A Simple Way for ALL Christians to be “Always Faithful,” Semper Fidelis

Posted on May 27, 2024 by porchofthelord

Oh say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial — Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue

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“Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13

…The following list brings to mind all of the sacrifices of those who’ve served… Casualties listed may not be completely accurate, as statistics differ…

Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm; War in Iraq, OIF, Operation Iraqi Freedom; War in Afghanistan, OEF, Operation Enduring Freedom (Throughout these, over 7,000 were killed, plus those who sustained injuries)

Vietnam War (1962- 1973) – 58,220 US soldiers died, plus injuries

Korean War (1950 – 1953) – 36,000

World War II (1941 – 1945) – 405,399

World War I (1917 – 1918) – 116,516

American Civil War (1861 – 1865) – 620,000

American Revolutionary War (American War of Independence) (1775 – 1783) – 25,000 or more

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In contemplating the conflicts in which thousands of Americans fought, sustained injuries, or died…it’s sad to say that far too many citizens don’t use the examples of those courageous Americans as a guide.

For instance, it’s been reported that millions (many Christians among them) don’t even register to vote, or vote, in our elections. Obviously, what others sacrificed hasn’t impacted them to serve their country through this simple act, making wise selections.

God desires for us to have righteous leaders, saying that righteousness exalts a nation. Such a small service of prayerfully voting can make a difference in our country’s, and the world’s, complex situations.

May God’s people be impressed about the urgency–that they’re in a spiritual war; and be reminded that this freedom they have is what others fought for and so many died for.

Today, we honor those who laid down their lives, even though they may not have always felt very brave at all. Now, lay down the thought that your vote doesn’t matter and answer the voting-for-righteousness call.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” Proverbs 14:34

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle—I am speaking the truth in Christ and not lying—a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-7

“Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” from James 5:16

“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1 NIV

Wise leaders will pray and know this:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 and Proverbs 9:10 on “knowledge of the Holy One”

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7

…thankfully, more Christians are stepping up now, even locally, to run for office themselves. There are additional ways to serve, found at the following:

http://www.MillionVoices.org

http://www.patriotacademy.com

Continued prayer…

Posted on May 7, 2024 by porchofthelord

We continue to pray for the serious situation and the innocent people on both sides of the war begun suddenly by trained terrorists upon Israel in October, 2023; and we certainly pray against evil hatred of the Jewish people.

In the midst of war, a work of God is being raised…in which you can participate. Minister Billye Brim and her partners are building this prayer and Bible study center in Israel in the Galilee. You can view photos of the construction at her “blog,” join in on regular prayer with Billye, and find out more at: http://www.billyebrim.org

…artist’s rendition from the blog…

National Day of Prayer/2024

Posted on May 2, 2024 by porchofthelord

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

“Our Father which art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
thy will be done
in earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
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”

Pray with: www.ifapray.org

Visit this week’s messages at: www.givehim15.com

“Without God there is no virtue because there is no prompting of the conscience…without God there is a coarsening of the society; without God democracy will not and cannot long endure…If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” Ronald Reagan

“The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God.”
– John F. Kennedy …from his Inaugural address, and:

“And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” (Today, and always, we pray for America!)

“The secret strength of a nation is found in the faith that abides in the hearts and homes of the country.” Billy Graham

“For my own part, I sincerely esteem it [the Constitution] a system which without the finger of God, never could have been suggested and agreed upon by such a diversity of interests.”
– Alexander Hamilton (1787 after the Constitutional Convention)

“I therefore beg leave to move that henceforth prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessing on our deliberations, be held in this Assembly every morning…”
– Ben Franklin

“It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here.”
– Patrick Henry

“This is all the inheritance I can give my dear family. The religion of Christ can give them one which will make them rich indeed.”
– Patrick Henry (Last Will and Testament)

Noteworthy, Miscellaneous for prayer

Posted on April 10, 2024 by porchofthelord

…today’s: http://www.givehim15.com

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…and from the Jerusalem Prayer Team:

The war in Ukraine is not just being fought between armies. Russia’s attacks are directed at the civilian population as well. This week, Russian officials boasted that this month they have attacked 80% of Ukraine’s traditional power plants and 50% of the hydroelectric plants. Much of the country is without reliable power, and the civilians are suffering greatly. We must do all we can to help these precious people. To support the Jerusalem Prayer Team as they offer support, through prayer and materially, to those in Ukraine and Israel, visit: http://www.jerusalemprayerteam.org

From there, the following was copied:

There is no greater need today than to support Israel with our daily prayers. I ask you to join me in prayer every day for Jerusalem and the nation of Israel.

“God of Heaven and earth, protect the schools and the school children who are being targeted by enemy terrorists. Watch over the families who trust in Your name. Provide jobs and sufficient income for every family and reveal to them that it is by Your mercy and grace alone so they may come to believe in You, the One True God and Your Son Messiah Yeshua, in Jesus’ Name!”

“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in Whom I trust.’ Surely He will save you from the fowler’s snare and from deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.” Psalm 91:2-5

Join with us and millions of others around the world in prayer for Israel…

Expectant of Change

Posted on April 9, 2024 by porchofthelord

“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 5:16-18 NKJV

…a prayer to our God in heaven…

Some days, it seems difficult, Father, to be patient to see change…when there are things going on in our country (and world) that need to be rearranged.

We have asked, LORD, for Your justice to somehow come about….as we sing praises to Your name and give a glorifying shout…

We know You want us to live peaceably, as stated in Your Word. Jesus turned tables in the temple. Of Your desire for righteousness, we can be assured.

THANK YOU, You’re at work today, behind the scenes, in ways of which we don’t always know. May we do our best to help effect change, while trusting Your conquering of every evil foe.

in Jesus’ name, we pray…

P. A. Oltrogge

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.
The more that people come to know Him…
the more we’ll be in one accord,
with brotherly love being outpoured!

“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

“Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 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; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints….” Ephesians 6:14-18

“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

“He guards the paths of justice. And preserves the way of His saints.” Proverbs 2:8

“It is a joy for the just to do justice, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.” Proverbs 21:15

“There is no (human) wisdom or understanding or counsel (that can prevail) against the Lord.” Proverbs 21:30 AMP

“Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all.” Proverbs 28:5

“In You, O Lord, I put my trust; Let me never be ashamed; Deliver me in Your righteousness.” Psalm 31:1

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

“The Lord executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.” Psalm 103:6

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

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As Christians, we can see the error of “leadership” in many areas in our beloved nation and join in with those who are requesting in prayer God’s mercy and His enlightening to the many who need to turn to His Word and way.

See today’s http://www.givehim15.com

…Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Considering this wonderful work of the Lord

Posted on March 19, 2024 by porchofthelord

…praying in tongues is certainly a mighty work of the Lord….

“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 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.

“And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven.And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each in our own language in which we were born? Parthians and Medes and Elamites, those dwelling in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya adjoining Cyrene, visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” Acts 2:1-11

(See all of Acts 2)

“Later He (Jesus) 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.'” Mark 16:14-18

“Now in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 NASB

See 1 Corinthians 14…on prophecy and tongues

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The following are simple notes that were taken from a message on praying in tongues given at Covenant Family, a church listed below. It explains…

Praying in tongues helps you to pray longer…to pray much…without ceasing….to pray without words…

tongues are a strong avenue for prayer, communicating with God

helps you in overcoming the flesh…

praying in tongues causes you to pray beyond your own thinking….the Holy Spirit does perfect praying…

In John 7, Jesus’ brothers did not believe in Him… They basically were saying “Go to Judea and prove Yourself there…” but Jesus only was guided by His Father’s direction and timing…

God’s plans for our lives are timing dependent… We must seek the Lord on it… Praying in tongues helps us synchronize with God’s timing…

In Acts 16:6-10, the Holy Spirit forbade or blocked certain routes… Some translations say “the Spirit of Jesus”… That night Paul had a vision…directing him to go to Macedonia… The vision gave him the map or plan…

Holy Ghost prayer will get you to where you’ll know for sure….(God’s direction in any matter of life)

Praying in tongues makes us sensitive to God’s plan(s)….

