25 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: always abounding in the work of the Lord, as Christ was raised from the dead, at the name of Jesus, be ye steadfast unmovable, became obedient unto death, being in the form of God, bless the LOrd o my soul, buried with Christ by baptism into death, by the glory of the Father, Christ's resurrection conquers death, christianity, Christians, crowns you with loving-kindness, death is swallowed up in victory, e, emptied himself of his privileges, endure to thend, even the death of the cross, every knee should bow, every tongue confess, eyes fixed straight ahead, faith, finite minds, for the wages of sin is death, forget not all his benefits, forgiveness of sins, found in appearance as a man, gave his only begotten Son, given him a name above every other name, God hath highly exalted him, God sent not his Son into the world to condemn it, God so loved the world, halfway home, hands on the plough, have everlasting life, heals all thy diseases, holy spirit, humbled himself, Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God, let this mind be in you, LOVE, made himself of no reputation, made in the likeness of men, mercy, new life, not turning back, nothing but toast, o death where is thy sting, o grave where is thy victory, reconciled with god, redeems thy life from destruction, salvation, satisfies thy mouth with good things, second wind day, so glad to be alive, thank God, Thank you Jesus, thanks be to God who gives us the victory, the BIBLE, the breath of life, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the gift of God is eternal life, the hope of eternal life, the proverbial hell on earth, the selfless sacrifice of christ, the sting of death is sin, the strength of sin is the law, the world through him might be saved, thought it not robbery, thy youth is renewed like the eagle's, to a glorious future with Jesus, to be equal with God, took upon him the form of a servant, true saints of God, truth, walk in newness of life, what a bam bam, who forgives all your iniquities, whosoever believeth in hims should not perish, wisdom, your labour is not in vain
Psalm 103:2. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
And then it was Wednesday, our second wind day of the work week! And I hope that we catch that second wind yes, because the last two days have been the proverbial hell on earth, with bright sunshine and temps in the mid-thirties ably accompanied by a hot wind. Thankfully though, today is not as hot, we’re in the mid-twenties, with cloudy skies overhead, a promise of rain, but also rising temps As the old people would say; ‘what a bam bam!’ Right now, we don’t know whether we’re coming or going, but with the marvellous help of Jesus, we can be assured that help is on the way! And all God’s people gave a loud and grateful shout of ‘Thank You Jesus!’
And we should be grateful for all the things He’s done for us, as Psalm 103 reminds us: ‘Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with LOVING-KINDNESS and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.’ (Ps. 103: 2-5)
Yes friends, those are some of the reasons why Christ gave up His heavenly position and came to earth like a man, then selflessly gave His life for us on the cross of Calvary, bearing our sins, so that we can be reconciled with God the Father, from whom our abominable sins had wrenched us apart.
Bruh Paul writes it thus to the Philippians: ‘Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men (emptied himself of his privileges): And being found in fashion (appearance) of a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of (those) things in heaven, and (those) things in earth, and (those) things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.’ (Phil. 2:5-11)
Oh my people, that just goes to show what a great job Jesus did! So great that the Father exalted Him to the name that’s above every other, and that every tongue should consider Him Lord. But let’s look a little deeper into what His selfless work did for us. And in a nutshell, this commentary tells us what we derived from Christ’s death and resurrection. ‘Christ’s death and resurrection offer believers forgiveness of sins, new life, and the hope of eternal life, among other benefits. His sacrifice on the cross atones for our sins, while his resurrection conquers death, granting believers new life and the promise of eternal life.’
And as per forgiveness of sins, the Bible states: ‘For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (Rom. 6:23) So through Christ’s death we achieved forgiveness of sin and basic reconciliation with the Father. Then as per a new life and the new identity we are given when we accept Him as Lord and Saviour (becoming a new creation in Christ; (2 Cor. 5:17) this new life frees us from the power of sin.
As Bruh Paul writes to the Romans: ‘Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like (just) as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we should walk in newness of life. For if we be planted together (united) in the likeness of his death, (certainly) we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:’ (Rom. 6:3-5)
Yes my brethren, if we die with Christ, then we will automatically be raised with Him. And that resurrection is oh so beautiful, because it enables us to have eternal life; to spend eternity with Jesus and the Father! Jesus said it quite plainly to Nicodemus, the Jewish leader who came to him under cover of night seeking answers. ‘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 as we mentioned before that Jesus resurrection gives us freedom from sin, these words of Bruh Paul to the Corinthians, shine bright light on that new situation. ‘Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave (hades), where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (1 Cor. 15:54b- 57)
However, since time and space are running out on us, if God spares life tomorrow, then we’ll continue looking at some more of the great benefits Christ’s death and crucifixion accomplished on our behalf. But let’s leave with this exhortation from Bruh Paul. ‘Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain (futile) in the Lord.’ (1 Cor. 15:58) And that’s exactly how we ought to behave as true saints of God!
Now, it’s time to declare our Wednesday Wail, letting all the world know of our wonderful position in Christ Jesus! As one strong and sincere voice: ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’
And let’s remember that for those who endure with Jesus right to the very end, there’s a promise of an even more glorious future than our finite minds can imagine. So wisdom behooves us to be there at the very end, so that we can enjoy that more than glorious future together! Much LOVE!
…without the selfless sacrifice of Jesus…mankind would have eventually been nothing but toast…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
24 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: all things work together for good, another scorcher, as a father the son in whom he delighteth, be as a tree planted by the waters, be not weary of his correction, be not wise in thine own eyes, blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, bring forth thy righteousness as the light., called according to His purpose, casting all your care upon him, cease from anger, christianity, come to know and love him like we do, commit thy way unto the Lord, delight thyself also in the Lord, depart from evil, despise not the chastening of the Lord, direct thy paths, faith, fear the Lord, feed on God's faithfulness, forsake wrath, fret not thyself because of him who prospers, fret not thyself in any wise to do evil, give thee the desires of thine heart, god, God will cause us to succeed even in tough times, he cares for you, he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, he that comes to God, health to thy body, heat warnings, her leaf shall be green, holy spirit, honour the Lord with thy substance, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, hurry, I will not fear what flesh can do to me, in all thy ways acknowledge him, In god I have put my trust, In God will I praise his word, in god's eyes, in the year of drought, it only causes harm, Jesus Christ, lean not unto thine own understanding, let not your heart be troubled, lock stock and barrel, LOVE, marrow to thy bones, mercy, mut believe that He is, neither shall cease from yielding fruit, rest in the Lord and wait patiently for him, run from your kin to your enemies, s promised never to leave nor forsake us, salvation, shall not be anxious, shall not see when heat comes, share His love with my neighbours, share the amazing love and friendship of Christ, so shalt thou dwell in the land, spreads out her roots by the river, the beloved of God, the BIBLE, the fear of man bringeth a snare, the man who brings wicked schemes to pass, thy barns be filled with plenty, thy judgement as the noonday, thy vats burst out with new wine, to them that love God, trust in the Lord, trust in the Lord and do good, Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, trust my friend Jesús, truth, Tuesday Mantra, what time I am afraid I will trust in thee, whom the Lord loves he chastens, whoso puts their trust in the Lord shall be safe God, wisdom, with the firstfruits of all thine increase, without faith it is impossible to please God, worry, you believe in God believe also in me
Proverbs 29:25. The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (secure, lit. set on high).
