Category Archives: Christianity

Father, thank You for what Your Son has done…

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Father,

I thank You for Your answers even before my prayers have begun…
because of what Your Son, Jesus Christ, has done.

I’m seated in the heavenly places—my victory’s been won…
because of what Your Son, the Lord Jesus, has done.

At Calvary’s cross, the curse was defeated. All fear I now can shun…
because of what Your Son, the Messiah, has done.

Not by my own merit, but by the blood from His veins that had run,
I can come before You boldly because of what He’s done.

Regarding the name of Jesus—a greater name, there’s none,
because He so pleased You as a perfectly obedient Son.

And, one day, when my race on earth has been completely run,
I’ll be immediately in Your presence because of what Your Son has done.

P. A. Oltrogge

“For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’ And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.” 2 Peter 1:16-18

“And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.” Words of Jesus in Matthew 6:7-8

“Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in that which is to come.” Ephesians 1:15-21

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespassses, made us alive together with Christ, (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:4-10

“Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:17-19

“So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” Hebrews 13:6

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

“We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8

“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11

Scriptures NKJV

Photo used with permission: Jumonville Cross

God’s Word, Our Compass

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I can’t direct you to a better website in these days than http://www.givehim15.com by Dutch Sheets (or http://www.dutchsheets.org). Yesterday’s and today’s posts address the issues of the day/times so well.

For your own personal life, may these poetic thoughts bless:

Even when it seems as though the enemy has gotten farther ahead,
realize that you’re more than a conqueror, as the compass of God’s Word has said.

For the “ship of faith” sails, on every journey, at a steady and determined pace;
with the guidance of God and faith and patience, it will certainly win the race.

Just as Jesus spoke to the winds and waves in the midst of a furious storm,
with the spirit of faith and God’s Word on your lips, your victory, too, will form.

P. A. Oltrogge

Book recommendation: “The Spirit of Faith” at http://www.markhankins.org

Prayers for God to Step In

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Then, Jesus mercifully said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk,” stepping in for the said “no man.” (from archived poem on the Lord’s compassion in the healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda)

We’re so grateful that we can come boldly
to your throne of grace, Lord, on any given day.

Thank you for answering with compassion…
We know that you hear us every time we pray.

Our efforts can help, with your guidance,
but when things have become very mired….

as in the Bible, miracles were obtained,
when your powerful intervention transpired.


P. A. Oltrogge

If you’ve not seen it, you can watch Glenn Beck and David Barton, interviewed by Andrew Wommack, on programming of August 30th at http://www.truthandliberty.net (scroll down). They tell of their recent trip to help rescue thousands from Afghanistan–Christians, Americans, and allies of America. That they were able to do so, they attribute to God stepping in to help them. Also emphasized was the need for further prayer and donations for the care of those whom they helped to escape.

Continue in fervent prayer for those left behind….

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21

“Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47

“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” 1 John 5:13-15

“The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
The God of glory thunders;
The Lord is over many waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty.” Psalm 29:3-4

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
words of Jesus in John 14:27

See also today’s post at:

http://www.dutchsheets.org (video)

http://www.givehim15.com (written)

Scriptures NKJV

A Prayer Inspired by the Courage of Others

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Wonderful young people, willing to serve America, in whatever was asked…
went to the country of Afghanistan, to do that with which they were tasked.

For twenty years, Americans and others went to bring stability to that land.
Then, suddenly, everything changed due to actions that weren’t wisely planned.

Now we pray for those who’ve lost precious loved ones–for them, we grieve.
And we pray for the many Afghans affected due to the U.S. decision to leave.

Thank God for those who, acting on their own, rescued some from an evil fate.
We’re praying for miracles yet, for those for whom it seems that it’s too late.

We pray against the deception of believing in a religion that would kill and take.
Let’s keep trusting God’s Holy Spirit to awaken those deceived by this mistake.

Many Afghans have been uprooted.  By God, each of their lives was planned.
May they find the specific pathway now that comes from His guiding hand.

In the midst of it all, we must persevere, believing God will turn things around;
and that all will find their hope in Christ–only through Him, will good be found.

We continue to pray for America’s leadership–we need leaders who are wise.
We thank God for the troops, who’ve given their lives; they’ve inspired courage that never dies.

P. A. Oltrogge

photos/pxfuel

Working with God begins with Prayer

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As Christians, we have believed in the mighty power of God…

We’ve read of it and have seen it, walking with Jesus along His way.

But when times are rough and dire events are frequent in the news,

action for good is needed; but, still, the greatest weapon is to pray.

Give yourself to praying with the spirit and with your understanding;

and, commissioned by God, towards the demonic, we must be commanding!  

“The battle is the Lord’s,” David said with confidence and trust…

PRAISING GOD that He’s with us and at work, gives our prayers a greater thrust.

In the world, we are in a battle of great spiritual dimensions….

Through acts of faith, prayer, and praise, we can fulfill God’s intentions.

P. A.. Oltrogge

The Towering Name

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I’ve come across your path today, and I may not know your name,
But though we’re not acquainted, I’d like to speak of Jesus just the same.
He knows the details of your life–anything you’re going through;
Yes, even if you don’t know Him, He knows all about you.

