Our Sunday gatherings mean so much to our friends, and when I asked people as they arrived on the bus how the ride was, everyone had smiles on their faces! “It was a beautiful ride!!”… “I feel so good being here”…”thank you!”… For 20 years people have come out on a yellow school bus from Chicago to join us for our Sunday potluck luncheons in the suburbs, and I’ve always been amazed by what only God could do, beginning with the bus ride! People describe their trip saying that “all of the stress leaves as the bus leaves the city” and never complain about the ride! Once people step inside our doors, the joy is undeniable and our gathering becomes like the best family reunion gathering! God’s presence is in our gathering and we worship God together and read His Word…and that is the only explanation for the joy and love we always experience when we are together. “Where two or more gather in my name, there am I with them”…As someone (who has no place to live) said to me on Sunday, “I feel so much love here and I always look forward to being here…and the food is great!” Thank you again to everyone who helps us.
Love and Blessings,
Marian
Pastor Ricardo shared a message from Philippians 4: 6-7, (one of my most favorite Scriptures in the Bible!)
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
…I’ve shared this previously but am sharing it again…
In Mark 11:22, Jesus said, “Have faith in God.”
I appreciate very much the ministry of Kenneth Copeland of Kenneth Copeland Ministries. He is bold and strong in his faith in God and, therefore, an example and encouragement to many (at 87 years young)! Recently I was listening to one of his messages as I was attending to some other matters around home, so I wasn’t always focused completely on everything being said. However, this suddenly grabbed my attention at one point. He was encouraging the listeners about times when, if inclined to doubt, they might be saying, (as an example), “Yes, BUT WHAT ABOUT my finances?” Then he “answered” loudly and with boldness, “HAVE FAITH IN GOD!” Or, “Yes, BUT WHAT ABOUT my health?” Again, he “answered” “HAVE FAITH IN GOD!” Or, “Yes, BUT WHAT ABOUT this or that family or business concern, relationship, a wrong or problem suffered, difficulties ahead, or whatever the worry, problem, or situation–or perhaps a certain goal…”HAVE FAITH IN GOD!” Kenneth was emphasizing those four words repeatedly. As he put it, “I don’t care what kind of ‘WHAT ABOUT’ it is, HAVE FAITH IN GOD!”
Well, I thought that was wise for me to remember in any situation on any given day. And I hope it encourages you, too. After all, they are the words of Jesus, our Teacher, Savior, and Lord. Those words bring faith over fearful, wondering, or worrisome thoughts. Praise to our God, who loves us!
…this photo of flowers that are faintly reflected in the glass table top in the morning sun was recently shared with me by a family member…
Just sending these peonies from the month of May…along to you, dear blog friend, to brighten your day…
There are many difficult things about which we must pray; but we can pause to appreciate the beauty that we find along life’s way.
P. A. Oltrogge
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
“Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
Philippians 4:7-9 KJV
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV
“Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart…” by Jesus in Luke 18:1
“Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.”Oswald Chambers
“In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them; In His love and in His pity He redeemed them; and He bore them and carried them all the days of old.” Isaiah 63:9
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It’s impossible for our God to ever lie…His promises aren’t just for “the sweet by and by.”
Say, “It is unto me according to God’s Word.” The more that we hear His Word, the more we can live our lives fully assured…
If you’ve experienced a “blight,” which tempts you to lean towards fright, “Only believe” that it cannot stay, when you’ve used your faith to pray.
So even if it’s “there,” don’t take up the care. God’s healing words are bright–it’s going to be all right.
“Perfectly healed” is what His Word has revealed… Resist the devil and he must yield.
P. A. Oltrogge
“If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath, so that the law of Moses should not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath?” John 7:23 NKJV (“every whit whole” in KJV)
“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Numbers 23:19
“…in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised before time began…” Titus 1:2
“Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us.” Hebrews 6:17-18
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits, Who pardons all your iniquities; Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with loving kindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.” Psalm 103:1-5 NASB/95
“While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, ‘Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?’ As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe.’” (from the account of the healing of the daughter of Jairus, in Mark 5:21-43.)
