Tag Archives: Bible

There’s Still Light in Goshen

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The Lord was working out a major plan to set free–the captive Hebrew people of old. There would be ten plagues, so the actions of Moses and Aaron would need to be brave and bold.

When they came before Pharaoh, they had commands from the Lord on what to say or do, to warn him of, or initiate, every plague that his nation was soon to go through.

The ninth plague of darkness was so severe that the Egyptians couldn’t get around. For three days, the darkness was “felt” and thick, in the air and on the ground.

One of Egypt’s chief deities was the sun “god,” so such darkness proved the Lord’s might, to prevail over any of the “gods” of the Egyptians. Only His power could end the dark night.

But the Hebrews were under God’s protection; and, in the midst of that constant night, there was light in Goshen in their dwellings because God was in charge of their fight.

Today, people experience darkness, not of God and not a kind where you can’t visibly see, but darkness in their minds when they’ve not recognized “the door,” through which anyone’s able to go free.

Jesus pointed the way, saying, “If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” You can experience “Goshen” through God’s Son yet today, and you’ll have all of the light that you’ll need.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, darkness which may even be felt.’ So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days. They did not see one another; nor did anyone rise from his place for three days. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.” Exodus 10:21-23 

“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 

“If the Son, therefore, shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” words of Jesus in John 8:36 KJV

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.” John 1:6-9 

“Therefore, having obtained help from God, to this day I stand, witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than those which the prophets and Moses said would come—  that the Christ would suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.” Acts 26:22-23 

“I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly.’” words of Jesus in John 10:9-10 NASB

“But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 

“This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” 1 John 1:5-10 

“You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.” Psalm 18:28 NIV

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

“But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day.” Proverbs 4:18 NASB

“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 we were not making up clever stories when we told you about the powerful coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We saw his majestic splendor with our own eyes when he received honor and glory from God the Father. The voice from the majestic glory of God said to him, ‘This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy.’ We ourselves heard that voice from heaven when we were with him on the holy mountain.

“Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts. Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.” 2 Peter 1:16-21 NLT

“But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:12 KJV

If you’ve not yet received Jesus as your Savior and Lord, through a heartfelt prayer, let today be the day…

God bless…

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

When I Thank God for His Goodness

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…the poem, below, was written as a confession of faith, which any believer could use….

“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!”  …from Psalm 107

God has given me a spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind…

When I thank Him for His goodness, that’s what I will always find.

The Old Testament account of Joseph tells that he was sold to be a slave;

but his faith in God’s love sustained him with the courage to be brave.

Never a day goes by me, or a night when I need to sleep,

that His love isn’t reigning over me–I trust His promises, He’ll keep.

The Lord is a refuge and stronghold in trouble, the Word of God has declared.

So we pray, believing for His goodness over those who may have despaired.

Even in dark days that are clouded with wars or rumors of a war…

abiding in Him, it’s a good fight of faith–the cross of Jesus has gone on before!

P. A. Oltrogge

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:11-12

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 RSV

“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
Psalm 9:9 NIV

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:57 

“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 

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance.” Psalm 42:5

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:37-39

“I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for and confidently expect the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for and confidently expect the Lord.” Psalm 27:13-14 AMP

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:5-7

Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, 
Leads against the Foe;
Forward into battle 
See His banners go!
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

2 Like a mighty army
Moves the Church of God;
Brothers, we are treading
Where the saints have trod.
We are not divided,
All one body we,
One in hope and doctrine,
One in charity.
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

3 Crowns and thrones may perish,
Kingdoms rise and wane,
But the Church of Jesus
Constant will remain.
Gates of hell can never
‘Gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise,
And that cannot fail. 
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

4 Onward, then, ye faithful,
Join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices
In the triumph song:
Glory, laud, and honor
Unto Christ, the King;
This thro’ countless ages
Men and angels sing. 
Onward, Christian soldiers, 
Marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus 
Going on before.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” Psalm 23 KJV

(The hymn, Onward, Christian Soldiers, was written in 1864 by Sabine Baring-Gould, and the music composer was Arthur S. Sullivan)

