Tag Archives: god

God’s Word, Our Compass

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“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Even when it seems as though the enemy has gotten farther ahead, realize that you’re more than a conqueror, as the compass of God’s Word has said.

For the “ship of faith” sails, on every journey, at a steady and determined pace; with the guidance of God and faith and patience, it will certainly win the race.

Just as Jesus spoke to the winds and waves in the midst of a furious storm, with the spirit of faith and God’s Word on your lips, your victory, too, will form.

P. A. Oltrogge

“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

“For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, 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 55:10-11

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12

“…above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Ephesians 6:16-17

“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews 6:11-12

“To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ:  Grace to you and peace be multiplied.” 1 Peter 1:1-2

“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 

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5:3-5 

“We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak.” 2 Corinthians 4:13 KJV

Book recommendation: “The Spirit of Faith” at: http://www.markhankins.org

See today’s post on prayer by Dutch Sheets: http://www.givehim15.com

What time is it?

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“I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1

When troubles disappoint, overwhelm, or sometimes shock, remember, then, what time it is–it’s always Praise o’clock!

As much-loved members of the Good Shepherd’s flock, His goodness makes us praise Him all around the clock.

After praise and a mighty shout, the walls of Jericho fell down flat. The people followed Joshua’s instructions, and that was that!

When Daniel faced the lions in their den ’til morning light, an angel at Praise o’clock came there to keep their jaws shut tight.

Paul and Silas were imprisoned–their feet were placed in stocks; but they just sang with all their hearts, and made that prison rock!

If your prayer is for a miracle, but it seems to be “out of stock,” don’t give up, don’t give in–look at the time, it’s still Praise o’clock.

Surely when the way seems hard, there’s an answer to any “block,” for continually and forever, the correct time is Praise o’clock!

P. A. Oltrogge

“O come, let us sing for joy to the Lord, let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving. Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods, in whose hand are the depths of the earth, the peaks of the mountains are His also. The sea is His, for it was He who made it, and His hands formed the dry land. Come let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand.” Psalm 95:1-7 (NASB, Ryrie Study Bible)

“For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height–to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fulness of God.

“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 3:14:21 NKJV

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13 NKJV

“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

It’s in serious times or circumstances that it’s exactly right to praise God in expectation of His help. At the same time, we take our authority, through the blood and name of Jesus, over evil spirits that would hinder or harm in any circumstance, as we’re seated with Christ in the heavenly places, far above them. (Reference Ephesians 1:18-23 and 2:4-10)

“What time is it?” can also make us contemplate the time of Jesus’ return. We’re to occupy until He comes…

“And as they heard these things, he (Jesus) added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, ‘Occupy till I come.’” Luke 19:11-13 KJV

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

Compassionate Words from Jesus

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Let’s consider just a few Bible accounts that give some tender words (followed by His caring action) that Jesus said:

A widow, out of Nain, came in contact with Jesus on her only son’s burial day.
“DON’T CRY” were the compassionate words that she heard Jesus say.

News came to Jairus of his ailing daughter that would cause him to grieve;
but Jesus encouraged him, “DON’T BE AFRAID ANY LONGER–ONLY BELIEVE.”

When a leper asked if Jesus was willing to cleanse him of that blight…
Jesus said, “I AM WILLING,” and He touched him, delivering him out of his plight.

Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, so hear Him regarding your cares:

“Don’t cry”

“Don’t be afraid any longer–only believe!”

and “I am willing”

…are words that Jesus, our compassionate Lord, still shares.

P. A. Oltrogge

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

“When the Lord saw her, his heart overflowed with compassion.  ‘Don’t cry!’ he said.  Then he walked over to the coffin and touched it, and the bearers stopped.  ‘Young man,’ he said, ‘I tell you, get up.’  Then the dead boy sat up and began to talk!  And Jesus gave him back to his mother.”  …from Luke 7:11-17 NLT

“While He was still speaking, they came from the house of the synagogue official, saying, ‘Your daughter has died; why trouble the Teacher any more?’  But Jesus, overhearing what was being spoken, said to the synagogue official, ‘Do not be afraid any longer, only believe.’”  Mark 5:35-36 …and Jesus raised her up (through verse 43) NASB-Ryrie

“And behold, a leper came to Him, and bowed down to Him, saying, ‘Lord, if you are willing, You can make me clean.’  And He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, ‘I am willing, be cleansed.’  And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.”  …from Matthew 8:1-4 NASB-Ryrie

“The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace.” Psalm 29:11 NKJV

“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits–who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion….”  Psalm 103:2-4 NIV

“I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.” John 10:14

In His Presence

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To Our Great God…

At Pentecost, your Spirit came, with the sound of a rushing mighty wind. The Comforter comes to believers yet today, a promise you’ll never rescind.

