Today’s Scrip-Bit 8 April 2016 Exodus 33:14‏

08 Apr 2016 Leave a comment

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

Exodus 33:14.   And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.

‘Friday, Friday, Fridayyy! Thank God it’s Friday! That means the weekend is here and we going to party down the place! No more slaving in unsanitary conditions for a measly wage. It’s Friday! Thank God for that yes!’ 

Yeh friends, that’s the general cry I hear as I come out this Friday morning. And truthfully, you can’t blame people if they feel that exhilaration at the prospect of two days off from the conditions under which some of them labour. 

But going to the other extreme, excessive partying and licentiousness, is not the answer either. In many cases, the other extreme is just as bad as the first. What we need is to have a balanced attitude towards life, and I believe that our Friday Chant provides that, so let’s chant it nuh, with sincerity and courage. 

As one chanter now: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through. 

Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.’ 

Yes my brethren, we need the full treatment; rest, relaxation, fun, praise and worship, if we are going to back out the next week and work diligently for Jesus again. 

And we’ve got plenty to say this morning – when don’t we eh – (smile) so let’s get to our Bit right away. ‘And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.’ 

That’s a sincere promise from our heavenly Father, and we know that He NEVER breaks His promises. 

Now listen to this story. I opened up my computer late last night and received this sad information from one of my surrogate sisters in Jamaica. Apparently a gunman recently accosted her one midday as she came home from the supermarket, put a gun to her head and threatened to kill her. 

To make matters worse, it was on the anniversary of her mother’s death and she had put on a set of bangles belonging to her mother.

Surprisingly, she says, she stood stock-still and did not move. She also discovered that she was not afraid of death, and she remained calm, while telling the Lord that her children were not yet ready to do without her. 

The gunman in the meanwhile burst off a chain from around her neck, took her bangles and rings, and after threatening to kill her simply left. Now they claim that she’s suffering from PTSD, but she’s claiming that the Lord will see her through…and He will. Glory to God! 

Only thing is that at first she was somewhat angry with God, but is now realizing that her life was the most important thing – of course it was! The few baubles and bangles that the gunman stole can never compare to the sanctity and preservation of her life. 

She also considered that her mother might have been protecting her through her bangles, and last Sunday, at church she got up and sang her mother’s favourite song, which included a verse of ‘Amazing Grace.’ What a powerful testimony friends! 

And would you believe that she was not going to tell me about her shocking, near death experience. But as I keep saying, our God moves in mysterious ways, and I believe, yesterday, when I wrote about the importance of being in His presence, it worked on her heart and she decided to tell me. 

Thanks for sharing Sis, but you can’t keep those kinds of things from the ole fella. You know if something untoward happens to any of you, it will affect him greatly. 

But my people, you see what can happen when you seriously and sincerely stand strong with Almighty God. He will stand strong and steadfast with you too in your time of need. You’ll note how she was calm and not afraid. That’s because the Lord’s presence was surrounding her. 

Her faith made her strong, and wise too by not fighting or struggling with the gunman. He was possibly more afraid than she was. 

But friends, it all points out to us the absolute necessity of continually being in God’s presence, of walking and talking with Him, for we never know when some action like that above will occur and have us desperately needing Him. 

But look at what life has come to eh! Even in your own home, in the middle of the day, yuh not safe! Ah Lord eh! And the sad part is that it’s not getting any better, but worse. It’s a good thing that we Christians have the Creator of the universe looking out for us yes! 

And we’ll end with these wonderful words of testimony from Bruh David as he seeks preservation and blessing in Psalm 16, from the wonderful God of his fathers. ‘I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest (dwell securely) in hope. 

For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell (the abode of the dead); neither wilt thou suffer (allow) thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.’(Ps.16:8-11) 

Yes my brethren, we can also sing the same song because our Redeemer, Jesus Christ has travelled down that same path and paved the way for us. Let’s wisely cling to Him and His ways nuh, for that’s wisdom of the ages. Much LOVE!

…oh what unspeakable joy there is in the Saviour’s presence…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 February 2016 Matthew 17:5

07 Feb 2016 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 17:5.  While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye (listen) to him.  

Well Friends, it’s Sunday once again; time for us to gather in the Lord’s sanctuary and worship and praise Him with joyful voices. Hope you are either there now, have gone already, like me, or are preparing to go at some time in the day. Remember it’s where we get our weekly anointing to be able to carry out our godly duties in the ungodly world in which we now live.

Ah mih people, I certainly enjoyed the church service at my Tobago St. Francis church. Not that I don’t enjoy and appreciate the one at my Canadian St. Francis, but this one has more of a West Indian flavour, where you are a little more involved. There’s no organist or choir, that means most of it is left up to the congregation to get involved…

And do they get involved! You have to, otherwise the service will fall flat on its face. And you should hear the ole fella singing hymns and shaking his tambourine, having read the first lesson, like I usually do back in Canada, at the early morning service.

Now today is Transfiguration Sunday. Jesus was about to set off for Jerusalem to fulfill His mission, and this was a sort of reinvigoration, a strengthening of His sense of purpose. Jesus took Peter, James and John (his top men) up a high mountain. ‘And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment (clothes) was white as the light.

And behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elijah talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ (Matt.17:2-4)

Yeh Friends, it’s obvious that the disciples did not understand what was really going on, and Mark tells us that Peter was only talking because he was so afraid, he did not know what else to say (Mark 9:6)

But as our Bit states: ‘While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye (listen) to him.

And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man save (except) Jesus.’ (Matt.17:5-8)

Can you imagine the confusion and fear between the three men? One moment they see their teacher’s face and clothes change; the first glistens like the sun and the second is white as snow.