It’s Tuesday friends, and another scorcher, with heat warnings. But we’ve gotten through the last two fiery days with God’s help, so why won’t we get through this one too? No reason whatsoever! For He’s promised numerous times in His word to never leave nor forsake us, if we put our total and sincere trust in Him. And I guess today is a day for reminding ourselves of scriptures that advise us to trust in the Lord God of our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. But there are so many that I don’t know which ones to choose, so for ease of understanding, we’ll choose some of them with which we’re already acquainted. (smile)
And we’ll begin with this one that shows Bruh David’s awesome trust in God, when he ran from King Saul to his deadly enemies, the Philistines in Gath, and they took him in. He writes in Psalm 56 – Times of Distress: ‘What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God will I praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can to me.’ (Ps. 56:3-4) Now, if you can run to your enemies from your own kin, then that’s showing amazing trust in the God you worship.
And that’s what’s expected of us, when Isaiah awesomely declares: ‘Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed (sustained by) thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah (Yahweh) is everlasting strength (the rock of ages).’ (Is. 26:3-4) And if you don’t believe that, then read the rest of that passage, where Isaiah details God’s amazing strength. (Is. 26:5-11)
Now here is another dandy scripture, this time from the pen of the prophet Jeremiah. ‘Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see (fear) when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful (anxious) in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.’ (Jer. 17:7-8) Wow mih bredrin! That’s a scripture that’s just right for today, with all the heat and drought that’s currently assaulting us. Yes, with total trust in our great God, we have no reason to fear, because He will cause us to succeed even in tough times!
Meanwhile, Peter puts it this way: ‘Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.’ (1 Pet. 5:6-7) And remember, you can only truly trust when you are submissive to whomever, or whatever you claim to trust in. That’s why the author of Hebrews tells us: ‘But without faith it is impossible to please him (God): for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.’ (Heb. 11:6)
Ah mih people, faith is born of trust, you cannot have faith in someone or something unless you have invested trust in the situation or the person. Then there are these verses from Psalm 37, aptly titled, Trust in the Lord, verses we continually quote but never quite live up to them. See if you remember them. (smile)
‘Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed (feed on God’s faithfulness). Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgement (justice) as the noonday. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices (schemes) to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil (for it only causes harm).’ (Ps. 37:3-8)
So what else can we say about having trust in the Lord eh? Plenty! Just listen to these marvellous verses from the pen of the wisest one, Cousin Sol, also ones we know, but don’t put into full use. In Proverbs, he exhorts and admonishes us thus! ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct (make straight or smooth) thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel (body), and marrow (strength, refreshment) to thy bones.
Honour the Lord with thy substance (possessions), and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses (vats) shall burst out with new wine. My son despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of (detest) his correction: For whom the Lord LOVETH he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.’ (Prov. 3:5-12)
And that’s wisdom to the nth degree! So why don’t we put those verses to better use eh? Who knows? But because we don’t, we cannot utilize the fullness of God’s promises and provisions. There’s also this one from Cousin Sol that might not be so familiar. ‘The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (secure, lit. set on high).’ (Prov. 29:25) Another bit of wise advice.
Then there’s this famous verse from Bruh Paul to the 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) Now that calls for great trust to believe that in spite of all our problems, everything will eventually work out for the best. But that’s what our faith is about; trust in Almighty God. It’s like Jesus said: ‘Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.’ (John 14:1) And that’s exactly what we need to do.
And for those of us who are sincerely trying to do that, let’s go home declaring our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel. As one strong voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’
Now, we are required to go out and share the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…sincere trust can only come from…strong hope, belief and faith…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
23 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a false hope, a horse is a vain thing for safety, a merciful forgiving and gracious God, a mighty man, a reverential awe of God, accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, all you that labour, as hot as, as we hope in thee, be careful what you ask for, beholds all the sons of men, blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, call upon the Lord, cannot afford to waste, come unto me, deliver their soul from death, desirous of summer, divine aid, ease the pain, even one more day, faith, faithfully keep your promise, faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers, fashions their hearts individually, find rest unto your souls, for his own inheritance, forest fires, gentle and humble, give you rest, God will never let us down, goolish to turn down such an offer, he is our help and shield, health problems, heavenly help, heavy laden, high U.V. Index, holy spirit, hope and pray, humble ourselves, humble servants, I will love thee O Lord, if you can't stand the heat, in whom I will trust, Jehovah Rapha, Jesus Christ, keep them alive in famine, learn from me, let thy mercy be upon us, LOVE, meek and lowly in heart, mercy, my burden light, my deliverer, my god, my high tower, my shield, my strength, my yoke is easy, no king saved by, not delivered by much strength, our Father who art in heaven, our heart shall rejoice in him, our soul waits for the Lord, Praise for God's Goodness, praise Your Holy Name, pray, put your hope and trust in Almighty God, salvation, saved from my enemies, shall not deliver any by his great strength, show this evil world, sincere repentance in our hearts, sincerely seek God's face, sinned and disobeyed your Word, skin problems, stay out of the kitchen, take my yoke upon you, thank you for life, thank you for life and strong faith in Christ, the eye of the Lord, the fiery place down under with Sata, the God who heals, the great invitation, the horn of my salvation, the Lord is my rock and my fortress, the Lord looketh from heaven, the many suffering from negative situations, the mass confusion in our world, the multitude of an host, the note of sarcasm, the only one, the people He's chosen, the power to solve our many problems, the proverbial place down below, the throne of grace, the wisest decision, to alleviate our problems, to prosper us, trusted in his holy name, truth, turn from our evil ways, understands all their work, upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy, who is a rock except our God, who is God save the Lord, wisdom, wise guidance, worthy to be praised, you'll be disappointed
Psalm 33:20. Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and shield.
And we’ve been so desirous of summer, let’s hope that we like it now that it’s here. I hope you detect the note of sarcasm there, because yesterday Sunday, was as hot as that proverbial place down below, (smile) with temps in the thirties, and wind that was just as hot. It’s also predicted that today Monday, and tomorrow Tuesday will be just as hot, with possible health problems to children and old folks, as well as a high U.V Index that can cause skin problems to all.
So, if you can’t stand that earthly heat then I’d strongly advise you to make sure that you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, so you will be in paradise with Him, and not in that fiery place down under with Satan. As the saying goes, if you can’t stand the heat, then stay out of the kitchen. Some of us might also remember the august warnings from our parents; be careful what you ask for, because there’s a high possibility that when you get it, you’ll be very disappointed.
Therefore, let’s hope and pray that the summer won’t be as hot for too long, since it will probably set off more forest fires, and cause even more health problems. But yuh know what, let’s do what we’ve been taught by our faith to do, lay all those problems in the hands of Jesus. And what better words can we use for reassurance than these from Psalm 33 – Praise for God’s Goodness.
The Psalmist confidently declares: ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. The Lord looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men. From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth. He fashioneth their hearts alike (individually); as he considereth (understands) all their works. There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. An horse is a vain thing (false hope) for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.’ (Ps. 33:12-17)
Now that tells us something about the Lord’s power, that He is overseeing all that happens in the universe He created, and is controlling it as He sees fit, with neither man nor beast able to overcome Him or His desires. Then the psalmist continues with even more assurance: ‘Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him (have a reverential awe of Him), upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.’ (Ps. 33:18-22)
Yes friends, the wisest decision we can ever make on this earth is to put our hope and trust in Almighty God, for as Bruh David so assuredly proclaims in Psalm 18 – A Call for God’s Deliverance: ‘I will LOVE thee, O Lord my strength. The Lord is my rock , and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler (shield), and the horn (strength) of my salvation, and my high tower (stronghold). I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.’ (Ps. 18:1-3)
And that’s how we ought to consider our God: strong, fortress-like, a shield to protect us, as well as to deliver us from our enemies, be they man, beast or nature. And when we think of Him thus, it allows us to put our total and sincere trust in Him, because we know that He will not let us down. No! NEVER!