Often, your presence is apparent through a reassuring, inner voice. When problems threaten to overwhelm, you encourage us still to rejoice.

You’re blessed by the praises of your people…bless the Lord, oh my soul. I’m thankful you’ve said that on you, dear Lord, all of my cares, I can roll.

It’s good to abide in your presence, for there’s fullness of joy therein. Thank you for provision and healing, as well as for forgiving our sin.

We praise you for your creative ability, for the beauty of bird and flower, the mountains and other majestic things that speak to us of your power.

We’re so blessed you desire to visit with us, as you did first with Adam and Eve. All that you require of us to meet with you, Father, is to believe in your Son and receive.

P. A. Oltrogge

“‘Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him, the Father, God, has set His seal.’ Therefore they said to Him, ‘What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?’ Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.’” John 6:27-29 NASB

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 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.” Words of Jesus in John 14:16-17 KJV

“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:26-27 KJV

“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:2-4 NKJV

“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 NKJV

You’ve Never Seen Anything Like It

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“But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.”
1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV

Verse 10 goes on to say, “But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.” So, while the text is referring to wisdom from and things revealed through the Holy Spirit, the 9th verse does make one think of the almost hard-to-comprehend beauty, glory, and peace of our heavenly home and destination. Thus, these thoughts:

Eye hath not seen, nor ear yet heard,
neither our hearts, says God’s Holy Word,
have envisioned the things which the Lord has in store
for all those who will meet Him on heaven’s shore.
A river like crystal and a Main Street of gold
are just some of the beauty that we will behold.
But, then, best of all, at last we will view—
our Savior, Jesus Christ, Faithful and True.
Though we face trials down here on this earth,
they’re nothing compared to heaven’s great worth.
You’re more than a conqueror—He gives you His grace,
both now and in eternity’s unfathomable place.

P. A. Oltrogge

“And I saw heaven opened; and behold, a white horse, and He who sat upon it is called Faithful and True; and in righteousness He judges and wages war.” Revelation 19:11 NASB

“The foundation stones of the city wall were adorned with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation stone was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald; the fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: each one of the gates was a single pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. And I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God, the Almighty, and the Lamb, are its temple. And the city has no need of the sun, or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb.” Revelation 21:19-23 NASB

“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.” Revelation 22:1 KJV

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2 KJV

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God.” Romans 8:18-19 NKJV

“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 NKJV

I know that my Redeemer lives!
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, he lives, who once was dead;
he lives, my everliving head!

He lives triumphant from the grave;
he lives eternally to save;
he lives all-glorious in the sky;
he lives exalted there on high.

He lives to bless me with his love;
he lives to plead for me above;
he lives my hungry soul to feed;
he lives to help in time of need.

He lives to grant me rich supply;
he lives to guide me with his eye;
he lives to comfort me when faint;
he lives to hear my soul’s complaint.

He lives to silence all my fears;
he lives to wipe away my tears;
he lives to calm my troubled heart;
he lives all blessings to impart.

He lives, my kind, wise, heav’nly friend;
he lives and loves me to the end;
he lives, and while he lives, I’ll sing;
he lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.

He lives and grants me daily breath;
he lives, and I shall conquer death;
he lives my mansion to prepare;
he lives to bring me safely there.

He lives, all glory to his name!
He lives, my Savior, still the same.
Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives:
I know that my Redeemer lives!

Samuel Medley, Author; J. Hatton, Composer

…and we share the love of the Lord through contributing to ministries such as http://www.samaritanspurse.org; http://www.cbn.com, or others of which you’re aware, creating a little bit of heaven on earth for those who need help…

The Depth of My Love

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What do you think drove me from heaven above
down to this earth? It was the depth of my love.
Betrayed by a kiss, a symbol of such–
yet what drove me on was that I loved you so much.
When they led me away and gave me a shove,
what kept me going was the depth of my love.
They gave me a trial, but it was not just–
bitter to go through, but my heart said, “I must.”
A crown of thorns pushed down with a glove,
it bruised my head to show the depth of my love.
The whipping I took for sin in your place,
I found strength to take because I saw your face.
I’ve loved you, I’ve called you–you are my dove,
for whom I laid down my life with the depth of my love.
The weight of the cross became hard to bear–
I staggered but made it to Calvary there.
On those merciless beams, my hands and feet were nailed down.
Next, I was put on display to be mocked throughout town.
Then came the time of greatest agony and despair,
when I felt forsaken but still kept my care
for all of mankind and, yes, just for you.
For your welfare and soul, I had made it through.
So what kept me going when push came to shove?
From your “down to earth” God, it was the depth of my love.
Though your sins be as scarlet, they’ll be white as snow.
They’re forgiven and forgotten and now you can grow
in the knowledge and wisdom that comes from above,
and my Word will remind you of the depth of my love.