I’ve found Him to be a faithful God, Who I know in a personal way.
He desires to help each person intimately–all we have to do is pray.
For those who’ve put their trust in Him, guidance becomes very sure;
His will is good and perfect, coming from a heart that’s loving and pure.

If you’re facing worries, never despair–the name of Jesus is a strong tower—
To run into for help and wisdom, which flow richly from that Name’s power.
And at the name of Jesus, one day, every knee will bow;
But God’s Spirit is moving every day, seeking all who will honor Him now.

P. A. Oltrogge

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.”
Proverbs 18:10 (NASB)

“Therefore also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Philippians 2:9-11 (NASB)

At http://www.govictory.com, look for “shows” to view “You Matter” with Dean Sikes

Father, we pray, first of all, for those in authority, to desire your true guidance. Bring forth correction where it’s needed. Protect people from harm or, for some, from doing harm. We continue to pray for the souls of all those who need to recognize Jesus as their Savior–to find peace and the reason for living in Him. We thank you that your Holy Spirit is at work throughout the world…and that you are faithful, our strong tower… In the name of your Son, Jesus, we pray. Amen

God’s Heart of Compassion

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“Peace be with you.” John 20:21

The Lord’s great heart of compassion is at work always–at times, behind the scenes. 

He answers prayer for salvation, guidance, protection, healing, and provision well beyond our means.

Let’s not limit Him by doubting that He can do more than we could ever ask or think. 

Jesus came to establish the new covenant. Now, through Him, we have that blessed link.

“The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works,” the Bible’s stated. 

God’s desire is to love, through His Son, to even greater measure, every person He’s created.

“If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, you shall be free indeed,” Jesus said, all because of that compassionate heart. 

When you take Jesus as Savior, you can forget the past, knowing God’s given to you a fresh start.

Even if there are times when you don’t recognize that He’s working in your life right then, 

He encourages you to always keep the faith. He’ll bring things to pass, though you may not know when.

Jesus told us of God as His heavenly Father. Those in Christ are children of God. Therefore…

as part of His beloved family, we can expect all of the good things that He has in store.

P. A. Oltrogge

And likewise, we want to extend loving compassion to others, through caring prayer and action…

“…to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness 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 3:19-21 NKJV

“The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works.” Psalm 145:9 NKJV

“In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’” 1 Corinthians 11:25

“…to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel.” Hebrews 12:24 NKJV

“If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36 KJV

“But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” Psalm 86:15 KJV

“Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.” Psalm 62:8 NASV

“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference.” Jude 21-22 KJV

Psalm 78:38; 111:4; 145:8; Matthew 9:36; 14:14; 15:32; Mark 1:41; 5:19; 6:34; 8:2; Luke 10:33; 15:20; John 3:16; 1 John 3:17

Refer to: http://www.govictory.com

In the Twinkling of an Eye

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“For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, and remain until the coming of the Lord, shall not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 NASB

At God’s appointed time, I’ll be saying goodbye.
That time is getting close, and I’ve tried to explain why.
I love you so much–please come along;
Don’t neglect Jesus for that would be wrong.
He’s preparing a party, and it will be grand.
Please don’t miss out because you don’t understand.
He’s made it so plain in the true Gospel story–
He, the Christ, is our way to Glory.
One thing’s for sure–all lives draw to a close,
so it’s best to put faith in the One who arose.
But we could see Jesus more quickly than we think
for the Bible speaks prophetically of what’s on the brink.
“In the twinkling of an eye…we shall be changed.”
Take Jesus and your place in Glory that He has arranged.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Behold, I tell you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and the mortal must put on immortality. But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’” 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 NASB

“In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” words of Jesus in John 14:2-3 NKJV

Recommended reading:
“The Last Hour,
An Israeli Insider Looks at the End Times”
Book by Amir Tsarfati, available at http://www.christianbook.com and other book sources

The Light Falling Upon the Ocean

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On the ocean, full of shining light, changing the colors of waves–
Oh light, where did you come from and where will you go?
From the hands of God into the deep of human souls.

In a grassland, full of dancing light, which heightens the colors of flowers–
Oh light, where did you come from and where will you go?
From the hands of God into the height of human souls.

M. Kimura

This inspirational poetry came from friends in Japan, one of whom was visiting her uncle who lived by the sea.  There on the beach, she noticed beams of light over the ocean, which reminded her of the creation account in the Bible. The other friend shared the poetry with me in the form of a written song and that is how this post came about. P. A. Oltrogge

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth, and the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep; and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light!’; and there was light.” Genesis 1:1-3

“And God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called seas; and God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:10 (account of creation, Genesis 1 and 2).

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” John 1:1-5 NKJV

“Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.’” John 8:12

Photo/Unsplash

When one suffers…

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When one suffers, we all suffer, so we pray for, in particular, the country of Afghanistan, for the many people affected by the recent events and, especially, for those who are our fellow believers in Christ there. May we pray today with our understanding and continue to pray in the spirit.

Lord, there are many believers there–your children. Be their shelter and shield….in ways we know not of….supernatural ways. Let not the wrong people totally prevail. We pray for the salvation of those who don’t know you. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven…..

in Jesus’ name, we pray…

Amen