Then two long dead prophets appear from nowhere and begin conversing with their teacher. Then they are covered by a cloud and hear a voice coming from the sky, then the next there’s just Jesus alone. It’s enough to drive one crazy.

But right now, let’s get some info from the scholars on the situation. ’17:1-9. See Mark 9:2-13; Luke 9:28-36. Peter, James and John represent the “inner circle” of leadership among the disciples (cf. Luke 8:51; Matt.26:37) and serve here as ample witnesses according to Mosaic Law.

They went into a high mountain apart, meaning privately, by themselves. Tradition claims that this took place at Mount Tabor, but a more probable location would be Mount Hermon, near Caesarea Philippi.

Jesus was transfigured before them. The verb (Gr. metamorphoo) indicates a transformation of essential form, proceeding from within, but the transformation is outwardly visible. See Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 3:18, where it is used of the spiritual transformation of the believer’s new nature. The witness of Peter in 2 Peter 1:17-18 verifies the testimony that this was a real experience not a vision.’

So friends, it’s clear that the transfiguration scene was not a mere vision, but reality. And I like how Mark describes it: ‘And his raiment (clothes) became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth (no launderer) can white (whiten) them.’ (Mark 9:3) You can imagine how white Jesus’ clothes must have been then!

I also like how Luke puts in his description of Moses and Elijah: ‘Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease (death) which he should (was about to) accomplish at Jerusalem.’ (Luke 9:31)

And the scholars tell us: ‘9:31. If Jesus is being reminded of His impending death, He will also have been assured of His promised resurrection. (Mark 9:9).’ And as the scholars also point out: ‘Luke 9:35. Compare the voice at Jesus’ baptism (3:22). There, however, God speaks to Jesus; here the message is to the disciples.’ And what is the crux of the message my fellow believers? ‘Hear, listen to Him!’

Oh friends, that’s the same message we are still getting today: Listen to Jesus! But not sufficient of us are listening to it, much less taking it to heart and seriously practicing it. That’s a large part of why our world is so evil and ungodly.

We need true believers to stand up strong, to listen and put the Word into action so that the heathen, the unbeliever will see how we live and behave, how we’re blessed by our great and bountiful God and will thus want to turn away from their sinful attitudes and embrace Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour too.

Oh friends, we are supposed to be the modern day disciples, following in Jesus’ footsteps, bringing others to Him through our example. Unfortunately, though, our examples are either not good enough or plenty enough, because the heathen isn’t coming to Jesus as he should. In many cases he is turning away from Jesus because of our hypocritical examples.

Anyway my brethren, I can only try to encourage us to do better, the rest is left up to each individual, and we’ll each have to answer to the judge on our individual behaviour.

Now listen to Peter. ‘For we have not followed cunningly devised fables. When we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.’ (2 Peter 1:16) So Peter is claiming that he was actually there at the transfiguration of Christ.

And the scholars explain that verse thus. ‘1:16. In Matthew 17 Jesus was temporarily glorified in the presence of three disciples. This was a foreshadowing of Christ’s coming in power and glory to establish His kingdom. The presence of Moses and Elijah on the mountain represented all those who enter the kingdom by death or translation.

The declaration of the Father reinforces Christ’s dominion over His kingdom. Application: Since Christians live expectantly looking forward to the return of Christ, they ought to give Him first place in their lives today, just as He will have in the kingdom.’

Yes my people, the scholars hit the nail on the head; it’s time truly give Jesus first place in our lives. That’s truly wisdom at its highest! Much LOVE!

…oh…if we all could be transfigured today…like Jesus was back then…what an awakening the world would witness…


 
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 25 June 2015 Joshua 1:8b

25 Jun 2015 Leave a comment

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

Joshua 1:8b.   …for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Oh Friends, it’s Thursday! Wow! Another terrific day in the history of civilization is on the way! Glory to God!

So please, let’s give thanks, be glad and rejoice in this day, because it is the wisdom of the age. It just had to be since the Holy One of Israel has a specially prepared fount of blessings on tap for us today. We just have to be obedient to His will and He will shower us with bountiful blessings, show us an awesome time.

And all God’s children declared a loud, proud and grateful ‘Glory Hallelujah! All praise and thanks and honour to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords who sits upon His throne in the high heavens running things according to His wise and holy will!’

Yes my people, our God is indeed a great and magnanimous God! In fact, He is the ONLY TRUE God! And He’s also a LIVING God, which none of the other supposed gods are! It is His wonderful breath of life that courses through our bodies. That’s something we ought always to remember because it’s one of the foundation pillars of our faith.

Now here is an interesting quote on expecting success from Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993), the famous American minister, author and champion of the ‘Power of Positive Thinking.’

‘Hope is the great power that can move you to success. Why? Because when a man expects to win, he does not hold anything back, but gives his project all that he’s got. Most people fail not because they lack ability, intelligence or opportunity, but they fail because they don’t give it all they’ve got.’

And isn’t that the absolute truth! For when we expect success we put all that we have into it; time, energy and money. It’s the very dedication to our project and the determination to succeed that leads us to success!

So for all of us who have projects on the go, and that includes the living of this earthly life, let’s be dedicated and determined to succeed nuh, obviously with the help of Jesus. And how do we enlist the aid of Jesus? Simply by turning to Him, putting all out trust and faith in Him.

As the Lord told Joshua several times when He anointed him to lead Israel after the death of Moses. ‘Be strong and of a good courage… Only be thou strong and very courageous… Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest.’ (Josh.1: 6, 7, 9)

So in the space of four verses, God warns Joshua three times to be strong and courageous and not afraid. Oh Friends, it’s the same thing that our great unchangeable God is saying to us today; ‘Be strong and of a good courage, and be not afraid.’ For we can’t do His bidding if we’re weak and fearful.

