We read in the Bible that Ruth, of Moab, had a loyal and loving heart. So upon the death of her Hebrew husband, she felt that she couldn’t part–from Naomi, her beloved mother-in-law, who had urged her to make her way, back to Ruth’s own parent’s home; but, instead, Ruth begged to stay.

She shared her heart, stating that where Naomi went, so, in fact, would she; where she lodged and the God she worshiped–these would also be…what she desired for her own particular life, even to her day of dying. To stay with her late husband’s “family” was the future on which she was relying.

Naomi allowed Ruth, then, to go with her on her Bethlehem-Judah return; there Ruth would find a special blessing that only God could have discerned. For there was a kinsman-redeemer through Naomi’s husband’s line, whom Ruth would meet, while gleaning in his fields, by God-ordained design.

Related by blood, willing and able to redeem this woman, Boaz entered her life; a prominent free man, total provision was hers, when she later became his wife. One can easily see an analogy here to the Bible’s New Testament account that we read…of God becoming Man, through Jesus Christ–the Kinsman-Redeemer He knew we would need.

Like Ruth, leave the “god” you once were told about; find shelter under the true God’s wings. Look to the Way, the Truth, and the Life–and experience the peace that Christ brings. Don’t try to make it on your own with God, through acts of service, however kind; there’s provision for us as “the bride of Christ,” which He, the Bridegroom, wants us to find.

P. A. Oltrogge

“If one of your brethren becomes poor, and has sold some of his possession, and if his redeeming relative comes to redeem it, then he may redeem what his brother sold.” Leviticus 25:25 (The concept of a kinsman-redeemer comes out of the book of Leviticus.)

“But Ruth said, ‘Entreat me not to leave you or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me.’” Ruth 1:16-17

“And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, and how you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know before. The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.” Ruth 2:11-12

“And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the Lord, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen.” Ruth 2:20 KJV

“You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, ‘I am not the Christ,’ but, ‘I have been sent ahead of Him.’ He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made full. He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:28-30 NASB (words of John the Baptist regarding Christ, the Bridegroom)

Other references:

Enjoy an encouraging message also on the account of Ruth today, her place in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, and God’s unmerited favor upon your own life through Jesus at: http://www.josephprince.org

Matthew 1:5, Matthew 9:15, Mark 2:19,20

Rejoicing to hear of those of today who have left their perception of God to find faith in Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life…

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” spoken by Jesus in John 14:1

“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

“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.” spoken by Jesus in John 14:27

“And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” spoken by Jesus in John 17:3

“And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true; in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

We praise You, Lord Jesus, and push away any gloom, for You are the Victorious One who was raised from the tomb.

You give hope that’s not wishful thinking but is joyful expectation. We’re more than conquerors always because of Your dedication.

You’re seated at the Father’s right hand—the place that was due…to the One who was so obedient to Him—He calls You Faithful and True.

We’re “above” any circumstances, not “under,” because Your power–and the name of the Lord Jesus is our shelter and strong tower.

P. A. Oltrogge

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come, He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-7 

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ….” 1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)

“But in all these things, we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:37

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place.” 2 Corinthians 2:14 

“…so much the more also Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant. And the former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers, because they were prevented by death from continuing. But He, on the other hand, because He abides forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Hence, also, He is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:22-25

“…we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a minister in the sanctuary and in the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, not man.” Hebrews 8:1

“But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, by as much as He is also the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted on better promises.” Hebrews 8:6

“(The Coming of Christ) And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war.” Revelation 19:11 

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

“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 5:14-15 (NKJV)

Scriptures NASB, NASB/Ryrie, or as noted

Be blessed today at: http://www.givehim15.com

Photo by Porch of the Lord

I’ve shared this Biblical poetic account previously, but would like to add, if you’ve not yet come across it, recommendation of the book, by Robert Cornuke, The Lost Shipwreck of Paul.  In it, the author takes you on his captivating journey to Malta to research the actual location of Paul’s shipwreck and any possible remains of the ancient Roman anchors mentioned in the Biblical account. The book is available at Amazon.com, where you can also find many positive reviews of it.

