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)
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.
Like having a protective “umbrella” over my head, You guard me, Lord, as I’m being Spirit-led. You’ve given me this heritage, for I reverence Your name. Thank You for protection, one of the benefits I can claim.
P. A. Oltrogge
“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.
“You have been a shelter for me, a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of Your wings. Selah
“For you, O God, have heard my vows; You have given me the heritage of those who fear your name…”
Psalm 61:2-5
“But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.” Proverbs 1:33
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT
“Next Paul and Silas traveled through the area of Phrygia and Galatia, because the Holy Spirit had prevented them from preaching the word in the province of Asia at that time.” Acts 16:6 NLT
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
“My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” Isaiah 32:18
“I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.” Psalm 18:3 KJV
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 KJV
“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4 (and entire Psalm)
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalm 103:2
You may have already been following Dutch Sheets’s messages this week. If not, he’s been sharing on trusting for God’s protection through faith in His word and through prayer–especially in these times. Some instances we have heard of may seem to contradict it, but we see that it is in God’s word and that we can certainly continue to exercise faith for protection. And many believers have sure testimonies of experiencing it. Today, Dutch shares an encouraging post on having a heart for prayer and how he gained it. The archives at his website hold many of his previous posts:
Dutch began the week on November 13 with this decree:
We declare that we will fear no evil; we are secure in the secret place of the Most High God.
Additionally, for a book, written by Peggy Joyce Ruth, on Psalm 91 and its promises, refer to www.christianbook.com or other book sources.
“Protecting Your Family in Dangerous Times,” a digital book by Kellie Copeland, on relying on our covenant with God through the blood of Jesus can be obtained through http://www.kcm.org
“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the Prophets:
“Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.” “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ”
Mark 1:1-3 NKJV
John, whose message was repentance, was clothed with camel’s hair; and locusts and wild honey were, of necessity, his taste. People throughout Judea and those from Jerusalem came out to where he was based.
They sought to be baptized by John in the Jordan river, for the remission of their sins. But he spoke of One mightier coming, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit, which is where Mark’s story (account) of Jesus begins.
At that time, Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee came, and was baptized there, also, by John. When He came up out of the water, the heavens parted, and the Spirit descended upon…
this Son of Man and only begotten Son of God. Mark wrote that the Spirit came down “like a dove.” “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” were His Father’s words from heaven above.
Immediately afterward, the Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness, where, for forty days…He was tempted by Satan, but never failed–Jesus always fully adhered to His Father’s ways.
After John was wickedly put into prison, Jesus began preaching the gospel in Galilee. He told the people to repent of their sins, and that it was through Him that they could be set free.
As Jesus walked by Galilee’s sea, he saw Simon and Andrew casting out a fishing net there. He told them He would make them fishers of men–the gospel would be theirs, as well, to share.
They left their nets to follow Him–then Jesus called James and John, two more. Leaving their father, Zebedee, and others in the boat, they joined the Lord upon the shore.
Heading into Capernaum, Jesus entered into the synagogue on the Sabbath to teach. He taught as One having authority, not as the scribes, when they would “preach.”
There was a man there, possessed with an unclean spirit, who cried out, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did you come to destroy us? I know who You are–the Holy One of God!” he said in an evil tone.
Jesus rebuked him and commanded the unclean spirit to be quiet and that it was to come out. Then the unclean spirit convulsed the man and left him, after it had made a defeated shout.
Everyone was amazed that Jesus could cause evil spirits to obey His bold command. Immediately His fame spread in Galilee–throughout all of that region’s land.
After that incident, Jesus entered the house of Simon, where Simon’s mother-in-law was lying down ill. Jesus took her by the hand and lifted her up–the fever left her, for Jesus was carrying out His Father’s will.
To Jesus, that evening, after sunset, all who were sick or demon possessed were brought. The whole city was actually gathered there, for they’d heard of the miracles that He’d wrought.
The next morning, long before daylight, Jesus went out to a solitary place to pray. So Simon and others searched for Him. “Everyone is looking for You,” they told Him; but Jesus wasn’t led to stay.
“Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth,” He said. And He preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, casting out demons in more towns that were ahead.
At one point a leper came to Jesus, saying, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.” Jesus was moved with compassion and touched him, saying, “I am willing. Be cleansed.” Immediately, the leprosy was no longer seen.
Jesus warned him to say nothing to anyone but to go and show himself to the priest. But the man went out and shared his story freely–he was so happy at having been released.
Then, Jesus could no longer openly enter the city, but had to go out to a deserted place. But people kept coming to Him from every direction, having heard He was pouring out God’s goodness and wonderful grace.
