As White As Snow

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

“Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” These are gracious words that the Lord has said, and only He would know, whatever sins have been in your life that you have come to regret. What peace it is to know that God will forgive…and will also forget.

We read in the Bible of Peter, James, and John being led up by Jesus on a mount, where His clothing became radiant—white, like snow, it’s told in that account. This spoke of His glory and was a demonstration that He was the Holy One—God’s voice, coming out of a cloud, said to listen to Jesus, His beloved Son.

This brings to my mind the garment of salvation that makes us white as snow.  In Him, we become new creations—sinners cleansed by His blood’s outflow. To any who take Him as Savior, the One who died for sin on the cross in their place—any guilty stains are thoroughly lifted; no sinful spot can leave a trace.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Now after six days, Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up on a high mount apart by themselves, and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus.” Mark 9:2-4 NKJV

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV

“I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 61:10 NIV

“Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.’” Matthew 26:27-28 NKJV

“For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” Hebrews 8:12 NKJV

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

“For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:17 NASB

Psalm 103:12
John 1:29
Hebrews 1:1-4
1 John 2:1-2

Photo by Phil Roeder/Flickr; see link in original archived post

Outpourings of Love

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…from Luke 7:36-50
(likely in Capernaum)

A certain woman of the city heard that Jesus was at the home of Simon, a Pharisee. So she came with an alabaster flask of ointment–her sins had weighed her down very heavily. Her tears washed Jesus’ feet, which she kissed and wiped with her hair–then anointed them with the oil–all tokens of the love she had come there to share.

Simon’s thought was that Jesus should have known that she was a woman to shun. If Jesus was truly a prophet, he would not have permitted her because of the things she’d done. Jesus then told him a story of two debtors, freely forgiven of debts of lesser and greater amounts. It was an explanation to Simon of a sinner’s gratefulness–her debt of sin was large (and, therefore, so was her love) by all accounts.

Jesus expressed appreciation for her kisses and for the tears that she had shed. “Your sins are forgiven” and “Your faith has saved you; go in peace,” He said. Those who sat at the table with Him began to discuss that, saying “Who is this?” His forgiveness of her sins was an authoritative statement they really couldn’t dismiss. 

…from John 12:1-8
(in Bethany at the home of Lazarus, Martha, and Mary)

In another narrative, six days before Passover, the scriptures tell of Mary–who used spikenard, a costly oil–the fragrance of which, the entire house would carry. After supper, there in Bethany, she anointed Jesus’ feet, also wiping them with her hair. Judas then asked why the oil hadn’t been sold and the money been given to the poor–not that he actually did care.

Jesus told Judas to let her alone for she had kept the oil for His burial day. “For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always,” was what He had to say.

…from Matthew 26:6-13 and Mark 14:3-9
(in Bethany)

A similar occurrence at the house of Simon the leper, Matthew and Mark record,
was that of a woman who took spikenard, pouring it, this time, upon the head of Jesus, her Lord. There were some who, like Judas, criticized her, saying that the oil might have been sold for the poor. But Jesus said she had done this for His burial, speaking of her with grace, and that in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, she would forever have a place.

Today, God is pouring out His love and the Holy Spirit upon each open heart. May we fill our own “alabaster jars,” with love for Him, and eagerly do our part. There’s a world of people Jesus died for, and many are in great need. Guide and strengthen us, Lord, as we seek to be Your servants, caring with both word and deed.

We thank You for Your great sacrifice; we thank You for Your steadfast love. We appreciate so much what it cost You to visit us from heaven above.

P. A. Oltrogge

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11

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

“And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly I say to you inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’” Matthew 25:40 (and verses 31-46) NKJV

“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and are in him that is true, even in his Son, Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20 KJV

“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.” John 15:9-10 

Scriptures: NASB/Ryrie Study Bible, or as noted

(These accounts were described as they’re told in the four different scripture references.)