Scriptures NKJV, or as noted

Visit today’s message: http://www.givehim15.com

On the Porch of the Lord

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A place of refreshment, the porch of the Lord…
Pull up a chair, take in spiritual air.
Jesus always has time, and His is the power–
Receive there His touch in this end-time hour.
Like Mary, take time to sit at His feet;
Come to His porch for relief from life’s heat.
Only one thing is needful and truly can please–
His Word and His presence, felt on each breeze.
He offers living water, quenching everyone’s thirst;
And that’s yours there daily, by seeking Him first.
There’s joy on His porch, with your sisters and brothers,
As you find your needs met while caring about others.
The healing and peace which only Christ can bring
Are found there at all times—an everlasting spring.
Taste there His love, so generously poured;
Your “cup will run over” on the porch of the Lord.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, ‘Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.’ And Jesus answered and said to her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things; But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.’” Luke 10:38-42 NKJV

“But one thing is needful…” verse 42, KJV

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” Psalm 23:5 KJV

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Today, if you feel alone with some worrisome cares,

come sit with other believers outside on the porch chairs.

Join me in praying for those who follow these posts…

He’ll perfect what concerns us, as we trust the Lord of Hosts!

For our country, for our futures, we continue to believe…

for all of the good things that He said we could receive.

Of those suffering for their faith, today, we’re reminded;

we pray for them and their enemies, who are spiritually blinded.

We’re strong in the Lord and in the power of His might…

His Word lights our path as we fight faith’s good fight!

P. A. Oltrogge

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” Ephesians 6:10

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

“Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12

“Is anyone among you suffering?  Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful?  Let him sing psalms.  Is anyone among you sick?  Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.  And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.  Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.  The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.  Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months.  And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.” James 5:13-18

See today’s Daily Grace Inspiration, “One Thing is Needful” at: http://www.josephprince.org

God’s All-Encompassing Grace

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“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” Ephesians 5:1–2

There’s protection in these days from plague, danger, storm and flood. It’s found through faith in Jesus Christ and the power of His blood. Remember to use the authority that God has given you. Resist the devil before, or even as, adverse things try to break through.

We’re to imitate our Lord who commanded the stormy sea, “Be still!” It’s not a time to doubt He’ll back you up–but to know He will! Psalm 91 and other covenant promises of God are yours to claim. You’ve got His power; you’ve got His authority; and you’ve got His mighty Name!

The gift of righteousness through Christ is yours, most importantly to know of all. The more we realize this, the more we’ll believe we receive answers when we call. Despite our failings, when God sees us, He sees the righteousness of His own Son. And the Bible says God will perfect the good work in us that He’s begun.

We gain in faith through hearing God’s Word, our sure foundational base, which helps us to grow strong in assurance–about His all-encompassing grace. Just trust Him now, as it’s being taught to a much greater extent. His blood, His Name, His Word, His authority–for our well-being these were meant!

P. A. Oltrogge

“And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:33

“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ (right up to the time of His return), developing (that good work) and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” Philippians 1:6 (AMP)

“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

“Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.’” Luke 10:19-20 (KJV)

“Truly I say to you, whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 18:18

“So be subject to God. Resist the devil (stand firm against him), and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 (AMP)

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

“No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent.” Psalm 91:10 and all of Psalm 91

Hebrews 12:24; Hebrews 13:20-21 (the blood of Jesus)

Acts 3:6; Acts 3:16; Acts 4:7, 10, 12, 17, 18 (the name of Jesus)

Ephesians 6:10-17 (the armor of God)

“Only believe!”
(from Mark 5:36 and Luke 8:50)

And growing in exercising our authority in Christ–that needed boldness–can be gained by the help of various other ministries previously noted on this blog.  

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“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 

The Way to Please God

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So many religions speak of various ways to address pleasing God all of your days.

Five times a day, you could be down on your knees, with prayers to the god you hope to please.

But, really, these things are ritual merely and can’t please Him, no matter if done so very sincerely.

But there is a way to come to God, and it’s by looking to the road that Jesus has trod.

He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He paved the way for you through much strife…

released upon Him as He went to the cross, where He suffered in pain so you wouldn’t be lost

to the God who loves you and calls to you now to embrace His Son, Jesus, to Whom, one day, every knee will bow.

But only grace, through faith, is involved—all works are in vain. Through Jesus’ righteousness, our salvation is made plain.

You may want to fall to your knees when you recognize all that was done…by a God who loved so greatly, He gave His only Son.

P. A. Oltrogge

“So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.” John 1:14 NLT

“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

“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.” spoken by Jesus in John 3:16-17

“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

“And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”  spoken by Jesus in John 17:3

“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” Romans 3:21-26

“But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Romans 6:22-23 NLT

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

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“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

“Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11 NLT

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“But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Titus 3:4-7

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“In fact, according to the law of Moses, nearly everything was purified with blood. For without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness.

