Two criminals on punishing crosses were next to the one which held the Lord. One of the men rebuked the other, saying they were receiving a just reward…
for the other had blasphemed Jesus, ridiculing Him because He hadn’t saved…Himself and them—words which showed no fear of God but were, instead, depraved.
The criminal who defended the Lord must have known of His ministry of peace, saying, “This Man has done nothing wrong,” though, for Christ, there’d been no release.
Then he, with humility, asked Jesus simply to remember him at the time, later… when He would come into His kingdom—he knew, in his heart, it was eternal and greater.
“Lord, remember me”…a simple, reverent plea, but so very wise…for Jesus gave him the promise that that day, he would be with Him in Paradise.
P. A. Oltrogge
“For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:10 NKJV
“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 NKJV
“…and after he brought them out (of the inner prison), he said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ And they answered, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus (as your personal Savior and entrust yourself to Him), and you will be saved, you and your household (if they also believe).” Acts 16:30-31 AMP
“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
Please pray for the safety of the Jewish people. Members of Iran’s radical Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said they are preparing another attack with a barrage of up to 1,000 ballistic missiles fired at Israel. That would be five times more than hit Israel when I was there recently. Many Israelis would die. Please pray–this is urgent.
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…a few days ago…
In eleven days, I will be going back to Israel. Yesterday saw still more attacks on innocent Jewish people living in the northern part of the country. More than 120 rockets and drones were fired from Lebanon, striking homes and businesses. According to early reports, at least five more people were injured. This is the daily reality of life in Israel now, and I’m asking you to help us send a message to the suffering Jewish people that they are not alone.
Half of the children in Tzfat (Safed)—about 3,000 precious little ones—do not have adequate bomb shelters at their schools. The mayor, my friend Yossi Kakon, has begged for help—not just for the children, but for the elderly Russian Jews in his town who are living in tiny and cramped bomb shelters. I am preparing to return to Israel, and I need your help so that we can meet as many of these needs as we can.
As the war goes on, the need to serve and support Jewish people in Israel is massive! This is what God’s Chosen People are facing…and why your support is more important than ever:
1,200 people were murdered on October 7, 2023 101 hostages are still held captive by Hamas in Gaza Over 700 IDF soldiers have been killed 10,000+ IDF soldiers have been wounded 20,000+ rockets have been fired into the Land 153,000 Israelis have been forced to flee their homes These statistics are from: http://www.jewishvoice.org
Father, we do pray again for those living in Israel. Protect them and the IDF military with angelic help amidst the fighting and draw people on both sides to yourself. We pray for the families of those who have died, especially those who died in protecting their small country. We pray for healing for the wounded… in Jesus’ name Amen
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
“There is nofear 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 4:18-19 NKJV
Let God’s perfect love cast out any and all fear. Jesus said to have faith in God and to be of good cheer!
Anxiety in the heart weighs it down. Thank the Lord for answered prayer, instead, and that He is turning things around…
Reversals may not seem possible, the world being an imperfect place. But, remember, where sin abounded, there did, much more, God’s amazing grace!
P. A. Oltrogge
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, But a good word makes it glad.” Proverbs 12:25 NASB
“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” Psalm 27:13-14
“Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:3-4 NLT
“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’” Matthew 14:27
“So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God.'” Mark 11:22
“I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep.” John 10:14-15
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27
“… I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. 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, Ihave overcome theworld.” John 16:32-33
“Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more, so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 5:20-21
“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 42:11 and 43:5
“God is my strength and power: and He makes my way perfect.” 2 Samuel 22:33
“As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? It is God who arms me with strength And makes my way perfect.” Psalm 18:30-32
I believe in Your great love, which the Bible says that You have for me. I believe in Your merciful love–You sent Your Son, Jesus, to set people free.
I believe in coming boldly to Your throne of grace when I pray. I believe in what Jesus said–that answers are supported by the words I say.
I believe in using Your Word and faith-filled words to keep the force of faith from stopping. I believe in being sure of answered prayer–I won’t just be window shopping.
I believe in Your faithfulness to keep Your Word–You never could lie. I believe in persevering despite setbacks, knowing You’ve heard my heart’s cry.
And I believe in Your supernatural power and love, Father God, in any of life’s details, for I believe in Your Word, which says, “Love never fails!”
P. A. Oltrogge
“Love never fails….” from 1 Corinthians 13:8
“He who does not love does not know God, for Godislove.” 1 John 4:8
“As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” Psalm 18:30 KJV
“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
“So Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.’” Mark 11:22-24 (and 25-26, on forgiveness)
(Recently, on the Victory channel, messages by both Mark Hankins and Kenneth Copeland mentioned the importance of the above words stated by Jesus–not simply believing, but affirming our belief by what we say. This was revealed to them by the Lord through teaching brought out by Rev. Kenneth E. Hagin.)