(Having appealed to Caesar, Paul is sent to Rome…
a poetic narrative of Acts 27-28)

When it was decided to go to Italy, Paul and some other prisoners entered a ship at Adramyttium and were put to sea, to sail along Asia’s coasts.

Julius, a centurion of the Augustan Regiment, treated Paul kindly, letting him receive care at Sidon from people who were Paul’s friends and hosts.

From Sidon, they sailed under the shelter of Cyprus due to the strong, contrary gales.

Then, over seas off of Cilicia and Pamphylia, they came to Myra, Lycia, where they were put aboard another ship bound for Italy in their forthcoming sails.

They sailed slowly many days, arriving with difficulty off Cnidus—the wind didn’t permit them to proceed.

So they sailed under the shelter of Crete off Salmone, passing it also with difficulty, coming to Fair Havens, a stop of need.

They’d lost a lot of time, and the weather was becoming dangerous as it was so late in the fall.

So Paul spoke to the ship’s officers about it—that he perceived trouble ahead, with great damage to the cargo and ship and even to the lives of them all.

But the centurion was more persuaded by the pilot and captain of the ship than by anything that Paul had said.

And because the harbor wasn’t suitable for wintering, the majority reached the decision to put out to sea, going ahead.

If, somehow, they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete, facing southwest and northwest, they could spend winter there, they thought.

So when a moderate south wind came up, they supposed they’d attained their purpose, weighed anchor, and began sailing along Crete, on the route they sought.

But before very long, a violent wind, called Euraquilo, rushed down to sea from the land.

And when the ship was caught in it, and couldn’t face the wind, they gave way to it and were driven along—totally unplanned.

Running under the shelter of a small island called Clauda, they were scarcely able to get the ship’s lifeboat under control.

After they’d hoisted it up, they used supporting cables in undergirding the ship and let down the sea anchor. Avoiding being run aground on the shallows of Syrtis was the goal.

The next day, as they were being violently storm-tossed, they began to throw the cargo overboard.

On the third day, they threw the tackle over, another thing the ship was carrying but which they could no longer afford.

Sun nor stars appeared for many days, and of the thought of being saved, they’d gradually lost hope.

After having gone without food for a long time, Paul reminded them that if they’d listened to him, with this storm and loss they wouldn’t have had to cope.

Yet he urged them to not lose courage, saying there would be no loss of life among them, but only of the ship.

He shared that this he knew by way of the appearance of an angel of God, who had come and stood before him on the trip.

The angel told Paul that he would yet stand before Caesar and that God had granted him the lives of all those sailing along.

So Paul, again, strongly encouraged them, saying that he believed God and that God’s predictions were never wrong.

He added, however, that on a certain island, they would run aground.

And after the fourteenth night in the Adriatic Sea, about midnight, some of the sailors began to sense that land ahead might soon be found.

They took soundings as they approached; and not wanting to run aground on the rocks, they cast four anchors from the stern, wishing for dawn’s light.

Then the sailors tried to abandon the ship, lowering the lifeboat as though they were going to put out anchors from the front, but they couldn’t quite…

for Paul said to the centurion and his soldiers, “Unless these men remain in the ship, you yourselves cannot be saved.”

So the soldiers cut away the ropes of the lifeboat and let it fall away before any escape could be braved.

Until the day was about to break, Paul encouraged them that not a hair of their heads would perish—that they should not be anxious, going without eating—but to take some food.

He himself took bread and gave thanks to God in their presence and began to eat. So all the others on board took food as well, encouraged and their spirits renewed.

Two hundred seventy-six persons were aboard; and when all had eaten enough, they lightened the ship by casting overboard their wheat.

When day broke, they couldn’t recognize the land but observed a certain bay with a beach. They resolved to drive the ship onto it, if they could accomplish the feat.

So, casting off the anchors, they left them in the sea, loosened the ropes of the rudders, and hoisted the foresail to the wind—then headed for the beach.