However my brethren, the clincher in the whole story is this verse, verse 8, from which our Bit comes. ‘This book of the law shall not depart out of (shall be constantly in) thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.’  (Josh.1:8)

Yeh Friends, you see the true and real way to be prosperous and have success: be strong and courageous, but even more importantly, meditate on the Lord’s Word day and night. It calls for manly strength and courage, as well as a strong and courageous faith centered in the Word of God. That is the ONLY way to have lasting prosperity and success!

Moses had already warned the Israelites re the choice of a king, and what His most important role was: ‘And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:

And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear (stand in awe of) the Lord his God; to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them.

That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren (become proud), and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days (continue long) in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel.’ (Deut.17:18-20)

One simply cannot rule or live justly without the guidance of the Good Book!

And Jesus reiterated that command in the Sermon on the Mount when He told us in no uncertain terms. ‘Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for (do not worry about) your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat (food), and the body more than raiment (clothes)? … But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matt.6:25, 33)

Oh my people, how many times must we be reminded that the ultimate in wisdom and common sense decrees that we place our trust in our heavenly Father if we want to be successful in this world eh?

But in spite of it all, we still listen to Lucifer, the ole deceitful wolf in sheep’s clothing and believe, or act on the premise that you have to concentrate on the things of the world and the way the world thinks and acts, to make it. That’s a total lie my brethren!

The necessary material things will be provided for us by God, the Great Provider, if we concentrate on seeking and doing His will. And we won’t have to be fearful and anxious about our needs because the Father knows we need those things to survive, and He has promised that HE WILL provide them if we are true and faithful to His Word.

And what better way to end than with this powerful testimony from Bruh David from Psalm 37 – The true state of the wicked. ‘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 (merciful all the day), and lendeth, and his seed (descendants) is blessed. Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.’ (Ps.37:25-27)

Oh Friends, all I can do now is to implore us to follow the wonderful advice we have received from several ever-faithful and reliable sources, if we truly desire to be prosperous and successful in this world. Much LOVE!

…true strength and power and prosperity…in other words earthly success…comes only from Almighty God…through obedience to His Word and Will…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 7 May 2015 Matthew 22:37

07 May 2015 Leave a comment

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

Matthew 22:37.  Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Aye Friends, the word for this terrific looking Thursday morning is LOVE!   Selah.

Yes my people, please thing about that marvellous word for a few moments nuh…

And when you do, you’ll quickly realize that our world is surely and sadly lacking in that wonderful, godly emotion termed LOVE! And because of that sad and severe lack, our world is faltering on the brink of destruction; it’s down on its knees, fighting for its very life.
 
Oh Friends and neighbours, our world is definitely enveloped in too much negativity. That’s why I’ve brought this simple prayer on the subject from the back pages of my departed mother’s Bible to share with us. I’ve shared it before, but like so many other things in our lives, apparently it needs sharing again.
 
Please pray with me: ‘Father, we confess that we do not always respond to your LOVE as we should. By the power of your Spirit living in us, teach us to LOVE you as we ought. In Jesus name. Amen.’
 
Oh Friends, oh Friends, the basis of that prayer is ever so true! We, and I’m talking about supposed Christians here, don’t LOVE the Lord our God, and therefore ourselves and others, as we should. And you just have to look at the way a lot of us behave, spewing hatred, vengeance, resentment, selfishness, etc. etc; all the negative things that the world now favours.
 
Oh my brethren, in light of all that negativity, we do badly need the Holy Spirit to come amongst us and raise the level of LOVE in our souls, both for God and ourselves. For if we don’t have a high level of LOVE, respect and esteem for God and ourselves, then we’re much worse than the wild animals of the earth, who do have no thinking powers, and thus simply do things instinctively.
 
What a crying shame my people! It’s obvious that we’re not paying sufficient, if any heed, to Jesus’ reiteration of Deuteronomy 6:5, which constitutes our Bit for today. ‘ Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt LOVE the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.’
 
Yes Friends: ‘This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt LOVE thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’ (Matt.22:37-40)
 
Oh my Christian brethren, that’s gospel truth, because Jesus spoke it!. But we are obviously not doing it to the best of our ability, otherwise our world would not be in such a disastrous state. For as Cousin Sol tells us in Proverbs 10: ‘Hatred stirreth up strifes: but LOVE covereth all sins.’ (Prov.10:12) 
 
That simply means Friends, that if there was more LOVE in our world, there would not be as much strife. And believe me, I don’t know if at any other time in man’s history, that the world has been strife-riddled and ridden as it currently is.
 
And Cousin Sol holds LOVE in such high esteem, that later on he declares: ‘Better is a dinner of herbs (vegetables) where LOVE is, than a stalled ox (fatted calf) and hatred therewith.’ (Prov.15:17)
 
And Bruh Paul chimes in with his two cents worth to the Romans about walking in LOVE. ‘LOVE worketh no ill (does no harm) to his neighbour; therefore LOVE is the fulfilling of the law.’(Roms. 13:10)
 
Yes Friends, if we walk in LOVE, as Bruh Paul advises, then we will fulfill the two great commandments as laid down by Jesus. And that fact alone would change the entire look and demeanour of our world. Oh my people, what a glorious place our world would be if we would just choose to actively live and walk in LOVE!
 
Oh Friends, oh Friends, we are so lacking in true LOVE, that I thought I’d refresh our memory with this most appropriate song, with lyrics by the renowned composer and lyricist, Burt Bacharach. Please listen to it my people, hear it in our mind’s eye being sung by somebody like Jackie DeShannon or Dionne Warwick, or whoever you want, and let it refresh our hearts, souls and minds.
 