And it’s all covered by the protective umbrella of Jesus’ Great Invitation, where He sincerely offers: ‘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)
Wow friends! What a magnificent invitation! And the truth of the matter is that ONLY Jesus was and is able to make such an invitation and have the awesome power to keep it. And we would not only be unwise, but rather foolish to turn down such an exceptional offer, especially in these uncertain, very difficult and fearful times. So without further ado, let’s show Christ that we’ve accepted His wonderful offer by going to the throne of grace through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn seeking divine aid for our many earthly problems.
Altogether: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems. Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek Your face.
So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems. Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’
But, having said all of that, we now have to begin doing the things that will cause divine aid to start flowing. That’s turn from our evil ways, humble ourselves, pray and sincerely seek God’s face. So please, let’s get right to it nuh, because we cannot afford to waste even one more day without heavenly help! Much LOVE!
…for who is God…save (except) the Lord…who is a rock save (except) our God… (Ps. 18:31)
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
22 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a strong anointing, an indisputable fact, an invitation, an outward indication of an inner condition, blessed is he who hides in him, Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, come exalt His name forever, delivered me from every fear, every day and night, exhorting one another, experiencing God's presence, faith, fear the Lord all ye saints, feel the presence of the heavenly hosts, fellowship, gather in God's name, glorify the Lord with me, Goliath's sword, hallowed shew bread, He will deliver them, He'll give you everything, his praise shall be continually in my mouth, holy spirit, I sought the Lord and He answered me, I will bless the Lord at all times, Jesus Christ, let us bless the Lord, LOVE, magnify the Lord with me, may our incense rise, mercy, more than erratic church attendance, musical perfection in gospel music, my soul shall make her boast in the Lord, never ending praise, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves, O taste and see that the Lord is good, one who narrowly escaped death, opportunity for reciprocal encouragement, praise of one who was redeemed, salvation, saved me from mine enemies, Shane Barnard, spiritually inspired by God, sweet sacrifices of praise, the assembling of God's people, the church is an interacting body, the entire worship of Christ, the faithful heroes, the humble shall hear and be glad, the Lord heard me, the Lord's Day, the Son of God surrounds His saints, the testimony, they'll never be ashamed, this poor man cried, those who look on Him are radiant, to experience God's goodness firsthand, trials and tribulations, truth, wisdom, you see the day approaching
Psalm 34:1. I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
So once again it’s Sunday, the Lord’s day, when we’re supposed to gather in His sanctuary, or anywhere possible, and give Him thanks and praise for all that He’s done for His human creation. Yes, the scriptures proscribe it, as this verse from Hebrews reminds us. ‘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 yuh better believe that the day of the Lord’s glorious return is quickly approaching.
And the scholars explain that verse thus. ‘Not forsaking the assembling: This admonition involves far more than erratic attendance. It involves the entire worship of Christ and is an outward indication of an inner condition. The assembling of God’s people provides opportunity for reciprocal encouragement, strengthening, and the stirring up that can be gained from one another (cf. Col. 3:12-16) It consists of participation in worship and fellowship. The church is a body interacting (1 Cor. 12:14-27); it is not merely a dispensary for spiritual food and medicine.’
Now, all of that is the gospel truth my faithful brethren. Getting together to worship our great God is the epitome, the essence of our faith. And today we’ll open with a song that will lift us up, stir us up and define the interaction of Christ’s body. (smile) It’s that famous song based on some words of Bruh David from Psalm 34, titled ‘O Taste and See that the Lord is good.’
And what does that mean? One commentary explains it thus: ‘It is an invitation to experience God’s goodness and faithfulness firsthand. The verse suggests that simply believing in God’s goodness isn’t enough; one must actively “taste” it by experiencing His presence and blessings in their life.’ Now that’s one way to never go wrong! But while the song is attributed to one Shane Bernard, it is sensationally performed by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and is my all-time favourite video worship song. I had not heard it for a while, then I listened to it this past week, and immediately knew we had to sing it today. (smile)
And if you think that I am biased about the song, then listen to these two commentaries on it. The first says: ‘This is how it would be like in heaven. Every voice, musicians, race, soul praising the name of God. Amen!!’ And the second is like unto it: ‘Every frame, every beat, every note, perfectly executed. THIS is musical perfection in gospel music.’ And believe me that’s the infallible truth! For the musicians get into the song and fire it right up, as they can do when they’re inspired. And if you’ve never seen the video, you ought to, because it will certainly stir you up. (smile)
But enough talk, let’s get to the song, and raise our voices in sweet sacrifices of praise in an up-tempo, soulful, scintillating, heart-rending rendition of the song. Singing: ‘I sought the Lord And He answered me And delivered me From every fear. Those who look on Him Are radiant They’ll never be ashamed They’ll never be ashamed. This poor man cried And the Lord heard me And saved me from My enemies. The Son of God Surrounds His saints He will deliver them He will deliver them.
Magnify the Lord with me Come exalt His name together Glorify the Lord with me Come exalt His name forever. Oh taste and see That the Lord is good Oh blessed is he Who hides in Him. Oh fear the Lord Oh all you saints He’ll give you everything He’ll give you everything. (Magnify the Lord with me Come exalt His name together Glorify the Lord with me Come exalt His name forever. Repeat) (Let us bless the Lord Every day and night Never ending praise May our incense rise. Repeat 4 times)
Magnify the Lord with me Come exalt His name together Glorify the Lord with me Come exalt His name forever. {Repeat} Oh taste and see That the Lord is good. He’ll give you everything He’ll give you everything. Oh taste and see That the Lord is good. He’ll give you everything…He’ll give you everything. …He’ll give you everything…’
Now there’s an indisputable fact friends! If we continually worship the Lord like Bruh David says in the Psalm, He will give us everything! And by the way, that was a marvellous version; all heaven was singing along with us. As this commentary says: ‘I just imagine being in heaven worshipping with this magnificent choir, just magnifying our great God! Hallelujah!!’
Then this other commentary tells it thus: ‘Every time I listen to this song, I imagine myself along with all the other saints in heaven worshipping. This song carries a strong anointing. You can feel the presence of the heavenly hosts. The worship that the people utter after the song is like Heaven, every, race, every tongue raising up their voices in one accord unto the King of Kings.’ And that’s exactly how it ought to be!
It’s also interesting how the writer of the song only took verses 3-10 from the psalm and created such a wonderful song. But that happens when you are spiritually inspired by the Lord of the universe. Now here’s how Bruh David began the psalm: ‘I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.’ (Ps. 34:1-2) Then he goes into the verses used in the song, about magnifying and exalting the Lord with him etc.
And the basis of the psalm comes from 1 Samuel 21, where Bruh David was running away from King Saul and lied to the priest Ahimelech about a secret mission for the king, and because the mission was so urgent, he never had time to procure food nor weapons. Ahimelech believed him, and gave him the ceremonial hallowed shew bread, which was all he had, as well as the sword that Bruh David had taken from Goliath after he killed him. And I like Bruh David’s response to Ahimelech’s comment about Goliath’s sword being the only weapon available. ‘And David said, There is none like that; give it me.’ (1 Sam .21:9b) He should know. (smile)
Then Bruh David ran to Gath, to the land of the Philistines, to Achish the king of Gath, for succour, feigning madness. Consequently, as the scholars explain, the psalm bears all the marks of the testimony of one who narrowly escaped death, just as the passage in Samuel describes. As such it contains the praise and testimony of the one who was redeemed (vs. 1-10) and the seasoned instruction that can stem from such deliverance (vs. 11-22).’