But they struck a reef where two seas met and ran the vessel aground. The prow stuck fast and remained immovable. The stern began to break up by many a wave’s forceful reach.

The soldiers had planned to kill the prisoners so that none would swim away and escape; however, the centurion wanted to bring Paul safely through.

So, he kept them from those intentions and commanded that those who could swim should jump overboard first—the others to follow on planks from the ship or anything with which they could make do.

Thus it happened that all were brought safely to the land—they found that Malta was this particular island’s name.

There, the natives showed extraordinary kindness… Due to rain that had set in and the cold, they received them all and kindled for them a fire’s warming flames.

When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out, due to the heat, and fastened on his hand.

Seeing this, the natives expressed the thought that, likely, Paul was a murderer, lucky to escape the sea, but that death by snakebite was somehow justice served—perhaps divinely planned.

But Paul shook the creature off, back into the fire—the incident, for him, was not ill-fated.

Then the natives, who had expected him to swell up and die, suddenly changed their minds and said that with a “god” he could be equated.

In that region, there was a leading citizen, Publius, by name, at whose estate they were welcomed for three days.

The father of this man lay sick with a fever and dysentery. So Paul went in to him, laid his hands on him, and he was healed. Paul was continuing to follow his Lord Jesus’ compassionate healing ways.

When this was done, other natives on the island who had illnesses also received from Paul’s healing ministry during his stay.

The islanders honored Paul in many ways, giving him and the others much in provision before the time when they would again sail away.

P. A. Oltrogge

“For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and he said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What’s more, God in his goodness, has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.’ So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said.” Acts 27:23-25 NLT

An archived post, “Lost at Sea,” may be a blessing to you if you’ve not heard of or would like to review Michelle Hamilton’s modern-day true account of accidentally drifting out in a small craft into the vastness of the ocean and how she was rescued by the Lord.

“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” Psalm 90:2

“By awesome deeds in righteousness You will answer us, O God of our salvation, You who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of the far-off seas; Who established the mountains by His strength, being clothed with power…” Psalm 65:5-6

“Hear my cry, O God; attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:1-2

“And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” John 17:3 

“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through 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 at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4  

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Mountains can make us think of the majesty of God…and their heights speak of places where angels easily have trod.

“Only be thou strong and very courageous,” Joshua was told. As we “climb every mountain,” Father, help us, too, to be so bold.

“For you give your angels charge over us,” as is said in Psalm 91. May your people keep faith in your Word, focusing on Jesus, your only begotten Son.

For those going through, or who’ve weathered a storm, and now may be facing the unknown…“Emmanuel, God with us” is good to remember. “You’ll never walk alone!”

P. A. Oltrogge

“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” Matthew 1:23 KJV

“Only be thou strong and very courageous….” Joshua 1:7 KJV

“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

“Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 RSV

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always,  even to the end of the age.” Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20

Scriptures: NKJV, or as noted

Colorado autumn scenes…
by Porch of the Lord

…small and white, clean and bright…Edelweiss

David sinned through adultery and even murder, but then he repented. Paul, once named Saul, persecuted Christians before his conversion. Peter (and all the disciples) denied the Lord, failing in his boast that he would die with Him, rather than deny Him. We must follow God’s love principle, and forgive even ourselves….

Peter failed to demonstrate His love for Jesus by denying Him three times before the cock crowed twice. That was a betrayal of God’s very own Son, who, for our iniquities, paid the ultimate price.

When thoughts of sins, mistakes or failures arise, reminding of an unwise or regretful scene–instead, as a believer, remember Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, through which God has washed you thoroughly clean.

Love covers a multitude of sins–Jesus’ blood washes away everything that was ugly. You’re the righteousness of God in Christ–run to His arms where He’ll hold you snugly.

