storm. I have fallen on my knees, As I face the raging seas, But the anchor holds, In spite of the storm. Yes, the anchor holds, In spite of the storm. Thank You Jesus! I have fallen on my knees, As I face the raging seas, But the anchor holds, In spite of the storm. Yes, the anchor holds, In spite of the storm. Thank You Jesus!’
Ah friends, what powerful a testimony and uplifting message! And I know that many of us can attest to the authenticity of the sentiments in the song, because many of us have indeed gone through tough times when it’s only because of Jesus’ strong, solid, guiding hand on our rudder and anchor, that we made it through. That’s why Bruh David could write these reassuring words from Psalm 34.
‘The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite heart (crushed in spirit). Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate (condemned, held guilty). The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate (condemned). (Ps. 34:17-22)
And that’s the gospel truth my fellow believers. Our God won’t see us falling and not stop us from doing so, or if His purpose is for us to learn something from falling, to help us up when we do fall. As Cousin Sol wisely says in Proverbs: ‘For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief (stumble into calamity).’ (Prov. 24:16) And there are so many scriptures that attest to the goodness of God, that I don’t know which ones to quote.
But as they say, when in doubt, you can’t go wrong with Bruh David. (smile) So here he is from Psalm 37: ‘The steps of a good man are ordered (established) by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed (descendants) begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed (descendants) are blessed.’ (Ps. 37:23-26)
Oh my fellow saints, our great and faithful God will not see us in a precarious situation and not do something to help us out of it! He will never turn away from us. That’s why Jeremiah, though going through agony of body and soul in his Lamentations could still write: ‘The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.’ (Lam. 3:24-26)
And yuh know what friends, when we can voice sincere sentiments like those in precarious times, then we’ll know that we’re on our way to true righteousness! Much LOVE!
…there is indeed life after the storm…and the anchor does hold…with Jesus operating it…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
01 Sep 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a lamb without blemish, aimless conduct, all have sinned, all my hope and peace, all my righteousness, almost all things are purged by the law with blood, antidote, Bible, blood atonement, blood symbolizes life, by this I'll overcome, christianity, cleanse us from all unrighteousness, come short of the glory of God, corruptible things, faith, fellowship, forgiveness, god, God is light, holy spirit, it is the blood that maketh atonement for the soul, Jesus Christ, Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, LOVE, made peace, makes me white as snow, mercy, naught of good that I have done, Nothing but the blood of Jesus, nothing can for sin atone, precious is the flow, propitiation for sin, ransomed by the blood, reconcile all things unto himself, right standing with God, salvation, sweet sacrifices of praise, the blood of Jesus, the blood of Jesus cures everything, the everlasting truth, the fulness of the time, the gift of God is eternal life, the life of the flesh is in the blood, the penalty for sin, the precious blood of Christ, the truth is not in us, the wages of sin is death, through the blood of the cross, to redeem them, truth, under the law, vain conversation, what can make me whole again, what can wash away my sin, wisdom, without the shedding of blood is no remission
1 John 1:7b. and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
Here we go on the first day of September, a Sunday, joining together with other believers to fellowship in the Lord’s sanctuary to renew our commitments, friendships and spiritual strength with both God and man. What a blessed time that is my fellow believers. There’s no time like it. So let’s begin this good time with a wonderful traditional American hymn written by Robert Lowry in the 1870’s.
Lowry was a hymn writer as well as a Baptist Minister and Professor at Bucknell University. The song is aptly titled ‘Nothing But the Blood of Jesus,’ and informs us of the blood atonement and propitiation of sin that happens through the death of Jesus. Without further ado then, let’s offer up sweet sacrifices of praise in a mid tempo, soulful and grateful version, because it’s something we are ever so thankful for.
Singing: ‘What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus; What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain: Oh! precious is the flow That makes me white as snow; No other fount I know, Nothing but the blood of Jesus.) For my pardon, this I see, Nothing but the blood of Jesus; For my cleansing this my plea, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain) Nothing can for sin atone, Nothing but the blood of Jesus; Naught of good that I have done, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain)
This is all my hope and peace, Nothing but the blood of Jesus; This is all my righteousness, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain) Now by this I’ll overcome; Nothing but the blood of Jesus; Now by this I’ll reach my home, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain) Glory! Glory! This I sing; Nothing but the blood of Jesus, All my praise for this I bring, Nothing but the blood of Jesus. (Refrain: Oh! precious is the flow That makes me white as snow; No other fount I know, Nothing but the Blood…Nothing but the Blood of Jesus.’