Ah mih people, trials and tribulations are a natural aspect of this evil and ungodly world, and there’s much we can learn from the way the faithful heroes who preceded us handled them, so please, let’s not just read and gloss them over, but study them and try to put them into practice in our lives. It will be ever so beneficial to us! Much LOVE!
…there’s nothing better believers can do…than magnify and exalt the Lord’s name together…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
21 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a fool's wisdom, acknowledge God's sovereignty, after a hard week's work, all liars, be wise and choose life, between a rock and a hard place, blaspheme His holy name, blessing and cursing, both thou and thy seed may live, choose life, crying out for help, deepen my breath, disobedient, do our won thing, draws us closer to our heavenly Father, established it upon the floods, eternal death, eternal death with Satan, eternal life, eternal life with Christ, every step of the way, faith, find ourselves in trouble, fools despise wisdom and instruction, free will, good communion, he hath founded it upon the seas, holy spirit, I call heaven and earth, I have set before you life and death, I may know you all the more, I praise you for your unceasing nearness, I want to be with you now, in the name of Jesus, increase my awareness of you, indwelling Holy Spirit, intimacy with god, intimacy with His human creation, Jesus Christ, Jesus is with us, Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, LOVE, mercy, more in tune with Satan than with God, no more death, no more pain, no more sorrow, nomore cruing, pray without ceasing, quiet my soul, rebellious, relax my muscles, robots, salvation, selfish, sexually immoral, slow my thoughts, stay in the good graces of God, thank you for this tenderness, the abominable, the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, the fearful, the former things are passed away, the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, the world, the world and they that dwell therein, to make a living, to record this day against you, traffic jams, true wisdom is clinging sincerely to Jesus, truth, under the umbrella of His shed blood, warms the cockles of God's heart, whoremongers, wisdom, you can't be contained, your love both surrounds and fills me, your peace and love are present
1 Thessalonians 5:17. Pray without ceasing.
And after Friday comes Saturday; our lazy-day Saturday, when we just laze around and try to catch ourselves after a hard week’s work, of battling the twice a day traffic jams and all the other stuff we have to contend with out there in this crazy world, as we try to make a living, all in the name of Jesus! And we only succeed because Jesus is with us every step of the way, through His indwelling Holy Spirit!
So, seeing that we don’t have to rush off anywhere today, let’s take a moment and offer up our Lazy-Day Saturday Prayer, with all sincerity and truth. As one strong voice: ‘Lord, I want to be with You now. Please slow my thoughts and quiet my soul. Let my muscles relax, my breath deepen. You are here with me – Your peace and LOVE are present. I marvel to think You can’t be contained, that Your LOVE both surrounds and fills me. Thank You for this tenderness, Lord. I praise You for Your unceasing nearness. Increase my awareness of You today, that I may know You all the more. Amen!’
Now, that just quiets our souls and draws us a li’l closer to our heavenly Father, giving Him His greatest desire, more intimacy with His human creation. For, remember one of the main reasons He created us, is that we could have good communion together. The unfortunate part of that plan though, is that we’ve used the free will He gave us to become selfish, disobedient and rebellious, not desiring to have much communion with Him, preferring to do our own thing without any interference whatsoever from Him.
But that’s a fool’s wisdom, and it’s only when we find ourselves in trouble, between a rock and a hard place that we run to Him, crying out for help. And when He doesn’t answer our cries for help, we get all upset and blaspheme His holy name. What we need to remember is that He is the Sovereign ruler pf this universe; it’s Creator and Controller, and answers to NO ONE! Bruh David stated it in no uncertain terms: ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods (rivers).’ (Ps. 24:1-2)
Yes, He is the one that created everything and controls it all. And until we get that straight in our puny minds, we’re liable to go off on all sorts of foolish tangents in this crazy and chaotic world, that will only make our lives more difficult than necessary, and will eventually ruin us. That’s why it’s wise and necessary to stay in the good graces of Almighty God, keeping in constant touch with Him through prayer. As Bruh Paul wrote to the Thessalonians: ‘Pray without ceasing.’ (1 Thess. 5:17)
In other words, have a running communication with the Father. As you go about your day, talk to Him about everything. Oh friends, you don’t know how it warms the cockles of His heart when we bring Him into all of our affairs, be they simple or complicated. It certainly does, because He created us so that He could get involved in our everyday lives, and gave us free will so that we would not be merely robots, but have some choices in our lives, hoping that we would choose Him, and His way of life over everything else.
Sadly though, today we seem more in tune with the fallen angel, Satan, than we are with our Creator. But please remember that Satan is also a created being, and only exists by the grace of God, and when He believes the time is right, Satan will be destroyed, along with all those who have taken shelter under his evil wings. That means true wisdom is clinging sincerely to Jesus Christ, for those who are under the umbrella of His shed blood will enjoy eternal life with Him.
As Cousin Sol so wisely says in Proverbs: ‘The fear (reverential awe) of the Lord is the (principal) beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.’ (Prov. 1:7) And he’s right on both points. The first step in gaining knowledge is by submitting to God and His revelation. And fools do indeed despise wisdom and knowledge because they think they know it all. But thankfully some of us do bow to the Lord’s sovereignty and accept His Word as wisdom and truth, the things which will give us a good life here on earth and an even better one in the life to come, where there will be no more tears, no more death, or pain or sorrow, or crying, for the former things are passed away. ( Rev. 21:4)
However, if we don’t acknowledge God’s sovereignty here’s what we have to look forward to. ‘But the fearful (cowardly), and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers (sexually immoral), and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.’ (Rev. 21:8) Now that’s the two ends we humans will eventually face; eternal life with Jesus, or eternal death with Satan; the choice is ours.
But like the Lord so strongly advised Moses to say to the children of Israel so long ago: ‘I call heaven and earth to record (witness) this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.’ (Deut. 30:19) Oh friends, it’s the same thing the Lord’s saying to us today; be wise, choose Me, choose life and not death, because in death, it’s all over, but in life, it goes on forever.
So please, I implore us, on this bright and sunshiny lazy-day Saturday in June 2025, let’s take a moment to review all we know and have heard, then be wise and choose life nuh! Much LOVE!
…when the battle rages…it’s wisest to choose the reigning king…over the foolish, untried usurper…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
20 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a better perspective, a good leader must know how to be led, a means of restoring faith in you, a tough nut to crack, allowed the enemy to gain easy control, amidst all the anxiety and confusion, anointing, be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with, be responsible, by the example your faithful believers set, confusion of these ungodly times, crying out for your help, defeat the simmering unrest in our land, discontent, dissatisfaction, drink the cup that I shall drink of, embrace your love and compassion, exercise dominion over them, exrecise great aauthority upon them, faith, first day of summer, Friday chant, given to them for whom it is prepared of my Fater, grace, he that shall humble himself shall be exalted, holy spirit, introduce a new flock of believers, it shall not be so among you, it's not too late to turn things around, Jesus Christ, Jesus' upside down kingdom, let him be your servant, live humble and helpful, lord it over them, LOVE, mercy, moved with indignation, not been good witnesses for Christ, not mine to give, omnipotent help, our sinful world, problems are escalating, return backsliders to your fold, salvation, set a poor example to the unbelievers, show them the error of their ways, stand strong and steadfast, stay safe, summer solstice, TGIF! Thank God it's Friday!, the back of the line, the disgusting state of our world, the greatest among you shall be your servant, the longest day of the year, the lower rung of the totem pole, the princes of the Gentiles, the sone of man came not to be served but to serve biut, these ungodly times, to give his life a ransom for many, to handle the unexpected storms properly, to sit on my right hand and on my left, truth, wake up and smell the coffee, whoseover wll be great among you, whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased, whosoever will be first among you, wisdom, wise guidance
Matthew 23:11. But he that is the greatest among you shall be your servant.