P. A. Oltrogge

“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms…” Deuteronomy 33:27

“And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” Mark 10:16

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.’” John 1:29 

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29 NLT

“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God….” Romans 3:21-23

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

“‘Come now, and let us reason together’ says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’” Isaiah 1:18

“Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8 NASB

“I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”  John 13:34 NASB

“And forgive us our debts (sins/trespasses), as we forgive our debtors.” Matthew 6:12

“Then Peter came to Him and said, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him, up to seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.’” Matthew 18:21-22

“For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fulness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight–if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.” Colossians 1:19-23 

Another example of forgiveness and love is the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15.

“Wash me thoroughly from my guilt and cleanse me from my sin…Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; Cleanse me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:2, 7 (…a Psalm of David)

“Peter said to Him, ‘Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!’ All the disciples said the same thing as well.” Matthew 26:35 NASB

“He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?’ Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, ‘Do you love Me?’ And he said to Him, ‘Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed My sheep.’”  John 21:17

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:12-14 

“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”  2 Corinthians 5:20-21

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted.

Find an important message on love and prayer today at: http://www.givehim15.com

photo/pxfuel

…the poem, below, was written as a confession of faith, which any believer could use….

“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!”  …from Psalm 107

God has given me a spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind…

When I thank Him for His goodness, that’s what I will always find…

The Old Testament account of Joseph tells that he was sold to be a slave;

but his faith in God’s trustworthiness sustained him with courage to be brave.

Never a day goes by me, or a night when I need to sleep,

that His love isn’t reigning over me–I trust His promises, He’ll keep.

The Lord is a refuge and stronghold in trouble, the Word of God has declared.

So we pray, believing for His goodness, over those who may have despaired.

Even in dark days that are clouded with wars or rumors of a war…

abiding in Him, it’s a good fight of faith–the cross of Jesus has gone on before!

P. A. Oltrogge

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, 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 6:11-12

“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

“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
Psalm 9:9 NIV

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:57 

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.” 2 Corinthians 2:14 

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.” Psalm 42:5

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:37-39

“I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for and confidently expect the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for and confidently expect the Lord.” Psalm 27:13-14 AMP

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:5-7

Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, 
Leads against the Foe;
Forward into battle 
See His banners go!
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

2 Like a mighty army
Moves the Church of God;
Brothers, we are treading
Where the saints have trod.
We are not divided,
All one body we,
One in hope and doctrine,
One in charity.
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

3 Crowns and thrones may perish,
Kingdoms rise and wane,
But the Church of Jesus
Constant will remain.
Gates of hell can never
‘Gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise,
And that cannot fail. 
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

4 Onward, then, ye faithful,
Join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices
In the triumph song:
Glory, laud, and honor
Unto Christ, the King;
This thro’ countless ages
Men and angels sing. 
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” Psalm 23 KJV

(The hymn, Onward, Christian Soldiers, was written in 1864 by Sabine Baring-Gould, and the music composer was Arthur S. Sullivan)

Scriptures NKJV, or as noted

Does this world seem like a desert–parched and offering little shade? Thank God, we have an oasis, when our minds on Christ are stayed.

It’s there, we find “living water,” through God’s Holy Spirit and His Word. Why struggle, as if in a desert, when the “rain” of God has occurred?

It’s said that very little water can cause desert seeds to flourish. Likewise, you can be revived–just one word from God can nourish.

Troubles can bombard our minds through circumstances or daily news, so turn to the life-giving Word of God, the blessed oasis that’s yours to use.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee; because he trusteth in Thee.” Isaiah 26:3 KJV

“Jesus answered and said to her, ‘If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.’” John 4:10 NASB

“Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles.” Psalm 119:50 NLT

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105 NKJV

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NKJV

“Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, having been born again, not with corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever…. 1 Peter 1:22-23 NKJV

…visit: http://www.govictory.com

Photo: Pixabay

“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:13

We’re all aware of matters over which much prayer is required; and we know we must persevere, even if we grow tired.

A proven way to gain “a fresh wind” is to turn often to praise. To gain victory in a battle, it’s surely one of the best ways…

If you need help in offering it, Eagle Mountain Church is grand–their musicians, worship team and choir assist in helping you “stand.”