And isn’t that the everlasting truth my people! Nothing but the Blood of Jesus can cleanse us of our sins and bring us into right relationship with Almighty God! But before we get into any analysis of the song, let’s recognize one thing, that blood in the Bible symbolizes life, and when the blood is spilled, or stops flowing, that means life is over. And when talking about sacrificial offerings, the Bible says it thus in Leviticus. ‘For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it unto you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.’ (Lev. 17:11)
Yes friends, it is the shed blood of Jesus that makes atonement for our sinful souls. Therefore, the writer of Hebrews is able to inform us: ‘And almost all things are by the law purged (cleansed) with blood; and without the shedding of blood is no remission (forgiveness).’ (Heb. 9:22) The sacrificing of animals under the Old Testament law cleansed for a season, and thus had to be renewed every year.
However, as Bruh Paul writes in Galatians: ‘But when the fulness of the time was come (the time appointed by the Father), God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made (born) under the law. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.’ (Gal. 4:4-5) In other words, when the Lord decided it was time to end the ritual of sacrifices every year under the Old Covenant, He sent Jesus to be the last and great sacrifice!
Thus, under the New Covenant there is no need for any more animal sacrifices, for Christ satisfied that need once and for all with His sacrificial death on the cross at Calvary. And it’s therefore ever important to know that it’s Jesus’ shed blood that covers us from all sin. John says it thus in his first epistle. ‘This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not (practice) the truth:
But if we walk in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.’ (1 John 1:5-10)
And how can we say that we have no sin, when the Bible says: ‘For all have sinned, and come (fallen) short of the glory of God.’ (Rom. 3:23) And what’s the penalty for sin? ‘The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (Rom. 6:23) And that’s what Jesus’ death on the cross was all about; to free us from the bondage of sin and offer us eternal life instead.
And as the opening verse of the song so truly declares: ‘What can wash away my sin?…What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.’ Likewise this verse: ‘Nothing can for sin atone,… Naught of good that I have done, Nothing but the blood of Jesus.’ Glorious truths indeed my people!
And I like how this commentary gives us five things that the blood of Jesus accomplishes. Now, I never intended to list the referenced scriptures, but knowing that many of you would not check the refences yourselves, I decided to do it, to spoon feed you as usual. (smile) So the first act of Jesus’ blood is ‘Propitiation for sin. To remove God’s righteous wrath. (Rom. 3:25) ‘Whom God had set forth to be a propitiation (a mercy seat) through faith in his blood, to declare (demonstrate) his righteousness for the remission (passing over) of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.’
Then there’s ‘Justification, To extend God’s full acceptance, right standing with God. (Rom. 5:9) ‘Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.’ There’s also,’ Redemption, to purchase our freedom. (Eph. 1:7) ‘In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.’ Next up is ‘Forgiveness, to restore our best relationship. (Eph. 2:13) ‘But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes (once) were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.’
What about ‘Pacification – to make peace with God Himself. (Col. 1:19-20). ‘For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell. And having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in (on) earth, or things in heaven.’ And last but not least, ‘Ransomed by the blood, (1 Peter 1:18-19) ‘Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible (perishable) things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation (aimless conduct) received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.’
And now that I’ve spoon fed you, (smile) please take a few moments to contemplate those scriptures and see what a wonderful thing the Lord has done for us, through the shedding of Christ’s sinless blood on the hill of Calvary, and why we ought to bow down and worship Him, and wisely and gratefully accept His grace and mercy without anxiety or fear! Much LOVE!