Oh yes friends, at long last it’s Friday, and we can joyfully shout: ‘TGIF! Thank God it’s Friday and the weekend is here! Glory be!’ And those shouts grow even louder as the summer season approaches. And would you believe that today is the first day of summer, the beginning of the summer solstice, which basically means that the sun is at its highest point in the sky, the furthest away north of the equator, thus giving us the longest day of the year. And there will be all sorts of celebrations for those things, for we’re a society that revels in celebrating. (smile)
And today we’ll look at a very important principle in God’s kingdom, that of being first and last. This issue arose with Jesus and the disciples when the mother of James and John, Zebedee’s children, came with them to Jesus and asked if her sons could sit on either side of Him in His kingdom. ‘But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, we are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.’ (Matt. 20:22-23)
Now, although that seems out of place, unfortunately it’s something that’s been happening from the beginning of time; people asking for things and positions they are not qualified for. And though the disciples would drink of the cup that Jesus drank, and be baptized with His baptism, meaning participating in His suffering and death, it wasn’t in His power to offer them what they desired. But as such selfish desires cause in so many groups and organizations, the Bible says: ‘And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren (brothers).’ (Matt. 20:24)
Yes my fellow believers, going behind the back of others seeking to aggrandize yourself, is never wise, because it only causes dissension and strife within the group or organization, and unfortunately that kind of stuff is very rampant in today’s society. Many are the positions that are given out for the wrong reasons, as our society now flourishes under a system of greed, corruption and influence. But thankfully Jesus took that opportunity to teach the disciples the way it is in the kingdom.
Calling them to Him, He said: ‘Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion (lord it) over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister (servant); And whosoever will be chief (first) among you, let him be your servant (slave): Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto (served), but to minister (serve), and to give his life a ransom for many.’ (Matt. 20:25-28)
And that’s how it is in God’s kingdom my brethren, with Jeus setting the example! The one who wants to lead must first know how to serve, and he who wants to be first must be prepared to be last. That’s just the way it is in Jesus’ upside down kingdom. But even in this world that theory holds true, although we very seldom see it put into practice. It’s a proven fact that one cannot be a good leader until you know how to serve or be led, and you can’t be a good first until you’ve been last.
That’s because having experienced the lower rung of the totem pole, and the back of the line, it gives you a better perspective when you reach the top rungs and the front of the line, for then you know how those below you feel, and you can put those hard earned skills to better use, than if you’ve never been below and/or behind. Jesus felt so strongly about that principle that He again voiced it, though in a slightly different form, when He denounced the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders, who all sought the upper seats and the best places at any event, and liked to be recognized as leaders, called masters and rabbi in the streets. (Matt. 23: 5-10)
To that selfish and insipid behaviour, He admonished: ‘But he that is the greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased (humbled); and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted (lifted up).’ (Matt. 23:11-12) Ah friends, this world is indeed a tough nut to crack when you try to live like that. However, if we’re true believers in Christ, that’s how He desires us to live; humble and helpful. And despite the many setbacks we might face in so doing, if we’re sincere in our actions, He will give us the grace and anointing to handle it. No doubt about that!
So having refreshed ourselves of that lesson of the greatest being the least, let’s go to the throne of grace, through our Friday Chant, seeking divine aid to handle the many problems we’re currently facing in this chaotic world. Altogether: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through this past week. You know it’s been rough… because our many serious problems are escalating instead of improving. And it’s obvious we can’t fix them on our own, so Lord, we’re desperately crying out for your help.
Oh heavenly Father, with your omnipotent help, and our trusting faith, we know that we can stand strong and steadfast and defeat the simmering unrest in our land. We therefore ask you Lord to give our leaders the wise guidance to handle these unexpected storms properly. And please help the rest of us to be responsible and to stay safe amidst all the anxiety and confusion of these ungodly times. We fervently pray too Lord that you’ll use the discontent and dissatisfaction in our land as a means of restoring faith in you.
Return backsliders to your fold. Show them the error of their ways. And please introduce a new flock of believers, who will embrace your LOVE and compassion by the example, we, your faithful believers set. So that our sinful world can wake up and smell the coffee, wake up and smell it sweet and strong! We pray this in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!’
And one of the main reasons for the disgusting state of our world is simply because we have set a poor example to the unbelievers, not been good witnesses for Christ, which allowed the enemy to gain easy control of the situation. But it’s not too late, so please let’s get up and get going nuh and turn things around, the way we can, with Jesus’ awesome help! Much LOVE!
…today, everyone’s thirsting for power…but be careful…for power destroys those who have it and don’t know how to use it…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
19 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a new and enduring way of life with Christ, a new creation, a part of God's great plan, accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, all things are become new, all things are of God, be fulfilled in us, be made the righteousness of God in Him, bear food for us to eat, born from above, born of water and the Spirit, change one's lifestyle to suit Christ, come to know and love God like we do, coming into union with the risen Lord, condemned sin in the flesh, courage, creativity, curse, divine protection, except a man be born again, faith, favour, flora for us to admire, free creations, God reconciled us to himself by Jesus, God's goodness and mercy, God's Guiding Light, good friends, good health, grow in spiritual maturity, have greater intimacy with God, he cannot enter the kingdom of God, he's a new creature, holy spirit, I will do a new thing, if any man be in Christ, in the likeness of sinful flesh, Jesus Christ, live according to His dictates, LOVE, made him to be sin for us who knew no sin, make a way in the wilderness, mercy, my chosen, negative word, Nicodemus, no condemnation to them which are in Christ, now it shall spring forth, old things are passed away, our new friend the wind, prosper, rivers in the desert, salvation, shall ye not know it, share our blessings with others, success, supernatural strength, talent, Thank You Lord, that whcih is born of flesh is flesh, that which is born of the Spirit is spirit, the beast of the field shall honour me, the ministry of reconciliation, the penultimate day of the work week, the righteousness of the law, the universal truth, to be in Christ, to givedrink to my people, to water the earth and seed it, truth, walk not after the flesh but after the spirit, walking in the Spirit, wisdom
Isaiah 43:19a. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?
And we’ve worked our way down to Thursday, the penultimate day of the workweek, without any major problems. Give thanks and praise to Almighty God for that, for we could not have done it without His Guiding Light and Presence! And all God’s children said a loud and grateful, ‘Thank You Lord for your goodness and mercy toward us, although we don’t deserve it! Amen!’
