“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….

______________________

“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.

____________________

“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 

_________________________

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)

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live….” Deuteronomy 30:19

“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

“I have been crucified with Christ” is my Biblical decree….“and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”

I need have no fear of death, for I’ve already “died.” Thanks be to God for eternal life through His Son crucified!

Not only that, but abundant life is mine today as well, for Jesus rose from the dead in victory over all the power of hell.

And by the Holy Spirit, He guides me day and night. In our God is the fountain of life; in His light, we see light.

P. A. Oltrogge

“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20 (NASB)

“I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (AMP)

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”  John 10:10

“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.” Psalm 23:4

“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.” Hebrews 2:14-18

“For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light, we see light.” Psalm 36:9

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”  John 8:12

“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.”John 5:24

“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.” 1 John 5:11-12

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.’” John 11:25

“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

“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. We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:17-19

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2

“And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” Revelation 1:17-18 (KJV)

Be blessed today at the written or video message by Dutch Sheets: www.givehim15.com

Psalm 116:15
Isaiah 25:8
Matthew 10:28
Luke 10:19
John 3:16
John 5:24-30
John 14:1-3
Romans 6:1-14
1 Corinthians 15:51-58
Philippians 3:20-21
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
1 John 3:14
1 John 5

Scriptures: NKJV, or as noted.

…through Jesus Christ, His Son….

Evidence of a creative Master is seen throughout the earth;

Jesus, who was called, the Master, came to teach us of the new birth.

Unless you are born again, He said, you can’t see the kingdom of God.

His heart is that of a caring shepherd, who guides with staff and rod.

The beauties and wonders of creation amaze, seeming never to cease;

such things are divine reflections, which point to the Prince of Peace.

Jesus told us to consider the lilies and also the birds of the air—

that they could show us how to serenely rest within His Father’s care.

What a wonderful God we have; He taught us the blessing of serving—

Jesus was our example, sharing God’s love, though we were undeserving.

In Him was life, and the life was the light of men—God’s very glory revealed.

We do have a beautiful Savior, who gave us the beauty of the lilies of the field.

P. A. Oltrogge

“All things were made through Him, and without Him, nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” John 1:3-4

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

“Jesus answered and said to him, (Nicodemus) ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’” John 3:3

“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

“Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. This shows that the Son is far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names.” Hebrews 1:1-4 NLT

“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

Remembering the Hymn,
Beautiful Savior

Beautiful Savior, King of Creation,
Son of God and Son of Man!
Truly I’d love Thee,
Truly I’d serve Thee,
Light of my soul, my Joy, my Crown.

Fair are the meadows,
Fair are the woodlands,
Robed in flowers of blooming spring;
Jesus is fairer,
Jesus is purer;
He makes our sorrowing spirit sing.

Fair is the sunshine,
Fair is the moonlight,
Bright the sparkling stars on high;
Jesus shines brighter,
Jesus shines purer,
Than all the angels in the sky.

Beautiful Savior,
Lord of the nations,
Son of God and Son of Man!
Glory and honor,
Praise, adoration,
Now and forevermore be Thine!

Author Unknown, 1677
Translated by Joseph A. Seiss, 1873

“The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.” Psalm 103:13 NLT

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

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

*********************

Father God…evil events in this world point to our need to continually pray

for those who walk in the darkness–who haven’t found Your Son and the Way.

Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life–truly, this world’s light.

Christians are also “lights,” He said, here to direct other souls to what’s right.

Sin has darkened the minds of many people, to not recognize their need…

“Man doesn’t live by bread alone,” but on Your Word, we all must feed.

Jesus gives life abundant and eternal life–when a believer dies, yet he’ll live.

He taught us of Your love, Father–and that we’re to love others and to forgive.

Your Son went about healing, demonstrating Your compassion and grace.

He said to “Have faith in God,” that You’d be with us in whatever we’d face.

So, we believe in Your goodness, Father God, in the midst of evil’s blight.

We keep our trust in Your Word, holding onto it, with a grip of faith that’s tight.

Help us, Father, to be aware of those who are living without Christian hope–

and to tell them of Your love, with an offer of friendship, to help them cope.

For those who have a reverence for God, may Your Holy Spirit open their eyes….

to see Christ throughout the Bible, wherein is the truth that makes us wise.

in His Name, we pray….