You dictate when the utterance comes… It will give us boldness in sharing the Lord…

Peter, on the day of Pentecost, shared with the people regarding the filling of the Holy Spirit… “This is that, which was spoken by the prophet Joel.” (Acts 2:14-21)

Referenced above, the people had said, “We hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.” A wonderful work of God is praying in tongues… (3,000 came to know the Lord, …from Acts 2)

In Acts 3, the man at the Beautiful Gate was healed….(5,000 came to the Lord). Peter and John were taken into custody, then were released and came to their own companions and prayed… Acts 4:29-31: “‘Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.’ And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.”

We are to be overflowing with the Holy Ghost. The end time is a prophesying generation…

Matthew 26:69-75 relates Peter’s denial about knowing Jesus. But he went on to win souls after he was filled with the Holy Spirit…

Praying in tongues is getting drunk in the new wine (the Holy Ghost)…

Drink the Spirit of God… Use “draws” of Him…from the well, through speaking/praying in tongues… You’ll start feeling His presence….

In Acts 19:1-7, Paul at Ephesus found some disciples and asked them “‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’ So they said to him, ‘We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.”… And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Now the men were about twelve in all.”

Preachers with most notable miracles (of healing) are certainly always baptized in the Holy Ghost.

Praying in tongues…from 1 Corinthians 14:15 …spirit and understanding… you’re blessing God… “What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.”

Colossians 3:16 “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.”

Commune with the Lord daily…speaking in other tongues… Purpose in your heart to start praying in tongues…

Then (after the message) came a Word from the Lord on how He has ordained, by such, to work through His people…

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The notes above are from a message given at Covenant Family Church, pastored by Keith Eggert. It was given by Dan Walter, who has been much involved in the healing ministry. Further messages on the ministry of the Holy Spirit or other topics are available in the website archives. www.covenantfamily.cc

On Sundays, the church has a Conference Call, 11:00 ET
609-663-1557

For reading material, you can visit www.rhema.org and browse their bookstore (recommend “Why Tongues” booklet) or other teaching books and articles.

“Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God Almighty!” …from Revelation 15:3

Don’t let the “SEEMS” defeat your dreams

Posted on March 11, 2024 by porchofthelord

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

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When something in your life seems impossible or when you may even hear

a thought which says it can’t be possible–that’s a thought that’s clouded with fear.

For what did Jesus say to encourage…in Mark chapter 9 and verse 23?

“If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes”–Yes! We can see…

How simple it is to say, “Thank you, Jesus. I know you’re turning things around.”

Keep using the Sword of the Spirit, so that any evil schemes which the devil tries to float will have to run aground.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

“Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 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; praying always with all supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints….” Ephesians 6:10-18

“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

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

“I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord.” Psalm 27:13-14 NASB, Ryrie

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me,” says the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:7-8

“Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47

“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

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

“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

“…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith….” Hebrews 12:2

“No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” from Psalm 91…pray the entire Psalm

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

(…Of course it’s a given that it would not be possible to believe for anything which would be contrary to God’s will as stated in His word…)

Today Dutch Sheets gives a message on dreaming with God, at: http://www.givehim15.com

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If you feel in need of prayer support, visit www.govictory.com for morning prayer M-F, 9:30 a.m. ET (8:30 a.m. CT), for viewing the program. To call, the number is 877-281-6297, where you can pray with and for others for their needs or submit a prayer request of your own. That number can also be reached throughout the day until 11:00 p.m. ET, (10:00 p.m. CT).

