Category Archives: Poems

Walking with Jesus

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“Walk with Me,” by Greg Olsen. Used with Permission: www.gregolsen.com

…a meditation of the believer….

I want to “walk with Jesus,” as His disciples did along Galilee’s shore. I want to meditate on His Word, that I may learn of and grow in Him more.

I want to share His peace and love and to dispel confusion and doubts. People need to find the way to God. Jesus is the way–there are no other routes.

I want to do what He specified before He ascended to His Father’s right hand–to step out in faith, doing the things He said–the works that God has planned. 

I want to join others in being His hands and feet–He always cared for the people’s needs. As believers, we follow His example. In Matthew 25, He listed such deeds.

Without Christ, I can do nothing–I must be diligent to abide in the Vine, listening for His voice and direction, that I may “let my light so shine.”

An old hymn says, “If you cannot speak like angels, if you cannot preach like Paul, you can tell of the love of Jesus–you can say that He died for all.”

And recalling His assurances, when troubled times take place…I’ll trust in the plans of the Father’s heart–in the counsel of He who saved me by His grace.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

“Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.’

“So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.” Mark 16:14-20

“Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” Matthew 25:34-36

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

“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. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:1-11 

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, 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

“And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment.” 1 John 3:23

“The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:10-12

“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

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most high will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!’” Psalm 91:1-2 and all of Psalm 91

You Must See Victory

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Keep your eyes upon the victory, though the miracle shore seems far. That’s what you need to do when you’re at “where you are.”

Don’t let your eye of faith become for you, instead, an eye of fear. Nearby winds and waves distract–especially when victory is near.

A double-minded person is, himself, like a wave of the sea–driven and tossed by the wind, giving attention to adversity.

So focus on the victory “lighthouse” that’s beaming out for you. Give it greatly your attention, and the Lord will see you through.

That lighthouse, you recognize, is God’s unfailing Word. It’s the light unto your pathway, and on which you’ve believed after having heard.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” Hebrews 11:1-2 NIV

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 NKJV

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 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. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:2-8 NKJV

“My son, give attention to My words; incline your ear to My sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes. Keep them in the midst of your heart; for they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.” Proverbs 4:20-22 NKJV

“Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 NLT

“Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. 

“Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’ And Peter answered Him and said, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ So He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.

“But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!’ And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’ And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly, You are the Son of God,’” Matthew 14:22-33 NKJV

A Very Thankful Heart

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“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. 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. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”  John 3:14-17

Lord, help me to always have a thankful heart, even if things seem to have gone wrong–for it’s only by trusting in Your love, that the faith in my heart will remain strong.

Help me to see what’s been good, and how You have touched my days. Then, in thinking upon such things, my words will be given to praise.

Help me to thank You, in faith, for any specific blessing I might desire. Let thankfulness be my “prayer” always, for it’s that which will lift me higher.

And I should thank You in front of problems. There’s benefit and healing in laughter—believing in Your solutions before they’re seen, not waiting to have joy ’til after.

Keep me from forgetting to count blessings, or of thinking only of my own concerns; for it’s in considering the various needs of others, that any discontent turns.

Remind me to look to Your finished work and Your victory for us through the cross. As the Israelites looked at the serpent on a pole, only then were they kept from loss.

Thank You for giving me the example, of earnestly seeking Your Father’s will, so that I may do the same with my own life, seeking His plan to follow and fulfill.

Yes, even if I’ve gone through something hard or have come to a difficult place, I want to thank You for being there for me, with Your presence, Your love, and Your grace.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” Psalm 100:4 

“Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15 NASB

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” Philippians 4:4

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17

“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:1-4 

“All the days of the afflicted are evil, but he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.” Proverbs 15:15

“A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” Proverbs 15:13 …and “A merry heart does good, like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

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

“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.” …spoken by Jesus in John 16:33

“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 NASB

“The Lord your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17 

“Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits. The God of our salvation! Selah.” Psalm 68:19

“And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Make a fiery serpent (of bronze) and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.’” Numbers 21:8 AMP

“‘And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.’ So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.” Mark 16:17-19 KJV

“And He said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.’” Luke 10:18-20 

“For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness 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.” Colossians 1:19-20

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted.