Amen

“Then He said to them, ‘O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?’ And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:25-27 (This Jesus did, while on His walk with Cleopas and another disciple on the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus after His resurrection from the dead…)

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom:  a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” Psalm 111:10 

“But He answered and said, ‘It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4 (Jesus’ words during the temptation in the wilderness)

“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15 KJV

“But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:14-17 NLT

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” John 10:10-11

“So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God.’” Mark 11:22 (faith that can even move mountains…)

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.”  John 11:25 

“Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, 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’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves.’” John 14:5-11

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-10 

“For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

“For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 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 8:38-39 KJV (and all of verses 31-39)

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Depiction of Jesus, with Cleopas and another disciple on the road to Emmaus…

(Poetic prayer by P. A. Oltrogge)

Whoever desires to save his life will lose it,
but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.

Jesus makes this statement yet today to us
because God’s great love is actually behind it.

For as we surrender to Christ, and God’s perfect will,
we needn’t have any apprehensions still…

since the Lord of all creation wants to guide us
to that which is best, by His Spirit, dwelling inside of us.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?’” Matthew 16:24-25 

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 

“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 

“But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulnrss.” Lamentations 3:21-23 RSV

“…For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” Romans 5:5 NLT

His love blesses us, and we seek to love and bless others…

“‘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 

“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13 

“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 13:34-35 

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted.

“Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said to him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’

“So he said to them, ‘Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.’

“And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, ‘Peace to you!’ Then He said to Thomas, ‘Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.’

“And Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God!’

“Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’” John 20:24-29 NKJV

*******************************************************

Why is faith needed–because, like Thomas, we, too, can sometimes doubt,

so we need to continually go to God’s Word to push wrong thinking out. 

Without faith, it’s impossible to please God–it’s a detriment to us as well. 

How can we doubt God’s integrity, who’s provided heaven and escape from hell? 

The truth about this…is that there’s a deceiver, who actively bombards with lies,

which is the reason God says to be vigilant in keeping His Word before our eyes. 

And words of faith are like a refreshing breeze in the midst of a bad situation. 

“Have faith in God,” Jesus said, which are His words to the people of every nation. 

“For with God, nothing shall be impossible,” is another important Biblical quote. 

We can even “walk on the water,” at His direction, boldly stepping out of the boat. 

Though called “the questioning apostle” or “doubting Thomas,” his doubt didn’t stay. 

He went on to serve in God’s kingdom, leading others to follow Christ and The Way.

So, just like Thomas, we can walk on in faith, despite doubts that have assailed us. 

Fixing our eyes upon Jesus, we’ll be able to say, “God’s Word has never failed us!”

P. A. Oltrogge

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV

The above image of Jesus
used by permission of Bob Berran
at: http://www.bobberran.com
See his Online Store to
purchase reprints of
various sizes.

Thomas’s influence for Christianity has been historically noted in Kerala, India.

For a message on God’s love for all people, see today’s: http://www.givehim15.com

…and visit often: http://www.faithschool.org

The following poetic thoughts were patterned after an old, historic poem. Though this Porch poem was written a number of years ago, it is more relevant with each passing day…

Listen, my children, and you shall hear
of the soon return of the King we revere.
In this present year with which we strive,
not a person is now alive
who knows the exact year, day, or hour, but it’s near.

Jesus clearly said that as the signs appear
on the world stage in obvious sight,
we should have our lamps lit with plenty of oil,
as if on a church tower as a signal light–
both to guide others and serve as our key
when He on the opposite shore will be.

Ready to ride, but first keep us from harm,
He will catch away His children through city and farm–
yes, those with His Word, who’ve been up and “armed.”
When Jesus descends from Heaven with a shout,
there will be no more time for those who claim doubt.

The dead in Christ will be raised up first.
Then believers still alive will leave the earth
to meet the Lord with them in the air,
while others will be left in the tribulation’s snare.

Some misunderstand and say, “None will be left out,”
but that thought is simply a satanic route
to keep you from seeing that God’s beautiful plan
of salvation was meant for each woman and man.

He lovingly yearns for you to come home–
don’t be like the prodigal son who would roam.
For, as in the garden of Eden, the voice
of Satan tells you to make your own choice:
“Surely, God didn’t say Christ was THE WAY–
There are many paths to God—think of Him another day.”

But if this life’s pursuits are all you’ve perceived,
You’ll find, in the end, that you’ve been deceived.
It’s a deceptive lie if you think this is all,
when God’s given each one of us a much higher call–
to love Him and others–then join Christ one day,
bringing all whom we can for an eternal stay.

To put faith in so-called prophets of merit
or even in good things you’ve done,
won’t gain you the heaven you hope to inherit–
since THE DOOR is the sinless Christ, God’s Son.

His blood sacrifice made on the cross
is the only assurance against heaven’s loss.
There won’t be a Messiah by any other name,
but Jesus Christ of world-renowned fame.
You’re sure of these things, you ask, by what right?
It’s all found in the Bible, which gives us the light.