“And this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.” 1 John 5:14, 15
“…it is impossible for God to lie…” (from Hebrews 6:18)
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Numbers 23:19
“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
“The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry.” Psalm 34:15
‘…Be not afraid, only believe.” Mark 5:36 KJV
“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.” Psalm 138:8
“And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13
If you’ve experienced some disappointments, leave with God the reason why. Never give up on the love of God, His Word, and faith in Him, the Most High….
“Then they remembered that God was their rock, And the MostHighGod their Redeemer.” Psalm 78:35
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Be sure to visit today’s post regarding the online healing meeting (summit) again tonight at: http://www.givehim15.com
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
He strengthens me; HE strengthens me…
With each step forward, He strengthens me;
with each step up, He strengthens me.
If I suffer a setback, He strengthens me.
If I feel weak, I’ll resist being distraught…
No, “He strengthens me” must be my thought,
for that is what the scriptures have taught.
This confidence I have, for I’m blood-bought.
So, “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might,”
just as David found strength in God for a Goliath fight!
P. A. Oltrogge
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV
“The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.” Habakkuk 3:19 NLT
“He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might, He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:29-31 NKJV
“Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears; Let the weak say, ‘I am strong.’” Joel 3:10 NKJV
“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” Psalm 29:11 NIV
“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” Matthew 4:23 KJV
“Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.” Acts 20:28 NASB
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2 NKJV
“(The Armor of God) Finally, Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Ephesians 6:10 NASB
“Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. This day the Lord will deliver you up into my hands….’” 1 Samuel 17:45-46 NASB
“For by You I can run against a troop; By my God I can leap over a wall.” 2 Samuel 22:30 NKJV
“For You will light my lamp; The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop, By my God I can leap over a wall. As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
“For who is God, except the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God? It is God who arms me with strength, And makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, And sets me on my high places.” Psalm 18:28-33 NKJV
Photos/Pixabay
Postscript: Whatever you have to do, the Lord will see you through!
For “101 Things God Said About Healing,” Old Testament and New, put “101” into the Search bar of this blog for healing scriptures..
Oh say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial — Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue
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“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13
…The following list brings to mind all of the sacrifices of those who’ve served… Casualties listed may not be completely accurate, as statistics differ…
Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm; War in Iraq, OIF, Operation Iraqi Freedom; War in Afghanistan, OEF, Operation Enduring Freedom (Throughout these, over 7,000 were killed, plus those who sustained injuries)
Vietnam War (1962- 1973) – 58,220 US soldiers died, plus injuries
Korean War (1950 – 1953) – 36,000
World War II (1941 – 1945) – 405,399
World War I (1917 – 1918) – 116,516
American Civil War (1861 – 1865) – 620,000
American Revolutionary War (American War of Independence) (1775 – 1783) – 25,000 or more
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In contemplating the conflicts in which thousands of Americans fought, sustained injuries, or died…it’s sad to say that far too many citizens don’t use the examples of those courageous Americans as a guide.
For instance, it’s been reported that millions (many Christians among them) don’t even register to vote, or vote, in our elections. Obviously, what others sacrificed hasn’t impacted them to serve their country through this simple act, making wise selections.
God desires for us to have righteous leaders, saying that righteousness exalts a nation. Such a small service of prayerfully voting can make a difference in our country’s, and the world’s, complex situations.
May God’s people be impressed about the urgency–that they’re in a spiritual war; and be reminded that this freedom they have is what others fought for and so many died for.
Today we honor those who laid down their lives, even though they may not have always felt very brave at all. Now, lay down the thought that your vote doesn’t matter and answer the voting-for-righteousness call.
P. A. Oltrogge
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12
“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
“Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17
“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” from James 5:16
“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1 NIV
Wise leaders will pray and know this:
“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 and Proverbs 9:10 on “knowledge of the Holy One”
“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.” James 1:5
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7
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For a Comparison of the 2024 Republican and Democratic Platforms, visit: http://www.frc.org
Shared from Elijahlist by Andrew Towe, Chattanooga, TN
A Shift in the Supernatural Realm
I heard the Lord say, “There is a notable shift in the supernatural realm happening right now. The enemy is striving to sway many from standing in faith to enter a state of fear. He has escalated his tactics and increased the warfare against My people. His goal is to try to overwhelm them to thwart My promises from coming forth, but My word will not return to Me void. Speak to the storm and war with your prophecies. Don’t lose hope now. You are on the verge of reaching your NEXT LEVEL, and satan cannot stop it! Only you can stop it by giving up.“
There are always occult practices, heightened demonic activity, and witchcraft that take place in this month of October, all associated with Halloween. This year, however, the intensity has escalated, coinciding with the Jewish High Holy Days and the critical lead-up to this pivotal election. As a result, the enemy is unleashing a surge of turmoil, deception, and fear.
