I started writing poetry at 6 years of age. The following are poems I have written for sermons, church newsletters and other occasions.
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The Law of Love
When death enfolds the last live man, The ways of God will surely stand: Through ages of eternity, The law of God the law will be. The law of God is based on love; Ne'er did else come from above. The law of love we'll always know, In heav'n above or hell below. *** IF YOU WON, I CAN TOO! I've heard, when one gets up in years, There's not much left but sleep and tears, The opportunities are past And hopelessness wins out at last, The only happy mem'ries, then, Are what once was or could have been, The only songs the voice intones Are sad and tearful, tragic ones. If that is all there is to age, I pray God will my grief assuage And take me from my living peers To circumvent life's later years; But, then, another voice I hear; It says, "There is no need to fear Your coming to a golden age: It could be your life's crowning page. In later years, you can afford More private moments with the Lord, More time to give in service true, Which youth have little time to do. And though the days may darker seem, About you, there will be a gleam Of light as bright as it need be To make the darkness light for thee. And in these years, down at life's end, You'll learn the value of the Friend Who led you through youth's per'lous straits, On, upward toward the Pearly Gates. And still, you'll learn you need not fret, But sing, "He's never failed my yet." In trusting Jesus, you will find Life gets richer all the time. Now, which of these should be believed? I would not want to be deceived. Should I start now to wish to die, Or see sun in my autumn sky? It all might stay a mystery For many years, to youthful me, But for the lives of older friends Who testify God's grace keeps them. He puts a smile upon their face And give them joy age can't erase; I know they'll gladly make it through And, if they can, then, I can, too. To you who still do more than sit, Who prove that age can't make you quit, Who march, still, in God's army's ranks, To you, I give a heartfelt, "Thanks." Someday, but that God's trump' soon sound, I'll think, perhaps, of laying down My armor; then, I'll think of you And know, if you won, I can, too! *** WHAT DOES JESUS SAY? To think one's self a Christian is a thought considered fine; Yet, we worry but a little when our lives get out of line. We've grown accustomed to the thought God will take whate'er He gets, That, though our consecration fails, His smile just never quits. But, He who paid the dearest price to save us from our sin Can, surely, not be satisfied when we don't live for Him, And so, to have Him with us in our time of greatest need, To the things which He has spoken we must pay most earnest heed. *** TO MOTHER, ON MOTHER’S DAY We buy you flowers, send a card take you out and let you dine. It's Mother's Day, so don't work hard, relax, and let us treat you fine. You are the undisputed Queen today; you should be all the year: You, who although you've busy been, not once refused to hold us near. You are the one who cured our hurts with your own tender, sweet caress, You tied our shoes and sewed our shirts; how shall we all this grace redress? We will address this biblic'lly and with our heart do what it says: We'll honor, love and cherish you in word and deed, through all our days. *** A CHILD OF THE DIVINE How wonderful it is to be a child of the Divine: To know His love and mercy have caused heaven to be mine; To know that what I could not be and what I could not do I have become and I have done because God loves me, too. I'm born-again and made like Him, 'though an adopted son, All through the work of Jesus Christ, Only Begotten One. I love the way the Savior loves; love leads me to do right, Devoted to the cause of Him who brought me from sin's night. Now looking for a home which God is readying for me, I live here to live with him, there, for all eternity. How wonderful it is to be a child of the Divine: To know His love and mercy have caused heaven to be mine. *** ABUNDANT LIFE Few people would say they never have problems; Most have some burdens that oft' bend them low. I would not say I do not have problems; but, I have a Savior who'll help me, I know. Oft' I would forget there is Someone to help me, When I'm pressed down by life's worries and cares; But, then, He speaks to remind of His Presence, I call, He strengthens me, comforts and cheers. No one can say there's no way to enjoy life, That living means just surviving each day; God would walk with us, bring strength to our weakness, Give us abundant life, even today. *** ADOPTION I was just an orphan child, I had no friend, no home, No one to share my heartaches with and naught to do but roam. Life was only dying weeds, my heart weighed down like lead; From ev'ry heav'nly viewpoint known, I was as good as dead. But, God's love from heav'n above reached down and touched my soul; He signed adoption papers, then, and paid sin's awful toll. No more do I roam o'er the earth in search of friend or home; The Lord of all my Father is, My loneliness is gone. *** LIVING IN THE SPIRIT Living daily in the Spirit, free from all but love for God, With a mind that thinks like Jesus, 'though my feet still walk this sod. Ne'er would I go back to having loyalty that's torn in two; With my heart on things of heaven, I can do what God says do. Peace and comfort, joy and wisdom are mine since the Spirit came In His fullness, to transform me, to be nevermore the same. *** MAKING THE CROSSING I tried my hand at sailing life's sea; it looked so easy to do, I never once thought, when setting my sails, of all the bad storms I'd go through. The sea was a mirror of sparkling glass, with only a ripple or two; I couldn't believe that, on this bright sea, the wildest of storms were abrew. I left the harbor of youth's innocence; but, it wasn't long ere I knew Eternal bliss, with me at the helm, was a wish that would never come true. Now that I know I can't sail in this craft, ere I'm lost when it all breaks in two, I call on the Captain of wind and of sea, trusting He'll take me all the way through. *** THE SOURCE OF HEALING Healing waters still are flowing from the Cross of Calvary, Healing body, soul and mind of those who to His feet will flee. Casting down ourselves before Him, there we find the healing stream, There the rays of love and mercy brightly from God's throne still beam. We are told the key to healing is to ask and to believe, Without doubt to trust His promise, "He who asketh shall receive." We are plagued by doubts and questions of which we should purge our mind; Then, the healing grace of Jesus could be made known in our time. Here, I cast myself upon Him, bowing humbly at His feet, Knowing His grace is sufficient 'til my healing is complete. *** TRUSTING JESUS When you've seen your sinful self as you really are inside, Do not give up, only repent, in Jesus Christ confide. When you've fought sin with tooth and nail, yet, its numbers quickly grow, It will refresh you to recall our God is in control. When you have done your very best at the things you've had to do And still you flubbed, it's nice to know our Lord was human, too. He doesn't look at what we've done near as much as if we've tried To give our best, from hearts of love, to serve the Crucified. When you grow weary of the fight and are tempted then to sin, Receive new strength from His sure word, "I'm coming back again." *** VICTORY ALL THE TIME I will take my needs to Jesus; He desires them every one. He died for my sins and sorrows, rose again, the vict'ry won. In the hour of life's great triumphs or when held in death's embrace, I will rest with calm assurance in His never-failing grace. Jesus loves me, sad or happy; yet, I say not, "Win or lose;" For, I always am the victor when to go with God I choose. So, through life and to the grave and on through heaven's gates sublime, I will trust His love and mercy and have vict'ry all the time. SINCE I’VE SET MY EYES ON JESUS Since I've set my eyes on Jesus, I can sing, "I'm going through." He goes on, ever before me; since He's gone, I can go, too. Since I've set my eyes on Jesus, I see there can be no loss When I'm walking in His footsteps, with faith in His blessed Cross. Since I've set my eyes on Jesus, I've seen there's no better way To be blessed with all God's best, both now and in eternity. *** THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS "Tis the season to be thankful for the good the Lord has done, for His gifts for life temporal, and more still, for His own Son. For, this life is quickly passing, blessings here make it go well; but, the Gift of God's Son Jesus means real life will never fail. A Thanksgiving without Christmas would not mean too much, indeed, but that God had tried to spoil us without tending to our need. But, because He sent the Christ-Child here, to die that we might live, thanks and praise, glory and honor to Him, with lips and lives, we give. *** THANKSGIVING DINNER Whether yours be ham or duck, Turkey, beef, or just potluck, Take the time to thank the Lord That such a meal you can afford. His Providence is with the ones From whose lips glad thanksgiving comes; So, if you like your table fare, Thank Him who helped you put it there. *** IT IS NICE TO BE THE PASTOR It is nice to be the pastor of a group of friends in love with their brothers and their sisters and their Father up above, who have learned to dwell together in the Spirit's unity and are, thus, letting the Son of God set many spirits free. It is nice to be the pastor of a group of friends who care for the needs of those around them, with whom they are called to share all the blessings and the joys of living as one born-again and see God work to build His Church through surrendered, finite man. It is nice to be the pastor of a growing family and see faces, old and new ones, intermingling, constantly; so don't blame me if I'm smiling, for my heart is filled with glee that I can work here, among you and fulfill God's plan for me. *** CHURCH LEADERS’ CHALLENGE We have come, now, to the time when you must take the helm, To help maintain the church's plan, not let the world o'erwhelm. We're standing at a crossroad with both right and wrong in sight; Will we advance to build God's Church or retreat into night? I trust when this year has gone and we look back again, We'll say, "We heard God's call and built the Kingdom by His plan." *** BUILDING THE KINGDOM On what was, to this family, a real special day, the Lord, in His Providence, led us your way; 'Twas not by conniving, nor by our request: we followed the Spirit, who knows what is best. The months have passed by us, they're almost unseen; life's pages turn quickly, they seem but a dream. While much that's behind us is all in the past, together, we've worked on some things which will last. New faces, new voices of souls without end who've found Jesus Christ as their personal friend Now join in our singing as we praise His Name; praise God that a year does not find us the same. Now, into the future we press with our might, to rescue the perishing from sin's dark night; With hearts filled with love and with God as our Guide, let's seek for the lost sheep, those for whom Christ died *** THE FOUNDATION God is preparing a mansion for all who in this world have stayed, built ready to fit the foundation which we, in our mortal life laid. The mansion is built for lasting by God; it can't be better done; but what decides its endurance is the strength of the foundation stone. Some build a solid foundation: a mansion will be theirs for aye; but, others neglected to build well: right now, theirs show signs of decay. I'd hate to find my foundation won't hold up the mansion God made; so, I'll spend my life being certain I have a good foundation laid *** A GREAT MEAL DEAL Jesus said, "I'll share my lunch with you if you'll share yours with me." I laughed and said, "That's like getting filet mignon for free. You see, I'm having onions, Lord: I don't mean onion dip." He said, "Don't worry: What I really want is just your fellowship." I said, "Lord, You have such costly food! Why should you share with me?" He said, "The greatest joy I know is making folks happy." I said, "Lord, Are you coming here for breakfast, lunch or supper? I'll try to ready things, tho' I'm not a great fixer-upper." He said, "I really want to stay with you; I don't want to leave, ever, To share, with you, Abundant Life." "Come, Lord and stay forever!" *** A NIGHT LIKE ALL OTHERS ‘Twas a night like all others, and over the earth People were busy assessing their worth, or buying and selling or just having fun, and no one expected Messiah to come. The Emperor anxiously waited in Rome while folks the world over made their journey home To get in the census and pay taxes due: Those seeking Messiah were only a few. But then, in a flash, the Christ Child was here; Still, few even noticed this cause for great cheer: They just went on living like nothing was new, Unknowing of God’s love for them and for you. Except for the Shepherds and The Wise Men Three And a member or two of the family tree, God’s own Son, unnoticed, had come as a man: The long-waited Promise of Redemption’s plan; But, on went the masses in ignorant bliss, Not knowing at all the great import of this, And slept through the night and got up the next morn And knew not at all that Messiah was born. In a night like all others, all over this earth, When people are busy assessing their worth or buying and selling or just having fun, When no one expects Him, Messiah will come; At once, in a flash, our Lord will appear To Rapture His people and fill them with cheer; But, few will take notice or pay any mind That Christ has returned and they’ve been left behind. And, as earth slowly wakened to His first descent, So, slowly she’ll wake to the Second Advent; But, those who are waiting and watching for Him Will be celebrating where the Light doesn’t dim. It’s a month before Christmas: get ready today For Messiah’s coming, ere your time slips away And you’re caught unexpectant, your soul can’t be spared And you miss the Rapture since you are unprepared. In a night like all others, Christ is coming again For those who are ready, to take them with Him; While preparing for Christmas, be sure of your plan To be found in Jesus when He comes again. *** BAPTISM We come to the water, without reserve, to die, Placing all within the hands of God who reigns on high, Aware the only pow’r to save from death and sin Lies in the gracious, tender hands of the Great I Am. There, I lay me down to die, and God accepts my gift, And when the waters o’er me roll,I feel the mighty lift Of grace much greater than my sin, and from the depths, I rise, Born anew, on wings of love, in Christ, truly alive. Thank God for baptism, the mighty, cleansing wave, Cleansing through the Precious Blood of Christ whose pow’r will save The worst and best of sinful men from death, the grave and hell. And now, I’ve died and, made alive, with my soul, all is well. *** BECAUSE GOD LOVED Because the Father and the Son so loved lost, sinful man, The Son Himself became a man to do the Father's plan. No sacrifice would be enough to save us from our sin, Except the Son Himself be born and die for sinful men. And, in His living and His dying, He became pattern and power For us to live a holy life each day and every hour. And now as I trust in His birth and death on Calvary, I give myself to live to be what God wants me to be. *** BLESSED IS THE MAN WHO ENDURES "Blessed is the man who endures," I hear the Savior say, My eyes are on the finish line: It's closer every day. So many things along the way would lure me to abide; But, I'm in love with Jesus Christ and long to be at His side. The good I need in Him I find, His love keeps me on track And, headed for the shores of home, There is no looking back. This world's allure, which some hold dear, has lost its great appeal, And I'll be faithful to the end Because His love is real. Oh, Father, Source of ev'ry good and perfect gift to me. One thing I seek: in every way, Lord, let me faithful be. *** WHAT DOES JESUS LOOK LIKE? Now we see through a glass darkly; though, someday face-to-face; And what I see of Jesus now is an image I can't erase. For, every time I look at you, I see Him once again, And, while you're with me in this world, how could I forget Him? Then, I will see Him face-to-face and know Him perfectly; But, in an undistorted sense, even today I see Him in your smile and attitude and condescending love And, since I've seen Him in you, here, I'll live with Him above. So, what does Jesus look like? He's no face upon a wall: He's sitting in the pew beside me, walking down the hall, Or kneeling down to pray for me or wash my aching feet, And, seeing Jesus in you makes the picture all complete. *** WITH HIM, LIFE WILL GO WELL The gray hairs seem to multiply, the total of hairs decrease, The aches and pains intensify; but, to the Savior I release This dying, finite body as I seek to know Him more On the plane of spirit living, where there is an endless store Of His grace and endless mercy which renews me, day-by-day, So, my spirit lives forever, and as good as new I stay. I'm so glad I found the Savior: He's the Source of LIfe to me: Everything I need I find in Him, to live eternally. While this body, like all others, becomes old and starts to fail, I'll rejoice in knowing Jesus, that, with Him, life will go well. *** WITH SAINTS IN LIGHT Someday, my great joy will not be to look upon a Christmas tree: I will not have to wake my Father: His trumpet call will waken me. We won't come down from attic rooms to open gifts in shadows dim; But, we'll rise up to heaven above with saints in light to worship Him. *** TODAY IS THE DAY OF SALVATION Today is the day of salvation, we come while eternity waits; When we see this mortal life's sunset, a move to prepare is too late. Right now is the time of the harvest: next week or next month won't avail. Today is the day of decision, We choose between heaven and hell. Before we deal with the Grim Reaper, comes Jesus, the Hope of the Soul, If you will turn now to the Savior, the Reaper his pow'r cannot show; For, He whose Blood fell from Mt. Calv'ry, when sought by a true, contrite soul, Will save us to glory eternal while ages forever shall roll. For what in the world are you waiting? what is so important, today, That you postpone a sure passage home, and in your lost state boldly stay? What is there of hell that attracts you while Jesus still stands at the gate Let Him take control of your heart, now: tomorrow may well be too late! *** IN LOVE WITH JESUS In love with Jesus: not a slave; but, free to serve in love; Complete security is mine, by grace from God above. No harm can ever come my way, Now or while ages roll, I'm kept safe in the jealous care of Jesus, Lover of my soul. All I want is what He wants; He wants what's best for me, And in this haven of His love Is where I want to be; For, here is life abundantly Both now and still to come I will live to please my Lord And He will bring me Home. *** SUCCESS Do not think God gives success in man's pursuit of sin: A holy God will not share guilt for the base pursuits of men. If you are doing your own thing, then do it on your own: And don't thank God or ask His help to keep on doing wrong. But, if you want to have success in all you seek to do Surrender now to seeking first His perfect will for you. *** PLAYING IN SAND A little boy on a sunny beach builds castles in the sand, Uptown, a guy in a suit and a tie, for a profit, creates a plan; And the waves will come and the house will fall and the man's career will end, And the treasure laid up beyond the grave will measure the worth of the man. A home on the rock or a house on the sand-- a parable Jesus told: We choose the plan: a material man or a pilgrim seeking real gold. And the waves will come and the test will show if for eternal life we planned, And the man in the tie, when it's time to die, will find he's been playing in sand. *** SWEET ABANDON If I did what I thought was right, at times I'd not go on; For I can't see the road ahead around the next sharp turn. But, sweet abandon is the term for trust which is complete, The faith which finds, past every turn, paths thrilling to the feet Of one who walks to higher ground and leaves this world behind. Such feet betray a heart which trusts God body, soul and mind. *** THERE IS A CROSS TO CARRY There is a cross to carry, a battle to be won, There is a tide to swim against, a job that must be done. The way is long and trying, your mettle it will test: If we would have the victory, we must give it our best. There'll be no time for playing, no time for R and R: Although the end is nearing, the distance yet is far; So, on we go against the wind, uphill, against the foe, And so we keep on pushing on, though progress may seem slow. But, in His time, the proper time, our Lord Himself will come And take us from this toilsome way to live in our new Home. At times, it all seems far away, our Lord and Heaven's land; But, we live by the promise that someday, for aye, we'll stand on Heaven's shore with millions more who heard the Savior call and left behind their tents of ease to give to God their all. And, just one glimpse of that fair land will cause all doubts to dim And we will see 'twas worth it to leave all to follow Him. *** THERE IS A GOD There is a God whose awesome power in our lives may be known, A power to meet life's obstacles and always overcome. We know that power as we know Him, as we walk by faith alone And keep on overcoming 'til someday, He calls us home. *** TO KNOW THE BLESSED SAVIOR Nothing matters more than Jesus, ev'rything I count but loss, Just to know the blessed Savior share his sufferings, take His Cross. Having found His saving Presence in my dying, hopeless hour, I would seek to know the Fulness of His resurrection power, My desire: to know You, Jesus; may that quest consume my days 'Til I graduate up yonder as a student of your ways. *** UNNUMBERED DAYS Our time down here is cluttered up with things we have to do; There's ne'er enough time in a day for me to spend with you. Often, before we have the time to know and to be known, 'Though we've made plans to take the time, a friend or loved one's gone. But, one of heaven's rich rewards is never-ending day, And we can visit friends as long as we desire to stay. And up there, families and friends will reunited be To visit, talk and praise the Lamb beside the Crystal Sea. So, no regrets need be expressed o'er time getting away: But, let us live, by faith in God, as children of the day; And when this life has run away and time matters no more, We'll have unnumbered days to visit loved ones on Heaven's shore. *** WERE IT NOT FOR JESUS Were it not for Jesus, "Lost Eternally" would be the sole conclusion of life for you and me. Were it not for Jesus, whose blood freely flowed we'd never enter heaven and walk on streets of gold. Were it not for Jesus God become a man, life would be worse than useless, with no salvation plan. But, He is our redemption the ransom has been paid, and all the sins of our past, on Jesus can be laid. Surely, without Jesus sin's wages we'd pay; but, eternal life is won by Him, for us, today. *** I’D LIKE TO GO TO HEAVEN WITH YOU The highway to heaven is narrow, and the travelers upon it are few; But, the pilgrims thereon are headed for home and I’d like to go to heaven with you. Many people go different directions, not heeding what God wants us to do; But, I’ve chosen the straight way with the narrow gate and I’d like to go to heaven with you. This highway, the highway of holiness, is the only one going all the way through To the beautiful gates where our Savior awaits and I’d like to go to heaven with you. You graciously call me your pastor, I would be a friend to you, too; But, your battle is lost if you don’t pay the cost And I can’t go to heaven with you. Talk not of tomorrow’s intentions: today, be made holy and true And let God’s keeping power keep you every hour; for, I’d like to go to heaven with you. *** BRING YOUR SELF AND SINS TO JESUS Bring your self and sins to Jesus, Cast your load of guilt on Him; You will find His Blood sufficient: He will save you from your sin. He, with open arms, is standing, Reaching out to bring you in To the safety of His Presence Where real living must begin. If you want life at its fullest And if Heaven is your goal, All you want is found in Jesus: Come and let Him save your soul. Then, among the ranks of Blood-bought, Holy people take your place And you'll marvel at the beauty Of God's holiness and grace. *** EYEGLASSES ARE FOR LOOKING Eyeglasses are for looking, and ovens are made for cooking, We buy dryers to dry, planes are made to fly, and fishhooks made for hooking. Because they work, we buy them, when we get them, then we try them, If they don't perform, to the store we storm because we cannot use them. Christians are sent to witness, by a life of godly goodness. If in that we fail, one thing God can tell: we are completely useless. I will not change the whole world; but, I still can change my own world When I let Christ in and I live for Him, I will affect the known world. Oh, Father, may it please us to live all for Him who frees us To dispel sin's night with the gospel light and point the lost to Jesus. *** EVERY GRACE FOR YOU Every grace that e'er was given is stored up for you in heaven. Not reserved for just a few: every grace is there for you. Giv'n according to your task, all you have to do is ask; If such grace was ever known you can have it for your own, Not to hoard and store away, but to live for God today, Not to gain for self one thing, but to glorify the King Though for centuries it's been used, the supply is not reduced: Every grace that e'er was given is reserved for you in heaven. *** BECAUSE JESUS CAME Because He has found us in the filth of our sin, Because He first loved us when we didn't love Him, Because we were losers but He helps us to win, All that we are we owe only to Him. We were not fit to be called by His Name, To the Abundant Life we could lay no claim; But His grace Has found us and caused us to be changed Our sins are behind us because Jesus came. *** A GREAT MEAL DEAL Jesus said, "I'll share my lunch with you if you'll share yours with me." I laughed and said, "That's like getting filet mignon for free. You see, I'm having onions, Lord: I don't mean onion dip." He said, "Don't worry: What I really want is just your fellowship." I said, "Lord, You have such costly food! Why should you share with me?" He said, "The greatest joy I know is making folks happy." I said, "Lord, Are you coming here for breakfast, lunch or supper? I'll try to ready things, tho' I'm not a great fixer-upper." He said, "I really want to stay with you; I don't want to leave, ever, To share, with you, Abundant Life." "Come, Lord and stay forever!" *** BECAUSE JESUS CAME Because He has found us in the filth of our sin, Because He first loved us when we didn't love Him, Because we were losers but He helps us to win, All that we are we owe only to Him. We were not fit to be called by His Name, To the Abundant Life we could lay no claim; But His grace Has found us and caused us to be changed Our sins are behind us because Jesus came. *** BRING YOUR SELF AND SINS TO JESUS Bring your self and sins to Jesus, Cast your load of guilt on Him; You will find His Blood sufficient: He will save you from your sin. He, with open arms, is standing, Reaching out to bring you in To the safety of His Presence Where real living must begin. If you want life at its fullest And if Heaven is your goal, All you want is found in Jesus: Come and let Him save your soul. Then, among the ranks of Blood-bought, Holy people take your place And you'll marvel at the beauty Of God's holiness and grace. *** BY THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD By the Presence of the Lord living in my life, I will be what He wants me to be. Walking in the Spirit, abiding in His love, I will live so all the world may see Jesus make a diff’rence when He lives within, Saving us and keeping us from sin Enabling us to live our lives as Jesus, in this world, So the lost, to Jesus, we can win. This is where the joy lies, where the life begins, Where I find the strength like Him to be. Christlike life is normal, victory assured When Jesus Christ himself lives within me. ***ENVY Heal my spirit, precious Lord! In this world through which I roam Lie the germs of canc’rous envy, Always anxious to make known Their destructive acts of vi’lence On the hearts of men like me. Lord, I give you bitter envy And surrender self to thee. From now on, I focus only on my Savior crucified, Fully sure whate’er I’m needing By Your hand will be supplied. I will think of no successes, No one’s fortune will I crave But the fortune of a servant to the One with pow’r to save. By your grace completely trusting, As I focus in on you, You will make my pathway perfect And will safely bring me through Every peril, every heartache. Having ev’ry need supplied, I will stand complete in glory At my blessed Savior’s side. Oh, the freedom of a servant! Oh, the peace this sweet trust brings. Take the world; but, give me Jesus: I’ve no need for other things. Bless my friends, my foes, my neighbors, May the bounty from your hand, Flow unfettered to these others Who walk with me through this land. I will joy in their successes, I will revel in their ease. All I need is more of you, Lord; So, I’m down here on my knees Asking you to heal my spirit: Freed from envy, lust, and pride, I will rest in knowing, daily, In your love I now abide. *** FORGIVENESS Forgiveness, sweet forgiveness flows: it’s ever running free in ample streams, a gracious flood, down from Mount Calvary, It washes sin away for good, the sins of you and me, Applied when we accept this grace; but, ever flowing free. One thing the Savior wants to do: not waiting for our plea, He wants to put our sins away in His forgetful sea. So, He initiates the call, cries, “Come to me and live;” Don’t run away for fear of me; for, I want to forgive.” Forgiven of so much, myself, why should I hold a grudge? To seek revenge for others’ deeds, from love’s true path, why budge? By God’s grace living in my heart, a channel I will be Through which forgiveness, unhindered, is ever flowing free. *** EVERY GRACE FOR YOU Every grace that e'er was given is stored up for you in heaven. Not reserved for just a few: every grace is there for you. Giv'n according to your task, all you have to do is ask; If such grace was ever known you can have it for your own, Not to hoard and store away, but to live for God today, Not to gain for self one thing, but to glorify the King Though for centuries it's been used, the supply is not reduced: Every grace that e'er was given is reserved for you in heaven. *** GRACE FOR EVERY NEED The Lord desires your life to bless; but, He awaits to hear your, "Yes." Only when you allow Him to can He really begin to do The work He's planned for your own good in hopes you soon and surely would Submit to Him and walk His way so all your sins He'd take away. Now, no words further need be spent: be willing and obedient And from God's throne there will proceed grace to meet your every need. *** HE SEEKS YOU AND ME Living in a world of seven billion people, none but a few of them know even my name. One more face in a boundless sea of faces, nothing outstanding to offer me fame. Entrapped in my blindness, I never am noticed; so, in my condition I’m certain to die; But, then comes the Healer, Jesus the Savior, And He has no intention of passing me by. I call and I find He is waiting to hear me Calling to Him from my utter despair, He has a plan for my glorious deliv’rance And there, by the wayside, I discover His care. “What do you want to me to do?” He now asks me. “Lord, I ask only to receive my sight.” One word, and eyes which were blinded are opened: Suddenly and certainly, I’m flooded with light! Was it mere coincidence, Jesus in my town, Coming down my street and passing my way? Was it my fate or merely good fortune That I cried to Him and He heard me pray? No! Jesus knows me and He knows what I’m needing. He longs for the day He hears my earnest plea. While He loves the whole world and gave His life for it, He walks down our road; for He seeks you and me. *** MARY’S RESPONSE We came to the garden to care for the body of Him who we once thought would be Messiah, our Savior, the King of the Ages; But, then He was nailed to a tree. We came to embalm Him, for he had been buried in haste for the Sabbath was near. So, this Sunday morning, we came to the tomb only to find He’s not here. Instead, here’s an angel who says He has risen: He showed us the place Jesus lay. The clothes neatly folded; but, there is no Jesus; We remember we once heard him say, “Destroy this temple: I’ll raise it in three days.” Could it be our Lord lives again? There is a gardener, perhaps he knows something. I’ll ask, maybe he has seen Him. “Sir, we would see Jesus,” so softly I speak, my voice surely giving away the fear and uncertainty gripping my spirit as the night slowly gives way to day. Then, angst turns to joy and exuberance engulfs me As a voice I’ve oft’ heard speaks to me, “Why are you crying?” “Who do you look for?” Then, He called me by name: “Mary.” “Rabboni,” I cried, as I Iooked in the eyes of my Teacher, my Savior, my King. He was dead, He’s alive, and my hope is reborn. Join me as His praises we sing!*** PIG PAY We hope you all like pig for lunch: we bought it in a poke, and didn’t know how big it was, or if ‘twould feed you folk. But, here it is and here you are, and we hope you enjoy. Now, for the part I dread the most, the cause of my employ: I need to let you know that, if you feel at all inclined, when you’ve had your fill of pig and ev’ryone has dined, a basket for donations will await your offering to pay for pig found in a poke: won’t say another thing. But, so you’ll know, ere you shall leave in cycle or in car, the basket waits your contribution on the beverage bar. *** WHEN ON ANGELS’ WINGS I’M CARRIED When on angels' wings I'm carried 'cross death's river deep and wide, When this world is just behind me and I reach the other side, There will be no fears and doubtings, no desire to run and hide, That will be a joyful moment, for Christ's blood has been applied. I believe I'll find a welcome at my Heavenly Father's throne, I believe His arms will reach out: He will say, "I'm glad you've come!" I believe He'll say, Child, welcome. Now, your joys have just begun." All my house is open to you; Come, and make yourself at home." *** GRACE TO KEEP GOING ON Sometimes, when I’ve done my best and no one seems to care, I’ve worked so hard to please my Lord and no results are there, When I am tempted to think my labor is in vain, I look, again, at Calv’ry and remember Jesus’ pain; For, there, He was forsaken: alone, He bled and died. The evidence was that, in vain, our Lord was crucified. Oh, yes, I have suffered but not suffered unto death: When I remember this fact,then, anew, I catch my breath; For, after Jesus suffered, He, too, was satisfied: He justified us fully by the lonely death He died. So, I resume the bus’ness of doing Father’s will And find the grace to push ahead, trusting and faithful still. My eyes must stay on my Lord And not on other things; My heart must be in tune with Him so, in the trials life brings, The tempter has no power To turn me from the way My Lord is laying out for me to walk in day by day; Then, whatever may happen, Despite the heartaches born, Kept by the pow’r of Christ, I’ll find Grace to keep going on. --Robert W. Muncie 11/3/17 |
I WILL REST UPON THE SHORE Caught in the current of the river of life, I catch only glimpses of the scenery as I move quickly down the stream. It seems it would be nice to pull over and rest on some quiet bank, letting the beauty of that moment settle down upon me. But, there is no escape from the current; so, I concentrate on keeping my head above the water, Assured that somewhere, further downstream, I will find peaceful water, and there, I will forget my present struggle and rest upon the shore, drinking in the beauty of heavenly eternity. *** CONTENT TO KNOW YOU I'll leave behind whate'er I must to follow Christ my Lord; Worldly pleasures matter not since our love is restored. I trust my Lord to lead me through whatever's best for me; Though I know not where He may lead, I'll follow faithfully. The sacrifice I make, sometimes, won't add up in my mind; But, I'll obey, for they who lose their life, real life will find. So, lead me, Lord; I'll follow, though all else be left behind. I'm content to know I'm yours and You are ever mine. *** CHRISTLIKE LOVE Mother's love will worry when a child is sick in bed, Father's love will work him hard when the budget's in the red, Boyfriend's love will upset him when she has other plans, Kinfolks' love may bring advice when things get out of hand; But, Christlike love is different, yet-- it has a surer plan: Forgetting self, it gives its all for God and fellowman. *** WORKING TOGETHER Some time ago, one summer day, this pastorate we began, to fill the call the church gave me to be your shepherd-friend. Seeking the lost, guiding the saved, the days have gone so fast it seems but yesterday I came; yet, years and years have passed. Some have come to know the Lord and some have strayed away and some of you have grown so much in Christianity. I wish and work that you might know the fullness of God's love; that life Abundant may be yours here and in heav'n above. The years have gone so rapidly: soon this life will be done; eternity will call to see if we have lost or won. Church member, neighbor or just friend, don't turn Jesus away: our time is passing rapidly; salvation come today. Give up yourself to Jesus Christ and join us as we wait; walk with us, here in this world, now; someday, through heaven's gate. *** DISCIPLESHIP Nothing but thy glory, Lord; 'tis all I now desire: Purge, then, from selfish motives with your cleansing fire, Fill me with your holy love 'til all the world may see The Christ whose Name I gladly wear is in control of me. Instant in your service, Lord; prepared for your command: Never lagging, nor ahead; but, walking hand in hand, I'll fit myself into your plans wherever you see best And by your hand, the Church, the world and I will be most blessed. *** FRUIT BEARER God has done His very best to see that I may bring forth, from my life, abundantly, fruits fit for my King. 'Neath His nurturing Providence and in a fertile hill, can I find excuse at all to not fulfill His will? I will gladly labor long, be happy with no less than to produce, my whole life long, the fruits of righteousness; That, when He feels I've labored long enough in service true, He'll transplant me to Heavenland, to start my life anew. *** GOD IS THE GIVER When God gave the Pilgrims a harvest so great, When He changed their famine to a full cup and plate, When grace made the Indians dearest of friends, When wheat filled the garner and corn filled the bins, It wasn't too hard to give God the glory: They knew, without Him, there would be no story Of plentiful harvest around Plymouth Bay; Each would have starved and soon passed away. The years went by quickly, a nation was born; With hard work, she grew an abundance of corn: Soon it became a matter-of-fact, America the Bountiful never would lack. People were caught up with all that they had, Forgot to be thankful, forgot to be glad; Never a shortage nor need anywhere, Soon they forgot that God was still there. Sow in the springtime, reap in the fall, Have we forgotten that God's in it all? We tend to think our own sweat grows the grain; But, God controls the sun and the rain. We must remember that He is the Giver: We sow the seed; but, He must deliver Sunshine and rain through all of the year, Else we would be without grain on the ear. *** MOTHER’S INFLUENCE Many folks have touched my life to make me what I am, From Mr. Bell, my college prof, to bashful Uncle Sam, Uncles, cousins, aunts and teachers, friends both good and bad, Grandpas, grandmas quite a bit and, still more, Mom and Dad. Every life we ever touch becomes part of our own, So that no one whom we meet is ever really gone; So, as shifting sand, we change, of everyone to take A little bit, a unique man or woman, then, to make. Many folks have touched my life, but, one especially: My first close friend, my nurse, the one who gave my life to me. Doubtless, she has shaped my ways much more than any other: No one else could take the place of her I call my Mother. *** THIS GREAT, IMMORTAL STRUGGLE This great, immortal struggle is no battle for a few: We must work for one of two sides! discomforting; yet, it's true. We may pretend to be neutral, not concerned with who goes where; Yet, our apathy means one vote for sin's vict'ry. Do we care? From birth, we're bound to Satan, all enslaved to do his will; And from day one, it is his plan all our spirits, thus, to kill. To remove the thrill of living, keep us trapped by lusts of sin, Let us share eternal torment, keep us from our one true Friend. But, the Lord of all stands ready; when we call upon His Name, He has power to set us free from death and hell and sin and shame. Satan is a fearful power, laying claim upon us all; But, he must release us quickly when on Jesus' Name we call. Praise the Lord! My Great Redeemer sets my soul at liberty; All my life I owe to Jesus: by His power, I'm free, I'm FREE! *** SUFFICIENT GRACE When we have been given new life from above, we enjoy the blessings of God's wondrous love. He counts us as precious in His tender eyes; why else would He bless us with heaven's supplies and give grace to finish the life we've begun in victorious fashion through the blood of the Son? *** TO THE SINNER YOU, Walking on the road of selfish sin, Every step you take away from Jesus drives the nails a little further in. SURE, He was crucified some time past; But, every sin ever committed by man helped to bring His death to pass at last. NO, none of us can say we're innocent; But, you can quit adding to His agony if you will trust Him and repent. *** TRUST IN GOD The way across life's vast expanse I can't begin to see; Which way to go I do not know but as the Lord leads me. Within myself, no strength I find; yet, I find strength no less Than what I need to walk with Him: His strength in my weakness. He will not fail to bring me home: alone, I could not go; But, loss can't come by trust in God, and we will prove it so. *** GOD HAD ME IN MIND When He put Adam in Eden, God had me in mind, Planning to love Adam's children, He had me in mind, Wanting nothing but the best for the creature He had blessed, When He put Adam in Eden, God had me in mind. When, in Ur, He spoke to Abram, God had me in mind, Knowing, through the seed of Abram, there would come, in time, The Messiah, Prince of Peace, from sin's chains to bring release; When, in Ur, He spoke to Abram, God had me in mind. When He spoke to man through His Son, God had me in mind, Culminating His salvation, bringing life sublime, Now, all those who will believe on His Son, life will receive; When He spoke to man through His Son, God had me in mind. *** HE WILL NOT FAIL He who sees a sparrow fall hears my voice when I call, He who numbers every hair will go with me everywhere, Though all friends from me might flee, He will not fail to keep me. *** A PARENT’S PRAYER They've come our way for just a while to laugh and cry and play: God, help us, in these eighteen years, to lead them in your way. We send them off to school each day to learn temporal facts: Lord, help us teach them, while at home, the way a Christian acts. We feed and clothe them in the best so they will grow up strong: Lord, help us clothe them with your Word, so they'll know right from wrong. We try to teach them to obey the orders which we give: Lord, help us show them they should keep your rules on how to live. These souls are ours but for a time, to mold for heav'n or hell; Lord, we would fear to try alone: please, help us not to fail. *** THANKS FOR THE BLESSINGS God has poured out, abundantly, His blessings on my way; His acts of love and grace so great continue to this day. It would be tragic, should I choose to act like I don't see That all these blessings from above are sent from Him to me. He only asks that I obey and willingly confess My thanks to Him for what He does; and, how could I do less? He takes care of my needs each day, for body, soul, and mind. I'll thank and praise Him with my life, My Father, God, so kind. *** WHATE’ER MAY COME, I THANK HIM To live is Christ, to die is gain; no way to lose, no cause for pain. I'm glad He came to me one day to share His love and light my way, To rightly guide each day and hour of living by the Spirit's power, To pour on me, abundantly, life's greatest treasures, constantly, To save me from the hold of sin, so I'd enjoy this world I'm in And have the hope that He will keep when death's dark waters roll so deep that I can no more see the way; He then will be my Hope and Stay. And so, whate'er, better or worse, may come as I pursue this course, I thank Him; there's no cause for fear: He is my Lord, I'm in His care. *** WORKING TOGETHER Some time ago, one summer day, this pastorate we began, to fill the call the church gave me to be your shepherd-friend. Seeking the lost, guiding the saved, the days have gone so fast it seems but yesterday I came; yet, years and years have passed. Some have come to know the Lord and some have strayed away and some of you have grown so much in Christianity. I wish and work that you might know the fullness of God's love; that life Abundant may be yours here and in heav'n above. The years have gone so rapidly: soon this life will be done; eternity will call to see if we have lost or won. Church member, neighbor or just friend, don't turn Jesus away: our time is passing rapidly; salvation come today. Give up yourself to Jesus Christ and join us as we wait; walk with us, here in this world, now; someday, through heaven's gate. *** TO ALWAYS HAVE A SMILE Many the young men who smile and don't worry as they stir up turmoil and trouble; But, which of these men, when wrinkled with age, will be happy with his self-made rubble? God's Word tells us how we can smile at the first and still smile when this life is ended. The pathway is narrow, uphill all the way; but, the pay and the benefits splendid. *** TO MAKE ETERNITY’S BED A man may say, "Ah, life is long; so, for a while, I'll sing my song, Pleasure to myself I'll bring: I am free to do my thing." Yet, while he lays earth's goods in store, death is knocking at his door. A man may wish a second chance to lay aside earth's short romance, To build with God a lasting hope, ere breaks life's taut and fraying rope; Yet, just from now 'til death can we lay up goods for eternity. A man may wish to never be partaker of eternity, To quit existing when he dies; but, one must eat the food he buys And so, the bed we make is ours to sleep on, be it nails or flowers. *** "TIL OUR MISSION IS COMPLETE Set our hearts with love aflame to proclaim your Holy Name to a world lost in the darkness of its sin. Lord, rekindle our desire with the Passion of your fire 'til our all is giv'n to You to bring them in. Were it not for those who gave, faithful, loving, pure and brave, of themselves to bring the Gospel to my ear If they had not paid the cost, even now, I would be lost in the depths of Satan's misery and fear. God, I owe you everything; so, into your hands I bring all my talents, money, voice and hands and feet. All is yours to use each day in your own sweet, sov'reign way 'til your mission on this earth is all complete. *** ALL FOR THE KINGDOM Give your all for the Kingdom, ever be faithful and true; Heaven is real and it's coming and Jesus is looking for you. Some will say they want to go there; but, ere they arrive, turn aside; We will, in faith, go undaunted, 'til we in Heaven abide. With our eyes set on the Saviour, our ears attuned to His voice, Our wills surrendered to His will, now and for aye we'll rejoice. *** ALL THESE YEARS OF OUR LIVING Someday, all these years of our living will seem but a short moment in time: The life we once thought lasts forever, is a point on an unending line. The long nights of trial then ended all the days of earth's pleasures behind, The unrealized future's plans vanquished, all the tasks of this short life resigned, We will wonder where life has all gone, we will marvel it all went so fast And understand things done for God are the deeds which are going to last. *** A SIMPLE TASK I serve a God who makes it known what He expects of me, And He and I can get along in perfect harmony. Sometimes my heart will tend to doubt, or I may even sin; But, faithfully, he finds me out and picks me up again. And I rejoice when, conscience clear, My confidence is staid And prayers are answered faithfully as, at His throne, they're laid. A simple task have I: to live believing on Christ's Name And love the brethren with the love I found when Jesus came. *** AS YOU,…SO I As you laid aside your comfort and plans, to care for a sinner like me, So I, in the interest of following You, Will turn all my self-seeking free. As you gave your life for whoever would come and drink from the Fountain of Grace, So I will reach outside my circle of friends to take You to the whole human race. As you, on the Cross, to a stranger unknown, spoke words that brought life in death’s hour, So I will speak to strangers in need To tell of your transforming power. As you, by your dying, brought life to the world that will last for all eternity, So, I give myself to be used up for you that whoever will may know Thee. *** HE KEEPS ME I will not pray for droughts or storms, I know not what I need: But, my Father knows what's best; so I will let Him lead. And when I sit in pastures green by waters cool and clear I'll praise the Lord for calm relief from every trial and fear. But, when the blessings seem to cease, still onward I will go; For, He who kept when all was peace still loves me then, I know. So, I submit to His sweet will and trust Him to keep me; For, as I trust, in storm or drought, He ever true will be. And nowhere should I, then, be found, but in His blessed care. He is my Lord and He keeps me at all times, anywhere. *** HIS PEACE Men ask God for many things, and temporarily, He often grants their wishes, in hope they soon will see He loves them and they need Him to have life abundantly; But, we reject His mercy when we walk stubbornly! We will have security as we hold to His hand, Guardian angels guaranteed as in His grace we stand, To those who walk in His will, His love light will not dim: We can have His peace as long as we care to have Him. *** WITH CHRIST, I'M SATISFIED Amidst the glitter and the glamour, all the rush and all the clamor for the presents sure to please conviction brings me to my knees And I remember 'tis no thing which lasting joy to life can bring; It is a person, God and man the Christ-Child who fulfills the plan to be all I will ever need; and, in rememb'ring, I concede with mortal gifts all laid aside, with Christ alone, I'm satisfied. *** KNOW THE WILL OF GOD It's not what you or others think about how you should live, But, how you measure up to all the light the Lord would give. It's not that you can sleep tonight with all you've done today; But, have you followed Jesus Christ and walked the holy way? When at the Throne of God we stand, that court without appeal, The all-important question is, Have you found and done God's will. We need to know the will of God, and we can know it, too: Embodied in the Son, it waits to be revealed to you. *** PSALM 73 The Psalmist had begun to compare his fare with the plight of sinners everywhere, And, being deluded, he had concluded The plight of the Christian just isn't fair; For, they don't have trouble as we do, nothing ever makes them blue, They walk ev'rywhere with their nose in the air while they do whatever they want to. "So, he thought, "what's the reason for going with God? What's the reason for knowing Jesus Christ is my Lord, what does it afford? His doubts had him reeling and rolling. So often, we trip up when viewing the way other people are doing: We see what we would and it all looks so good, while, in private, their sin has them stewing. But, there's one whose right pattern will lead us: in the highway of right He precedes us With our eyes upon Him, we'll be true to the end and no ill and no wrong will impede us. *** THE PEACE OF GOD IS MINE Do not search the papers to find the peace you crave, The world at large lives unaware of Jesus' power to save And war and fighting daily claim the bulk of all newsprint Because so many have not met the Savior God has sent. Do not look in city streets or legislative halls, Nor e'en in meetings held behind United Nations' walls. Yet, don't despair and think there is no way of finding peace; For, you can know, today, the God who will make wars to cease. We know Him through the Son he sent, born in Bethlehem, Who came for us, the Spotless Lamb, and died and rose again, Who, still today, will bring His peace to your heart for all time, And you can say, "I know, today, the peace of God is mine. *** WHAT A WONDER TO KNOW I’M GOD’S CHILD I'm glad I know I'm a child of the King: Foll'wing the Spirit in everything, Feeling at home and at peace with God near, Calling Him "Daddy" with no reason to fear. Sensing the Spirit's strong witness within, Finding the power to live above sin, Enduring trials for heavenly gain, Knowing the prize will be worth the pain. The joy of the journey far outweighs the cost, All that can be taken, I've willingly lost To gain a fortune fore'er undefiled Oh, what a wonder to know I'm God's child. *** MOLDED IN HOLINESS As I set my eyes on Jesus, As I keep my heart on Him, He will keep me pure and holy, Bound for heaven and free from sin. He who came to live among us, Son of God and Son of man, He can keep us from all evil As we yield ourselves to Him. He who came to kill sin's power, Destroy death and make us whole, He will keep us pure and holy As, with Him, we onward go. Holiness is not a dream world, Nor achievement of man's might: Gift of God, this transformation, For those who walk in His light. "Oh, to grace how great a debtor:" I can surely do no less Than be molded in the likeness Of my Lord, in holiness. *** OH, WORD OF GOD INCARNATE Oh, Word of God Incarnate, among us in the Son, Here to convey to mortal man what grace alone has done, Indwell this flesh, impart Yourself, engulf this house of clay 'Til all of me is filled with you, to think and do and say The thoughts and acts and words of Christ, so you are seen and heard May I possess, in human flesh, the Blessed Eternal Word. *** SUFFICIENT GRACE God's grace is sufficient when my answer is, "Yes." Life yielded to Him is life at its best. He seeks His Son's glory, my well-being no less, So, while fully surrendered, my life he will bless. I worry for nothing, lack for nothing I need: On His promise I'm counting, on His mercy I feed. Never yet has he failed me, and always I see He has life for the humble in unfathomed degree. So, I live today with no thought for tomorrow: No concern for provisions, no dreading of sorrow; For, as He has been, God always will be, Father and Savior and Keeper for me. *** THE LIGHT Ere the pale light of the Christian witness from this world fades away, The Sun of Righteousness will rise and night will turn to day. Although our light may seem so small, still faithful we will be To shine on in the darkness until the Sun we see. *** TO BECOME MORE LIKE THEE We ought and we may boldly sing it and pray "O to become more like Thee Dear Father above. For, His sure desire is that we will aspire To be made in His image and filled with His love. The price Jesus paid when salvation was made Was precious and purposed to transform us again To let Jesus Christ be real in our life So that through our transforming He lives among men. *** TWO HANDS God gave us two hands to use, precious gifts, indeed, Meant to use in countless ways, to meet many a need: Meant to fold in earnest prayer for children, kin or friend, Meant to open to give our goods: a helping hand to lend, Meant to clap to praise the Lord when from our heart joy springs, Meant to pat a weary back, encouragement to bring. Meant to touch a hurting world Administ'ring God's grace, Meant to grasp the Hand of God until we see His face. God gave us two hands to use to fulfill heavenly plans. The question we must answer is, "How will we use our hands?" *** TWO FEATHERS I threw a feather to the wind: it drifted effortlessly. With no resistance to the breeze; but, at the wind's mercy, It first went east and then blew south, went up and then went down, Soon fell into a pile of leaves, then lay there on the ground. No effort wasted by that feather: he went where he was blown; Today, he lies in rotting leaves, his whereabouts unknown. I saw a feather on a bird, a mighty eagle soaring, With no resistance to the bird, although the wind was roaring. Against that wind, in harmony with bird and every feather That one small feather does his part in sun and stormy weather. Not going where the wind decides, but where the eagle flies, Today, with power and purpose, it serves to grace the skies. Above the lower forms of life, on wind-harnessing wings, The feather moves, the eagle mounts above decaying things And men behold and stand in awe, because a feather flies Against the gale, upon a wing, and masters winds and skies. We are feathers in the wind, created first to fly In harmony with God and man to fairer worlds on high, Now, some decline to fight the wind and choose to drift along, With no connection to the Church and no resistance to the throng. But, some stand up and make the choice to soar on winds of grace, Attached by love to Jesus Christ and in their proper place. And while the one who drifts along will fall into decay, The one attached to Jesus will fly on to perfect day. You want to soar to glorious heights? Let Jesus be your Lord! A life of power and purpose we cannot, ourselves, afford; But, it is ours when we, by faith, decide to fly His way: He's calling us to higher heights and grander life today. *** YOU CANNOT CALL IT CHEAP LOVE You cannot call it cheap love, when Jesus shed His blood to create a relationship which would be so right and good. You cannot call it cheap love, when Himself He freely gave that a people lost in sin and shame, He could wholly save. You cannot call it cheap love, when He paid a price so dear that a man could serve Him from the heart, without a trace of fear. You cannot call it cheap love, when He calls from Calvary, “This body I have giv'n so you can give yourself to me.” *** YOU'LL NEVER NEED BE SORRY You'll never need be sorry you repented, You'll ne'er regret you got sick over sin, You'll never find occasion to be wishing You could go back to conversion and refuse to let God in. But, through eternity, you'll be rejoicing you forsook the life of sin you used to know, And you'll celebrate the wisdom of the moment you rejected sin and chose with God to go. I have never heard the faithful say, "I'm sorry I repented of my sins and chose the Lord." And the soul who trusts on Jesus Christ will never need repent that life and heav'n are his reward. *** ALL THESE YEARS OF OUR LIVING Someday, all these years of our living will seem but a short moment in time: The life we once thought lasts forever, is a point on an unending line. The long nights of trial then ended all the days of earth's pleasures behind, The unrealized future's plans vanquished, all the tasks of this short life resigned, We will wonder where life has all gone, we will marvel it all went so fast And understand things done for God are the deeds which are going to last. *** HOME OF THE FREE We wave Old Glory in the breeze and cheer for liberty, we shoot the fireworks, sing the anthem, glad that we are free; But, firecrackers and waving flags won't save our sovereignty so much as letting God be God and living righteously. God sets up kings and brings them down: we're told that scriptur'lly; And thus, it follows this same God preserves democracy. When we let God be Lord of all and His will is our passion, the life we live will never fail to be best for our nation. Now, some will wave Old Glory and create a noisy din, while feeling patriotic, they will go on in their sin, All the time, unknowingly, their lifestyle tears apart, the seams of the Red, White and Blue we love with all our heart. As Christians, we are privileged our nation to preserve, 'though in our countries armed forces we may never serve. Our calling is to pray and live a life of righteousness, and influence our fellowman to daily do no less Than follow God and do His will and live life righteously, and this land will continue as the great Home of the free. *** IN GOD’S HANDS "In God's hands" doesn't mean you never find the going rough. It means, whate'er the circumstance, you find His grace enough To keep you faithful to the task He's given you to do Until He says, "You're finished with the task I've given you." At times, when all else seems to fail, the thing that keeps you true Is your commitment to the voice which thence has guided you. And doing as He bid you do until He speaks again, You go on, faithful to His call, until you hear from Him. *** GOD HAS A PLAN Because He has found us in the filth of our sin, Because He first loved us when we didn't love Him, Because we were losers but He helps us to win, All that we are we owe only to Him. We were not fit to be called by His Name, To the Abundant Life we could lay no claim; But His grace has found us and caused us to be changed. Our sins are behind us because Jesus came. Now, God has a plan for your life and mine, Though, alone,we're a people so far out of line. Out from the sinners, He'll bring us to be A pure, holy people, His eternally. A cold, stony heart with compassion replaced The spirit of rebellion from our lives all erased Filled with a desire to do our Lord's will, With power to live righteously each day until He calls us on to the heavenly shore, Where no sin will enter and we'll live evermore. So, let God be your God and find life in His plan, Ne'er to go back to the old life again. With a new heart and spirit and power to stand Enter and live in God's eternal land. *** CHRIST, MERCY ON ME Though discomforting it be, Happy is the day when we Sense our guilt and desp'rately Cry out, Oh, Christ, mercy on me!" Christ, Deliverer from sin I invite you to come in, Take my guilt, this awful weight, Save me from my lost estate. Jesus, Lord of everything, To you, myself, my all I bring, My only Hope, I rest in Thee, Alone, You can and will save me. *** "TIL OUR MISSION IS COMPLETE Set our hearts with love aflame to proclaim your Holy Name to a world lost in the darkness of its sin. Lord, rekindle our desire with the Passion of your fire 'til our all is giv'n to you to bring them in. Were it not for those who gave, faithful, loving, pure and brave, of themselves to bring the Gospel to my ear If they had not paid the cost, even now, I would be lost in the depths of Satan's misery and fear. God, I owe you everything; so, into your hands I bring all my talents, money, voice and hands and feet. All is yours to use each day in your own sweet, sov'reign way 'til your mission on this earth is all complete. *** ALL FOR THE KINGDOM Give your all for the Kingdom, ever be faithful and true; Heaven is real and it's coming and Jesus is looking for you. Some will say they want to go there; but, ere they arrive, turn aside; We will, in faith, go undaunted, 'til we in Heaven abide. With our eyes set on the Savior, our ears attuned to His voice, Our wills surrendered to His will, now and for aye we'll rejoice. *** BECAUSE GOD LOVED Because the Father and the Son so loved lost, sinful man, The Son Himself became a man to do the Father's plan. No sacrifice would be enough to save us from our sin, Except the Son Himself be born and die for sinful men. And, in His living and His dying, He became pattern and power For us to live a holy life each day and every hour. And now as I trust in His birth and death on Calvary, I give myself to live to be what God wants me to be. *** BLESSED IS THE MAN WHO ENDURES "Blessed is the man who endures," I hear the Savior say, My eyes are on the finish line: It's closer every day. So many things along the way would lure me to abide; But, I'm in love with Jesus Christ and long to be at His side. The good I need in Him I find, His love keeps me on track And, headed for the shores of home, There is no looking back. This world's allure, which some hold dear, has lost its great appeal, And I'll be faithful to the end Because His love is real. Oh, Father, Source of ev'ry good and perfect gift to me. One thing I seek: in every way, Lord, let me faithful be. *** CHRIST, MERCY ON ME Though discomforting it be, Happy is the day when we Sense our guilt and desp'rately Cry out, "Oh, Christ, mercy on me! Christ, Deliverer from sin I invite you to come in, Take my guilt, this awful weight, Save me from my lost estate. Jesus, Lord of everything, To you, myself, my all I bring, My only Hope, I rest in Thee, Alone, You can and will save me." *** DEATH IS, TO SOME, A BITTER PILL Death is, to some, a bitter pill which they would fight with all their will for, darkness waits them: all they see is hopelessness, eternally; for sin has gained the upper hand and left no rock on which to stand and all they have is awful dread of going where go all the dead. Death is, to some, an unknown thing: no expectations do they bring when, at life's end, they make the turn and cross death's waters: then they learn that day for which they never cared has caught them quickly, unprepared. And so, for now, they pay no heed do not respond to their real need; they are convinced life's finest way is just to live it up today. Death is, to some, a triumph sweet from broken heart and aching feet, from battles fought and labors long; but, in their hearts, they sang the song of life and final victory through Jesus' death on Calvary. I've known some folks who lived and died with their faith in the Crucified, and never did they have to fear when they grew weak and death drew near. A bitter pill, an unknown thing or triumph sweet? How does death seem? When we have put our faith in Christ, when we believe His Blood sufficed to take away death's awful sting, then we have every right to sing; for, we are free, though once a slave to death and sin, hell and the grave. ***FACING THE FUTURE Holy Spirit, fill my life, Lead me on through joy or strife, Till Jesus comes again, some day, Ever lead me in His way. Not enamored by the past, Nor by future thoughts aghast, I will walk by faith alone, Knowing You will lead me on. Changes come and changes go; This one thing I always know: God will ever hold my hand And take me to a better land. So, I will face uncertainty And let go of the past so sweet. Let years move on and changes come And know, in Christ, the race is won. *** EYEGLASSES ARE FOR LOOKING Eyeglasses are for looking, and ovens are made for cooking, We buy dryers to dry, planes are made to fly, and fishhooks made for hooking. Because they work, we buy them, when we get them, then we try them, If they don't perform, to the store we storm because we cannot use them. Christians are sent to witness, by a life of godly goodness. If in that we fail, one thing God can tell: we are completely useless. I will not change the whole world; but, I still can change my own world When I let Christ in and I live for Him, I will affect the known world. Oh, Father, may it please us to live all for Him who frees us To dispel sin's night with the gospel light and point the lost to Jesus. *** GRACE Before I met God, I met grace. With no hope, no, not a trace. Headed for a bleak eternity Due to sin’s success; But, grace found me. By that grace, I now have back my choice, By that grace, my ears have heard the voice, The voice that beckons, “Thirsty? come to me, Drink your fill and live eternally.” I came, I drank, I live only in Him, And ev’ry day, I live to drink again, Choosing to abide where life’s restored: Trusting and obeying Christ my Lord. Nothing else asunder could us part, Grace will finish what grace once did start, As I choose to let God have His way, Grace will lead me to that endless day. *** HE'LL PUT LIFE TOGETHER AGAIN Your life may be shattered, the glow may be gone, the whole in complete disarray, But, the Father of mercies is anxious to put your life back together, today. If you care at all, rest assured of his call it's His grace that reveals you need Him. Let the Lord have His way, beginning today, And he'll put life together again. *** HOME My home may not be fancy, its decor may not be grand; But, there is one awaiting me over in a distant land That's furnished with the finest of all I'd ever dream And it is being special-made, ev'ry window, door and beam. Oh, I could take the money and buy the things I see To make my home a showcase; Then, all might envy me. Yet, my desire in living does not consist of things That I can buy and store down here to show the world my gain: Far greater is my treasure that God is giving free And I am storing up in heaven the best He has for me. So, do not think I have it bad, for I have all I need I'm only living here a while; for, soon I hope to leave To go and live, forever, in my home that is prepared By my loving heavenly Father with all its treasures fair. --Elizabeth J. Muncie August 16, 1984 *** ONE HOLY UNION I am a member of one holy union, The Church of God and the Body of Christ. Saved from my sin to serve Him in this gath’ring, Giving myself as a sweet sacrifice. Without my brothers and sisters, I’m nothing, I cannot be what He wants us to be. Give me your heart and your hand: let’s go forward To be the Church God has called us to be. Filled with the Spirit, we’re one mighty army, Building the Kingdom as we serve the Lord, Each of us doing our best for the Master, Loving and living, here, in one accord. Don’t let me go alone: I need you with me. We’ll help each other as God grants us grace. Faithful in trial and triumph, we’ll march on, Lay down the Cross when we see Jesus’ face. Sometimes, the thrill of the quest may be lacking, Oft’, it may seem we are serving for nought; Yet, when our service is faithful and loving, We’ll see the glory of what God hath wrought. All of our loving and helping each other, Priceless in God’s sight, will be for our gain; So, we continue our lives in well doing,’ Knowing our service will not be in vain. *** WHEN WE FIRST GO TO OUR KNEES In the times of fearful trial, when the fiercest foe we face, Grant us wisdom, in those hours, first to seek a quiet place Where, in prayer, we talk to You, and yielding all of self to Thee, Once again, we find the power to go forth in victory. In the times of deepest joy, when life’s thrills we celebrate, Grant us wisdom, in those hours, first to thank You, then to wait For the guidance of the Spirit, that, in joy, we leave You not; But remember all we have comes only from what grace has wrought. In the times of boring sameness, when life seems to go nowhere, Grant us wisdom, in those hours, oft’ to seek Your face in prayer, That we miss no divine moments when we may do good for You, But, stay instant in your service, ready all Your will to do. Whatever life’s circumstances, they need not be faced alone: Father God, the Lord Almighty, waits to help us get it done. He is Master, we’re His people: it is Him we live to please, And the victory is certain when we first go to our knees. |
TO MAKE ETERNITY’S BED
A man may say, "Ah, life is long; so, for a while, I'll sing my song, Pleasure to myself I'll bring: I am free to do my thing." Yet, while he lays earth's goods in store, death is knocking at his door. A man may wish a second chance to lay aside earth's short romance, To build with God a lasting hope, ere breaks life's taut and fraying rope; Yet, just from now 'til death can we lay up goods for eternity. A man may wish to never be partaker of eternity, To quit existing when he dies; but, one must eat the food he buys And so, the bed we make is ours to sleep on, be it nails or flowers. *** WORKING TOGETHER Some time ago, one summer day, this pastorate we began, to fill the call the church gave me to be your shepherd-friend. Seeking the lost, guiding the saved, the days have gone so fast it seems but yesterday I came; yet, years and years have passed. Some have come to know the Lord and some have strayed away and some of you have grown so much in Christianity. I wish and work that you might know the fullness of God's love; that life Abundant may be yours here and in heav'n above. The years have gone so rapidly: soon this life will be done; eternity will call to see if we have lost or won. Church member, neighbor or just friend, don't turn Jesus away: our time is passing rapidly; salvation come today. Give up yourself to Jesus Christ and join us as we wait; walk with us, here in this world, now; someday, through heaven's gate. *** I REST MYSELF IN THEE Not that I should be acclaimed a hero by the press Nor that, as a pulpiteer, I rank among the best; But, O Lord, I would be pleased by one answer to prayer: Whate'er your will be for my life, may I be always there. I won't always please the throng as by your hand I'm led; Following You, I may not have a place to lay my head; but, when I am asked by men, "Have you a friend? A home?" May Jesus be my Friend, my Rest, my Shelter from the storm. All I have I give to You, Yourself You give to me: God and man, both hand-in-hand for all eternity. I'll not fear the world's disdain nor earthly poverty: You are my Portion and my Cup: I rest myself in Thee. *** THANKS FOR THE BLESSINGS God has poured out, abundantly, His blessings on my way; His acts of love and grace so great continue to this day. It would be tragic, should I choose to act like I don't see That all these blessings from above are sent from Him to me. He only asks that I obey and willingly confess My thanks to Him for what He does; and, how could I do less? He takes care of my needs each day, for body, soul, and mind. I'll thank and praise Him with my life, My Father, God, so kind. *** OUR PLACE OF SERVICE Were we to choose the place, oh, Lord, where we would like to tell of your great love and power to save from sin and death and hell, Most likely all of us would choose a place where we could please the cravings of our earthly self and live a life of ease; But, then so many would not hear and none would know the way this Gift of Love can bring us through life's battles, day by day. Lord, we pray not for lives of ease; but, send us out to serve, and may we, in temptation's hour, ne'er from our mission swerve. Where'er our lot in life is cast, may we proclaim Your Name, with joy in knowing Who we serve forever is the same. May we not seek our rest on earth from which we'll go shortly; but, may we work until we find our rest in heav'n with Thee. *** UNSEEN FRIEND I walk a country road alone on a chilly winter day, looking for some sign of life to tell me spring is on the way. A sound breaks forth, I bend to see a creature in the grass and find foxtail rustling as the wind through it does pass. I walk the lonely road of life through the chilly winter years, looking for a friend to share all my sorrows and my fears. A sound breaks forth, I turn to find companionship, a friend; with human eyes, I must conclude, "Oh, it is just the wind. "My spirit warms within me and, at once, I come to know 'tis not the wind: the Holy Spirit surrounds me as I go. Now, ever-present, as the wind, although my eyes cannot see; I'm not alone: through all my days the Spirit walks with me, To keep me, guide me, walk with me, keep me safe from ev'ry foe, open one door, shut another, when the way I cannot know, Representing Jesus to me, bringing that for which Christ died; oh, what comfort, what a joy to have the Spirit at my side. *** A VALENTINE FOR SINNERS Some folks say love occurs when we are hit by pointed arrows from a little guy named Cupid. Most of us would joke of getting shot; but, 'though the idea is fun to think, we agree it's really stupid. Some folks think we are far out when we discuss our beliefs of how love came to be; But, faith and experience erase our doubts: we experienced love when we placed our faith in Jesus' death on Calvary. It isn't little arrows pricking us that stir us from our selfishness, fellowman and God to love; It is a thorny crown, a cruel cross, a spear, shedding the Precious Blood of the Savior who came from above. *** SECURITY Although the storms of life may rage, the waves of sin beat on my bow, I'll not be driven off my course, I'm anchored firm to Jesus, now. I'm done with sin: in Christ I find the map to guide me right; And I've no fear of getting lost: I'm sailing always with the Light. The wind that blows some boats ashore and often makes brave seamen wail Is taking me to heaven's shore, since Jesus Christ has set my sail. If I will merely follow Him and with my heart His will obey, Though great may be the storms of life, I'll find myself at home, someday. *** SONRISE Evening comes, I see the sun set, sinking quickly in the west; Daylight fading, night descending: seems life's best is in the past. Golden sunset, sure reminder that the day is all but gone: How I wish to hold on to it; but, in time, it marches on. Yet, ere long, once more it rises with more glory now, it seems, Giving life, creating beauty as it sheds its golden beams. On a cross, I see the Son die, passing from this life, from me; My hopes fading, doubt descending: how can this possibly be? Bleeding body, sure reminder that His life is all but gone: How I wish to keep Him with me; but, the damage has been done. Yet, ere long, we see the Son rise; death defeated, now He lives And, to those abiding in Him, Life abundant, now, He gives. In a cloud, I see the Son go, clearly taken from my sight; How I long to see Him touch Him, have Him lead me in the light. Sin around me, sure reminder that the darkness has set in: I can only grasp His promise that He's coming back again. Yet, ere long, we shall behold Him; by His side we'll take our place, Glorified with Him, forever we shall see Him, face-to-face. *** CONFIDENCE Every trial has a triumph, Every woe a wonder brings, Every hurt makes us more happy, When we trust the King of kings. *** FATHER, LEAD ME Father, lead me in your ways 'til I've come through life's short night; Should I try to find my own way, I would never see the light. Father, be my Providence: feed and clothe me day by day; With the rod of Thy correction, chasten, lest I go astray. Father, let your grace surround me; never let me think that I Could succeed without your guidance, or so much as just get by. Father, you have always loved me; I am kept by your own hand. Be Provider, Leader, Father, 'til I reach the Promised Land. *** VICTORY Whate'er would be opposing me as I run in this race, I'll not waste time concerned that it might make me lose my place. God gives me pow'r, through Jesus Christ, to win, whate'er it takes; So, consequent to this, you see, the foe no diff'rence makes. Though armies of the darkness should oppose me to life's end, My plan to overcome the world I never will amend. The vict'ry is provided through Christ's Blood all-powerful And nothing Satan tries to do can make me fail at all. For, Jesus Christ has overcome the world and all its sin; Through His work, with my hand in His, the victory I win. *** STOP A WHILE AND COUNT WITH ME Please, stop a while and count with me the good things you enjoy, Think of all the blessings we unknowingly employ: Things God gives to make life grand which we don't seem to see; So, pause in this Thanksgiving time and praise God's Name with me. "For jobs? 'Tis such a common thing to work the livelong day. What's so special 'bout a job? You work for all your pay." What if health was not so good and jobs were hard to find? 'Twould make the blessings of your job more easily defined. Oft' blessings aren't recognized as blessings 'til they're missed; We should be most thankful we can use a grocery list. Thank God for the privilege of working through the week; The old grind keeps you solvent, if it's not your mountain peak! "For school? 'It bores me half to death!' we've said with quite a smirk." Yet, life is much fuller when our schooling precedes work. We could live where schools are nil and childhood's time is free; But, likely such an ignorance would gain us slavery. "For home and family? Why be thankful for house and folk? Work involved in having kin ofttimes seems a bad joke." But, remove that close-knit bunch we call our family And it will not take long to see how lonely life can be. Oft' home and family aren't seen as blessings very dear; But, our thanks should be expressed for friends always so near. Disagreements will spring up, opinions will abide; But, when you need them to stand by, they'll be there, at your side. "Other friends? They're incidental: by chance pals come to be; Their lives have such small effect on what happens to me." Take the burdens of this life with no friends who will share The heartaches and triumphs of life: You'll wish you had friends there. Oft' good friends aren't recognized as blessings when they're 'round; Yet, they're the ones who will help you up when you are down. Some will fail, some move away, by death others will go; But, friends are one of those great helps which God's grace lets us know. "For Uncle Sam, with politics creating such a stench, Taxes high, inflation wild my budget in a pinch?" Live somewhere a while where men can't say what they think's wrong, You'll come back home with diff'rent thoughts, singing a thankful song. Oft' blessings aren't recognized as blessings when they're here. Youth, be thankful you must toil nine months of ev'ry year; If applied, once it is learned, the knowledge you receive Will do much, in your future years, life's pressures to relieve. Oft' adverse talk o'ershadows all the good side of our land; But, let's praise God that, here, He still lets freedom stand. Brag on her when she is right, help guide her when she's not: I love America the Free; with her, I cast my lot. "For church: that place where we're to go at least one day each week? I can stay at home and see some better preachers speak." Call those men when crises come and knock you off your perch: They'll be a little hard to find; you'll finally call the church. Oft' church is unimportant when life goes without a snag: Being there and helping out is thought of as a drag. It's high time we let God's grace rekindle our lost zeal; Then, we'll fulfill our task and see God's church still has appeal. We've paused a while and thought of things which merit thankfulness. May we now give honest thanks: how could we e'er do less? Then, let's use these gifts in ways all pleasing in God's sight, So that His final gift may be a place where there's no night. *** 'TWAS A SUNDAY IN SUMMER ‘Twas a Sunday in summer and, all through God’s house, Few creatures were stirring but the pastor and spouse; For, many had taken vacations that day And others chose, simply, to stay home and play. Then, at once, in the church, there arose such a clatter; that the few there were stirred to see what was the matter, Expecting nothing to happen at all, they were surprised completely as a sense of great awe Settled down on the church and the folks who were there, Knew a fresh wind was blowing: it was everywhere! The Spirit of God did descend on the place And His glory could be seen on most every face, And those who had chosen to seek God that July Found He takes no vacations and that, friend, is why, If we’re not on the road to some faraway land We ought to be gathered, again and again, With the people of God, spring, summer or fall, Or even in winter-- oh, yes, through it all; For, the times of refreshing are all in God’s power, And His Presence can come any day, any hour; It is only and always our business to be Prepared for His Presence to fall on you and me. For , He can’t bless us if we’re not in our pew: So, next Sunday, dear friend, I’ll be looking for you! *** A SUMMERTIME POEM Sometime in spring, ‘bout the first week of June, Vacation time comes and it can’t come too soon; For the winter’s been long and the labor intense And we have to get out where the sunlight can rinse All our troubles away and give us a rest From the job and the school; so, we head south or west. It’s not that we’re all gone the whole summer through; But, most folks are gone for a month, maybe two, And before we would think it, the summer is done And we go back to work at the things left undone, Either school or the job and the churchwork and choir And we pray for a new touch of heavenly fire. This message is brought by the folks of First Naz, Where the pews are all padded and one of them has A place for your person and we long to see A great reuniting of the whole family, Aware that the summer will end sometime soon And folks will get back where they all were till June. This is not complaining: we all need to go And vacation in Florida, Maine or Ohio; But, we’ve said all this so you’ll hear when we say, “When you’re back from vacation, please don’t stay away; For, you need the church and we long to see you Worship God with us here in your favorite pew. *** I STAND IN AWE OF CHRISTMAS DAY I stand in awe of Christmas Day when I take time to pull away From thoughts of gifts received and given to think of one gift sent from heaven. To think that God, so far above us mortal men, reached down in love And let His Son be born to man: oh, what a gift, oh, what a plan To bring us back into His care from ev’ry race, from ev’rywhere. The depth of this love God has shown cannot, by mortal man, be known; But, I accept His love so free and praise Him, that it is for me. “Glory to God,” I must exclaim, “I worship You, exalt Your Name.” I take your peace, accept your grace: Lord, make my heart your dwelling place. *** IN LOVE WITH JESUS, FOREVER I’LL BE Oh, what a Savior: Oh, hallelujah. How could I help but love my dear Lord. Sweeter than heaven, closer than brothers, What else but grace could such comfort afford. When we were enemies, far from His purpose, He died to redeem us, save us from sin. Through His Atonement, Life's gates are opened: All who will trust Him may now enter in. Man chose rebellion, lost his election, Found his reward was death, hell and the grave. God's love responded with boundless mercy, Sending His own Son, a lost world to save. He is my Lord, for He has redeemed me: I who was hopelessly lost now am free From all the shackles of shame and destruction. In love with Jesus, forever I'll be. *** I'D LIKE TO GO TO HEAVEN WITH YOU The highway to heaven is narrow, and the travelers upon it are few; But, the pilgrims thereon are headed for home and I’d like to go to heaven with you. Many people go different directions, not heeding what God wants us to do; But, I’ve chosen the straight way with the narrow gate and I’d like to go to heaven with you. This highway, the highway of holiness, is the only one going all the way through To the beautiful gates where our Savior awaits and I’d like to go to heaven with you. You graciously call me your pastor, I would be a friend to you, too; But, your battle is lost if you don’t pay the cost And I can’t go to heaven with you. Talk not of tomorrow’s intentions: today, be made holy and true And let God’s keeping power keep you every hour; for, I’d like to go to heaven with you. BRING YOUR SELF AND SINS TO JESUS Bring your self and sins to Jesus, Cast your load of guilt on Him; You will find His Blood sufficient: He will save you from your sin. He, with open arms, is standing, Reaching out to bring you in To the safety of His Presence Where real living must begin. If you want life at its fullest And if Heaven is your goal, All you want is found in Jesus: Come and let Him save your soul. Then, among the ranks of Blood-bought, Holy people take your place And you'll marvel at the beauty Of God's holiness and grace. *** I WANT TO LIVE TO PLEASE HIM I want to live to please the One who knows all about me. There is no act or word or thought which He can't plainly see; And my desire is not to walk just so the world will say I'm a good man. I would please my Lord in every way. Past the stage of fear and dread of angering my Lord, His perfect love has cast out fear, put us in one accord I know He loves me. I love Him. His love makes joy bells ring And draws me to want to live to please Him more than anything. So, daily, lead me, Lord, to pray this simple, servant prayer Wanting most to please you at all times and everywhere, May all my words and all my thoughts be pleasing in your sight;" You saved my soul and made me whole: for you I would live right! *** IN THE ARMY OF GOD It's a brief stint we do in the Army of God, As we man the big guns in the battle for souls. What we do while we fight in the army of light will have lasting effects while eternity rolls. We could sleep at our post, we could boycott the cause and help strengthen the stand and position of sin Or take what's in our hand and take back all the land for the forces of God. We can win! We can win! Why should we be content to go down in defeat When the weapons we need are right here in our hand. We can pray and believe, live for God and receive All we need to effectively, faithfully stand. There's a world to be won and a Judgment to come, There's a devil to fight and a God to obey. Since we have all we need to wage war and succeed, Let us join in the fight 'til God's Homecoming Day. *** ONE HOUR WITH THEE One hour with Thee, in prayer spent, in spirit talk to heaven sent, Will do more good than if, all day, without prayer time, I work or play. Why is it then, so hard to take ten minutes when I'm wide awake To be in fellowship divine with Him who's Lord of all my time? For lack of discipline, I fight the whole day long and half the night To do halfway what, with God's power, I could do right in half an hour. Oh self, please learn the discipline of how to fight and how to win And ere each day leads anywhere, take time to talk to God in prayer. *** QUIET OLD HUNTIN’ HOUND He was a quiet old huntin' hound, Not at all showy, not making much sound, "While others were barking loud and long, He quietly brought the rabbit home. No showy tail-wagging, No canine fanfare: He thought it his task to bring home the hare. And people, sometimes, may pretend to so much of wisdom and knowledge, experience and such; But, count that one wisest who quietly lives, What the boastful professes but oft' never gives. *** GRACE FOR EVERY NEED The Lord desires your life to bless; but, He awaits to hear your, "Yes." Only when you allow Him to can He really begin to do The work He's planned for your own good in hopes you soon and surely would Submit to Him and walk His way so all your sins He'd take away. Now, no words further need be spent: be willing and obedient And from God's throne there will proceed grace to meet your every need. *** THE MORE I LIVE AS JESUS The more I live as Jesus lived, the less I have to be concerned about the ill effects and awful tragedy which may evolve from what I do, and what I think and say; So, if I want to make the most of each and ev’ry day, I’ll discipline myself, each day, to live as Jesus would and rejoice in the harvest of the seeds of right and good. *** THE ROAD TO HOME Many are the hills and valleys of this road I travel on, Oftentimes, through raging rivers, oft' through desert heat I've gone. Sometimes frightened, sometimes weary, sometimes trav'ling all alone, I've heard voices from the wayside, "Come, settle here: your journey's done." But, I hurry ever onward, with joyful heart, I move along. My heart can see the journey's end: I'm walking on the road to home. *** THE WORLD MAY NEVER KNOW The world may never know your name, proclaim you prince or king, The newspapers may take no note that you have done a thing, The heralds of this world's triumphs may not your praises sing; But, you can be outstanding in your service to the King. Do right in the sight of God and follow Him each day, Trust Him wholly with your life, lead others in His way. And when you've finished living here your tributes will begin, And souls will thank the LORD that you have helped them make it in. *** TO KNOW YOU TRADED HEAV'N FOR HELL To know you traded streets of gold for dungeons dark, of depths untold, To know you gave eternal bliss just to enjoy sin's fleeting kiss then find the kiss a deadly sting that robbed your soul of everything, of beauty, purpose, peace and grace That will make hell an awful place. You'll try to drive it from your mind; but, it will haunt you all the time and say, "O fool, you did so well: you traded heav'n for a place in hell." *** TO LIVE THAT DYING LIFE Flaming orange and yellow leaves adorned our maple days ago. Spectacle of Westwood Lane: it really put on quite a show. The same tree's been there all along and no one seemed to see. The green old tree at twelve-nineteen was just another tree; Summer ended, fall frosts fell, the leaves began to turn And, for a moment, brilliantly, her fire would brightly burn. I've thought a lot about that tree: its leaves are gone today; But, in living and dying I want to be that way. She's noticed not for how she lives, But, more for how she dies. And life will come again next spring Ere the newborn robin flies. In dying, we may live again And that eternally, And in our dying to this life We can shine brilliantly. I want to live that dying life of Christ and let his glory shine And bless my world and find His life eternally is mine. *** WE WILL NOT OUTLOVE THE LORD How sad the Savior must have felt when o'er Jerusalem He knelt and wept that when He would gather round her children, she had turned Him down. How broken His heart must have been knowing He did condescend to earth to love us everyone; yet, of His love we would have none. I'm glad He treats us not the same, but, from sin calls us out by name and, when we dare to heed His call, He throws His arms around us all. Ne'er a person loved the Son but that the love was well-returned. to give our all we can afford; for, we will not outlove the Lord. *** WHAT A TREASURE Oh, what a treasure in this life I found when I found the Savior Divine: Treasure much greater than all of earth's riches, riches meant to be mine. "Whate'er the cost, I must make it mine," I cried as the first time I saw; Then the Spirit convinced me, "This treasure is yours, if only you will give your all. Not that your all can these riches afford, but, through Jesus the offer now stands: Eternal life in abundance is yours, your all is all His love demands." Years have now passed since I sold all to buy this treasure so much underpriced; I ne'er will be sorry I sold all to buy the eternal Kingdom of Christ. *** WE WILL SEE THE SPRING AGAIN When the snow has shut us in, When we hear the cold north wind, It's hard to imagine spring And all the life its warmth will bring. It is tempting to shut down And wait 'til good times come around; But, the great thrill in being true to God is that He'll bring us through And, once again, the Son will shine, and warm this weary heart of mine. And we'll exult, with joy sublime, we made it through the winter time. We are going to survive, God and His Church are still alive And though the times of trouble come, We are going to make it home. So, come and join us on our trip in the good old Gospel Ship; For, if in snow or a warm day, It's good to travel in God's Way. *** THE BIBLE 'Though Moses died, God's Word remains. His promise stands, though people change. To have His best, one thing we need, To know His Word and that Word heed. There is no mortal whom we owe our thanks for showing where to go. But, we have the immortal Word to lead us on in life and good. So, let us be a people led by all the Words which God has said: Let's study, learn and heed the Book, which has the words God's people took To heart and learned to live with power: the Bible, God's Word for this hour. Let's read it, study ev'ry day and talk about it on our way, Memorize, its truths apply; for, it will lead us home on high. No substitute will e'er be found: God's Word is still our solid ground. *** HE WILL BEAR YOUR EVERY BURDEN In the midst of the confusion of the race we all are in, Always busy with our schedules 'til our nerves are wearing thin, Plagued by heartaches, disillusioned when our lives don't go as planned, God is reaching down to help us with His gentle, loving hand. We still need God in Floyd County and the area round about, When we're feeling good about life, when we're feeling down and out: In our homes and in our schoolrooms, on the job and everywhere, The best way to face life, daily, is to know that God is here, Living not just in our church at six-o-two West Market Street; But, abiding in our hearts and giving us His peace so sweet. God is still the only Answer, He's the need for every man: He will bear your every burden if you'll let Him live within. *** HE’LL PUT LIFE TOGETHER AGAIN Your life may be shattered, the glow may be gone, the whole in complete disarray, But, the Father of mercies is anxious to put your life back together, today. If you care at all, rest assured of his call it's His grace that reveals you need Him. Let the Lord have His way, beginning today, And he'll put life together again. *** DEATH IS, TO SOME, A BITTER PILL Death is, to some, a bitter pill which they would fight with all their will for, darkness waits them: all they see is hopelessness, eternally; for sin has gained the upper hand and left no rock on which to stand and all they have is awful dread of going where go all the dead. Death is, to some, an unknown thing: no expectations do they bring when, at life's end, they make the turn and cross death's waters: then they learn that day for which they never cared has caught them quickly, unprepared. And so, for now, they pay no heed do not respond to their real need; they are convinced life's finest way is just to live it up today. Death is, to some, a triumph sweet from broken heart and aching feet, from battles fought and labors long; but, in their hearts, they sang the song of life and final victory through Jesus' death on Calvary. I've known some folks who lived and died with their faith in the Crucified, and never did they have to fear when they grew weak and death drew near. A bitter pill, an unknown thing or triumph sweet? How does death seem? When we have put our faith in Christ, when we believe His Blood sufficed to take away death's awful sting, then we have every right to sing; for, we are free, though once a slave to death and sin, hell and the grave. *** HEAVENLY LIFE OR HELL We have heard the wondrous story of a perfect land somewhere Where there are no tears or sorrows, no more burdens, no more fear. We've heard it told and some have turned from sin to live up there; But, by their living, some have proved they really do not care About a place where we will live with Jesus ever near: They seem to think they have it made with what they have down here. We are so blessed; and yet, at best, earth's goods last 'til we die. The only way to remain blest is to store up goods on high. The way is clear and while we're here the whole truth we must tell. Now is the day to make your way to heavenly life or hell. *** BRANDON’S SONG We lost our child and grandson at the bright young age of four. He was so full of life; but, death came crashing through the door And, suddenly, our world blew up and Brandon Scott was gone And we are left to find our way, somehow keep going on. If I could only see him, now, from heaven’s clearer view, As he meets Jesus and ancestors whom he never knew, I’d see he’s whole and healthy and he's smiling, doing well And taking time, with those he meets, of life’s short days to tell: Of Oreos with Mamaw and those Bible Story books, Of tractor rides with Papaw and his frequent dreamy looks At turkey tails and big buck heads hung up on Daddy’s wall, And how he planned to hunt with Dad when he got big and tall. Death came along and robbed him of those opportunities; Our hearts are broken that he’s gone; but, we get on our knees And thank the Lord we know our boy’s in Jesus’ company And everything He wants is His for all eternity. So, when I see the stars at night, all twinkling in the sky, I’ll think of little Brandon, wipe the teardrops from my eye, Renew my vows to trust in Christ until the crown I win And think, someday, by God’s great grace, we’ll see our boy again. *** BY THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD By the Presence of the Lord living in my life, I will be what He wants me to be. Walking in the Spirit, abiding in His love, I will live so all the world may see Jesus make a diff’rence when He lives within, Saving us and keeping us from sin Enabling us to live our lives as Jesus, in this world, So the lost, to Jesus, we can win. This is where the joy lies, where the life begins, Where I find the strength like Him to be. Christlike life is normal, victory assured When Jesus Christ himself lives within me. *** COMMITMENT Commitment is not a four-letter word: It is not nasty, it is not absurd. If you have a real job or bowl on a league, You keep your engagements, don't mind the fatigue. How is it then proper, if heaven is real, To stay home from church whenever you will And only engage in the work of the Lord When you feel like you want to or there's earthly reward? Your most-beloved pleasure may seem so sublime; And your most-valued treasure will command your time; But, for eternal treasure, beyond any price, Let's commit to the work of the Kingdom of Christ! ***FROM THIS MOMENT Once a woman, proven sinner, caught red-handed in her sin, Brought to Jesus, stood and trembled: Guilty, she was at her end; But, the Savior, rich in mercy, asked, “Who’s sinless among you? Let him cast the first stone at her.” They all left till only two Were remaining, she and Jesus, Sinless God and sinner there. She, condemned, expected harshness: Something else was in the air. Unaware the man before her did not come here to condemn, She awaited final judgment, payment for her mortal sin. “Woman, where are your accusers? Is no one condemning you?” She said, “No man, Lord,” and looked up to see what this man would do. I do not condemn you, either: Go, and do not sin again.” Up she sprang in awe, forgiv’n, though sin had nearly done her in. Was she saved to keep on sinning? Nothing’s further from the facts: Saved from sin’s destructive power, Forgiv’n, empowered for holy acts, We are saved to quit our sinning, live a holy life of trust. We have heard the Savior calling to a life of righteousness. It is time to quit all sinning heed the call to holiness, Make God our consuming passion, Give our all and nothing less. Sin portrays itself so friendly; Yet, it caused our Lord to die. It most surely still is our foe: Holiness is, thus, our cry. Wherever the past has led you, whatever your sin and shame, From this moment, cleansed, forgiven, live to glorify Christ’s Name. *** ETERNAL CHRIST From ages unknown, when God was alone, it was Father and Spirit and Son. When the heaven’s were made, earth’s foundation was laid, the Trinity lived, Three-in-One. When the serpent was cursed, when the Law was dispersed, Messiah was alive and well. He was dWelling with God when the Israelites trod ‘round the city and Jericho fell. He was living that day, in a manger of hay, when his parents heard Magi boldly proclaim His infinite worth, and He walked on this earth to heal and lift us from our shame. Then, He went to the Cross and we counted it loss that the Son of the Most High had died; For, He then breathed His last and we figured He’d passed, from this world to the dark, other side. But, that bright Sunday morn, we learned hell’s gates were torn from their moorings and we were set free From the fear of the grave because Jesus could save from all sin: He had won the vict’ry. Now, the years have gone by: men continue to die In a world where sin prospers so well. Sometimes, people have said, “We’re sure God is dead and the victors are the forces of hell;” But, the Christ who was slain, who endured all our pain is still living and saving from sin. He will live in your heart, His life to impart if you only will let Him come in. *** GRADUATION DAY When the last class of my life has ended, when the last bell has finally rung, When the last test is finally finished, my homework is ev'ry bit done, When I march up to take my diploma, in my crown and robe of pure white, Rejoicing I thirsted for knowledge and happy I walked in the Light, They may not say, "Magna cum laude;" but, honor my portion will be: The Spirit of God is my teacher-- I've been taught for eternity. If you have a high school diploma, or if you have a GED, A bach'lor's or master's from Harvard or some other, greater degree, Don't overlook ongoing learning you'll only get at Jesus' feet; And then, you can stand in the Judgment, with your education complete. *** I WILL PRESS ON! I enjoy my present state: Hope it gets me through the gate. Meanwhile, I’ll just sit and wait And trust to grace my future’s fate. Once, I professed the Christ as Lord. I trust that one act will afford A place inside the Eastern Gate; So, today, I sit and wait. Nothing much to do down here While at the eastern sky I stare. I don’t think I have moved an inch Since that day I was in a pinch And asked the Lord into my heart. Now, I hope He does His part And comes to get me out of here, Where I’ve been sitting, year by year. You say I ought to seek to rise, To grow in grace, to be more wise, More like my Lord from day to day: You say that is the Christian way. Well, pressing on is such a task, I’d rather sit around and ask The Lord to do it all for me So I can take life easily. O.K.; so, Christ endured the Cross, Emptied Himself and suffered loss Of all His glory and, if you please, E’en His life; so, how can ease Be justified to be my lot? Can I be satisfied with not Striving to be all I can be For Him who gave Himself for me? I will press on to take a hold On things of God, worth more than gold, To be more like my Lord, my King, Forsaking all to gain one thing, The prize for which God calls to me, His love for all eternity! *** THERE IS A GOD There is a God whose awesome power in our lives may be known, A power to meet life's obstacles and always overcome. We know that power as we know Him, as we walk by faith alone And keep on overcoming 'til someday, He calls us home. *** WHEN MY LIFE ON EARTH IS OVER When my life on earth is over and this earthly race is run, when the judgment call is given and eternity begun, when the godless and the godly bow their knees before the Son, I'll be pleased to hear him saying, "Welcome home, my child. Well done! You abhorred the sin of others and you fled when sin came near, you would not sit with apathy, but, in living, made it clear, you were driv'n by love for Jesus coupled with a godly fear: you have run the race with patience; now the reck'ning day is here. "Welcome home, my faithful servant: now the joys of heaven are thine! all of heaven is open to you and to all those of like mind who agreed to be like Jesus and refused to just pass time, but desired with all their being to be like their Lord Divine. ***WHY DOES GRANDPA GET OLDER? They tell me it's your birthday, Grandpa; You look just as young to me As you have since I remember, Since when I was two or three. I have wondered why you're older And it may not be a fact; But, I've come up with some answers which are pretty near exact: It's working hard and loving us and helping like you do And worrying about us when we're far away from you. And we suppose you wouldn't want it any other way. So, since you're growing older, Have a wonderful Birthday! *** Peace I sit alone in autumn woods, perched high up in a walnut tree. I scan the ground for furry brown and it does not appear to me; Yet, all is well, for in this dell: for hours on end, my troubles cease And I enjoy, without alloy, the purity of nature’s peace. The babbling brook, the chirping wren, the walnuts falling from the tree, A barking squirrel, a hooting owl, The sound of breathing: oh, that’s me. I prize these hours of solitude, far from the rush I often face, I’m glad I get to know the peace of being in this quiet place. But, often in my business I cannot find the wooded glen And nature’s peace is far away from all the noise I’m living in; Yet, I have found a deeper peace that keeps me in the storm and fray And helps me cope with steadfast hope that I will make it through the day. When life demands a hectic pace, and waves of troubles round me roll, The peace of Christ, from deep within, wells up within my weary soul. And, in the midst of busy days My heart at peace, my spirit sings; For, through it all, He lives within And lifts me as on eagle’s wings Robert W. Muncie 10/5/2017 *** The Way to Take I took a role in my high school play; It was a part with many words to say. I never cracked the script till op'ning day: That was too late to practice or to pray. I hoped to use my script and fool the crowd But, I soon learned that this was not allowed. Desp'rate now, I hoped to run away; But, Teacher had my name: I'd have to pay. Then, trapped and doomed, I woke up from my dream, Greatly relieved life was not as it seemed. I likely had just eaten the wrong thing And yet, I knew, at once, what this could mean: For all of us, there'll be a Judgment Day; 'Twill be too late to practice or to pray. Repent! Prepare! Take Jesus Christ today; For, Jesus is the Life, the Truth, the Way. Ere long, our race on this earth will be o'er; Eternity will be forevermore. It is no dream from which you can awake: God's way through Jesus is the way to take. Robert W. Muncie 10/5/2021 |