Tag Archives: Christianity

Christmas Thankfulness

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

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When it looks to you, at times, like there’s simply no way out, let thanking God, the Father, be your sure and chosen route.

When it seems that pressing problems have no known solution, let thanking the Lord turn any worries into a grace revolution.

Paul and Silas were imprisoned but raised their praises high–then found they were delivered, with praise their only cry.

When the way seems very foggy and you’re tempted to despair, just know, though you can’t yet see it, the victory is there.

A great principle of the Bible is to walk by faith and not by sight–so thank God for His presence when it’s dark and you need His light.

Like a pilot relies on instruments through weather good or bad–let thankfulness be the “instrument” with which your life is clad.

P. A. Oltrogge

Acts 16:23-40:
“But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains were unfastened.” (25-26)

“But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:14-17 

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7 

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

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

“Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15 

“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

“Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:1-2

Of that greatest birth, the first Noel, He’s now appointed us to tell….

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel…born is the King of Israel!

Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel

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“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” Matthew 1:23 KJV

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A simple book of poems appeared a few short years ago, and that book reappears at the time of the winter’s snow.

Christmas on the Porch is Biblically-based research…on the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the head of His blood-bought church.

“Come, they told me, pa rum pum pum pum, to see the newborn King”…a carol tells of a little boy coming to play for Him on his drum. 

Oh come, oh come…Jesus came, not just for some–God wants the WORLD to know … Emmanuel has come!

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“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12 KJV

“All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God.” Psalm 86:9-10 NKJV

Poetry/P. A. Oltrogge

Christmas on the Porch is available through: http://www.amazon.com; http://www.barnesandnoble.com; or www.christianbook.com

Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel

Oh come, oh come Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel, that mourns in lonely exile here, until the Son of God appear.  Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel…shall come to thee, oh Israel.

Oh come, Thou Wisdom from on high, who orders all things mightily.  To us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in her ways to go.  Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel…shall come to thee, oh Israel.

Oh come, Thou Branch of Jesse’s tree, free men from Satan’s tyranny…from depths of hell, by Thy power to save, and give them victory o’er the grave.  Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel… shall come to thee, oh Israel.

Oh come, Thou Dayspring from on high, and cheer us by Thy drawing nigh.  Disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadows put to flight.  Rejoice!  Rejoice! Emmanuel…shall come to thee, oh Israel.

Oh come, Thou Key of David, come, and open wide our heavenly home.  Make safe the way that leads on high, and close the path to misery.  Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel…shall come to thee, oh Israel.

Oh come, Desire of nations bind, in one the hearts of all mankind.  Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, and be Thyself our King of Peace.  Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel…shall come to Thee, oh Israel.

J. M. Neale/C. W. Douglas

Jesus came–He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life of servanthood, yet died through crucifixion as a sacrifice for our sins, but was resurrected, and then ascended to His Father in heaven…and Jesus is coming back again:

“Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.’” Acts 1:9-11 NKJV

Anticipation/Celebration of the Birth of Jesus, the Savior

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“For with God nothing will be impossible.”  Luke 1:37 (said to Mary, by the angel Gabriel) 

Those who revered God anticipated a Savior, as foretold by the prophets of old. Today, we anticipate celebrating Jesus’ birth in these days of the winter’s cold.

And we anticipate the return of the Lord, as He Himself prophesied. Until that day, we’re to be about God’s business, with His Holy Spirit as our guide.

It’s a time to consider the needs of others–those for whom Christ came. Because of His birth in Bethlehem, the world has never been the same.

It’s a time to reflect on God’s goodness–all He has done and will do. So we praise Him in the midst of the darkness, for His love keeps shining through.

P. A. Oltrogge

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

“Jesus said to him, ‘If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.’” Mark 9:23

“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 

“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”  Romans 5:1-5 NLT

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

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” Philippians 2:14-16

“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 

“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

Since it’s said to be “Giving Tuesday,” we’re reminded to pray for and help those ministries (previously mentioned on the blog or others of which you’re aware) that are reaching out to bless others. The popular “Operation Christmas Child” might be one suggestion, or click on the Christmas Gift Catalog, found at: http://www.samaritanspurse.org

“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26 

Photo/Porch of the Lord

On Christ, the Solid Rock, I Stand…My Hope Built on Him

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“When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”
Psalm 61:2