‘What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE, No, not just for some, but for everyone. Lord, we don’t need another mountain, There are mountains and hillsides enough to climb. There are oceans and rivers enough to cross, Enough to last, till the end of time.
 
What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE, No, not just for some, but for everyone. Lord, we don’t need another meadow, There are cornfields and wheat fields enough to grow. There are sunbeams and moonbeams enough to shine.
 
O listen, Lord, if you want to know. What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE, It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is LOVE, sweet LOVE, No, not just for some, but for everyone. No, not just for some, oh, but just for everyone.’
 
Ah Friends, if that doesn’t touch a sad note in our souls, then we’re not true Christians. It was written some fifty odd years ago, and has been recorded by numerous artists, and gotten oodles of airplay, but unfortunately it’s just as relevant and necessary today, as it was back then, possibly even more so now, with our world fast heading to some type of serious, irreversible holocaust, if we don’t turn things around very very soon.
 
So my fellow believers, let’s allow that song to seep into our consciousness, sub-consciousness nuh, or wherever it will bear the best witness and testimony for Almighty God, as we go out to do His bidding today, and every single day of our earthly pilgrimage. That’s wisdom at its highest and its best. Much LOVE!
 
…beloved…let us LOVE one another…for LOVE is of God…and everyone that LOVETH…is born of God…and knoweth God…  (1 John 4:7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 March 2015 1 Corinthians 3:11‏

09 Mar 2015 Leave a comment

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

1 Corinthians 3:11.   For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Oh Friends, our God is indeed a great and wonderful God! And don’t let anybody tell you otherwise! And this winter Monday morning I’m here to testify to that fact. Glory Hallelujah! I can say all of that now with a smile, but yesterday morning for some reason or another all my aches and pains decided to act up on me at once.

Ah Lord eh! I went to church and had trouble getting up and sitting down. I guess you could call it just one of those days when everything seems to be in a negative mode. I even took some extra medication, but all to no avail. Finally, in the afternoon, I lay on my bed and cried out to our heavenly Father.

And like the wonderful parent He is, He heard my cry and answered me. ‘What’s the matter my child?’ He asked with real concern.

‘I…I…don’t understand what this is all about,’ I stammered.

‘I know,’ He replied, ‘but you don’t have to understand everything that happens to you. You just need to trust me. Do you trust me?’

‘Yes,’I replied.

‘Remember I have a good plan for your life, and I’ve promised never to leave nor forsake you. I LOVE you so much that I even sent my dearly beloved Son Jesus to be a sacrifice, and atone for your sins, so that you can once again have true fellowship with me. So why would I do anything to harm you eh? And have I not protected and looked after you, even when you weren’t living obedient to my will?’

I could only nod in agreement.

‘So why would I stop looking after you now, when you are sincerely trying to be obedient to my will? Oh, I know that life can get rough, but a part of that is to remake you into the likeness of Jesus. And nobody ever had it as hard as Him. So please don’t worry, everything will turn out all right. I’ve promised that. Just keep moving forward, keep believing and trusting. I know what I’m doing. Just remember that I LOVE you no matter what, and I’ll never leave nor forsake you.’

All I could say was ‘Thank you Father. I’ll try my best.’

And then the miracle happened! No, my aches and pains didn’t disappear, but a feeling of peace, of well-being washed over me, because my perspective had changed. I stopped focusing on what was wrong with me, and began focusing on what was right with God.

Ah mih people, in so many cases that’s what we need to do, but instead we stop and wallow in our misfortunes, even though we can’t change them. But when we truly put our trust and faith in the Creator of the universe, then our misfortunes don’t seem so grave. Though nothing has really changed in the physical realm, improvement has taken place in the spiritual realm.

And that’s my testimony for today. I do hope that it has some impact on you, in the sense that whatever is wrong in your life, you will know that you can take it to the Father in prayer and receive His peace and comfort.

Now let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn to get our motors up and running. With much verve and gusto now. ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together.

We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies.

But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’

That was good Friends. Now let’s go out and put it all into action, for as out Bit truthfully and wisely tells us: ‘For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.’ There’s no doubting that truth my people! For from the beginning of the ages, Jesus was scheduled to be our redeemer and the rock upon which we would build our lives.

And after the Bit, Bruh Paul tells us how our building is going to work. ‘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 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 Friends, come the day of the judgement seat of Christ, our work on His behalf will be tested to see if it was worthwhile. If it stands up to the consuming fire of the test, as it will, if we build with incombustible stuff like, gold, silver and precious stones, then we’ll be rewarded. But if does not, as it most certainly won’t, if we build with materials like straw, wood and hay, then there’ll be no reward.

However, we shall not lose our salvation, though our work is burnt in the testing. As the scholars point out: ‘The stress in this entire passage is not on a person’s relationship to Christ; but on service to Christ.’

So therefore my fellow believers, when we go out today to work for Christ, let’s remember to put the emphasis on good building materials, materials that will stand the test of time and truly further God’s glorious kingdom. Much LOVE!

…working for Jesus…not only requires time and effort…but also good materials…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 22 February 2015 Romans 12:2

22 Feb 2015 Leave a comment

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

Romans 12:2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Well Friends and fellow believers in Jesus Christ, once again the cycle of 7 days morphing into a week has begun. This is the day of the Lord, the first day of the week, and to show proper respect and our grateful appreciation for His goodness and LOVING-kindness last week, and this coming week, we ought to go to His sanctuary and offer up praise, worship and thanksgiving with other believers and receive the strength, encouragement and confidence to face another week in this mish-mash, predominantly ungodly world.