Poetry by P. A. Oltrogge(after the beginning Scripture verses)
“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” Psalm 107:8-9
…and the following are from the book of Acts:
“Then Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all—that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.’” Acts 10:34-43
“And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples he said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’ So they said to him, ‘We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.’ And he said to them, ‘Into what then were you baptized?’ So they said, ‘Into John’s baptism.’
“Then Paul said, ‘John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.’ When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 19:1-5
“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
Come under the blessing of receiving God’s Son, Jesus Christ. His sacrifice for our sins, the Father says, has wholly sufficed.
Realize that Jesus’ Name is greater than any other name… His Father God in heaven has bestowed upon Him that fame.
Jesus’ Name, His blood, and the Word are the believer’s shield; it’s through these that God’s great love and forgiveness are revealed.
Many other blessings are ours to claim, as we believe. Be reconciled to God–He desires for all to freely receive.
Find salvation, healing, provision, and safety in God’s protection… under the blessing of Jesus Christ, who is His Father’s own reflection.
P. A. Oltrogge
“He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
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 1:13-20
“And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth.” Philippians 2:8-10
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12
“He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:32
“…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 isthe gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:7-9
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5
“…knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver and gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God.” 1 Corinthians 2:12
“For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6
“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
“And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.” John 1:16-18
“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. He who believes in Him is not condemned….” John 3:16-18
“Jesus said to him, ‘I amtheway, thetruth, and the life.No one comes to the Father except through Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.’ Philip said to Him, ‘Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?'” John 14:7-9
“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 this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.” 1 John 5:11-13
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
“For You have been a shelter for me, a strong tower from the enemy.” Psalm 61:3
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.'” Psalm 91:1-2 and the entire Psalm
Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Psalm 103:1-5 and the entire Psalm
“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
Scriptures: NKJV or as noted
The Blessing of the Lord, book by Kenneth Copeland, at: http://www.kcm.org
“So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God.’” Mark 11:22
Raindrops in the air act as prisms, producing rainbow light; and the moon glow through the clouds disrupts the dark of night.
Mankind has lit up buildings, using electricity as an energy source; but Almighty God lit the many stars and set each planet on its course.
Imagine the power it takes to keep all those heavenly lights burning. As proof of the existence of God, His lights make us discerning.
The sound of mighty ocean waves, day or night, speak of His power, as do the majestic mountains and each uniquely-crafted flower.
Then, consider a newly-born baby or every individual’s special face…the mighty to very small animals, the seasons and their systematic pace.
To have faith in the power of God is easy to do by just looking around, at all of the creative beauty with which this world has been crowned.
P. A. Oltrogge
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. So the evening and the morning were the first day.” Genesis 1:1-5
“Then God said, ‘Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years; and let them be for lights in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth’; and it was so. Then God made two great lights: the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night. He made the stars also. God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light on the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. So the evening and the morning were the fourth day.” Genesis 1:14-19 (and all of Genesis 1)
“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.” Romans 1:20 (Scriptures: NKJV)
Explore creation through “The Rocks Cry Out” with Ray Heiple and Bruce Malone–one of the many programs at: http://www.originstv.org
“As He (Jesus) rode along, people were spreading their coats on the road (as an act of homage before a king). As soon as He was approaching (Jerusalem), near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the entire multitude of the disciples (all those who were or claimed to be His followers) began praising God (adoring Him enthusiastically and joyfully) with loud voices for all the miracles and works of power that they had seen, shouting,
“Blessed (celebrated, praised) is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory (majesty, splendor) in the highest (heaven)!”
“Some of the Pharisees from the crowd said to Him, ‘Teacher, rebuke Your disciples (for shouting these Messianic praises).’ Jesus replied, ‘I tell you, if these (people) keep silent, the stones will cry out (in praise)!’” Luke 19:36-40 AMP
“For they willingly forget (the fact) that the heavens existed long ago by the word of God, and the earth was formed out of water and by water, through which the world at that time was destroyed by being flooded with water.” 2 Peter 3:5-6 AMP
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 Godin Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:20-21
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
“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-7
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What every country needs is leadership by those who do pray–and that would also be leadership by those who follow what the Bible has to say. The beginning of wisdom, it states, comes by the fear of the Lord; therefore, leaders of any country should desire that He be on board.
So, as we pray for the U.S.A., we intercede for God’s protection, from our enemies and from legislation that wouldn’t be of His direction. We pray that the light of Christ will shine into every person’s heart–especially those in leadership roles, so that our liberties won’t depart.
P. A. Oltrogge
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 NKJV; also Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10
“Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 NKJV
The Porch of the Lord 