“The Lord then answered him and said, ‘Hypocrite! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it? So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?’ And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him.” Luke 13:15-17
“And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.’ And the angel departed from her.” Luke 1:38 KJV
“Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We ought always and indeed are morally obligated [as those in debt] to give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is fitting, because your faith is growing ever greater, and the [unselfish] love of each one of you toward one another is continually increasing.” 2 Thessalonians 1:2-3 AMP
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If you didn’t read yesterday’s post, you may want to participate in it: http://www.givehim15.com
…We may not always have seen great things, but we know from Whom it is that our hope springs…
Father, may our expectancy continue to be in You, Your Word, and Your goodness and mercy to us… May we be reminded of the times we have seen Your absolute intervention in our lives…thank You!
Today, if you feel alone with some worrisome cares,
come sit with other believers out on the porch chairs.
Join me in praying for those who follow these posts…
He’ll perfect what concerns us, as we trust the Lord of Hosts!
For our country, for our futures, we continue to believe…
for all of the good things that He said we could receive.
Of those suffering for their faith, today, we’re reminded;
we pray for them and their enemies, who are spiritually blinded.
We’re strong in the Lord and in the power of His might…
His Word lights our path as we fight faith’s good fight!
P. A. Oltrogge
“Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.” Philippians 4:6 GW
“Turn all your anxiety over to God because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 GW
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, oh Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.” Psalm 138:8
“Finally, my brethren, bestronginthe Lord and in the power of His might.” Ephesians 6:10
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105
“Fight the goodfightoffaith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12
“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.” James 5:13-18
Scriptures: NKJV or as noted
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Further prayer support ministries:
Visit http://www.govictory.com 24/7 (Morning Prayer M-F, 9:30 a.m. ET (8:30 a.m. CT), for viewing the program). To call, the number is 877-281-6297, where you can pray with and for others for their needs or submit a prayer request of your own. That number can also be reached throughout most of the day.
…Richard Roberts has often said, “Much prayer, much power; little prayer, little power; and no prayer, no power.”
Be encouraged by going to http://www.richardroberts.org where you can click on healing prayers of various topics or call their prayer line, 918-495-7777.
Andrew Wommack Ministries, (www.awmi.net) has caring prayer ministers 24/7 at 719-635-1111.
Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free Rolling as a mighty ocean In its fullness over me Underneath me, all around me Is the current of Your love Leading onward, leading homeward To Your glorious rest above
Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus Spread His praise from shore to shore How He came to pay our ransom Through the saving cross He bore How He watches o’er His loved ones Those He died to make His own How for them He’s interceding Pleading now before the throne
Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus Far surpassing all the rest It’s an ocean full of blessing In the midst of every test Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus Mighty Savior, precious Friend You will bring us home to glory Where Your love will never end
Oh the deep, deep love All I need and trust… Is the deep, deep love of Jesus
by Samuel Trevor Francis
“For this reason, I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height —to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fulness of God.
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:14-21 NKJV
“And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’” 1 Peter 4:8
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 RSV
“…by so much more Jesus has become a surety of a better covenant.
“Also there were many priests, because they were prevented by death from continuing. But He, because He continues forever, has an unchangeable priesthood. Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
“For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the people’s, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints the Son who has been perfected forever.” Hebrews 7:22-28 NKJV
“Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.” Psalm 103:1-6 NKJV
…and from “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy” by Frederick Faber:
There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, like the wideness of the sea. There’s a kindness in God’s justice, which is more than liberty.
There is welcome for the sinner, and more graces for the good. There is mercy with the Savior, there is healing in His blood….
Was there ever kinder Shepherd Half so gentle, half so sweet, As the Savior who would have us Come and gather at His feet?
Jesus says… “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
Oh say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial — Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue
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“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13
…The following list brings to mind all of the sacrifices of those who’ve served… Casualties listed may not be completely accurate, as statistics differ…
Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm; War in Iraq, OIF, Operation Iraqi Freedom; War in Afghanistan, OEF, Operation Enduring Freedom (Throughout these, over 7,000 were killed, plus those who sustained injuries)
Vietnam War (1962- 1973) – 58,220 US soldiers died, plus injuries
Korean War (1950 – 1953) – 36,000
World War II (1941 – 1945) – 405,399
World War I (1917 – 1918) – 116,516
American Civil War (1861 – 1865) – 620,000
American Revolutionary War (American War of Independence) (1775 – 1783) – 25,000 or more
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In contemplating the conflicts in which thousands of Americans fought, sustained injuries, or died…it’s sad to say that far too many citizens don’t use the examples of those courageous Americans as a guide.