In these times, when we may need supernatural help, we are so thankful to be able to look to the cross and Jesus’ finished work there on our behalf, for our forgiveness, well-being, and eternal life–such wonderful gifts of God. Thank You, Lord!

“He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and show him My salvation.” Psalm 91:15-16 (and all of Psalm 91)

Jesus, the Gentle, Lion-Hearted Shepherd (and Lamb of God)

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“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 

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“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)

A Work of God Near the Pool of Siloam

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As told in John, chapter 9, Jesus’ disciples questioned Him one day, about a blind man they’d passed by who’d been born that way.

That he or his parents had sinned was their initial thought. Jesus said it was neither, but that a work of God should be wrought.

Then He spoke of doing God’s work before the coming night–and that while He was in the world, He was the world’s light.

After that, Jesus spit on the ground, to make some clay for the man, which He applied to his eyes, as the first step of God’s healing plan.

Then, washing in the pool of Siloam would turn out to be freeing. The man obeyed Jesus and washed there, and he came back seeing!

Those who’d known the man wondered if he could possibly be…the same beggar they had known, who’d been blind, but now could see.

When he said, “I am the one,” they questioned him as to how…such a thing could have happened, for his total blindness to “bow.”

Well, it bowed to “the man who is called Jesus,” was his immediate reply. “Where is He?” they asked; but he didn’t know, for Jesus had passed by.

Then he was brought before the Pharisees.  It was a Sabbath day. He told them, also, about the pool and Jesus having applied the clay.

Because Jesus had done this on a Sabbath, His divinity was dismissed. Keeping that law was a matter on which most of them would always insist.

Other Pharisees said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” So there was a division among them as they considered this in their minds.

Again, they questioned the formerly blind man, calling for his parents, too. The Pharisees doubted he’d been born blind and asked them if it was true.

They confirmed that he was their son who’d been blind from even day one. But how or by whom he’d been freed, they couldn’t say–“Just ask our son.”

They were afraid of being put out of the synagogue by giving laud to Christ. But their son said he only knew this–that Jesus’ healing touch had sufficed.

The synagogue leaders kept questioning him, to the extent that he, in turn, asked if they were wanting to be Jesus’ disciples–a notion which they spurned.

Calling him a disciple of Jesus, they said that they followed Moses of old. At that point, the man who’d been healed made statements that were bold:

“Well, here is an amazing thing, that you do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes.  We know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing, and does His will, He hears him.  Since the beginning of time it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind.  If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.”

That was enough for the Pharisees to berate him as being a sinful man. “Are you teaching us?” they said, and made him subject to a synagogue ban.

Jesus heard of this and then found him and asked him a question of His own. “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”  But of that title, he hadn’t known.

So he asked the Lord who that was, so that he could, therefore, believe. Jesus said the Son of Man was Himself.  (By God’s Spirit, He’d been conceived.)

“Lord, I believe,” were the heartfelt words of the man who had been born blind. Then he worshiped Jesus, who is the Son of Man and the Son of God combined!

Conclusion:
“Then Jesus told him, ‘I entered this world to render judgment–to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.’  Some Pharisees who were standing by heard Him and asked, ‘Are you saying we’re blind?’  ‘If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,’ Jesus replied.  ‘But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.’”

(Scriptures from John 9, NKJV and NLT)

P. A. Oltrogge

…additionally:

“There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, ‘Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.’ Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’ Nicodemus said to Him, ‘How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?’ Jesus answered, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and 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 spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.’” John 3:1-8

…for testimonies from the Healing Summits, visit: http://www.givehim15.com

Triumphant Hope in Jesus

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“In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6, 7

“Now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now we know in part, but then I shall know fully, just as I also have been fully known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12

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(A poem on renewal of hope after experiencing loss or a setback to faith.)