A Demonic Storm
A demonic storm occurred in the Bible, much like the ones we face today. It happened as Jesus said to His disciples, “Let us pass over to the other side” (see Mark 4:35). While on the boat, as they crossed over, out of nowhere, a squall suddenly formed and raged against the ship.
And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship so that it was now full. And He was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake Him, and say unto Him, Master, carest Thou not that we perish?” (Mark 4:37–38)
As Jesus slept soundly, the disciples fought valiantly against the ferocious storm. Despite their experience as fishermen, the storm was so fierce that it filled them with a deep sense of dread. Out of complete desperation, they woke Jesus and asked Him, “Carest Thou not that we perish?” You may be asking the same question today, “Jesus, do You not care that I am sinking? I can’t do this any longer. I am repeatedly being attacked, and I can’t make it.”
Remember, prior to ever getting on the boat, Jesus had given them a word: “Let us pass over to the other side.” In other words, You will make it to the other side. I sense the Lord confirming that to you right now, “Just as the disciples made it through this storm, you too will make it through the raging circumstances you are facing. You are going to the other side!”
“And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And He said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:39–40)
The fact that Jesus rebuked the wind reveals to us that this was a storm sent from the enemy. It was intended to cause these men of God to give up their faith and embrace the spirit of fear. It was sent to hinder their destiny and try to stop what God was doing next in their lives. It is the same thing the enemy is trying to do with you, but it won’t work. You have a word from God: War with your prophecies!
You Are Coming Out on the Other Side
Jesus asked them, “How is it that you have no faith?” In essence, Jesus was asking, “What happened to your faith in My promise?” I would ask you, “Are you battling to keep your faith in what God has promised over your life? Hold on! You are about to experience God catapulting you into the next level of breakthrough. You are coming out on the other side of this storm!
“And they came over unto the other side of the sea…” (Mark 5:1)
God’s Word was fulfilled just as He promised. He is doing the same for you. This will be your testimony. Prophesy to yourself, “I am crossing over to the other side, and it will be just as God promised.”
When they arrived on the other side, a man possessed by a legion of spirits met them on the shore. Jesus commanded the spirits to come out of the man. The demons begged Jesus not to send them away but to permit them to enter a herd of swine. When they entered the swine, the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea and drowned.
The demonic spirits that possessed the man surged into the herd of pigs, which then violently charged headlong into the waters. These were the very waters of the Sea of Galilee, the same place where Jesus and His disciples faced the storm that tried to kill them and their mission. The demons’ desperate plunge into the waters of the sea suggests their connection to the raging storm that had erupted that day. They were attempting to stop the unfolding of God’s imminent plan.
You have an anointing that will set the captives free. You have faced demonic resistance, because what you carry is birthing a move of God. The spirits that possessed that man were troubling the waters to stop God from moving, just as demonic forces have attempted to stop you, because Hell is well aware of Who is in you and the calling on your life. You are crossing over. This is your time!
The enemy cannot stop what God has proclaimed over your life! God is confirming His word to you. The Lord says, “There will be glory after the storm. I will receive glory from your miracle. Get ready for FULL RECOVERY! You will recover finances, relationships, health, wasted years, favor, and missed opportunities.“
Andrew Towe/Ramp Church Chattanooga
Andrew Towe is an emerging prophetic voice to this generation! Andrew preaches the Word of God with fire, inviting God’s manifested presence to fall, with signs and wonders occurring in his services. He has also authored a new book titled, “The Triple Threat Anointing.” Andrew and his wife Brooke are the lead pastors of Ramp Church Chattanooga, and they reside in Chattanooga, TN along with their two children. Andrew travels extensively, preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Wherever he ministers, lives are changed, faith is strengthened, and expectation is ignited.
“…The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does. The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.” Psalm 145:13-14 (New International Version)
by J. Vetter Guest Contributor
Perhaps that’s where I first went wrong–believing walking with the Lord was just that–only a walk. Lately, it seems like the speed has increased, and I have to run to keep up! There have been a few times I’ve “hit the wall” too. So I searched out what it means to run a marathon.
First, you need to train–not just any way you want to, but by listening to experts and following a schedule. Then, you need to eat the correct foods, drink appropriately, and learn to pace yourself.
But the most important thing is realizing you will “hit the wall” sometime during your race; and that doesn’t mean it’s over. It means if you keep on going, you will make it! Others go through this and still finish the race.