…what’s the most powerful antidote on earth…obviously the blood of Jesus…for it cures everything…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
25 Aug 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a mystery, all about Somebody who saved my soul, another blood bought member of the family, belong at the end of the line, Bible, broken down the wall of partition, Casting Crowns, Christ's Church, christianity, ever since you recued me, everybody's got a purpose, faith, fellowship, for ye see your calling, god, god hath chosen the foolish things of the world, God uses ordinary people, he that glorieth, holy spirit, I am with you unto the end of the world, I'm Just a Nobody, Jesus Christ, Jews Gentiles, let him glory in the Lord, let me go down in history, living for the world to see, LOVE, Never-Get-it Rights, nobody but Jesus, not many mighty, not many noble are called, not many wise men after the felsh, Not Quites, One Body, picked twelve outsiders, sacrificial work, spread the gospel of Jesus, sweet sacrifices of praise, teach all nations, the Great Commission, the Lord's House, the pearly gates of heaven, the weak things of the world, to confound the mighty, to confound the wise, to observe all things, treasure in heaven, truth, trying to tell everybody, wisdom, you gave my heart a song to sing
1 Corinthians 1:26. For ye see (consider) your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
And it’s another Sunday! A glorious looking one indeed! Made just for visiting the Lord’s house on His day, to fellowship with other believers and bring joy to both the Lord’s heart and ours. Nothing could be better than that my people, except entering the pearly gates of heaven. But we’re not quite ready for that. (smile)
In the meanwhile, let’s get to our song of worship for today, a Christian Contemporary tune titled, ‘I’m just a Nobody.’ I don’t know the author(s) of the song, but the lyrics describe how God uses ordinary people to spread the Gospel of Jesus! We are all flawed, yet the Lord has a purpose for us. In our joy of having been forgiven, we excitedly point to the forgiver, Jesus Christ!
And we’re going to do a raunchy, rocking, scintillating version, as that done by the Casting Crowns, featuring Matthew West. There will be lots of clapping, dancing, and of course singing! (smile) So, let’s begin with some handclapping, in three fourths time, sing the first line of the chorus three times acapella, then get into the full chorus as the music comes up. So here goes: clap, clap: ‘I’m just a nobody…clap, clap: I’m just a nobody…clap, clap: I’m just a nobody…’ Now the music, and everybody goes crazy:
(Chorus: ‘I’m just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, all about Somebody, who saved my soul. Ever since You rescued me, You gave my heart a song to sing. I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus! I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus!) Why you ever chose me, has always been a mystery. All my life, I’ve been told I belong, at the end of the line. With all the other “Not Quites” with all the “Never-Get-it Rights” But it turns out, they’re the ones you’ve been looking for all this time,
(Chorus: I’m just a nobody…) Moses had stage fright, and David brought a rock to a sword fight, You picked twelve outsiders, nobody would have ever chosen, and you changed the world. Well the moral of the story is, Everybody’s got a purpose. So when I hear that devil start talking to me saying, “Who do you think you are?” I say, (Chorus: I’m just a nobody…) So let me go down, down, down in history, as another blood-bought faithful member of the family. And if they all forget my name, well, that’s fine with me. I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus…
So let me go down, down, down in history, as another blood-bought faithful member of the family…That’s all I ever want to be… And if they all forget my name, well, that’s fine with me. I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus… Cause I’m just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, all about Somebody, who saved my soul. Ever since You rescued me, You gave my heart a song to sing. I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus! I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus! I’m living for the world to see…Nobody but Jesus!’
Oh what sweet sacrifices of praise friends! And Jesus blushed all the way through, while the Father and the rest of heaven sang along with us, giving our wonderful, selfless Lord and Saviour the hearty praise He so rightfully deserves! And strangely enough it’s the ones that world casts aside and looks at in scorn, the “Not Quites”, and the “Never-Get-it Rights” that Jesus seems to pick to do His selfless, sacrificial work.
As Bruh Paul writes: ‘For ye see (consider) your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound (put to shame) the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound (put to shame) the things which are mighty.’ (1 Cor. 1:26-27)
That’s exactly like the twelve outsiders, or disciples whom Jesus chose, that no one else would have chosen to do such important, painstaking work. But Jesus knew that although they were nobodies in the eyes of the world, they had the qualities of strength and tenacity that He needed in His followers. ‘If any man will (desires to) come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.’ (Luke 9:23) How many rich, comfortable and well-educated people are willing to live such a sacrificial and self-denied life eh?
Not many, as can be seen in the example of the rich young ruler who came to Jesus seeking what he must do to have eternal life. Jesus told him about keeping the commandments, but he said that he’d done all that from his youth and enquired what else he lacked. ‘Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt (want to) be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.’ (Matt. 19:21) But the young man went away sad, because he had lots of possessions.