Be blessed by the many good ministries mentioned on this blog, such as: http://www.josephprince.org

Correction on today’s post

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Because the Give Him 15 website has been referred to often, hopefully you recognized that the correct link is: http://www.givehim15.com

Apologies to you for the human error. Thankfully, the Lord makes no mistakes:

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

Impossibilities Made Possible

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Various impossible accounts in the Bible, not in chronological order…

Having been thrown into a den of ferocious lions–would it be possible to survive the night?  Impossible, yet Daniel did survive it, until the morning light. …from Daniel 6

A fiery furnace was stoked so extremely hot that those who threw three God-fearing men into it perished from its flames and heat.  Would it be possible for the three men to survive and come out unharmed with not even the smell of smoke upon them?  Impossible, yet Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did come out of the fire in that miraculous way. …from Daniel 3

He was sold into slavery by jealous brothers and then, while conscientiously working for Potiphar, the Captain of Pharaoh’s Guard, Joseph was falsely accused, by Potiphar’s wife, of improper advances towards her, for which he was then imprisoned.  Would it be possible for him to eventually become reigning ruler in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh?  Impossible, yet that was the case for Joseph. …from the book of Genesis, 37-50

Would it be possible to take down Goliath, a renowned giant of a warrior, that nobody else was brave enough to fight, with only a slingshot and a stone? Impossible, yet David did it…  (His third weapon was his own declarations to Goliath, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with 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 defied…for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.” …from 1 Samuel 17

“Now the Midianites and Amalekites, all the people of the East, were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as the sand by the seashore in multitude.” Would it be possible to fight against them with only 300 men and win?  Impossible, but Gideon and his 300 did so. …from Judges 6-8

Bearing down on the Israelites was Pharaoh and his army as they faced the barrier of the Red Sea.  Was there any way to escape?  Impossible, but God parted the waters in order for the Israelites to cross–then drew the waters back to drown the pursuing enemies. …from Exodus 14

Would it be possible to never doubt about a coming vast flood while constructing a great ship (ark) for years, even decades?  It may have seemed impossible to many that such an incident would occur; but the Bible never records that Noah doubted God on the matter. …from Genesis 6-9

Would it be possible for a young virgin woman to conceive a child without having a husband?  Impossible, but God sent an angel to tell Mary that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and the power of the Highest would overshadow her, for “that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God” and “with God nothing will be impossible.”  …from Luke 1

Would it be possible to raise the dead, heal the lame, deaf, blind, maimed, and diseased simply through faith in God?  Impossible, but Jesus and His followers did these things…(and still are doing them today–many ministries have seen/are seeing the miraculous occur.)

Would it be possible to turn a renowned enemy of the gospel (Saul/Paul) into one of the strongest supporters ever of that gospel?  Impossible, but God could do it, and He did. …from Acts 9

Imprisoned by Herod Agrippa, the king, Peter was chained, with four squads of soldiers assigned to him; but he was constantly being prayed for by the church.  Impossible to escape?  Yet God sent an angel to miraculously deliver him. …from Acts 12

Another prison break: “But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed.” Seemingly an impossible situation, but not so. …from Acts 16

You may be able to add some of your own experiences to this list…

Perhaps you’re facing some “impossibilities” today…

Let’s always remember that our God is the God of the impossible made possible…

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“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, and forever.”  Hebrews 13:8

“But Jesus looked at them and said to them, ‘With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'”  Matthew 19:26

“For with God nothing will be impossible.”  Luke 1:37

On tonight’s Healing Summit, visit: http://www.givehim15.com

How Great (BIG) is our God

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The Porch of the Lord is posting a previously shared poem post to coordinate with today’s post by Dutch Sheets regarding BIG expectations for BIG miracles by our BIG God at this Friday’s Healing Summit. Dutch’s message, “BIG Grace, BIG Power, BIG Miracles” is found at: http://www.givehim15.com

Regarding the Healing Summit, there is no registration needed to watch the FREE livestream. It will be available on YouTube, Facebook, and OasisWired.org at 7pm EST on Friday, August 30th.

See also: http://www.oasiswired.org

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“…And His Name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, MIGHTY GOD, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6…

It’s important to contemplate the “BIGNESS” of our God. That’s a rarely used word, as some have considered its usage to be odd.

But BIGNESS is very appropriate for Almighty God’s description. And, for the renewing of our minds, it’s an excellent prescription…

to keep us from thinking small, when the works of our God are VAST. Trees, mountains, planets and the stars by His words were cast.

The Israelites were enabled to cross over the Red Sea upon dry land, when the waters were parted by Moses’ reliance on God’s victorious hand.

God’s GREATER power delivered three men from Nebuchadnezzar’s furnace fire. They didn’t even smell of smoke despite going through something that dire.

And the GREATNESS of God’s merciful love was plainly displayed…when all of mankind’s sins on His own beloved Son were laid.

“He who has seen Me has seen the Father,” are words that Jesus said. That BIGNESS was displayed when He raised Lazarus from the dead.

And many other difficulties brought before Jesus turned out to perfection—but the GREATEST triumph of all was at the moment of Jesus’ own resurrection.