Anyway, I’m chuckling here, because yesterday, before I even finished writing about it being sunshiny and bright, with the promise of rain in the afternoon, the rain apparently came pouring down, but I did not notice it here in the basement. And once it came down, it kept drizzling for most the afternoon and evening. Meanwhile, today, we’ve already felt it’s presence, with more to come later, with our new friend, the wind, also acting up out there. But it’s all good, because it’s all a part of God’s great plan to water the earth and seed it, so that it can bear food for us to eat and flora for us to admire. (smile)
And as I just went seeking something to write on from The Good Library, it opened unto the Book of Isaiah, and this amazing scripture caught my eye: ‘Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons (jackals) and the owls (ostriches): because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen. This people have I formed for myself; they shall shew forth (declare) my praise.’ (Is. 43:19-21)
Oh my fellow believers, the Lord was there referring to making a way in the wilderness for His people Israel, after using Babylon to punish them for their gross disobedience and rebellion. It’s the same thing He’s doing for His chosen people today. That’s those who believe in His Son Jesus Christ, accept Him as Lord and Saviour, and live according to His dictates. The Lord’s always doing something new in us, trying to bring us closer to Him, so that we can grow in spiritual maturity, have greater intimacy and know Him better.
And these words of Bruh Paul to the Corinthians attest to that fact. ‘Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature (creation): old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.’ (2 Cor, 5:17) Yes friends, as the scholars tell us, ‘that’s the universal truth that has been applied to Christ personally. Anyone who comes into vital union with the risen and glorified Lord, he is a “new creation.” Yes, we begin perceiving Christ in a new way, with our old man, our old way of life being left behind, and assuming a new abiding and enduring way of life in Christ.
It’s as Jesus said to Nicodemus the Jewish leader that came to Him by night seeking the truth. ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again (from above), he cannot see the kingdom of God.’ (John 3:3) And in response to Nicodemus’ question re ‘being born again,’ Jesus said. ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh, is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirt. Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again.’ (John 3:5-7)
So my people, to come to Christ, we must be born again; that’s receive His Holy Spirit and begin living like that new person, we’re meant to be. And from thence we walk after the law of the Spirit, not the law of man. That’s why Bruh Paul could write thus to the Romans. ‘There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin (on account of sin) condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness (righteous requirement) of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.’ (Rom. 8:1-4)
Ah mih bredrin, the law of the flesh could not help us deal with our sin problems, so God in His inordinate wisdom, sent His Son to earth in the flesh to deal with it; be crucified on the cross of Calvary bearing all the sins of the world, and give us the option of being reunited with God. As Bruh Paul further says: ‘And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given us the ministry of reconciliation.’ (2 Cor. 5:18) And He did that by laying all the burden of sin on Jesus’ shoulders to free us from the law of sin. As the scriptures say: ‘For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.’ (2 Cor. 5:21)
And considering all the work that’s needed to keep us on the straight and narrow path, we must do our best to help the Lord in His difficult task. For, as Bruh Paul wrote to the Philippians: ‘Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.’ (Phil. 1:6) And just like God won’t ever give up on us, neither should we ever give up on ourselves or on God! For remember we’re now new, free creations, walking in the Spirit and not the flesh. Consequently, let’s go home declaring and activating our Thursday Blessings, undeservedly bestowed on us, to do God’s earthly work.
As one strong and sincere voice: ‘I declare that I am blessed with God’s supernatural wisdom and receive clear direction for my life! I declare today that I am blessed with creativity, courage, talent and abundance! I am blessed with a strong will, self-control and self-discipline! I am blessed with a great family, good friends, good health, faith, favour and fulfillment! I am blessed with success, supernatural strength, promotion and divine protection! I am blessed with a compassionate heart and a positive outlook on life! I declare that any curse or negative word that’s ever been spoken over me is broken right now in the name of Jesus! I declare that everything I put my hands to, will prosper and succeed! I declare it today and every day! Amen!’
And now, having activated those blessings, it behooves us to go out and share them with others, just as generously as the Lord shared them with us, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…to be in Christ…one must change one’s lifestyle to suit Christ…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
18 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a big family of children, a long way from resembling the Lord, a state of transformation, babes in Christ, beholding as in a glass, being confident of this very thing, but then face to face, by the Spirit of the Lord, caring, carnal, catch our second wind, changed into the same image, come face to face with Christ, dissesnsions, divisions, endure right to the end, envying, eternally separated from God, faith, fed you with milk not meat, forgiving, from glory to glory, get with the programme, giving, glad to be alive, grow in spiritual maturity, halfway home, hands on the plough, he did predestinate, he which hath begun a good work in you, holy spirit, I put away childish things, I spake as a child, I thought as a child, I understood as a child, Jesus Christ, leave us in the lurch, LOVE, mercy, my eyes are fixed straight ahead, not looking back, now I know in part, now we see through a glass darkly, One Year Book of Bible promises, put away childish things, reflecting the glory of God, Resemblance, rfts in the church, Ruth Harms Calkin, salvation, sharing, strife, thank God, the abiding presence of the Spirit of God, the breath of life is still flowing through me, the firstborn among many brethren, the glory of God, the worst thing that can happen to a human soul, then shall I know even as also I am known, times of uncertainty, to a glorious future with Jesus, to be conformed to the image of his Son, to resemble each other, truth, two people love deeply, wake up, walks as men, we all with open face, we always have Jesus by our side, Wednesday Wail, when I became a man, when I was a child, whom he did foreknow, will perform it until the day of Jesus, wisdom, ye are yet carnal, you were not able to bear it
Romans 8:29. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
It’s Wednesday friends, the middle day of our work week, when we’re supposed to catch our second wind and finish strong on Friday for Jesus! And it’s a beautiful summer’s day in my neighbourhood, with temps in the mid-twenties, and possibly going higher as the day progresses, although they are calling for some afternoon rain. But however it plays out, let’s remember that we always have Jesus by our side, and His Holy Spirit within us to help us with whatever comes against us!
And in keeping with that thought that Jesus is always with us, let’s consider this interesting poem from our One Year Book of Bible Promises with writings by Ruth Harms Calkin. This one is simply titled ‘Resemblance.’ Don’t know if I’ve shared it before, but it’s still worthwhile sharing, especially in these times of fear and uncertainty.
So please read with me. ‘Lord, somewhere I read That when two people LOVE deeply When they live together Sharing Caring Giving Forgiving Eventually they begin to resemble each other. Lord, how long will it be Before I look like You?’ Now isn’t that an interesting question? It certainly is. And there’s proof to show that when two people live together for a long time in good circumstances they do begin to resemble each other. So the assumption here is that as believers in God, we live with Him for a long time, and thus at some stage we will become like Him.
And yuh better believe that’s been the Lord’s plan from day one; that we will all become like Jesus, as our Bible Promise for the poem reflects the words of Bruh Paul to the church at Corinth. ‘But we all with open (unveiled) face beholding as in a glass (mirror) the glory of the Lord, are changed (transformed) into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.’ (2 Cor. 3:18)
Now what does all of that mean eh? The scholars explain. ‘Beholding as in a glass: The term beholding can have the sense of “reflecting.” The believer himself “reflects” the glory of the Lord just as the face of Moses reflected the glory of the Lord. For Moses the glory eventually faded away, but under the New Covenant the believer is changed into the same image. This transformation takes place by the abiding presence of the Spirit of God.’
In other words we are gradually changed to become like Jesus. As Bruh Paul said to the Roman church: ‘For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.’ (Rom. 8:29) Yes friends, those the Lord predestined to believe in His Son, were to be changed into His image, so that there would be a big family of like children, with Jesus being the firstborn. And the Lord has been working steadily on it. Remember what Bruh Paul wrote to the Philippians? ‘Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begin a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.’ (Phil. 1:6)
Ah mih people, once the Lord begins His transforming work on us, He will not stop until Jesus returns, or He takes us home; whichever one comes first. (smile) And I guess you can compare our transformation to what Bruh Paul said in his first letter to the Corinthians. ‘When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass (mirror) darkly (dimly); but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.’ (1 Cor. 13:11-12)
Now that brings a sense of how we ought to behave as believers. In the early days we would know a little like children do, and behave like them., merely seeing like shadows of the real thing. However, as we grow in spiritual maturity, we need to put away the childish things, know more of the Word and put it into greater action, and eventually we shall know it all when we come face to face with Christ.