You came through difficult days–at times you felt vulnerable and disappointed. But, remember, you’re a child of God, and you’re still very much anointed.

Philippians 4:13 says you can do all things you’re called to do. Just keep your eyes fixed on Jesus–that’s Hebrews 12:2.

God is totally for you–His Word has made it clear. Don’t let past adversities cause you to doubt or fear.

We don’t fight against flesh and blood, but it’s a spiritual battle we wage; holding fast to your confidence is vital–it’s not time to disengage.

“Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before.”

That’s an old familiar hymn sung down through the years; and you have carried on so bravely, though sometimes there were tears.

As you continue in God’s Word, it will be a lamp unto your feet, and a light unto your path, bringing fellowship that’s sweet.

In studying the Bible, you’ve come to understand, that all that is good is from the Father’s hand.

Jesus went about healing, showing the Father’s true heart. He commanded the waves to be calm and the winds to depart.

The Old Testament account of Joseph tells of much that he withstood; but from what was meant for evil, God brought forth only good.

So keep listening to the Holy Spirit and using God’s Word as you pray. It’s the trustworthy sword of our armor–don’t let the enemy have any other say.

Plead the blood of Jesus…for our well-being, He was scarred. Stay strong in your precious faith in His Word, knowing it will guard.

A beautiful chapter of promise is Psalm ninety-one. We can claim it at each daybreak and even when the day is done.

Surely, you’ve gone through a hard place; but you’ll find by remaining bold, and confident in the Lord, Jesus Christ, your faith will remain more precious than gold.

“In the world you have tribulation, but…I have overcome the world,” Jesus said. Stand firm in that truth and you will find that God has many good things still ahead.

P. A. Oltrogge

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine; and acts upon them, may be compared to a wise man, who built his house upon the rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came; and the winds blew, and burst against the house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded upon the rock.” Matthew 7:24, 25

“…rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer.” Romans 12:12

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.” Hebrews 6:19-20

“Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation, or shifting shadow.” James 1:17

“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.” 2 Corinthians 1:21-22

“But thanks be to God who always leads us in His triumph in Christ….”
2 Corinthians 2:14

Psalm 91 (entire Psalm)

“that being justified by His grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:7

“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

Thoughts on the Great American Flag on America’s Birthday

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From states along the eastern coast, to California and others in the west, our great American flag has symbolized that we’re a nation that’s blessed.

It’s surely the symbol of those who’ve given, for this great country, their all; and as it’s displayed from our homes and buildings, America’s rich history is recalled.

Representing the freedom and liberty that has always been so treasured…the U.S.A. has been blessed by God with blessings beyond measure.

Yes, we’re “one Nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” But we must hold on to the God of the Bible–reverencing Him guards against a country’s downfall.

Today, we pray for America, trusting in God that He’s heard our fervent prayer…for all to appreciate the gem that’s America and its flag that waves faithfully in the air.

P. A. Oltrogge

…an endearing figurine of U.S. history’s flag seamstress, Betsy Ross…

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“…The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16 

“Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart…” (from Luke 18:1-8)

“…if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

“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

“The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing;
He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect.
The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
The plans of His heart to all generations.
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:10-12

“He guards the paths of justice. And preserves the way of His saints.” Proverbs 2:8

“The Lord executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.” Psalm 103:6

“It is a joy for the just to do justice, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.” Proverbs 21:15

“But in every nation he who venerates and has a reverential fear for God, treating Him with worshipful obedience and living uprightly, is acceptable to Him and sure of being received and welcomed (by Him). You know the contents of the message which He sent to Israel, announcing the good news (Gospel) of peace by Jesus Christ, Who is Lord of all—” Acts 10:35-36 AMPC

Quote from “Pray for our Nation”….

“It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ.” Patrick Henry, Statesman and Orator

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Consider the Birds and the Lilies

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Look at the birds of the air…
They don’t sow, reap, or gather
Their needed food into barns—
But are dependent upon God, rather.

Consider how the lilies are clothed—
They toil not, nor do they spin,
But to the heavenly Father’s care
They’re blessed to give in.