Prayer ministry/Andrew Wommack number is 719-635-1111 (day/night)

“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint…” Luke 18:1 KJV

“Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart…” NASB

“Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.” Acts 12:5

“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 5:17-18

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Respite on the Porch

Posted on March 4, 2024 by porchofthelord

Though I don’t usually post comments received, recently someone, having come upon the Porch of the Lord blog, expressed appreciation regarding it, adding, “I wanted to step through the screen and sit on the porch, chat about the goodness of the Lord!”

I’d like to say thank you for the unique comment and to others for their comments/likes. The following posts have been previously shared but are being repeated today:

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It’s my hope that a visit to the Porch of the Lord may sometimes come to mind…if you’re in need of finding refreshment, the Lord’s peace, and words that are kind…

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” spoken by Jesus in Matthew 11:28-30 NASB

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” Jesus’ words in John 14:1 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.” Jesus’ words in John 14:27 KJV

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

“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.” by Jesus in Luke 12:6-7

“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. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” by Jesus in John 15:9-12

“By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. 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.” 1 John 5:2-4

‘“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the 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

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 paths 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

“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

“Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” Psalm 27:14

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

“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

“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” Hebrews 13:5-6

“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

“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

“Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” by Jesus in Matthew 18:19-20

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

“The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

The Strength of United Prayer

Posted on February 27, 2024 by porchofthelord

Have you read about or heard of a story…regarding a tough situation,

where prayer turned things around with a kind of heavenly litigation?

It’s good to remember such times, of great breakthroughs coming about,

when believers joined their faith in prayer, effectively driving out doubt.

This can also be likened to a soldier in battle–weary from fighting hard,

when suddenly fresh troops come to his aid, to relieve him and stand guard.

It’s wise to make declarations of faith when traveling down a difficult way;

but often we need our family in Christ, to join together with us to pray.

P. A. Oltrogge

“Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church.” Acts 12:5

“So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying.” Acts 12:12 (and Peter escaped prison by an angel of the Lord, sent in answer to their prayers)

“And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints–” Ephesians 6:17-18

“Be kindly affectionate to one another, with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer, distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.” Romans 12:10-13

“When I cry out to you, Then my enemies will turn back;
This I know, because God is for me.” Psalm 56:9

You may want to review “The Four Miracles of Dunkirk” in this blog’s archives.

Please see today’s message on being vigilant in prayer, even when just one person prays, at: http://www.givehim15.com

…praying for you, a follower/friend of this blog

Faith’s Vision

Posted on February 20, 2024 by porchofthelord

Photo/Pixabay

“Believing is seeing” is a faith-stimulating thought;
and that phrase is how faith has correctly been taught.

“Seeing is believing,” however, is more frequently said,
but “Believing is seeing” is vital spiritual vision, instead.

And a dream in your heart that you don’t want to see fade
can be God-given “vision” to hold onto after you’ve prayed.

P. A. Oltrogge

“It’s not that faith is “blind” –faith is a sight of a higher kind.” a Keith Moore quote

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

“So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.” Hebrews 4:14 NLT

“Cast not away your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.” Hebrews 10:35 KJV

“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)” Hebrews 10:23 KJV

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” Hebrews 11:1-2 NIV

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:2-8

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15

“Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

“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

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

Scriptures: NKJV or as noted

Faith is our aim, but an inspiring account of obedience to pray, (despite a “feeling” of lack of faith), is given today at: http://www.givehim15.com

The Porch of the Lord

a writer's reflections on Biblical themes

Tag Archives: Prayer

A Simple Way for ALL Christians to be “Always Faithful,” Semper Fidelis

Continued prayer…

National Day of Prayer/2024

Noteworthy, Miscellaneous for prayer

Expectant of Change

Considering this wonderful work of the Lord

Don’t let the “SEEMS” defeat your dreams

Respite on the Porch

The Strength of United Prayer

Faith’s Vision