We ought not to be like Bruh Paul told the Corinthians earlier on. ‘And I brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat (solid food): for hitherto (until now) ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions (dissensions), are ye not carnal, (fleshly), and walk as men (according to man and not to God).’ (1 Cor. 3:1-3)
And sadly, that can be said about too many of us supposed Christians. We’re still involved in the many evil and ungodly ways of the world, with envying, strife, dissensions and disunity causing many rifts in the church of Christ, which ought to be One body, not the many bodies it is today. So, unfortunately, because of our carnality, too many of us are still a long way away from resembling the Lord, as our poem enquired. Now, that’s not a very good thing, because our carnality can leave us in the lurch, far away from God, even eternally separated from Him. And that’s the worst thing that can happen to a human soul.
So, let’s wake up and get with programme nuh man. We’re playing with our eternal destiny, the most important aspect of our lives, and it’s not wise to do that. And, for those of us who’re indeed trying to do better, let’s go home declaring our Wednesday Wail, letting the whole world know of our wonderful position in Christ.
As one strong and sincere voice! ‘Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: I’m so glad to be alive on this Wednesday! Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday: Thank God the breath of life is still flowing through me on this Wednesday! I am halfway home. My hands are fixed securely on the plough, and I’m not turning back. I’m not looking back at the past, not focusing on what has gone before. But my eyes are fixed straight ahead; straight ahead to a glorious future with Jesus. Glory Hallelujah!’
And for those who endure with Jesus right down to the very end, it’s been promised that they will enjoy a future even more glorious than their minds can imagine. Therefore, I hope and pray that we will all endure to the very end, and enjoy that more than glorious future with Jesus! Much LOVE!
…you can’t be a true believer in Christ…unless you’re in a state of transformation…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
17 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a life guided by faith, a way to shape believers into Christ's image, come to know and love christ like we do, despise not the chastening of the Lord, don't be discouraged, don't faint when God rebukes you, faith, fellowship, God's discipline, having a lifelong fellowship and intimacy with God, in all thy ways acknowledge him, in God's eyes' hurry, influenced by the world system, inner conviction, intended for spiritual growth, Jesus Christ, Jesus is the be all and end all of everything, LOVE, mercy, motivated by love, must believe that he is a rewarder, my God shall supply all your needs, put them into practice, salvation, share His love with my neighbours, successfully navigated Monday's storms, the beloved of God, the first hurdle to jump, the Lord is my shepherd I shall not want, them that diligently seek him, trust my friend Jesus, truth, Tuesday Mantra, tyothing thy income, we live by faith not by sight, whom the Lord loves he chastens, wisdom, without faith it is impossible to please God, worry
Proverbs 3:5. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto your own understanding.
So then it’s Tuesday; a bright and sunshiny day. That means we’ve successfully navigated the stormy waters of Monday and are now on our way to a hale and hearty week of work, under the wonderful guidance of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Wow! And all God’s children gave a grateful and joyful shout of ‘Thank You Jesus!’ Now what can be better than that eh? Absolutely nothing! For Jesus is the be all and end all of everything, and once we have Him and His Holy Spirit guiding our lives we won’t want for anything.
As Bruh David so confidently declares in Psalm 23: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.’ (Ps. 23:1) And Jesus says, not to worry about things like food and clothing, because our heavenly Father knows our needs. We just have to seek Him and His righteous kingdom first, and all we need will be furnished. (Matt. 6:25-33) Then Bruh Paul further assures us in his letter to the Philippians: ‘But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 4:19)
Therefore, it’s obvious that if we put the Lord God Almighty in first place in our lives, then we will not lack for any of the necessities of life. But unfortunately that’s where we keep falling down; we don’t always keep God first place in our lives, but are very much influenced by the world’s system, so we’re suffering more than is necessary. That brings to mind these amazing verses of wisdom from Cousin Sol in Proverbs chapter three. We talk about them all the time but don’t practice them sufficiently, otherwise our lives would not be as rough and meaningless, as they currently are.
So let’s consider them one more time, and hopefully this time we’ll put them into action, the way we ought to. (smile) Cousin Sol strongly advises; ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto your own understanding.’ (Prov. 3:5) And that’s the first hurdle we must jump. Putting all out trust in God and not in our puny and finite understanding. And if we don’t do that, nothing else will work. It’s all about trust and faith in Almighty God. The Bible tells us: ‘For we walk by faith, not by sight:’ (2 Cor. 5:7) And what does that mean?
This commentary explains it thus: ‘The phrase “we live by faith and not by sight” means that believers should trust in God’s promises and guidance, even when they don’t see immediate evidence or understanding, relying on belief and inner conviction rather than solely on what is physically observable. It emphasizes a life guided by faith, trust, and God’s word, rather than being solely dictated by what is visible or easily understood.’ And that’s why Hebrews tells us that ‘Faith is the substance (realization) of things hoped for, the evidence (conviction) of things not seen.’ (Heb. 11:1) It’s the solid hope and trust we place in God for things we have not seen.
That then leads to this other very important scripture verse: ‘But without faith it is impossible to please Him (God): for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.’ (Heb. 11:6) So it’s all about trust and faith when you accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, nothing else will do, or get you anywhere in His righteous kingdom. Cousin Sol then follows up that verse of complete trust in God with this one: ‘In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct (make smooth or straight) thy paths.’ (Prov. 3:6)
Yes friends, according to the scholars, that means ‘having fellowship and intimacy with God in all of life. The result of such devotion is that God will make the paths straight before you.’ Then this next verse is indeed wisdom personified. ‘Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.’ (Prov. 3:7) And why should we be humble in our own estimate and have a reverential awe of God, while staying away from evil? Cousin Sol gives a very simple, true and straightforward answer: ‘It shall be health to thy navel (body), and marrow (strength, refreshment) to thy bones.’ (Prov. 3:7)
Then there’s this other admonition: ‘Honour the Lord with thy substance (possessions), and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.’ Why? ‘So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses (vats) overflow with new wine.’ (Prov. 3:9-10) That means, at the least tithing thy income and also being generous to kingdom work and those who are sadly in need. What we need to recognize here my people is that we don’t do those things simply for the sake of doing them, but substantial rewards accrue from doing them. We worship and fellowship with God first place in our lives, and He rewards us for our trust and faithfulness.
And now this last admonition: ‘My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of (detest) his correction: For whom the Lord LOVETH he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.’ (Prov. 3:11-12) Ah mih people, that admonition is one we certainly don’t like, because none of us like to be chastened or corrected, even when we know we’re wrong. I guess that stems from our high level of foolish pride. But just like our earthly fathers correct and chasten us because they LOVE us, that’s the same reason God does it to us.
And as Hebrews remind us: ‘And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children (sons of God), My, son, despise not the chastening (discipline) of the Lord, nor faint (be discouraged) when thou art rebuked of him. For whom the Lord LOVETH he chasteneth, and scourged every son whom he receive.’ (Heb. 12:5-6)
So what does all of that mean? This commentary explains in simple form: ‘In religious contexts, “the chastening of God” refers to God’s discipline and correction of believers, often through trials and difficulties, motivated by LOVE and intended for spiritual growth. It is not meant as punishment, but rather as a way to shape believers into the likeness of Christ and help them run the race of faith with endurance.’