P. A. Oltrogge

“’Come now, and let us reason together,’ says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’” Isaiah 1:18

“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

“ I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.” John 10:14-18

“As the Father loved Me, I also have 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

“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 13:12-13

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

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:14-19 NASB/95

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 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 12:1-2

“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

_________________________

Jesus knew the purpose of His going to the cross, yet being a Man, I think He did feel great sorrow after all of His suffering, when He cried out the words in the following:

Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

Some of those who stood by, when they heard that, said, “Look, He is calling for Elijah!” Then someone ran and filled a sponge full of sour wine, put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink, saying, “Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down.”

And Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and breathed His last.

Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!” Mark 15:33-39

…Because of all that Jesus did, God and His love will never leave or forsake those who believe in His Son…

…the poetry was written some years ago and are just my thoughts on what our loving Lord might say…God bless you today…

Depiction above: Pixabay

Choosing the Right Mirror

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If you have ever stepped in front of an amusement park mirror…and have seen the distorted image of how it makes you seem to appear, you know, of course, for certain, that’s not really how you look. Likewise, the devil tries to distort your image that’s established in God’s Book.

God sees you as being loved, forgiven, victorious, prospered, and healed–so just agree with Him about the image for you that He has revealed. It isn’t at all amusing to take, as real, an image that’s wrong–so step away from the devil’s mirror to God’s, where you rightly belong.

Let your words align with the Lord’s, so the distorted image will be corrected. God’s Word is the wonderful mirror where His view of you is reflected. And His view of you is His will for you, so keep that always in mind. God’s Word is the most accurate mirror that any believer in Jesus can find.

Distortions of the Word of God may come, but we know they’re merely lies. Meditation of and embracing God’s truths will always prove to be wise. The devil may try to “reflect” some things, but you must step away…to the mirror that is within God’s Word–See yourself as God sees you every day.

P. A. Oltrogge

…loved, forgiven, redeemed, and blessed with many benefits:

“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 NKJV

“The Lord appeared to him from afar, saying, ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with lovingkindness.’” Jeremiah 31:3

…righteous and victorious through Jesus Christ as Lord of your life:

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

“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 NKJV

…protected and provided for, and one who has a heart for God and others:

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

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1

“Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6 (and the entire Psalm)

“And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.” Luke 12:29-33 KJV

…teaching on the Holy Spirit, on “This week’s TV” at: http://www.awmi.net

Reports/Timothy’s Ministry

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by Marian Alvarado of: www.timothysministry.org

Last week was a good week, and I am so thankful to God for continuing to miraculously provide for our friends and pour out His love! Two people were able to get off the streets into permanent housing after living outside for years, and all I can say is take everything to God even when it looks like doors are closed because God is able to open those doors!! We pray and God answers our prayers, and thank you to everyone for your donations to make this possible!

‘E’ is off the streets as of last Tuesday!

“E” is one of the sweetest and kindest people at Tim’s House (always helping with set up and clean up without being asked) and had been living outside for years and mostly sleeping on the el. He has been working odd jobs, seasonal jobs, and even walking dogs, to help to survive but could not ever make enough to also pay rent. He does not receive any type of Social Security disability check, but somehow has survived in this lifestyle and never complained although always looked so tired from not sleeping. Last Tuesday was the beginning of a new life for him because he moved into his own room at the YMCA and is so happy about finally having stability so that he can look for permanent work. Woohoo!!! God is so good that yet another person was able to get into the YMCA and it could only be the favor of God to open this door for yet another one of our friends! He told me on Friday that it was so nice to have a good night’s sleep and appreciated how warm his room was. He is such a thoughtful person and didn’t want to accept our typical ‘Housewarming’ gift (comforter, sheets, pillows, etc.) and said, “That’s okay, please give it to someone who needs it more than me.” He also said, “It is so nice and warm in my room so I won’t be needing a blanket or comforter.” We did get him his ‘housewarming package’ anyway and he expressed so much gratitude but still said, “please give it to someone else who needs it more than me!”  But, we insisted.

MATT MOVED INTO PERMANENT HOUSING LAST FRIDAY AFTER 15 YEARS OF BEING ON THE STREETS.

Matt is a disabled man in his 50’s who has been living outside in a tent for 15 years on and off, spending a few years either in the hospital or in a nursing home. He suffered from very serious health problems when my friend Ann found him in bad shape; and thanks to your donations, we were able to get him into a motel with the goal of hopefully getting him healthy until he could get into subsidized housing, but did not know how long the wait would be.