Legend has it that marathons got their beginning when a Greek messenger was sent from the town of Marathon to Athens, announcing that the Persians had been defeated in the Battle of Marathon. He ran the entire distance without stopping, and then burst into the assembly exclaiming, “We have won!” before collapsing and dying.
We, too, have a message–that we have won–and to proclaim it fully, we have to die to only focusing on ourselves or the problem or, better put, the magnitude of our race.
One of the walls we hit in our Christian race is discouragement. There are times when we feel nothing is changing and our prayers are not being answered. Perhaps an affliction increases its grip with a fury that cries “unfair.”
We may think our race is just our own, but the Christian race is also a team effort. We’ve got to take a drink from that brother or sister on the sidelines. We’ve got to cheer and encourage others in their race and be able to accept words of encouragement from others along the road. One of the interesting aspects of participating in a marathon is that few people enter expecting to win. Their goal is to finish.
Another wall is believing the lie that we really can’t make it. I listened carefully to the interview with Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger as he described what he felt when he realized his plane was about to crash land in the Hudson River (January, 2009). His initial reaction was that he couldn’t believe this was happening to him. However, on the heels of that thought, he also proclaimed, “I was sure I could do it.” He was a man confident of his training and his experience. Because he was at the helm, 155 people survived that day. Incidentally, he also gave credit to the crew, passengers, and the first responders by sharing his belief that the miraculous outcome was a team effort.
Another stumbling stone is fear. Perhaps the fear of making a mistake. I believe a person who is afraid of making another mistake won’t make any significant steps further in his race. That’s why we are told in scripture to forget the past. “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 3:13-14 (New King James Version)
Sometimes during our struggles, we forget the message of Hebrews 12:2-4, “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how He did it. Because he never lost sight of where He was headed–that exhilarating finish in and with God–He could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now He’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourself flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility He plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” (Message Bible)
Colorado wonderfully displays its yearly golden glow, which is grandly reflected in the aspens before the coming winter’s snow.
Backed by the beauty of mountains, seen most everywhere, our thoughts turn to the Creator amidst the fresh but chilly air.
There’s nothing like going on a hike when golden leaves start falling down–it gives a great refreshing from the busyness of town.
To join up with a friend, as leaves on a trail crunch under our feet, is the perfect combination to make for a day that is complete.
Creating the image of a snow shower, the wind in the trees takes leaves of gold, and shakes them loose in a golden “rain”–they’re unable to keep their hold.
We’re blessed to suddenly hear the sound of a nearby flowing brook, which reminds of our thirst for the living God, as shared in His holy book.
At times, along the trail, various kinds of wildlife do cross by us. Such scenes foster the serenity which brings relief from things that try us.
All the surrounding beauty remains in our hearts when we depart–to return again to home, while we say, “My God, how great Thou art!”
P. A. Oltrogge
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” Psalm 42:1-2 NIV
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.” Acts 17:24-27 NIV
“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, (Jesus Christ) 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 NKJV
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…Let’s continue to join in praying today and every day for our wonderful country, the USA. Father, deliver us from evil…as said in Your beautiful prayer. Thank You for strengthening all those who work with You to right wrongs...
“For the word of the Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.
“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.
“Our soul waits for the Lord; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, just as we hope in You.” …verses from Psalm 33
“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 it, 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, so 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, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:1-5
Jesus, You are the True Vine, to which I’m blessed to have a strong connection. It’s through Your truths and the Holy Spirit You sent, that I find wisdom and direction.
Before learning to trust Your guidance, I attempted some plans of my own. But they only showed me my need to draw close–to You at Your heavenly throne.
There, You’d waited patiently for me, to learn more about You and abide…in the peace of Your presence in order to bear fruit, by which Your Father is glorified.
It’s written in Your Word, that I’m seated with You, together in the heavenly places; I’m an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ, so I receive of divine daily graces.
“Much fruit” are actually the words that this portion of scripture has detailed; You will perfect a good work in me, so I won’t be a branch that has failed.
Without You, I can do nothing; but, by drawing from the Vine, I become able…to tell of the One who changed water into wine–the best at the wedding table.
Many other miracles come to mind as I think back on all that I’ve read: Parables shared and words that were prophetic are among the things that You said.
In and through You, I’m the kind of branch that remains and continues to thrive, sharing through kind deeds and words about Jesus, our God, who is very much alive!
P. A. Oltrogge
“If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you. By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also 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 be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” John 15:6-11
“You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in Me.” John 15:3-4 (New Living Translation)
“Therefore, if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature, the old things passed away; behold new things have come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17
“He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
“But God, being 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, in order 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
“The spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him.” Romans 8:16-17
“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105 KJV
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13 KJV
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6
The Porch of the Lord 