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

His oath, His covenant, and blood,
Support me in the whelming flood;
When every earthly prop gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in Him be found;
Clothed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne!
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

Written, 1834 by
Edward Mote
Composed, 1873 by
John Stainer

“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope, to Timothy, a true son of the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Timothy 1:1-3

…a great hymn to sing, no matter what you may be going through…

Love and Thanks to the Lord

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“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3

How do I love Thee? Let me count the ways…
I love Thee for giving me breath to praise.
I love Thee for all that you’ve done for me…
In deepest love, you bore my sin penalty.
And through what you have done on a cruel cross,
I can pray in faith and you’ll still “come across”
with answers to prayer as I continue to trust.
Your power has a loving and faithful thrust.
You provide shelter, food, and clothing to wear,
and commission me to the challenge with others to share
of the things of this life and that which is enduring–
the Gospel of Christ, our eternal, strong mooring.
I love Thee for causing your goodness to reflect
through family, friends, and teachers I respect.
I love Thee for your Word, which teaches right and wrong;
and my soul is pointed to you through beautiful song.
I love Thee for showing me your artistic impression
as seen in what you’ve created with gifted expression.
I love Thee for giving me the Holy Spirit,
my Comforter–not an audible voice, yet I can hear it.
I love that I can trust that by you I’m being led,
so intimately I’m known, even the number of hairs on my head.
I love Thee for your compassion–the goodness of your ways…
I love Thee that you promise to be with me all of my days.

P. A. Oltrogge

“…He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.’”
Hebrews 13:5 NASB

“Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 

“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

“Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Psalm 103:1-5 

“Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, ‘And to seeds,’ as of many, but as of one, ‘And to your Seed,’ who is Christ.” Galatians 3:13-16

“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.” Galatians 3:26-29 

“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” John 14:15-17 KJV

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

“Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.

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

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted.

Photo/Pixabay

From the Father’s Heart

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“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen”  Hebrews 13:20-21 

My Son watches over your life as the great Shepherd of the sheep. He is with you always, as He is with all of His lambs, even as they sleep.

Some men trust in military might, but I’m the One of whom to boast. I AM the God of the entire universe and am the LORD of hosts.

“I give my angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.” “No plague shall come near your dwelling”–trust this throughout your days.

I hold all things together in your life by the Word of my great power. The name of the Lord is, to you, your strong and dependable tower.

Jesus’ blood cleanses of all sins, and there’s healing through His blood. That which seems to be failing, by My resurrection power, can bud.

God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit–we are three yet one. “In God we Trust” are words to remember as the Christian race is run.

P. A. Oltrogge

“God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds, who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4 

“…’Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts.” Zechariah 4:5-7 

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10

“Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven
with the saving strength of His right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They have bowed down and fallen;
but we have risen and stand upright.” Psalm 20:6-8

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.” John 10:11 

“…how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38

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

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2

“…knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver and gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:18-19 

“And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you.” Romans 8:11 AMP

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:19-20

…and the third paragraph of the above poem references Psalm 91

“Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
3 Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
4 Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
5 Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Psalm 103:1-5

“Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed;
Save me, and I shall be saved,
For You are my praise.” Jeremiah 17:14

“…who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:24-25

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Be blessed by today’s: http://www.givehim15.com

The Great Commission Continues Today

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“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
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The Lord, Jesus Christ, is the same today as when He walked the earth as a man. Resurrection and restoration are definitely still a resounding part of God’s plan.

Jesus made blind eyes to see, and He also brought hearing to deaf ears. He was always willing to heal, and warned men not to give in to their fears.

He touched the lepers to make them feel loved, healing them by His command. Even upon the Sabbath He healed, such as for the man with a withered hand.

Jesus healed those with long-standing illnesses, obviously hearing the heart’s cry. All of this He did by the Spirit for His Father—being the obedient Son of the Most High.

He called His friend, Lazarus, out of the tomb, and He raised a widow’s son who had died. With “Talitha cumi,” He raised a young girl; and He Himself was raised after having been crucified.

“These signs shall follow those who believe,” He told His disciples in final exhortation. Laying hands on the sick for recovery was theirs to do, too—an awesome revelation.

Casting out devils, speaking with new tongues, were part of the great commission. So today, just as in the book of Acts, laying hands on the sick is still our assigned mission.