Matt was able to financially help with the monthly rent for the hotel room with part of his disability check, but could not afford to do this on his own and needed financial help to pay the hotel rent. Once he was living inside the hotel room, Ann was able to get him needed medical appointments and help him with the right kinds of food and medicine! He completed a housing application 5 months ago for subsidized housing, and we prayed that God would open this door. His legs had been severely swollen and his mind was not clear because of the years of living outside, but God is so good because after just a short time of living inside in a hotel room, his health began to improve. God answered our prayers because a beautiful subsidized apartment that also has a social worker in the building opened up; and after just a 5-month wait, Matt was able to move into his first apartment last Friday!!!. He will be able to pay his rent independently from his Social Security disability check because it is 1/3 of his income, but we were able to help him with the Security deposit which would have been an obstacle for him. Thank you for making this possible. Matt is so grateful and so happy and feeling so much better physically and mentally and said, “I’m human again. I didn’t feel human when I was on the streets!”

Thanks to all of your donations, we were able to purchase the blankets, sheets, and towels for him, as well as help to support him; and thank you again from the bottom of my heart. This man’s life was truly saved and it is a picture of a miracle of God; and very grateful to my friend Ann who walked with Matt step by step…and he is now independently living like a human being.

Pictured below are my sweet friends who cook and help every Friday in the kitchen.  They have added pancakes and bacon to the already delicious menu of eggs, hash browns, sausage, and lots of sweet rolls and bagels. To see the smiles on everyone’s faces as they walk through our doors with the aroma of home cooking, is so beautiful and as someone said, “This is the best breakfast in Chicago!”

…and from another report:

PEOPLE ARE INSIDE MOTEL ROOMS DURING THIS BITTER COLD IN CHICAGO

Thanks to the goodness of God through your generous donations, we have continued to place people in a motel as temporary emergency housing during the bitter cold, and some are inside as I write this e-mail. I know it’s God that we have a great relationship with the manager of a Motel and all I have to do is text him and then send people over with a check. Someone who is new to Timothy’s Ministry and just joined us at Tim’s House (along with 2 others) last week, shared on Friday after lunch as he asked for prayer saying that his feet were swollen inside of his boots because he was sleeping on the train at night and unable to lay horizontally. When I asked him if he would like us to get him a motel room he said, ‘Oh no, that is way too expensive, I don’t expect that at all.” I shared that “This is what God has led us to do and it’s all from God because He is our Great Provider!” Then he began to cry, saying, “a shower and a bed and being able to elevate my feet would be a Godsend.”  He called this morning to express his gratitude saying, “I just want to thank you for this warm room, and I was able to elevate my feet and take showers and get such good sleep; and my feet aren’t swollen any more and feel so good.” 

We are working continuously while praying and asking God to open doors in getting people permanent housing such as a subsidized apartment or a permanent room at the YMCA, and another person will be moving in this week! Even though more new people continue to join us at Tim’s House, we have God on our side.  Thank you so much!!! 

(Marian also shared about helping one person with pain who has been needing hip surgery. One hip surgery has already been done.)

…for more info: http://www.timothysministry.org

Delete Worry

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Cleanse me of worry, oh Lord.
I lay my concerns at Your feet,
for it’s only in letting You solve them
that these problems will meet their defeat.

When worrisome thoughts do come around,
I’ll trust You to help me to stand my ground.
Worry can only cause hurt in a life–
It can touch others, as well, and even cause strife.
For worry is a poison to resist and forsake–
Instead, from God’s goodness and mercy I’ll take.

So thank You for cleansing me of worry,
reminding me to turn up the PRAISE,
for You are a God of deliverance and peace,
and it’s only Your banner I’ll raise!

P. A. Oltrogge

“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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NASB

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation. God is to us a God of deliverances; and to God the Lord belong escapes from death.” Psalm 68:19, 20 NASB

“Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity, for they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:1-4 NKJV (and the entire Psalm)

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6 KJV

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 KJV

“Now in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. 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. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.'” Mark 11:20-24 NKJV

“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

Visit this week’s: http://www.givehim15.com

photo/Porch of the Lord

From All My Fears

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“I sought the Lord, and He answered me,
And delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4 and entire Psalm/NASB

“By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love.  We love, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:17-19 NASB

“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” 1 John 5:4

“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

“The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 and entire Psalm

“God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah” Psalm 46:1-3

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?” Psalm 56:3-4

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You!” Psalm 84:11-12

“Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place,
No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:9-11 and entire Psalm

“The Lord will give them over to you, that you may do to them according to every commandment which I have commanded you. Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:5-6

“This book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:8-9

“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

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

Words of Jesus…

“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.” Luke 10:19 

“Then He said to His disciples, ‘Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.  If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?’

‘And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind.  For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.’

‘Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.'” Luke 12:22-34

(“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32 in the KJV)

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

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Scriptures: NKJV or as noted