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good,
offering adoption as His children and true brotherhood.
Blessed beyond measure you’ll surely be
both now and for eternity.

So receive the Lord–it’s simple to pray.
Repent of your sins and turn to Christ’s way.
For as in the time of Noah, it’s now–
what God says is wrong, we must disavow.

The days will get darker in this world of sin;
but Christ is the “Ark,” and He’s urging us to come in.
Things are happening fast upon the world’s scene—
it’s time to embrace what God really did mean.

A hurry of hoofs from a heavenly street,
and the fate of all souls will then be complete.
Revelation tells us that Christ will appear
on a white horse to reign down here,
with a shout of victory and not of fear–
a voice piercing this world’s darkness,
the voice of Him Who is “the Way” and “the Door.”
His Word shall echo forevermore!

For, borne on the night-wind of the past,
through all earth’s history, to the last,
in the hour of darkness and peril and need,
the people who know Him and have listened to hear
for the hurrying hoof-beats of that steed,
heed the end-time message of the King we revere!

P. A. Oltrogge

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve, as do the rest who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep in Jesus. For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, and remain until the coming of the Lord, shall not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

“And I saw heaven opened; and behold, a white horse, and He who sat upon it is called Faithful and True; and in righteousness He judges and wages war. And His eyes are a flame of fire, and upon His head are many diadems; and He has a name written upon Him which no one knows except Himself. And He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood; and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. And from His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may smite the nations; and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written. ‘KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.’” Revelation 19:11-16

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.’” John 14:6

“Jesus therefore said to them again, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door, if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.’” John 10:7-9

“But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:8-9

…for detailed and insightful resources: http://www.davidjeremiah.org  

And more at: http://www.davidjeremiah.blog

For faith in these times, visit: http://www.faithschool.org
Faith School, “By Faith, Noah”
(Week 13)

“Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit.

You, too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect.” Luke 12:35,40

I once said to the Master, Jesus, “Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man!” Yet, I was forgiven by Him and blessed to be a part of His Father’s redemptive plan.

I remember when Andrew came to me with some news that truly amazed–that by way of John the Baptist, he had found the Messiah, who was to be praised!

Jesus became our teacher, and we left our nets to follow Him. This meant leaving our daily livelihood, so we weren’t simply doing so on a whim.

No, we knew that this was big. We began to see many miracles taking place–miracles of healing, provision, and protection were wrought by Him, revealing to all God’s grace.

The lame, the blind, and the deaf were finding that the Master was always willing. We disciples saw Him calm the sea during a storm that had been frighteningly chilling.

Another time, faith arose within me to walk towards Him upon the sea. He quickly saved me from sinking below the depths when fear had gotten the better of me.

Once, Jesus took me with James and John on a destined mountain climb, where He was transfigured before us–Elijah and Moses appeared at the time.

I suggested that three tabernacles be built for each, not knowing just what to say. Then a cloud came around us with a message from God on that remarkable day.

It was the voice of His Father in heaven, telling us that this was His beloved Son, and that we should listen to Jesus–His raiment was white as no launderer could have done.

Just as quickly as it had begun, the experience ended and we were alone. We often could expect the unexpected–such was His ministry’s tone.

HIs raising of Lazarus from the dead wasn’t envisioned by any of us disciples, though. Imagine our reaction when we saw death reversed to loose Lazarus and let him go.

I once gave the Lord the use of my boat, for Him to minister from to those on shore…only to be given back the catch of a lifetime–He gave back to us always more!

“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!” I declared to Him one day. He said His Father in heaven had revealed that truth to me about the Son, who had taught us all to pray.

At the Passover meal, I was taken aback when Jesus came to me to wash my feet. I allowed Him, though, for He said to be a part of Him, it was a duty I needed to let Him meet.

What a blessed remembrance, to have spent that time with the Lord in the upper room…before His betrayal and crucifixion and eventual resurrection from the tomb.

Of course, I felt remorse for my own denial of Him–my boasted loyalty and support having failed. But afterwards, I came to my senses, realizing that I was one…for whom, to the cross, He’d been nailed.

We disciples were so happy when He appeared to us after His glorious resurrection–and later were so glad to spread the news that Jesus is Lord…by the promised Spirit’s direction.

I loved to tell of Him throughout the following years and was always looking toward…that time of my reunion with Him, the Master and Teacher whom we all had adored.

P. A. Oltrogge

Sea of Galilee today…also called Kinnereth, Lake of Gennesaret, and Sea of or Lake Tiberias

For a relevant message today, visit: http://www.givehim15.com

also, messages by Yvon Attia and others: http://www.elijahlist.com