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Amazing Grace

“Amazing Grace” was written in 1772 by John Newton, a former slave ship captain who survived a violent shipwreck in 1748. Marking the event as a divine intervention, Newton abandoned the slave trade, became an Anglican minister, and fought for the abolition of slavery. The hymn stands as his personal testament to redemption, mapping his journey from a self-described “wretch” to a man transformed by faith.

Open Letter to the Person Who Wonders, “If God Loves Me, Why Does He Let Me Suffer?”

There are times when life hurts so deeply that it becomes difficult to reconcile suffering with the belief that God is good or loving. Our bodies age and die, illness strikes people we love, money becomes a source of worry, relationships change, the phone doesn’t ring, and prayers seem to go unanswered. Eventually, it is natural to wonder, “If God really loves me, why doesn’t He do something about this?”

Understanding Ezekiel’s War

The following articles are about Ezekiel’s war, a biblical prophecy yet to be fulfilled.

Timeline of Ezekiel’s War

The unfolding of prophetic events, as they unfold according to the Holy Bible, Ezekiel Chapters 38 and 39.

John 12:46

“I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.” John 12:46 KJV

1 Corinthian 13:4-7

Love is an active commitment. It means setting aside selfishness and pride to protect, trust, and uplift the people around us. This passage reminds us that real love is defined by how we treat people. Love  chooses kindness over jealousy, forgiveness over resentment, and chooses to endure through every challenge.

Hebrews 13

Hebrews 13 is a practical guide for living out faith through daily action. It calls us to love others unconditionally, stay content with what we have, and trust in God’s unchanging presence. By honoring our commitments and following leaders of integrity, our lives become a continuous offering of praise and kindness.

1 Corinthians 13:12-13

“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:12-13 NIV

Psalm 91:1-2

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'” Psalm 91:1-2 NIV

Why Does God Allow Evil and Suffering?

Pastor Allen Parr of THE BEAT podcast, shares thoughts and Scripture as he addresses the difficult question of evil.

Is Ezekiel’s War Past or Future, and Why Does it Matter?

If this war has not taken place, all mankind should take note as Ezekiel’s War is not an ordinary war.  It will be the bloodiest, deadliest war the world has ever seen involving an attack on Israel by a coalition of nations.

John 10:7-18

Jesus describes Himself as the “gate” and the “Good Shepherd.” Unlike a hired worker who runs away when danger approaches, Jesus protects, guides, and knows His followers intimately. He promises to bring different people together into one unified flock and willingly gives up His life to offer everyone a full, eternal life.

Philippians 4:8-9

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9 KJV Simple Meaning What we fill our minds with shapes who we become. When we choose to focus our thoughts on things that are good, true, honest, and beautiful, and then actively put those positive values into practice, we experience a deep, lasting inner peace that only God can provide. Scripture Frame Designed by J. Nadene Delaney, used with permission.

Burnt Offerings

Thank you to Jim Dearing for naming this song “Burnt Offerings.” I told Jim I had burned potatoes (literally to a char after all the water boiled off) while working on a new song earlier that morning. I only had a few chords, but they were so pretty I kept playing around with them until I smelled smoke!  Jim joked I should call the song “Burnt Offerings.”

When the River Runs Dry

The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river, the Euphrates; and its water was dried up, so that the way would be prepared for the kings from the east. Revelation 16:12 (NASB)

Is Donald Trump Divinely Chosen by God?

The short, and most honest answer, is that no one but God knows for sure.  However, we can look to the Bible for more specific guidance and examples as to how God chooses or allows our leaders. Putting It All Into Perspective Ezekiel 38 is still future prophecy and it will occur because God, and God alone, chooses it to be fulfilled: “I will magnify myself…” (Ezekiel 38:23)

What is Ezekiel’s War? (aka the First War of Gog and Magog)

In the Holy Bible, the Book of Ezekiel holds many unfulfilled prophesies about future events relating to war, the building of the third temple in Jerusalem, and lengthy details of Christ’s millennial kingdom rule. Because discussing future bible wars can be confusing, the following chart helps illustrate what Ezekiel’s War is and is not.

Ezekiel’s War Compared With the Battle of Armageddon

Approximately 27% of the Bible is prophecy, much of which about the end times, including detailed descriptions of two significant wars yet to take place: Ezekiel’s War and the Battle of Armageddon. Both of these wars are distinct from a third major (future) war in the Bible detailed in the Book of Revelation that occurs at the end of Christ’s millennial reign.

What Does it Mean to Praise God?

When we praise God, we acknowledge His greatness, His kindness, and His power.

America First? Or, America Last?

Here are some key scriptures that highlight the significance of serving others and why each time we put any earthly kingdom or purpose above God’s we run counter to His divine will

Principles and Instances of Civil Disobedience in the Bible

While the Bible advocates for submission, it also records instances of righteous disobedience. These narratives provide a framework for understanding when defiance is warranted.

What Nations Will Invade Israel in Ezekiel’s War?

The nations involved in Ezekiel’s War, commonly referred to as the first Gog and Magog war, include regions that correspond to modern-day Russia, Turkey, Iran, Ethiopia, Libya, and more. These identifications are based on scholarly interpretations of ancient names and locations mentioned in the Biblical chapters of Ezekiel 38 and 39.

Civil Disobedience for Christians: A Cheat Sheet

Christians can lawfully and civilly oppose government actions through various methods while adhering to biblical principles. By following these actions, they can ensure their disobedience is both respectful and impactful.

The Essence of Worship: Why Taking Time to Worship God is Paramount

Worship is a term that encompasses a wide array of practices, emotions, and expressions. At its core, worship is the act of showing reverence and adoration for a deity. For Christians, worship is an integral part of their relationship with God, woven into the very fabric of their faith and daily lives.

Biblical Teachings on Treatment of Immigrants

The United States government has taken a strong stance against illegal immigration.  How does that align with God’s Word?

Frame - Mark 12-30-31

Mark 12:30-31

30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31- NKJV

Was Jesus Political in His Day?

It is reasonable to consider that while Jesus had a major influence on the political landscape within the context of his day, his ultimate message of salvation transcended all earthly politics.

End-Time Wars

Comparison of the Three End-Time Wars in the Bible

A chart comparing the three end-time wars in Bible prophecy in order in which they occur: 1. First War of Gog and Magog (aka Ezekiel’s War); 2. Armageddon; 3. Second War of Gog and Magog.

(In order in which they occur in the future.)

About the Two Separate Wars of Gog and Magog: Prophecies in Ezekiel and Revelation Compared

The war of Gog and Magog in Ezekiel and the War of Gog and Magog in Revelation are two separate wars, occurring at different times and places. While Ezekiel’s account focuses on a specific regional conflict involving Israel and a northern coalition, Revelation’s narrative portrays a global confrontation at the end of the millennium.

Summary of Old Testament Bible Stories

The Bible is an inspired combination of recorded history, poetry and wisdom, and prophecy. The Bible was written across many decades, by man different men, but all was inspired by God’s Holy Spirit who oversaw all the writings.

The First Gog and Magog War:  KJV and Ethiopian Bible Versions Compared

The war of Gog and Magog is a significant prophetic event discussed in both the Ethiopian Bible and the King James Bible. It involves a battle that ensues with Gog, rule or Magog, forms a coalition of nations that attack Israel. God Himself supernaturally intervenes to save Israel and demonstrate to the world his power, authority and righteousness.

5 Bible Prophecies Fulfilled to Date

The Bible contains many prophecies that have been fulfilled, here are five relating the our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the spread of the Gospel.

Are You Mad? The Difference Between Righteous and Unrighteous Anger

Understanding the difference between righteous and unrighteous anger is vital for Christians striving to live according to God’s will.

Prayers Jesus Prayed and Other New Testament Prayers

“I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours.  And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them.”

1 Corinthians Chapter 13:1-7

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (NIV) reads…”If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” Bible Frames by J. Nadene Delaney

So, is Magog Russia?

Many biblical scholars identify Magog with modern-day Russia, while others suggest that Magog symbolizes a geographic region encompassing parts of Russia and its neighboring territories.

Ancient Nations in the Bible and Their Modern-Day Names

Understanding ancient nations and their modern-day equivalents can provide valuable context for biblical studies, historical research, and for deciphering bible prophecy.

List of Prayers in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible

A list of prayers found the in the old testament of the Holy Bible.

Stay (With Me)

“I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.”        –Romans 7:15 NLT

Fall In Love With You

A song about living a life so that others can see the love of the Father in you.

"Fresco Lion" by Lahle Wolfe. Watercolor. Gold, yellow, orange, black.

Daniel’s Song

This song was inspired by Chapter 6 of the Book of Daniel in the King James Bible.

Speechless

Let the heavens be glad and all the earth rejoice*
Let the sea roar and all that fills it become my voice*
Let the fields be joyful and everything in them sing your praise*
Let trees exalt you and forests all cry out amen!  Amen!!*

Rev Rev Revelation!

Dead men are walking because they can’t find sleep
Worlds’ gone off grid on a crazy track
And they’re following like sheep

Gethsemane

On my knees, I plead
Your angel strengthens me
The bitter taste of wrath must come
So You can roll away the stone
My sorrow is unto to death
My soul crushed no broken bones

Revival Song

Well, just like Noah I need an ark
The water’s rising and it’s gettin’ dark
Dead heart, no fruit, an empty cup for me
Come Holy Spirit rise up these bones
‘cause I can’t see my way home
The water is rising and it’s getting too dark for me…

Lion, by Lahle. Watercolor, felt tip, ink pen.

Lord, I Need You

I’m broken; You’re whole
Your love restores my soul
I cry, you hold onto my tears

Like You First Loved Me

If I could ask you anything at all
I wouldn’t ask a single “why God” when you called
If I could walk with you like Adam walked with you
In the cool of the evening we could talk

Let Heaven Rain Down

Caught in a riptide a mile wide, Lord I’m going under
My bones are so dry they break apart and I sit here in wonder
As Heaven rains, rains down on me I feel Your thunder
Rain, rain down on me Your holy water….

Looking Up

I Will Worship You

I will worship you my Lord, I will worship you
I will worship you my king, I will worship you
On the sunny days
And when it rains

Upside Down Works Well, Too

Some of my paintings look better upside down.  I could not decide which way I liked this one best.

Alcohol ink on TerraSlate paper, 8.5” x 11”  — April 2021