Jesus ascended to heaven thereafter. At His Father’s right hand, He took His seat. As believers today, we follow His example and that of the early disciples—enforcing the devil’s defeat. 

Lord, when circumstances say, “It’s impossible,” give us a boldness from Your throne—and a knowing that by the authority You’ve given us and by the power of the Holy Spirit, we are never acting alone!

P. A. Oltrogge

“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted (that it was really He). Jesus came up and said to them, ‘All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations (help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words), baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always (remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion), even to the end of the age.’” Matthew 28:16-20 AMP

“Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.’

“So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.” Mark 16:14-20

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” words of Jesus in Luke 10:19

“A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is He who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” words of Jesus in John 14:19-21

“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. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.” …spoken by Jesus in John 15:5-8

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 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 8:14-15

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so 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 surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.  These are in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and seated Him at His right hand, in the heavenly places, FAR ABOVE all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in the one to come.  And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.”  Ephesians 1:18-23 NASB

“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.  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.  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 NASB

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Certainly, God works through natural means, and we thank Him for those things; but may we grow in faith regarding seeing the supernatural power of God….regarding health, protection, or any matter of life. Click on “Blog” for a report on a crusade conducted by Christopher Alam in Zimbabwe. Visit: http://www.dynamisworldministries.com

A note on this topic: The books, “All Things are Possible” by Christopher Alam of Dynamis World Ministries, and “Out of Islam: One Muslim’s Journey to Faith in Christ,” are available for purchase at Amazon.

Faith in the God of Miracles

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

I believe in the God of miracles, is a good thing to frequently say, especially when we know the Lord wants us to have confidence after we pray.

I believe in His miracles, though things can seem contrary or dark. I believe in miracles, even when the “kindling” isn’t showing a spark.

I believe in God’s miracles…of provision, protection, and to see healings. I believe in His miracles, shows we’re not giving in simply to feelings.

I believe in miracles, as shown in the Bible through and through. I know that miracles still happen–that they’re meant for believers today, too.

I believe in God’s miracles, though afflictions can be harsh and persistent. I believe in miracles; therefore, my faith in Him can be equally insistent.

I believe in seeing miracles, even when patience is sometimes needed. Believing in God and His power and love can keep us strong until adversity’s receded.

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.

P. A. Oltrogge

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. ….And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:1-5, 14

“…how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38

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

“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 

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” …words of Jesus in John 14:1 

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11

“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13 

“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

“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:9-10

“Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart.” Luke 18:1

“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” Ephesians 3:20-21 

“And Peter, remembering, said to Him, ‘Rabbi, look! The fig tree which You cursed has withered away.’  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. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.’” Mark 11:21-26

“Philip said to Him, ‘Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works.’” John 14:8-10 (NKJV)

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.” John 15:7-8

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

“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, oh Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.” Psalm 138:8 

“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

May one particular scripture or all add a “spark” to your thoughts and faith today….

(Scriptures NKJV)

As you may know, CBN’s 700 Club often shares miracle accounts of today. See www.cbn.com/partners/video for many encouraging videos…

…for the reader who wanted to know more about Dutch Sheets, visit: http://www.dutchsheets.org

Angels on Assignment

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The delicate beauty of this Queen Anne’s Lace 
was designed by the Lord, who gives amazing grace…
Those who make Jesus their Lord, gain the gift of salvation;
and angels are assigned to minister to them in every nation.

When Joseph, betrothed to the virgin Mary, learned that she was pregnant, a situation troubling for him to understand,

an angel in a dream revealed to him that the child had been conceived by the Holy Spirit, for the Savior’s birth, which God had planned.

At Jesus’ birth, in Bethlehem, then, the skies were filled with rejoicing angels of great number,

appearing to shepherds, keeping watch over their flock, amid people’s nighttime slumber.

Again, in a dream, an angel spoke to Joseph, to flee to Egypt to escape Herod’s attack,

until he would tell him, at a later time, when and where it would be safe for them to come back.

As an adult, and after His baptism by John, Jesus experienced a time of temptation.

He fasted in the wilderness and withstood the devil’s taunts. Then angels ministered to Him after its duration.

Much later, at prayer in Gethsemane’s garden, Jesus began to feel very great distress

about fulfilling His Father’s will at the cross. So His Father sent an angel there to bless,

strengthen, and comfort Him…as the time for His trial and crucifixion had begun to loom.