I already had my churching for today. And Friends, the ole fella read the scripture in church and shook my tambourine with much pleasure. Mama Mia! I like this church. It doesn’t seem to have a choir or organ, but they have an African drum and tambourines and the voices really are loud and proud, filling up the whole church with prayers, praises, songs of worship and thanksgiving!

And the female lay reader preached a mighty powerful sermon this morning on the meaning of Lent; a time for introspection, for growing, for giving up things of the world, so that we can get closer to God. And as usual, I saw people from my youth, people I have not seen in many a day. I guess there’s no place I can go in Tobago without meeting someone who knows me, my, mother, my father or my grandfather.

Unfortunately it will be my last visit on this trip. Next Sunday I’ll be back in my cold St. Francis church back in the North Country, but it’s only the surroundings that are cold, the people are warm and lovely and friendly! Hi there my people back at St. Francis! I missed you all, but not the cold weather. (smile)

And since Lent is a time for us to grow in the nature and image of Christ, this morning when I read this most appropriate passage from The One Year Book of Bible Promises, with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin, I obviously couldn’t pass it up. It’s titled ‘Grow Up.’

And it says: ‘Picture with me: a piece of gnarled bark tossed to and fro over the crashing breakers. First one direction, then another, back and forth, over and under. Aimless. No set purpose. Drifting… always drifting. What an accurate picture of an immature Christian. Nothing but spiritual puttering. Up and down, in and out. One study group for a few weeks, then another. One church for a while, then another.

Undisciplined, unsteady, one day soaring, the next day wading in self-pity. No consistency. The apostle Paul tells us to grow up! Not grow older, but grow up into Christ. What we are today is more important to God than what we were yesterday. Our life journey with Jesus is now – this very day, this very hour. Why yearn for change if we’ve made no effort to follow the direction God has already given us?

To grow spiritually we must be single-minded. Our one goal? To be conformed to the image of Christ. He longs for our willingness to let Him root us, cultivate us, water us. Above all, God wants our total commitment. He will take anything we give Him, except second place.’

Oh my people, those are such moving words of truth that I don’t see how we can ignore them if we truly want to be a mature Christian. Like everything else in this world, it takes, diligence, patience, perseverance, endurance, faith, prayer and the sweat of our brow to grow, to come up higher in Christ too. That means we can’t be wishy-washy and wavering, sitting on the fence, jumping down to one side or the other as the fancy takes us, or where the grass seems greenest.

And the promise for that passage is our inimitable Bit, memorable words from Bruh Paul to the Corinthians. And we’ll start with the first verse of the chapter. ‘I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable (rational) service.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.’ (Rom.12:1-2)

Oh Friends, that is the perfect recipe for the wandering, wavering, wishy-washy Christian! In fact for any Christian at all, because that’s how we become true children of God, reflecting the true image and character of Jesus Christ, which is God’s eternal plan. And the scholars have some very good explanations on those verses, so let’s check them out.

’12:1. By the mercies of God summarizes all that God has accomplished for the believer in Romans 1-11 in justifying the believer (chs. 1-5), enabling the believer to live a righteous life (chs 6-8), and being faithful to Israel (chs 9-11). That ye present refers to a definite act of presentation. The verb is used of offering a sacrifice that became “holy” under the Levitical system (cf. Ex.29:37).

This shows that the Christian life begins with total commitment and irrevocable presentation. Your bodies: The body has been an instrument of sin (ch 6). Now it is to be presented to God as a channel through which the righteousness of God is manifested.’

12:2. Be not conformed (lit. “stop conforming yourselves”). They are to resist being poured into the mould of the present thinking, value systems, and conduct of this world. This term is used only here and in 1 Peter 1:14.’

Oh my brethren, that last sentence says it all! We supposed Christians, followers of Christ are being too influenced by the mores, vales and conduct of this evil and ungodly world. So how can we expect to be true Christians when we’re not following the will and work of Jesus Christ eh?

That’s why so many unbelievers look down on us with scorn and serious misgiving, comparing us to the hypocrite Pharisees of Jesus’ time and thus refuse to attend church or commit their lives to Jesus. And they’re quite right too! How can we expect people to join something that’s so conflicted, divisive and two-faced?

In other words Friends, we’re not helping God’s cause with that kind of behavior, but driving it into the ground. And there’s no better time than this Lenten Season to check ourselves and see where we may be coming up short for Jesus, and seriously communicate with Him to help us change, grow, mature, and thus do better in furthering His glorious kingdom.

So let’s concentrate on that today nuh my people, for all of us can use God’s help to improve our earthly witness. Much LOVE!

…the best testimony for Jesus…is through our true and righteous lives…anything less is not good enough…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 26 November 2014 Luke 9:56

26 Nov 2014 Leave a comment

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

Luke 9:56.    For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.
 

Aye Friends, it’s Wednesday morning! That means we’re halfway home to two big days of freedom! And this is the most important part of the week, the time when we need to show strong discipline and self-control, or as the old folks would say, ‘stick-to-itive-ness.’ (smile) That’s hanging in there, not giving up, even though it’s so easy to let go and quit.

 
This is the time when it often seems so dark and dreary and impossible. But as we all know, it’s darkest just before the dawn, just before daylight, before the sun appears over the horizon. It’s only a couple more days to freedom my brethren, so please hold on and don’t let go, don’t dare to look back and sigh and wonder what if.
 
Remember what happened to Lot’s wife when she looked back as they were fleeing the fire and brimstone that was engulfing Sodom? Despite warnings, she looked back and immediately turned into a pillar of salt. (Gen.19:26)
 
Remember too, Jesus’ words to the man who wanted to go and bid his family farewell before following Him. ‘No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.’ (Luke 9:62)
 
Yes Friends, no one who gives things of little importance higher priority than God’s work is of much use to Him. So just hang on in there this Wednesday morning, put your best foot forward, your nose to the grindstone and move forward with Jesus ever by your side, as Guide and Leader, Lord and Saviour.
 