“That is why the Tabernacle and everything in it, which were copies of things in heaven, had to be purified by the blood of animals. But the real things in heaven had to be purified with far better sacrifices than the blood of animals.

“For Christ did not enter into a holy place made with human hands, which was only a copy of the true one in heaven. He entered into heaven itself to appear now before God on our behalf. And he did not enter heaven to offer himself again and again, like the high priest here on earth who enters the Most Holy Place year after year with the blood of an animal. If that had been necessary, Christ would have had to die again and again, ever since the world began. But now, once for all time, he has appeared at the end of the age to remove sin by his own death as a sacrifice.

“And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment, so also Christ was offered once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:22-28 NLT

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“In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, 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 4:9-11

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Declaring God’s Promises

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At the Joseph Prince website, are wonderful messages and praise reports. At the site, it is encouraged to share via Facebook, e-mail, etc., so here is just one praise report today. For more, visit: http://www.josephprince.org

No More Brain Hemorrhage by Declaring God’s Promises

Two years ago, my mother-in-law, Adalgisa, was hospitalized with a severe headache. Doctors found a large spot on her brain, and they couldn’t understand exactly what it was or what was causing it. 

They did not exclude the worst diagnoses, but they could not understand why Adalgisa, while having such a large spot on her brain, did not have any other symptoms besides a headache. She was not paralyzed, she was perfectly conscious, her senses functioned well, and her body had no other issues. 

My husband and I refused to accept the possible bad diagnosis and told Adalgisa to do the same. Initially, she was very discouraged. She attends another church because she lives a little far from us, and she didn’t know how to claim all of God’s promises for her life. However, we explained to her how the Lord took her sickness on His body at the cross and that by His stripes, she was already healed. 

We taught her how to partake of the Holy Communion with the right revelation. Every day, we went to the hospital, bringing a bit of bread and a bit of wine to partake in the Holy Communion together. We also applied anointing oil over, speaking over her with the right revelation. 

We also taught her to proclaim her righteousness in Christ, to declare healing for every part of her body, especially for her brain, to command every organ to function as God designed, to cast away that spot on her head, and to believe and declare that as Jesus is, so is she in this world. 

Further medical tests showed that the spot was a large hemorrhage in her head, but doctors still did not understand what was causing it. Many believers told me to pray that the doctors would quickly find the cause of that hemorrhage in her brain, but I chose to pray by giving thanks to the Lord for Adalgisa’s healing, even if doctors did not understand anything. I wanted to focus only on Christ and His work, not on the doctors or circumstances. 

By the grace of God, Adalgisa’s condition improved day by day. After fifteen days, she was discharged because the hemorrhage was reabsorbed, and she was very well physically, without any headaches. Today, she is completely healed, and she lives a perfectly normal life to the glory of the Lord! 

I thank you, Pastor Prince, for preaching the pure gospel of grace without compromise, because in it is the power of God for our lives. The revelations about healing and every blessing we have in Christ, the revelations about the importance of the Holy Communion, and every other revelation focused on Christ are the most precious things we can enjoy. Truly, the gospel of grace revealed is life for everyone who receives it. 

My pastor first heard you preach in Palermo, South Italy, in 2010, and from then on, his ministry was completely transformed. He decided to start translating your sermons into Italian to share them with our church, and I’ve been translating them for him. I think I will never stop translating your sermons because they help us to know the Lord more and more. 

God bless you, Pastor Prince, and your wonderful family.

Barbara Crimi 
Italy

A Prayer Against Deception

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Father in heaven,

Give me perception about the devil’s deception—
Holy Spirit alerts on the schemes of the deceiver.
If something I’m considering isn’t right for me,
then please redirect my pathway as a believer.

Keep my life conformed to the standards of your Word;
anything opposing your stated values is wrong.
Help me to spend enough time with you in prayer
to hear your counsel in a way that is strong.

I know there’ve been times I’ve missed “hearing” you
on personal decisions that didn’t turn out well.
So, earnestly, I pray for those who are missing hearing you
on the truth that Jesus saves sinners from the judgment of hell.

And may people realize their need for a Good Shepherd
on life’s journey to specific blessings you’ve prepared.
For you love so greatly that, through Jesus, you provide grace—
the greatest message to the world that can ever be shared!

in Jesus’ name,
Amen

P. A. Oltrogge

“And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:16-17

“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

“He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” John 3:36

“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

“The way of life winds upward for the wise, that he may turn away from hell below.” Proverbs 15:24

Prayer for Spiritual Wisdom

“Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

“And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.”