There we have it friends, some of the best scripture verses in all the Bible! Ones that if we truly put them into our lives, and keep them there, we will live an amazing life of trust and faith in Almighty God, and be well rewarded for our efforts. And for those of us who are already trying to do just that, let’s go home declaring our Tuesday Mantra, letting all and sundry know to whom we belong, lock, stock and barrel.
As one strong and sincere voice: ‘In God’s eyes, I’m not what I do. I’m not what I have. I’m not what people say about me. I am the beloved of God, that’s who I am. No one can take that from me. I don’t have to worry. I don’t have to hurry. I can trust my friend Jesus and share His LOVE with my immediate neighbours, as well as with the whole wide world! Glory be!’
And having said that, we’re now duty bound to go out and share the amazing LOVE and friendship of Christ with others, so that they too can come to know and LOVE Him like we do! Much LOVE!
…like our earthly parents have rules…so does God…and just like our earthly parents…He disciplines us when we disobey them…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
16 Jun 2025
by randyobrien50
in Christian Thoughts and Inspiration., Daily Devotion, Daily Inspiration, Inspirational Living, Spiritual Living
Tags: a simple formula for achieving peace of mind, almighty god, an undying affirmation of faith and trust, because they trust him, behold the upright, bring forth thy righteousness as the light., brings evil schemes to pass, cease from anger, commit thy way unto the Lord, communing with God, delight thyself also in the Lord, deliver them from the wicked, divine aid, dwell in the land, ease the pain, envious of the wicked, faith, feed on God's faithfulness, fellowshipping with other believers, forsake wrath, fret not thyself because of him who prospers, fret not thyself in any wise to do evil, getting sufficient rest, give thee the desires of thine heart, God is their strength in the time of trouble, going to the Lord's sanctuary, grace, hate to pitch to him, he shall bring it to pass, hits us out of the park, holy spirit, humble ourselves, humble servants, in the face of the wicked's propserity, it only causes harm, Jehovah Rapha, Jesus Christ, lead off hitter, listen to the wisdom of God's Word, LOVE, mark the perfect man, mercy, not rocket science, of the many suffering from negative situations, our guidebook for earthly living, our troubled and ungodly world, praise and give thanks to God, pray, renewal of spirit, Rest in the Lord, salvation, save them, scripture must be put into action, self-control, self-discipline, sincere repentance, sincerely seek your face, strong faith in Christ, thank you for life, the BIBLE, the end of that man is peace, the God who heals, the Lord shall help them and deliver them, the only true source of help for man, the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord, the transgressors shall be destroyed together, the unchanging character of God, these exhortations, thy judgement as the noonday, to alleviate our problems, to confidently trust the Lord, trials and tribulations, trust in the Lord and do good, truth, turn from our evil ways, urge the believer, use the confidence, wait patiently for him, wisdom, wise guidance, with all of life's problems
Psalm 37:40. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
And another work week has begun, with Monday as our usual lead-off hitter! And we all hate to pitch to him, because he so often hits us out of the park. (smile) But let’s not allow him to agitate us today and make us fearful of his big swing, by pitching him balls that he cannot hit. Yes friends, let’s use the confidence, the grace, and the renewal of spirit that we got from going to the Lord’s sanctuary yesterday and, with the Lord’s help, understand how to handle Monday on the mound for the opening week’s pitch.
Remember how the psalmist Asaph says in Psalm 73, that he was envious of the wicked for their earthly prosperity, but it was not until he went into the Lord’s house and communed with Him that he learned the answer to his problem. We can also learn to handle Mondays by communing with God. And learning to handle Monday is not always easy, because it takes a lot of self -control and self-discipline.
Meaning not wanting to party the whole weekend away, but getting sufficient rest that you will be fresh to begin anew on Monday. And most importantly, fellowshipping with other believers so that the Holy Spirit can work on you while you praise and give thanks to Almighty God, and listen to His wise and Holy Word. Amen! End of sermon! (smile)Yes friends, that’s the basic way to properly handle Mondays.
And now that we know how to handle Monday’s, what about the rest of the week, you ask? Well that’s easy. (smile) Here’s some practical advice from Bruh David from Psalm 37. He says: ‘Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed (feed on God’s faithfulness). Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgement (justice) as the noonday.’ (Ps. 37:3-6)
So my brethren, we’ve got to begin with trusting God, doing good, delighting ourselves in Him, and committing our way to Him, before any serious and productive improvements come our way. But that’s not all, for it’s a big job, that we can only do with God’s help! The next step, as Bruh David lays it out, is to ‘Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him; fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of a man who bringeth wicked devices (schemes) to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil (it only causes harm).’ (Ps. 37:7-8)
That’s basically how to handle the rest of the week friends. (smile) Remember, knowing scripture is of no use unless we put it into action, unless we live it in our everyday lives. That’s why the Lord gave us the Bible; to be our Guidebook for earthly living. And if we don’t use it as such, we’ll be sadly wasting all the heartaches, trials and tribulations that the godly men, the prophets and Jesus went through to live it, and then go through more hardship to get it written, so that we can have a good example of how to live this earthly life.
And the scholars offer this interesting explanation on a portion of the psalm. ‘The psalm also contains a simple formula for achieving peace of mind in the face of the wicked’s prosperity: fret not … neither be thou envious (vs.1), trust …do good (vs.3), delight thyself also in the Lord (vs. 4), commit thy way … trust (vs.5), rest … wait patiently … fret not (vs.7), cease from anger …forsake wrath … fret not (vs.8). All of these exhortations urge the believer to confidently trust the Lord with all of life’s problems. The psalm concludes appropriately with an undying affirmation of faith and trust in the unchanging character of God.’
And these are the last words of the psalm: ‘Mark the perfect (blameless) man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.’ (Ps. 37:37-40)
Yes my fellow believers, the Lord does all He does for the righteous because they trust sincerely and fully in Him. Let’s remember that most important aspect of our faith, so that we can live it out successfully. Now, it’s time to go to the throne of grace, through our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, seeking divine aid to help with our many serious problems.
Altogether: ‘Our Father, who art in heaven, we, Your humble servants, praise Your Holy Name and thank You this Monday morning for life and strong faith in Christ, despite the mass confusion in our world. Heavenly Father, You are the ONLY ONE with the power to solve our many problems.
Yes, we have all sinned and seriously disobeyed Your Word, but You are a merciful, forgiving and gracious God, who has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we humble ourselves, pray and sincerely seek your face. So, we come to You now, with sincere repentance in our hearts, pleading for wise guidance and direction to alleviate our problems.
Oh Father, please ease the pain of the many suffering from negative situations, show them Your awesome grace and mercy. And faithfully keep Your promise to prosper us if we turn from our evil ways. Show this evil world that You are indeed Jehovah Rapha; the God who heals! We pray this in the holy and blessed name of Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen! And again, we say: Amen!’
And friends, we know exactly what we need to do to receive divine aid, for it’s not rocket science; our prayer clearly states it. God has faithfully promised to hear and answer our prayers when we turn from our evil ways, humble ourselves, pray, and sincerely seek His face. So please, let’s get to doing that right now nuh, because we desperately need divine help in our troubled and ungodly world! Much LOVE!
…the only true source of help for man…is that which comes from Almighty God…
Hear our podcast at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-obrien
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