This brings us to some fateful words of Jesus, including our Bit. ‘But he turned and rebuked them and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.’ (Luke 9:55-56)
 
This happened when Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem to fulfill His purpose in coming to earth. He sent some messengers into a Samaritan village to make ready, to make preparations for the large group that was travelling with Him.
 
As befitted His status, Jesus had a fairly large entourage by the standards of those days. However, they weren’t well received in that village because it looked like they were only being used as a stop-gap measure, as Jerusalem seemed to be their final destination. (Luke 9:52-53)
 
And since the Jews and Samaritans were always at loggerheads, it’s only logical to expect the latter not to welcome or favourably receive those bound for Jerusalem.
 
And it’s certainly amazing to hear the disciples’ response to their lack of welcome. ‘And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elijah did?’ (Luke 9:54) James and John were certainly hot to trot!
 
And as the scholars tell us: ‘9:54. See 2 Kings 1:10-12 (for Elijah’s story). Peter is not the only disciple to make rash judgements. Retaliation in the face of rejection goes far beyond Jesus’ order in 9:5.’
 
And Luke 9:5 says: ‘And whosoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them.’ And it’s useful to note here that Jesus meant rejection by whole cities, not merely isolated individuals.
 
Anyway, that’s when Jesus spoke the words of our Bit to the disciples. And several times during His earthly ministry He made that point; that He had come to save, not to destroy. Let’s look at a few of them.
 
The first one is when He had lunch with Zaccheus, the chief tax collector. And when Zaccheus pledged to refund his ill-gotten gains, (Luke 19:8) Jesus said to him. ‘This day is salvation come to this house, forasmuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.’ (Luke 19:9-10)
 
There again my people, Jesus emphasizes His purpose as to seek and save the lost, not to destroy.
 
Then in John 3, Jesus delivers these beautiful, encouraging and uplifting words. ‘For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.’ (John 3:16-17)
 
And again Friends, Jesus places more emphasis on saving rather than condemnation.
 
And our final words from Jesus on the subject, takes place when some of the Jewish rulers believed in Him, but were afraid of making their feelings public because they feared the wrath of the Pharisees, of being kicked out of the synagogue. As the Good Book says: ‘For they LOVED the praise of men more than the praise of God.’ (John 12:43)
 
And that’s still ever so true of too many of us today my people! We prefer to offend God, rather than man.
 
Anyway, as part of Jesus reaction to those people, He said, ‘And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.’ (John 12:47-48)
 
Yes my brethren, our Lord and Saviour is not a destroyer like Lucifer, but a saviour as His title aptly proclaims.
 
So please let’s stop being afraid, stop being anxious and guilt stricken when we make mistakes, or come up less than we should, because that’s the kind of people Jesus came to save, not the perfect ones, but the sick and suffering, the lost and abandoned, the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. Much LOVE!
 
…in need of help…then turn to the one who specializes in helping…Jesus Christ…

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 30 September 2014 Hosea 7:13

30 Sep 2014 Leave a comment

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

 Hosea 7:13. Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.

‘Hot town, summer in the city… Cool cat, looking for a kitty. Gonna look in every corner of the city…!’
 
Oh Friends, in the supposed summer month we couldn’t make the claim of that old song with very much truth, because it wasn’t that hot. But yuh better believe in the last few days, it was undeniably true!
 
For instance, as I was driving up the road yesterday, with my window down and the sun shining in, I had to hide my forearm from its onslaught. (smile)
 
Oh what confusing weather! But note, we’ll never say no to such beautiful Tobago days, that’s for sure! Especially at this time of year, when the weather is usually leaning towards the chilly side.
 
But another confusing thing is that the trees aren’t paying any attention to the great summer weather, they are still turning into their fabulous fall colours and dropping their leaves, in anticipation of winter.
 
Unfortunately, today doesn’t seem as if it’s going to be a Tobago kind of day, but it’s not going to be too bad either. Anyway, we’ll be thankful for anything, once it’s not that cold, white stuff. (Smile)
 
Now let’s turn to our Bit: ‘Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.’
 
And today I’m not going to get into any rhetoric about our evil deeds and disobedience. I just want to share a few scripture passages on redemption and being redeemed.
 
Now the word redeem basically means ‘to purchase’, and redemption in the Good Book means Jesus Christ purchasing our sinful souls from the bondage of sin, by the shedding of His holy and sinless blood on the cross of Calvary.
 
In other words, by His sacrificial death, He paid the enormous price required by His holy and just Father to absolve us from our abominable sins, thus paving the way for us to become righteous, justified, sanctified and a member of God’s family.
 
So now we are free from the bondage of sin, but please, NEVER, NEVER forget that it was THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST that paid for our redemption!  We would still be lost sinners, facing the penalty of death and eternal separation from Almighty God, if Jesus had not sacrificed Himself on our behalf.
 
That just goes to show how much He truly LOVED us, and I just can’t understand the rebellion, the disobedience and ungratefulness that we constantly show to such a wonderful act of LOVE!
 
Anyway, as I said earlier, no rhetoric, just scripture. (smile) And we’ll begin with this powerful promise of our omnipotent God to the Israelites right at the very beginning of their fight with Pharaoh to leave their bondage in Egypt.
 
He says to Moses: ‘Wherefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with outstretched arm (with mighty power), and with great judgements.’ (Ex.6:6)
 
And we all know that our ever-faithful God did just as He had promised. Then later on, Isaiah also talks about the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel.
 