And in any case, when Jesus calls you into His employ, He moulds and shapes you into the vessel that He desires, like a potter does to clay. And once you get in with Jesus, you only have eyes and ears for Him. Your divine destiny is to tell the world about Him and His good news gospel. As He said to the disciples in what we call the Great Commission:
‘All power (authority) is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach (make disciples of) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matt. 28:18-20)
Oh my fellow believers, as the song says, ‘Everybody’s got a purpose.’ And that’s our purpose! To help Jesus and those twelve outsiders, twelve disciples change the world. And the good thing about working for Jesus is that He’s always with you through the indwelling of His awesome Holy Spirit, and He always gives you the wherewithal to do whatever He asks you to do. You cannot find a better Boss than Him!
That’s why all who come to Him don’t seek their own advancement and don’t boast about their doings, but in the work of Jesus. That’s why Bruh Paul writes: ‘But he that glorieth (boasts), let him glory (boast) in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.’ (2 Cor. 10:17-18)
And in closing, let’s remember that whatever our original background, we are now, all ONE in Christ, for by His work on the cross, He has broken down the wall between us, bringing both Jews and Gentiles into ONE body, His church. And our job is simply to do His work to the best of our ability! Much LOVE!
…living and working for Christ…is the best life possible…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
28 Jul 2024
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a song of repentance, aboilshed in his flesh the enmity, acces by one Spirit unto the Father, all one in Christ, an IOUa certificate of debt, being dead in your sins, Bible, blotting out the handwriting of ordinances, broken down the middle wall of partition, christianity, contrary to us, dressed in its Sunday best, experience the hope of your salvation, faith, fellowship, For christ is our peace, forgiven you of all trespasses, Gentiles, gift of salvation through grace, I come to the cross, in one body by the cross, indebted to God, into the presenece of the King of Kings, into your strength, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Jews, looking like riff raff, LOVE, mercy, nailing it to the cross, one new man, open our hearts and souls, out of my weakness, paid the price for my guilt, preached peace, quickened together with him, reconcile both unto God, remember me, salvation, seeking mercy and grace, show some respect to the Lord's sovereignty, spiritual life, sweet sacrifices of praise, tears in my heart, the Mosaic Law, the uncircumcision of your flesh, the wonder of Christ's crucifixion, to make in himself of twain, to them that were nigh, to you whcih were afar, today thou shalt be with me in paradise, took it out of the way, truth, when thou comest into thy kingdom, wisdom, you call me by name, you died in my place, you welcome this child that was lost, your arms are open
Colossians 2:14. Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.
Here comes Sunday, here comes Sunday, dressed in its Sunday best! Ah friends, remember the days when going to church was a fashion show? Everybody dressed in the clothes they only wore on Sundays…and the ladies with their fantastic hats. No lady would go to church without a hat! Now that might have been a bit much, because many of us just went to church to see what our friends and neighbours were wearing and to gossip about their ensemble later on.
But today things have turned right around, people go to church looking any ole how. And technically speaking, we’re not going to church for the clothes, because the Lord will accept us anyhow, once our hearts are sincere. But with the Lord’s sovereignty we should still show some respect by going into the Lord’s house looking decent. We don’t go into the presence of earthly kings looking untidy and unkempt, so why go into the presence of the King of Kings looking like riff raff eh?
Anyway, enough of my spiel, let’s talk about our opening song. It’s a song written in 2003 by Bob Somma and Bill Batstone, and very wisely titled ‘I come to the Cross.’ It’s basically a song of repentance and salvation, of where our strength lies, where the foundation of our faith is laid – in the cross of Jesus. So, let’s offer up sweet sacrifices of praise, in a soulful, heartfelt version. And as we sing the poignant, touching words, let’s imagine ourselves at the foot of Jesus’ cross, offering repentance for our sins, and receiving His offer of salvation through grace.
Like one of the two criminals crucified with Christ, who confessed his sin, and said unto Jesus: ‘Lord remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.’ (Luke 23:42-43) And before we get into the song, let me share this commentary on that scripture:
“Today, you will be with me in paradise.” Let that soak in, that for all who trust in who Jesus is, and what Jesus has done on the cross, in the moment you die on this earth, that day, that moment, you will be with Jesus in paradise, in heaven. You will experience the hope of your salvation.’ It couldn’t get any better than that friends!