So let’s remember the BIGNESS of our MIGHTY GOD in heaven—in every situation—even BIG forgiving—seventy times seven!

And remember to give as BIG as you can to others who have needs. “He who waters will himself be watered.” There’s blessing in such deeds.

The WIDENESS of His mercy, the BIGNESS of His heart…Don’t think small when thoughts that are BIG are what God wants to impart.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh.  Is there anything too hard for Me?”  Jeremiah 32:27 

“Oh how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men.” Psalm 31:19 

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

“For the Lord Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth.”  Psalm 47:2 

“Sing out the honor of His name.  Make His praise glorious.  Say to God, ‘How awesome are Your works!  Through the greatness of Your power, Your enemies shall submit themselves to You.  All the earth shall worship You and sing praises to You; They shall sing praises to Your name.’  Selah”  Psalm 66:2-4 

“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.”  Psalm 103:2-4 

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  John 3:16 

“…and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” 2 Corinthians 5:15 

“The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.”  Proverbs 11:25 NASB

For big encouragement, visit the websites of the many good ministries that have been previously mentioned on this blog. To give big, in light of the many disasters and conflicts in these times, we can refer to those ministries going boldly to give aid. And may our expectations and faith in the Lord be BIG as we serve Him and pray…

I believe in miracles, because I’ve had some God-given ones prior. I believe in miracles, are words that encourage and lift us higher.

And I believe in Jesus, the miracle worker, who was called a Nazarene. With our expectation in Him, and what He’s already done, miracles are sure to come on the scene.

This Week–Healing Summit

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Remember that you, or anyone you know, can participate in the Healing Summit online this Friday, August 30th, at 7 pm EST, originating from:

The Oasis Church
6927 Lefferson Road, Middletown OH 45044

Further details are at either of these:
www.OasisWired.org
www.timsheets.org

There is no registration needed to watch the FREE livestream. It will be available on YouTube, Facebook, and OasisWired.org at 7pm EST on Friday, August 30th.

See also this week’s messages at: http://www.givehim15.com

Pixabay

Prayer for the U.S.A.

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…in this year of 2024…

Father, preserve our country of America–we look to you for your hand of protection. We pray that its leaders will heed your Word, instead of dishonoring it with their rejection.

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”  We pray for those in or running for office, who promise good, but may be speaking lies under their breath.

Convict them when they don’t really care about those whom they’re supposed to be serving.  Dissuade the citizens from casting their votes for those who are undeserving.

Give us, Father, the wise leadership that we have prayed for and so very much need. Remove, and keep from office, those who are motivated only by their own ambitions and greed.

We pray against cheating and fraud in the upcoming election–and that the people will carefully study the records of the candidates before making any selection.

We pray there will be a turning away from supporting those who align with the darkness of abortion.  When we stand for the innocent, then goodness and mercy in life will be our portion.

You’ve said, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.”  To have representatives who oppose you and your Word is something we have never been able to afford.

So, the citizens themselves need to seek you and your will in order for America to remain good.  We plead the blood of Jesus over this land, in order to have the righteous leaders that we should.

…in Jesus’ name, Amen

There is a way that seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.  Proverbs 16:25

These six things the Lord hates,
Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
A proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren.  Proverbs 6:16-19

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.  Proverbs 33:11-12

Wondrously show Your (marvelous and amazing) lovingkindness, O Savior of those who take refuge at Your right hand from those who rise up against them.  Keep me (in Your affectionate care, protect me) as the apple of Your eye; Hide me in the (protective) shadow of Your wings. Psalm 17:7-8 AMP

(Protect your people everywhere, Lord, in these times. We lift up those in war-torn areas and those in any country where persecution or injustice exists for their faith in you–be to them their shield. And may many who don’t yet believe, come to saving faith in you… Thank you that you hear and answer our prayers…)

…prayers/by P. A. Oltrogge

Remind us, Lord, to:

Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!

The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah Psalm 46:10-11

Visit:
http://www.givehim15.com
http://www.ifapray.org

LIFE TODAY

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Likely, you are already familiar with the ministry of James and Betty Robison. Their ministry has been going long and is zealous in its work for the Lord in this world…

Excerpt from Matthew 25:31-46

When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’

Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’

…the passage goes on to tell of the sad outcome for those who didn’t serve Christ in this way…

James and Betty at Life Today give countless opportunities to fulfill this directive from the Lord…

Explore it at: http://www.lifetoday.org