For instance, it’s been reported that millions (many Christians among them) don’t even register to vote, or vote, in our elections. Obviously, what others sacrificed hasn’t impacted them to serve their country through this simple act, making wise selections.
God desires for us to have righteous leaders, saying that righteousness exalts a nation. Such a small service of prayerfully voting can make a difference in our country’s, and the world’s, complex situations.
May God’s people be impressed about the urgency–that they’re in a spiritual war; and be reminded that this freedom they have is what others fought for and so many died for.
Today, we honor those who laid down their lives, even though they may not have always felt very brave at all. Now, lay down the thought that your vote doesn’t matter and answer the voting-for-righteousness call.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-7
“Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17
“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” from James 5:16
“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1 NIV
Wise leaders will pray and know this:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 and Proverbs 9:10 on “knowledge of the Holy One”
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7
…thankfully, more Christians are stepping up now, even locally, to run for office themselves. There are additional ways to serve, found at the following:
“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners, spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4 KJV
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How impressive and powerful are these words that we read about God’s Son, who has been “appointed heir of all things,” and “by whom” God’s creation of the worlds was done!
How awesome to think that Jesus is the brightness or reflection of God, the Father’s, glory–and that He is His express image, as was demonstrated in many a true Biblical story.
He upholds all things by the word of His power, yet He humbled Himself to purge us of sin. Then He “sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.” Thus, it’s through faith in Jesus that we win.
Being made so much better than the angels, the greatness of His Name is inherited from the Father, a Name more excellent than theirs. And it’s every believer’s inherited right to use the Name of Jesus, to receive answers to their prayers.
P. A. Oltrogge
“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 NKJV
Written after reading a devotional on this topic by Kenneth E. Hagin, founder of Rhema Bible Training Center, Tulsa, OK
Recommended: “The Name of Jesus” book by Kenneth E. Hagin under Bookstore at: http://www.rhema.org
…we worship You, Lord, today and always…
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Be blessed to watch “The Presence of God” with Steph and James Pitkin at: http://www.lschurch.tv
(Go to “Watch Online” and then “Watch More Here”– scroll down to 34. If unable to watch the entire service, scroll in to the message.)
“Jesus said to him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’” Matthew 19:21
Have you met up with Jesus? He’s your kind of Man… Came down here from heaven, carrying out God’s mighty plan.
He’s still here today, capturing hearts, lives, and souls, giving all whom He touches much worthier goals. He doesn’t actually show up in visible form, but you’re aware of His presence when prayer becomes norm.
And some have had visions or have seen Him in dreams, and what they remember is the love that He beams. That’s also reflected in the words of His book; the renowned Holy Bible is the right place to look.
You might think you know what could give you life’s best; but those who follow His lead are on a sure quest. He wants to increase your every potential, but living for Him and others is essential.
Dedicating all that you have to Him is not loss– The best in mind for you is why He died on the cross.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time….” 1 Timothy 2:1-6
“When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?’” Mark 8:34-36
“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:6
“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away; behold all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep….My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:11, 27
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” Matthew 18:11
“…but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:26-28
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11
Scriptures from the New King James Version of the Bible
I’m so glad God’s given us His Holy Word, though many seek its exclusion. Is it any wonder, then, when we hear their views, which have obvious confusion?
They see evil as good and wrong as right, rejecting the Bible as their guide. They need to recognize Jesus as Lord and turn from the one who has lied.
Then there are those who do revere God, but who haven’t yet found the way…the truth, and the life, revealed through Christ–for them, we also pray.
It’s evident that there are just two kingdoms–one of darkness and one of Light. It truly is the time of decision–men must choose to be on the side that’s right.
So, we pray for their awakening by God’s Spirit and for the restoration…of common sense, love for and obedience to God, in this and every nation.
God’s Word proclaims that, in the last days, He will pour out His Spirit on all flesh. With that promise of His grace, we persevere–with faith renewed and hope afresh.
P. A. Oltrogge
“But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.” Acts 2:16-18
“…’Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of Hosts.” Zechariah 4:6
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:6
And in John 8:42-47, Jesus speaks of the devil as being “a liar and the father of it.”
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” …said by Jesus in John 10:10
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2
The Porch of the Lord 