‘Remember these, O Jacob and Israel; for thou art my servant: I have formed thee; thou art my servant: O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten of (by) me. I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee.’ (Is.44:21-22)
 
And Hosea continues the prophecy of redemption when he foretells Israel’s destruction. ‘I will ransom them from the power (hand) of the grave (death); I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues (where is your punishment); O grave, I will be thy destruction (where is thy sting): repentance (pity) shall be hid from mine eyes.’ (Hos.13:14)
 
And the scholars have this to say about that verse: ’13:14-16. I will ransom them from the power of the grave: Only God can save Israel from national extinction. After its judgement is complete, Israel will ultimately be redeemed and will bring forth fruits of repentance.
 
This national repentance and restoration will be realized in the Israel of the Millennium. Paul applies verse 14 to the resurrection of Christ, which guarantees the resurrection of all believers in Christ.’
 
When we move on to the New Testament, we have more testimony of redemption. Listen to Zechariah’s prophecy, as his son, John the Baptist is presented to the Lord.
 
‘Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, And hath raised up a horn of salvation (mighty deliverer) for us in the House of his servant David; As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began (from the ages):
 
That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant. The oath which he sware to our Father Abraham, That he would grant unto us, that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear,
 
In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our lives. And thou child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission (forgiveness) of their sins,
 
Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring (dawn, Messiah) from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.’ (Luke 1:68-79)
 
Oh my people, we know that prophecy was fulfilled by John the Baptist going before Jesus to testify of His coming and to call the people to salvation. Jesus came and redeemed us, but that call for salvation is still going out. Today, please hear it and respond wisely. Much LOVE!
 
…today…if you should hear Jesus knocking at the door to your heart…please don’t ignore it…

 

 

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 September 2014 Daniel 4:30

10 Sep 2014 Leave a comment

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

Daniel 4:30.   The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for for the house of the kingdom (a royal dwelling) by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?
 
Aye Friends, did you see the big, super full moon last night? It was just so big and beautiful! Like two normal full moons, placed one on top of the other, with the bottom one ensconced about a third of the way into the one on top. It’s the second consecutive month I’ve seen it, but I have no idea of its significance, if any. It surely looks beautiful and intriguing though! (smile)
 
And talking about intriguing, last night I made sure that I went to bed at an earlier than usual hour, so that I could also get up earlier. Why? Because though I claim to be on a summer hiatus and am not killing myself, or compromising my normal lifestyle to get the Bit our early, my conscience bothers me when it’s late.
 
Just imagine that eh! Oh, I’m so sweet and conscientious! (smile) But it’s just true. I like it to be available when my readers get up, though realistically, that’s not always possible. Not to worry though, because I still got in all my required activities last night, I just began earlier than usual. (smile)
 
That included my quiet time out on my porch, quietly communing with Mother Nature and our Creator in the peaceful hours of the night, where it’s just the insects singing their praises to Almighty God, with a slight breeze gently rustling the leaves of the tree, which unfortunately in my area are beginning to go into their fall and winter mode.
 
Oh I also saw my nocturnal friend last night; a long, slim and slinky black, brown and white cat. He usually slinks silently by along the walkway at the bottom of the porch steps without paying me any notice sitting at the top.
 
And it’s always amusing to see it take the same route all the time; around to the right side of a big tree in the yard, across the sidewalk to the right side of the stop sign, then diagonally over to the far side of the junction where the two streets meet. And it comes back exactly the same way, doesn’t deviate at all.
 
Last night though, possibly because I was standing up baying at the big, beautiful full moon when it finally broke through the cloud cover, it didn’t come by the walkway, just stood up in the road and looked curiously at me for a few moments, before quietly heading off down the other side of the street.
 
And yuh telling me that quiet time out on my porch with Mother Nature and our wonderful Creator isn’t beneficial!
 
Oh Friends, you all must try it sometime, especially those of you who have constant warm weather all year round. It just brings a quiet sense of peace and relaxation as you sit and listen to the harmonic sounds of nature, while emptying your soul of any problems that are currently bothering you to a closely listening and very receptive God.
 
It doesn’t get any better than that Friends! And having testified more than I intended to, (smile) let’s see what space and time we can find for our Bit: ‘The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom (a royal dwelling) by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?’
 
Now yesterday, we saw that though Daniel warned king Nebuchadnezzar about the sickness he’d face if he continued in his prideful and egotistic way, Neb still carried on in the same vein. And a year later, while walking through his sumptuous palace, before those words could even come out of his mouth, his fate was sealed in heaven.
 
Now my people, what I want us to pay close attention to is God’s reasoning behind Neb’s fate. It’s quoted several times: ‘until thou know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.’ (Dan.4:32b)
 
Oh my brethren, that is something that mankind today, foolishly basking in their selfish and egotistical ways also need to learn. Jehovah God is, was, and will always be the ruler of heaven and earth, and He gives whatever He desires, to whom ever He desires! He gives, and He takes away!
 
And if you read the Old Testament, you’ll see that God had Nebuchadnezzar, a heathen king, playing a major role in the history of Israel. And the sad part is that Neb had oodles of opportunity to see God’s mighty and marvellous works through Daniel’s correct interpretation of his dreams and also the faith of his three buddies, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace incident.
 
But like so many of us today, he just didn’t pay enough attention to God’s movement in his life. However, like many of us, at the end of the day, he was singing God’s praise. Let’s hear some of his testimony.
 
Before telling the story of his vision of the tree, he proudly proclaims: ‘Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. I thought it good to show the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me.
 