Yes, consider these,
And consider giving in,
To the message of Christ’s love
Above this world’s din.

Partake, through the Bible, from God’s table
Of spiritual food fit for a King’s heir,
And be clothed in the love of Jesus,
The finest thing you could wear.

Consider the children,
So gentle and so tender—
What kind of faith
To them will you render?

One that speaks dislike
And contempt of others—
Or one that speaks love
And draws all men to be brothers?

The heavenly Father gave Jesus
To tell of God’s care and to guide.
When we take Him as Savior, He gives love
For all others for whom He has died.

So just like the lilies
Or the birds of the air,
May people of all nations be blessed to give in
To Jesus—the way to the Father God’s care…

P. A. Oltrogge

“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies….” Luke 6:27

“And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. And a second is like it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.’” Matthew 22:37-40

“For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, as to what you shall eat, or what you shall drink, nor for your body, as to what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing?

“Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they? And which of you by being anxious, can add a single cubit to his life’s span? And why are you anxious about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory did not clothe himself like one of these.

“But if God so arrays the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more do so for you, O men of little faith? Do not be anxious then, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink’ or ‘With what shall we clothe ourselves?’ For all these things the Gentiles eagerly seek; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:25-34

“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. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17

If I loved you…

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“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 14:34-36 

If I loved you, I would speak of the One who made earth, the stars, sun and moon…If I loved you, I’d say, though we don’t know when, Jesus could return for us soon.

If I loved you, I would tell you to realize that there’s more than this life only…If I loved you, I would tell you, you have “family”–we need never be lonely.

If I loved you, I would encourage you to find a church online or locally…If I loved you, I would tell you it’s a blessing to give your heart to Jesus totally.

If I loved you, I would tell of the great importance of loving and forgiving others, for Jesus said that those who hear and do God’s word are His mother and brothers.

If I loved you, I’d encourage you to give into God’s kingdom and reap rewards…present and eternal ones, for the principle of “sowing and reaping” is the Lord’s.

If I loved you, I’d say that Christ is the only way to God that anyone can find…If I loved you, I’d say that you must leave all inadequate religious traditions behind.

If I loved you, I would say that you can pray and experience Jesus, too…If I loved you, I’d say to turn to Him as Savior–the most important thing you can do.

If I loved you, I wouldn’t let another day go by without making sure that I know…that you’re coming along with all who are in the “family of God,” for I DO love you so!

…as, with deepest love, does God….

“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

“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, 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

“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 it was told Him by some, who said, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.’  But He answered and said to them, ‘My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.’” Luke 8:20-21

“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. This is my command: Love each other.” John 15:9-17 NLT

“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:37-38

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so? Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:43-48

“And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.’” Matthew 22:37-40

“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….” 1 Timothy 2:1-5

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:3-5

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.’” Mark 16:15-16 NIV

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work…..He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Come Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.” Revelation 22:12, 20-21

Also: John 14:1-6; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Poem/P. A. Oltrogge

God’s Loving Guidance

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“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.” …from Psalm 23

Always, for God’s guidance, we must listen to hear His voice, so that we might have God’s best…and the wisest choice.  

Jesus, you said Your sheep hear what Your voice has to say. Help us to, ever more clearly, hear You after we pray.

Your voice is heard through Your Word, and by Your Holy Spirit. As Your sheep, we’re given the ability…to be able to hear it.

But if there are some times when we’re prone to get off course, we trust that You will redirect us, as our divine guidance source.

We simply can’t afford to go down any unapproved trails; we’re relying on Your love, Lord. You are love, (Who) never fails.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Love never fails….” 1 Corinthians 13:8 

“He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” 1 John 4:8

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” John 10:1-5

“I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.” John 10:14

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

“…but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.” …from 1 Kings 19:11-12

“When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.” Acts 16:7 NIV

“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.” John 10:27-28

“Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore!” Psalm 105:4

“Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21

“Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments….” Deuteronomy 7:9

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8

“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

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…photo/Pixabay