Just go to their website; and as any of their services begin…you’ll find so many wonderful worship songs to help you to “enter in.”

It’s not just on Sundays that we benefit from praising the Lord…but any and every day of the week–any time–it will bring us reward…

and bless and glorify our good and faithful God!

P. A. Oltrogge

View/participate in praise at any of the services at Eagle Mountain International Church: http://www.emic.org

You may be blessed by praise through your own church and its website, or perhaps are good at singing and/or using an instrument yourself to bless the Lord at home; but I offer the above suggestion for the sake of some–and Eagle Mountain International Church does have uplifting wonderful worship. Plus, it’s a way of joining others in enthusiastic faith and joy….and brings peace in the midst of the trials of life….

…here are some from their worship team, ministering in downtown Chicago, with guest worship leader, Philip Renner….

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“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” – Psalm 34:1

“I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 89:1

“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 (David against Goliath)

to the Samaritan woman at the well…

“Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.’

“The woman said to Him, ‘I know that Messiah is coming’ (who is called Christ). ‘When He comes, He will tell us all things.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I who speak to you am He.'” John 4:21-26

“Therefore by Him (Jesus) let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15

“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.” Acts 16:25-26

“Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.” 2 Corinthians 2:14

“Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.” A. W. Tozer

1 Chronicles 16:23-31:

²³ Sing to the Lord, all the earth;
Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.
²⁴ Declare His glory among the nations,
His wonders among all peoples.

²⁵ For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised;
He is also to be feared above all gods.
²⁶ For all the gods of the peoples are idols,
But the Lord made the heavens.
²⁷ Honor and majesty are before Him;
Strength and gladness are in His place.

²⁸ Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples,
Give to the Lord glory and strength.
²⁹ Give to the Lord the glory due His name;
Bring an offering, and come before Him.
Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!
³⁰ Tremble before Him, all the earth.
The world also is firmly established,
It shall not be moved.

³¹ Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad;
And let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns.”

“Lost No More” by Greg Olsen. Used with Permission.  www.GregOlsen.com

Jesus is known as, and called, “the Lion of the tribe of Judah;”
and Proverbs says that the righteous are “bold as a lion.”

But a favorite thought of mine about Jesus, our Savior,
is that He is our Good Shepherd–the loving Lord of Zion.

It’s a comfort to contemplate being His lamb–  
He makes us to lie down in pastures that are green…

and then to follow His leading beside the still waters–
These words describe a peaceful, contented scene.

Yes, Jesus is God’s great, victorious Son–“a Lion!”
He courageously said and did what His Father decreed.

Yet He said that He was “gentle and lowly in heart”–
just the kind of attribute a caring shepherd would need.

But if, at any time, His lambs should come under attack,
that gentleness is intertwined with His rescuing that’s bold.

He is ever lion-hearted in watching over His flock,
and towards drawing more loved, lost sheep into His fold.

P. A. Oltrogge

postscript:

Jesus, it’s also true, was, Himself, the Lamb of God, fulfilling dual roles. He’s Shepherd of the sheep, yet became the sinless sacrificial Lamb appointed, to make the vital payment to save men’s souls.

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“But one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to loose its seven seals.’ And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth.” Revelation 5:5-6

“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.” Proverbs 28:1 

“Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion! Declare His deeds among the people.” Psalm 9:11 

“Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, Who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!” Psalm 135:21 

“Behold, I lay in Zion, A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.” from 1 Peter 2:6 

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 

“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who is not the owner of the sheep, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters the flock. He flees because he is a hired hand and does not care about the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen to My voice; and they will become one flock, with one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life so that I may take it back. No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it back. This commandment I received from My Father.” John 10:11-18 NASB

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one.” John 10:27-30 

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10 KJV

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8 

“The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.” Psalm 23 

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Jesus, our Advocate with the Father:

“Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.” Romans 8:34 

“My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1 

“…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.” Hebrews 7:22-25 

_________________________

“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The  Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

“He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.” John 12:48-50

“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21 

(Scriptures: NKJV or as noted)