How great are his signs! And how mighty are his wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and his dominion is from generation to generation.’ (Dan.4:1-3)
 
What a moving testimony from a heathen king Friends! But it gets better. After his mental illness he staunchly declares: ‘And at the end of the days (time) I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes to heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation:
 
And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed (considered) as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay (restrain) his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?
 
At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness (splendour) returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in (restored to) my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.
 
Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and his ways judgement (justice); and those that walk in pride he is able to abase (humble).’ (Dan.4:34-37)
 
Ah Friends, if a heathen king could declare such a moving testimony, it behooves us to pay close attention to the pride and egotism in our own behaviour, because it’s a fool’s wisdom to think that we can do much without God’s help!
 
And if it’s one thing the Lord won’t stand for, as we saw in the passage from Isaiah yesterday (Is.42:8), is us, or anybody else stealing His glory. And if we foolishly try to do it, then we will pay a hefty price like Nebuchadnezzar did.
 
So let’s take king Neb’s words to heart and behave in a suitable manner nuh, so that the Lord can raise us up, instead of abasing and humbling us. That’s wisdom of the highest order! Much LOVE!
 
…who shall steal the Lord’s thunder and get away with it eh…NOBODY…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 3 June 2014 Acts 14:22

03 Jun 2014 Leave a comment

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

Acts 14:22.  Confirming (strengthening) the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

Oh Tuesday, oh glorious Tuesday! What tales of joy or sorrow, success or defeat will you bring? Let’s hope that there are many more tales of joy and success than sorrow and defeat.
 
I know for one thing, Tuesday’s brought rain, some of the early rains that we’ve so far been lacking. The rain began late yesterday evening and fell on and off during the night. So it looks like it will be a rainy day Tuesday.
 
 But the rain didn’t seem to be the refreshing type that brings respite from the day’s heat, and yesterday was hot in my neck of the woods. The rain just caused the night to be muggy and uncomfortable, which made sleeping, even with all my windows open, a somewhat rough experience.
 
So much so that when the Lord called this morning, I had a hard time answering the bell. The old body just wanted to roll over and go back to sleep, feverish though it was. However Friends, I’m glad and proud to say that on this occasion the will prevailed, the will triumphed… Glory Hallelujah!
 
And here I am about the Lord’s business, though still somewhat bleary eyed. (smile) But as I always say, I have no doubt that our great, wonderful, forgiving, merciful and kind, magnanimous and understanding God and Creator will eventually bring me unto myself and unto Him, so that I can write something sensible in His Holy Name.
 
And that’s my testimony for this Tuesday morning, my people! (smile)
 
Yes Friends, the ole fella’s shaking it a bit rough this morning. But as we like to say, nothing but unconsciousness or death must stop the Bit from going out. Oh, it’s indeed a wonderful ideal, and so far, obviously with the Lord’s superior help, I’ve been able to live up to it.
 
Now that leads us nicely into our Bit. ‘Confirming (strengthening) the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.’
 
Unfortunately my brethren, followers of Jesus, just like our Leader, have been destined to undergo some trials and tribulation, some testing in the fires of this earthly life. Obviously most of us won’t be tested as hard and as horrifically as Jesus was, but some testing is indeed our lot.
 
And just like it brought Jesus closer to the Father, because He had to depend on Him for the wherewithal to do His bidding, even so our trials and tribulation ought to draw us closer to our Maker. For it is only through His redeeming grace and power that we can ever hope to successfully overcome our trials.
 
Now listen to these words of awesome wisdom and undeniable truth, re the coming apostasy (abandonment of religious faith), written by Bruh Paul to Timothy so long ago, but which are currently being fulfilled in these troubled times in which we live.
 
‘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, trucebreakers (irreconcilable), false accusers (slanderers), incontinent (without self-control), fierce (brutal), despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady (reckless), high-minded (haughty), lovers of pleasure, more than (rather than) LOVERS of God;
 
Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
 
Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate (disapproved) concerning the faith. But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs was also.’ (2 Tim.3:1-9)
 
Ah mih people, like Bruh Paul’s living today and writing about us! It’s definitely not a pretty picture of our world, but it is indeed a very truthful one.
 
And to help us understand those verses, here is some info from the scholars. ‘3:1-4. The last days began with the birth of Christ and will culminate in Christ’s return to the earth to set up His kingdom. The prediction of perilous times indicates that apostasy will characterize the final days of the church age. 
 
3:5-9. A form of godliness is mere religion without power or spiritual life. Paul commands Timothy to turn away from these false teachers who prey upon silly women laden with sins, who are especially susceptible to false teachers.
 
Ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth condemns not intense study but some esoteric quest for truth apart from God’s Word. Jannes and Jambres, according to Jewish tradition, were the two magicians in Pharaoh’s court who attempted to duplicate Moses’ miracles (cf. Ex.7:11; 9:11).’
 
Oh Friends, I know that all we’ve been hearing about so far are trials and tribulations, but listen now to the rewards of living for Christ, as explained by our Saviour Himself.
 
He had just finished telling the disciples about it being ‘easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?
 
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
 
Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?
 
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye shall also sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
 
And everyone that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or fathers, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. (Matt.19:24-30)
 
Now Friends, neighbours and fellow believers, I ask you, are those rewards worth the testing and trials of this earthly life? I humbly submit that they certainly are!
 
But the Lord’s left it up to each individual to make that life changing decision to follow His Son or not. Please, I implore us to make the right one today, and invite Jesus into our hearts and souls right now, so that we can enjoy a much brighter tomorrow with Him in everlasting glory!
 
Why? Because that’s the undisputed wisdom of this earthly life! Much LOVE!
 
…in the world ye shall have tribulation…but be of good cheer…I have overcome the world…

 

 

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