Perhaps the angel reminded Jesus that He would be raised up—in victory over the tomb.

Scripture states that Jesus endured the cross because, ahead, He could see the joy—

He would be loved as our Redeemer…from the devil’s works, which He had come to destroy.

Upon His resurrection, heaven sent angels to greet early mourners at the tomb’s site,

to tell them that Jesus had been raised from the dead, dispelling any sorrow they’d had or fright.

Then, we read in Acts, of when Simon Peter, the Lord’s disciple, had been wrongfully jailed,

that God sent an angel to work a jailbreak, proving that Peter’s brethren’s prayers hadn’t failed.

And the apostle, Paul, was on a ship to Rome, sailing in a turbulent storm at sea—

when an angel appeared to him with a message, that no loss of life would there be.

Angels are noted throughout scripture. They minister to the heirs of salvation.

As believers, we are recipients of their aid, and they serve throughout every nation.

I thank the Lord for their service, for their presence as we walk life’s many trails.

I can think of times past when I sensed their protection. Through faith, prayer, and their help, God’s Kingdom never fails.

P. A. Oltrogge

References: Matthew 1:18-24; Matthew 2; Luke 2:1-20; Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:9-12; Luke 22:41-44; Hebrews 12:2; 1 John 3:8; Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:11-13; Acts 12; Acts 27:23-25; Hebrews 1:13-14

“I sought the Lord and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears…
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.” Psalm 34:4, 7 NKJV

“Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.” Psalm 103:20 KJV

“Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great: You are clothed with honor and majesty, Who cover yourself with light as with a garment, Who stretch out the heavens like a curtain. He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters, Who makes the clouds His chariot, Who walks on the wings of the wind, Who makes His angels spirits, His ministers a flame of fire.” Psalm 104:1-4 NKJV

“Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ, the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.’” Luke 2:10-12 NKJV

“Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven. For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” Matthew 18:10-11 NKJV

“…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2 NKJV

”He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8 NKJV

“Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:13-14 NKJV

“For He shall give His angels charge over you , to keep you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11 NKJV

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; Praise Him in the heights! Praise Him, all His angels; Praise Him, all His hosts! Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all you stars of light!” Psalm 148:1-3 NKJV

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Today is Tim Sheets’s birthday and Dutch sends a message by Tim. Find it at: http://www.givehim15.com

You can find Tim’s books on angels in the “Store” at: http://www.timsheets.org

To Become a Child of God

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A statement that’s sometimes made, which needs to be corrected…is “We are all God’s children.” Not true–but by those words, it seems to be suggested.

That we’re all created by God is a fact that’s certainly true. But to become a child of God requires something every person must personally do.

“But as many as received Him (Jesus), to them gave He the right or power…to become the children of God”–an offer that, when accepted, becomes your most blessed hour.

Jesus said to Nicodemus, a teacher of Israel, that a man must be born again. He had visited the Lord in the night, having seen the miracles He’d wrought among men.

And Jesus told a group of Pharisees plainly that they were of the devil, their father. If they were already God’s children, then why did He die for them or even bother?

No, He was sent to die for the sins of anyone living here on the earth. The firstborn among many brethren, Christ became Man through the virgin birth.

Obedient to His Father’s plan, Jesus paid the ransom for our restoration…to relationship with the Holy One–for those who believe, from out of every nation.

“I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God,” Jesus said. They’re still words that speak of “Family” to those who’ll believe that He rose from the dead.

No, we can’t all be called God’s children until we’ve put faith in His Son. That’s the defining moment when a new life, as God’s child, has begun.

P. A. Oltrogge

“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name….” John 1:12

“There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, ‘Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.’ Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.'” John 3:1-3 

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

“Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’”  John 20:17 

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV

“For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.”  Romans 8:29 

“Jesus said to them, ‘If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me. Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources for he is a liar and the father of it. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me. Which of you convicts Me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe Me?  He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.'”  John 8:42-47

“Therefore, brethren, we are debtors—not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 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.’ The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.” Romans 8:12-17

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Christian minister Kenneth E. Hagin quote: Yes, God is the Creator of all mankind, but a man must be born again to become His child. He is God to the world, but Father only to the new creation man…

“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

Scriptures: New King James Version, or as noted

Rather than my sharing a link, which sometimes may fail, you may want to search for Mario Murillo Ministries, to take in some of his tent meeting messages by video…