So let’s sing: ‘I come to the cross seeking mercy and grace, I come to the cross where You died in my place. Out of my weakness and into Your strength, Humbly, I come to the cross. I come to the cross seeking mercy and grace, I come to the cross where You died in my place. Out of my weakness and into Your strength, Jesus, I come to the cross. Your arms are open, You call me by name, You welcome this child that was lost. You paid the price for my guilt and my shame,
Jesus, I come, Jesus I come, Jesus, I come to the cross. I come to the cross seeking mercy and grace, I come to the cross where You died in my place. Out of my weakness and into Your strength, Jesus, I come to the cross. Jesus, I come, Jesus I come, Jesus, I come to the cross Your arms are open, You call me by name, You welcome this child that was lost. You paid the price for my guilt and my shame, Jesus, I come, Jesus I come, Jesus, I come to the cross Jesus, I come to the cross…Jesus, I come to the cross….’
Oh my people, the words of that song ring so true that there can be no doubt about them. And to show how powerful they can be, please read this comment on the song from an impressed listener. She writes: ‘Praise the Lord. Thank you for the wonderful song “I Come To The Cross.” When I first heard this song, I was so touched by it and found tears in my heart because He died on the cross for my sins and this song really opened my eyes and my whole being to accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior for as long as He allows me to live. So again, thank you for your wonderful ministry. May God bless you and may your ministry touch someone else the same way it touched me. Your sister in Christ, Salaia.’
Yes friends, that’s the way the words of the song ought to touch us; to open our hearts and souls to the wonder of Jesus crucifixion on the cross of Calvary and what it accomplished on our behalf. Then to bring us to our knees before our Lord and Saviour, admitting that we’re helpless without Him, and offering much thanks and praise for His selfless work in our ungodly and sinful lives.
And this scripture from Bruh Paul to the Colossians admirably explains the song, or vice versa, the song explains the scripture. (smile) ‘And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened (made alive) together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross. (Col. 2:13-14)
And the scholars offer this explanation of those scriptures. ‘2:13. As per You … hath he quickened: God gave them new spiritual life. 2:14. The handwriting of ordinances: They say, in secular literature, this “handwriting” was an IOU signed by the debtor. Here it might be paraphrased “a certificate of debt consisting of decrees.” This refers to the Mosaic Law, which the Jews had contracted to obey, and to which Gentiles by conscience were obligated. Owing to man’s inability to fulfill this obligation of obedience, he was therefore indebted to God. But through Christ this debt was graciously blotted out.’
Making it the most wonderful gift of God ever! Now, listen to this scripture from Bruh Paul to the Ephesians, on ‘Christ Our Peace,’ which also helps us understand the selfless and magnificent job that Christ has done on our behalf. ‘For he (Christ himself) is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition (division) between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make (create) in himself of twain (the two) one new man, so making peace.
And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain (put to death) the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar, and to them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.’ (Eph. 2:14-18)
Oh my fellow believers, that’s indeed a wonderful scripture! For, Christ’s coming to earth and dying an atoning death in our stead and with His philosophy of peace and LOVE, had turned the two antagonistic groups of Jews and Gentiles into one single new group, the Christian church.
The scholars tell us, ‘He did this by removing the middle wall of partition, that is, the Mosaic Law. The law was meant to protect Jews from pagan corruptions; but by misconstruing the purpose of the law, the Jews felt superior to Gentiles, who were incensed at this arrogance. So Jesus abolished this enmity (hatred), caused by an abuse of the law, by making the law invalid for His church. Christian Jews and Christian Gentiles now compose this “one new man” or Christian church.’
Oh friends, what a Master Builder was our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Only He could have broken down those walls of enmity and hatred and brought us all into one group, His church. Therefore, considering that magnificent work, shouldn’t we be more LOVING and tolerant of each other, members of the same organization, who all found our salvation at the cross of Christ? Of course! So please, let’s spend some time today pondering the many divisions and dissensions in Christ’s church, and how we can reduce them. Much LOVE!
…through Christ…we are all one…and one for all…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
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