Ephesians 1:15-23

“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
(Scriptures NKJV)

For benefit in your Christian walk, visit sites previously mentioned on this blog…

The Man Above All Men

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“Come Follow Me” by Greg Olsen. Used with permission:  www.GregOlsen.com

“Jesus said to him, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’” Matthew 19:21

Have you met up with Jesus?
He’s your kind of Man…
Came down here from heaven,
carrying out God’s mighty plan.

He’s still here today, capturing hearts, lives, and souls,
giving all whom He touches much worthier goals.
He doesn’t actually show up in visible form,
but you’re aware of His presence when prayer becomes norm.

And some have had visions or have seen Him in dreams,
and what they remember is the love that He beams.
That’s also reflected in the words of His book;
the renowned Holy Bible is the right place to look.

You might think you know what could give you life’s best;
but those who follow His lead are on a sure quest.
He wants to increase your every potential,
but living for Him and others is essential.

Dedicating all that you have to Him is not loss–
The best in mind for you is why He died on the cross.

P. A. Oltrogge

“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 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….” 1 Timothy 2:1-6

“When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, ‘Whoever 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 and the gospel’s will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?’” Mark 8:34-36

“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

“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

“I am the good shepherd.  The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep….My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”  John 10:11, 27 

“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

“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

“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 

“For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” Matthew 18:11

“…but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:26-28

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:5-11

Scriptures from the New King James Version of the Bible

Contrary Voices

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“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…” …by the Apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 2:1-6

I miss the days when those who were citizens of America were grateful to live in such a great land.  Millions of us still are, but, unfortunately, too many are not.  We who are, are subjected often to the voices of the ungrateful through the daily news…

Voices of mockery or hatred towards one’s fellow man,
Voices that don’t care about the good Lord’s will and plan,
Voices from people who simply don’t read God’s Word,
Voices that hurt others, saying things that are absurd…
When such voices present themselves, I must turn away;
Instead, for those who own such voices, I must earnestly pray.

P. A. Oltrogge

“May slanderers not be established in the land;
    may disaster hunt down the violent.” Psalm 140:11 (a strong word against slander)

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” Matthew 6:13

…a prayer offered by Abraham Lincoln:

Almighty God, Who has given us this good land for our heritage; 

We humbly beseech Thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of Thy favor and glad to do Thy will. 

Bless our land with honorable ministry, sound learning, and pure manners. 

Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. 

Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people, the multitude brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. 

Endow with Thy spirit of wisdom those whom in Thy name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that through obedience to Thy law, we may show forth Thy praise among the nations of the earth. 

In time of prosperity fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in Thee to fail; all of which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

See today’s message at: http://www.givehim15.com

Snuggle in…to God’s Presence

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When I was a child and had an anxious thought, a loving parent’s presence was the first thing I sought.

When they took me into their arms, I found the very best place to snuggle; their loving embrace would relieve me completely of my struggle.

There’s still a child within today that sometimes is unsure; and turning to our heavenly Father is what makes us be secure.

His arms are open wide for us–He says to cast our cares…upon Himself, and that’s because great love is what He shares.

Many are the words of faithfulness and comfort He provides. In His arms of shelter, we find the place where lifelong love abides.

Though I can’t see Him face to face, He says He’ll make my ears…to hear His voice, which will always bear a message to relieve my fears…

“Fear not, for I AM with you, be not dismayed, for I AM your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 RSV

And if I have a day where it seems like I’m just drifting about, perhaps I need to stop and ask the Lord to help me sort things out.

What should I do each moment–each day that would be best? I know if I stop and listen, I’ll hear a nudge towards the path most blessed.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.’” Matthew 11:28-29 NLT

“But the very hairs of your head are all numbered…” Luke 12:7

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it.” Luke 12:31-33 NLT

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me….” John 10:27 NASB

“…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

“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” Romans 8:15

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Romans 8:31-32

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

“Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’” Galatians 4:6 NIV

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God, and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God.” Hebrews 4:9

“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 4:15-16

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you….” James 4:8 

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 

“I will be glad and rejoice in Your mercy, For You have considered my trouble; You have known my soul in adversities…” Psalm 31:7

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” Psalm 34:18 NLT

“As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” Psalm 42:1 NLT

“Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.” Psalm 55:22 NASB

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

“He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.” Psalm 103:12-13 NLT

“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

For an insightful series on fellowship with God:
See Faith School, Week 11, “By Faith, Enoch”
http://www.faithlife.org

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted