For His Glory 5y1a2c

For His Glory

BEVERLY LARSEN

Copyright © 2014 by Beverly Larsen.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014920740 ISBN: Hardcover Softcover eBook

978-1-5035-1837-7 978-1-5035-1838-4 978-1-5035-1839-1

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Rev. date: 11/21/2014

Xlibris 1-888-795-4274 www.Xlibris.com 686715

Contents

The Gift Of Poetry

Acknowledgements

Chapter One – Gift Of Poetry

Far Beyond

Get Up And Face The Day

Good Morning, God

One Flame The Trinity

Chapter Two – Special People

Daddy At The Bridge

My John

Daughter Deborah

The Special Friend Buffy

Little Man, The Therapy Cat

Fellowship

Chapter Three – Love And Marriage

Your Love Matters

A Loving Mate

Marriage A New Trinity

Heirs

Dear Mom-To-Be

Give And Forgive

Throw The Stones Away

Let Your Wounds Heal

Wisdom Is

The Path Of Life Together

Chapter Four – Your Children

Sisters And Brothers

I Am Your Child

Thank You, God

If I Could

The Fork In The Road

Uppy Do, Daddy

His Children

I Said, He Said

Chapter Five – Pain And Suffering

Share Your Burden

God, Come To Me

The Purpose Of Pain And Healing

Infirmity

Chapter Six – His Will Be Done

Your Way

Let Me Know Your Will

If He Wills

Free Will

Almost

The Magic Words

Chapter Seven – Trust In God

Trust

The Hitchhiker

The Living Water

Ship And Anchor

Be Still

The Oak And The Willow

The Good Shepherd

Wilderness

Worry

Chapter Eight – Prayers And Protection

How We Need You

Temptation

The Enemy

My Prayer

Pray For Strength

Chapter Nine – Blessing And Praise

Bless This Home

Feel The Peace Of God

I Want

Hear Me

My Ecstasy

The Great Maestro

Chapter Ten – Humility And Pride

Humility And Pride

Take Pride

Blind In Heart

The Poor Rich Man

Let Me

Chapter Eleven – Wisdom

Why

Life

Wisdom

Lord, Tell Us

The Different Star

Which One Are You?

I Must Not Fail

Father Knows Best

This Life An Illusion

Only God Knows The Future

Chapter Twelve – Redemption

Gethsemane

Your Blood

Christ, Our Champion

Jesus Did It All

Chapter Thirteen – Righteousness

The Seed

Communion

The Human Race

Grace

Jesus, The Winner

Righteousness

Chapter Fourteen – Treasures In Heaven

Good Deeds

The True Saints

Lifting Spirits

You Are Not Alone

The Treasure Chest

Chapter Fifteen – Home In Heaven

Voice Of An Unborn

The Starter Home

The Feast

The Recall

The Beginning And The End

The New Ark

Your Reality

Fulfillment

Millennium New Hope

Dreams Of The Heart

The Host Gift

The Gift of Poetry

A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church.

—1 Corinthians 12:7

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I wish to thank and credit the following people who, out of their love for God and their desire to serve Him, laid up treasures in heaven for all eternity. They offered and used their unique talents, for each one of them was given a gift by God so that, For His Glory, a book of handwritten poems could be transformed into a book of inspiration for all who will read it.

Deborah Cecere, who transcribed and used her computer skills to help compile the manuscript for publication. She has become more than just a friend. She is now a beloved daughter to me.

Paul Palmero, who did the photography and gave a visual picture for the people behind the book.

Stephanie Daniels, who did the artistic sketches that symbolized the chapter titles—they matched precisely to my vision.

And last but not least, John, my beloved husband of fifty-eight years, who handled the business and tied up all the loose ends to make this dream of publication a reality.

I wish to thank all who have read and encouraged me to publish these poems.

May all who will read this book be inspired to know that we are never alone and

we have access to God, who loves us all.

Bev Larsen

CHAPTER ONE

Gift of Poetry

Far Beyond

Far beyond imaginings, Far beyond all dreams. Far beyond accomplishments, Forged by earthly schemes.

See the goal of heaven, The final prize to win. Hidden now from mortal eyes, Eclipsed by mortal sin.

Fix your eyes on that unseen, To reach the final goal. Eternity as one with Him, The Father of our soul.

Get Up and Face the Day

When you wake up in the morning, And you’re lying there in bed, All kinds of negative thoughts Are running through your head.

Turn your thoughts first to God, Ask, “What is for me today? The sky is falling in on me I need You to show the way.” Get up and face the day.

Things look a little clearer When you’re standing on your feet. You see what is around you And can plan the tasks you meet.

God gave you a brain when you were born To use your whole life through.

And in that brain is a little channel For Him to come to you. Get up and face the day.

He will come if you will call And bring positivity not doubt. He will bring the light to you And the darkness will be driven out.

Turn on the light, tune into God, Listen to His voice. Don’t accept what the devil would say. You have both a mind and a choice. Get up and face the day.

Good Morning, God

Good morning, Lord Jesus I must plan my day Help me clean up the rubble That gets in my way.

Send your Spirit to help me To advise what should stay And what I should throw out To see clearer my way.

Hi, Holy Spirit! Am I glad to see You I need your strength For this day to get through.

Now let’s begin Where shall I start? What’s unimportant?

What is close to my heart?

I sure am glad You’re there at my call Or on my rear end I’m sure I would fall.

Thank you, Jesus and Spirit For seeing me through When you get back to heaven Say thanks to Dad too.

One Flame the Trinity

Behold, a burning birthday candle Its flame is burning bright. Take two unlit candles And hold all three together tight.

The one flame ignites the other two And add their power and might. Now all are burning three as one And magnify the light.

One lit candle was sent away To enlighten a gathering below. Igniting them all one by one The gathering began to glow.

It rolled back the darkness around it It spread throughout the room. And soon, where there was only darkness

Many flames would banish the gloom.

But soon the very first candle ascended To the other two. But sent back down the third lit candle To guide the others through.

The third candle burned among them Maintaining each weakening flame. And drew them back away from darkness Calling them each by name.

In time each candle would burn out Nothing was left behind. But the smoke ascended to meet the Trinity Our Redeemer there to find.

The Trinity is our Creator, Father Redeemer, Son, and Holy Ghost. Let our smoke be sweet with fragrance As we the Heavenly Host.

CHAPTER TWO

Special People

Daddy at the Bridge

The second person I want to see, When our Father calls me home, Is my beloved daddy To whom I dedicate this poem.

He was always there for me When things did not go right. I’d stand and watch at the bridge For him to come home at night.

I’d tell him all my troubles, My burdens I would lay down. We would often laugh together, And sometimes he would frown.

He would explain to me when I was wrong, Never to put me down. But to let me know why it was not wise,

And to make my judgment strong.

Sometimes kids do stupid things, And oh boy, I did my share. I want to tell him, “I’m sorry, Dad. And your wisdom was always there.”

He provided for my every need, I’d never need to fret. He would keep his promise, in his time, He never would forget.

Many good gifts would come from him, Though I had not always understood. Sometimes I didn’t realize, What was bad and what was good.

So now when I’m in my later years, Each day, wisdom I will gain. I want to say, “Thank you, I love you And I’m sorry when I caused you pain.”

So when I meet my Savior Jesus, He is the first one I want to see. The second person will be my daddy, At the bridge, he is waiting for me.

My John

Down to the dawn of history, Saint and sinner share your name. Yet when I speak of you, my love, Though fate not grant you fame.

It chimes a special meaning. A silver bell you’d ring. In the temple of my heart, John, Would I your praises sing.

I hear it spoken for another. Yet just one face I see. Though it has changed as years have ed, Since our love came to be.

Each line a road we traveled. We’ve come a long, hard way. Each lost hair a memory

Of a bright or cloudy day.

I look this day into your face, Youth I no longer see. But character fine and soul so fair Would inspire this love in me.

I know I’m growing older too, And wiser as years go on. But I will never show more wisdom Than the day I chose my John.

Daughter Deborah

We have a loving daughter Who lives so far away. We would like to see her often But she has little time to play.

Christ promised many sons and daughters To all who would follow His ways. We found another loving person Who wanted to brighten our days.

She wanted to fill that parental place As her own had ed away. So we both adopted each other In our hearts and family to stay.

God bless you, daughter Deborah We are here for you. We are your earthly mom and dad

Until our time on earth is through.

The Special Friend Buffy

My tide of life is ebbing out, Soon my days will end. And yet it never is too late, To find a new special friend.

Who sees the world as I do, One who is a lot like me. Who can envision the harvest before the blooms, Whose imagination would be free.

My need was there, God saw a way, And sent me the one I needed. To brighten my day and rekindle the fire, In this, someone special succeeded.

Days will come, and days will go, But this I know is true. God had sent me that special friend,

The day that I met you.

Little Man, the Therapy Cat

He is an orange-and-white tabby Neither skinny nor fat But there is something special About this loving cat.

He knows just what I’m feeling There is no doubt of that His mission in life is to be Granny’s therapy cat.

Brushing up and down beside me As I lie down to rest He does his special “cat scan” It’s something he does best.

He knows the spot that hurts the most That is where he will lie And start his little engine purring

Be it night or middle of the day.

God knew what He was doing When He sent my furry friend Just stroking his goose down chest fur Helps the pain and stress to end.

The unconditional love he gives Always brings peace and joy The name he was given is Little Man But he is granny’s little boy.

Thank you, God, for our animal friends They make our day complete For they can turn a bitter day Into cotton-candy sweet.

I hope that God created a special place Where our furry friends can be There for us to cuddle and pet Throughout all eternity.

Fellowship

Fellowship is a golden chain, Around the neck of Jesus.

Forged to circle, to be carried, On the shoulders of He who freed us.

Each of us, a golden link, To hold on to another.

With purity and strength combined, To secure and our brother.

And at the end, a strong, safe clasp, To make the chain complete.

And to hold the links together, One is assigned the pastoral feat.

But we all must hold on to each other, As on God’s path we trod.

For the necklace must be unbreakable, As it’s worn by the Son of God.

CHAPTER THREE

Love and Marriage

Your Love Matters

It doesn’t matter how many love you. It doesn’t matter how much they care. Just believe that God knows all hearts. Believe that He is there.

One thing you can be sure of, This is what matters above. It’s not important what others feel for you, But to God, it matters how much you love.

A Loving Mate

I pray for you a good, loving mate To appreciate you as you are. To love you and to comfort you And see you as a shining star.

To make each other happy, Giving all you can. Giving is a measure of love, Between a woman and a man.

Never say “I have done enough, Now it is your turn.” God will decide what more you should give. This is something we all must learn.

We are all made in God’s own image; Love and giving comes from Him. Forgiveness and understanding too,

Are His qualities just to begin.

Add to this determination And perseverance too. Never is it a one-way street. It always must take two.

Add God to your exclusive twosome; He will tell you what to do. Never forget, He is head of the family; This partnership will see you through.

Marriage a New Trinity

It takes three to make a marriage, Not just one or two. Add the Holy Spirit in hard times To bring you through. For a marriage should be a trinity, Just as our God is one. Manifested in the Father, The Holy Spirit, and the Son. A man, a woman not alone One God above us all To extend His arms and catch us As we stumble and tend to fall. We are made with love in His image, With self-sacrifice and care, Just as He gave His Son for us, No measure should we spare. For He is always there for us Just call, and He will hear.

Nothing will be too hard for us Because our God is near. There is a power beyond ourselves, Beyond all we can see. Make your marriage as He intends Let two become a trinity.

Heirs

Oh God, I’m aware, and I see You. What more could I ask of life? The man who is most dear to me, Is proud to call me wife.

You granted us our children, And blessed us all with health. These treasures are innumerable. To us, it’s abundant wealth.

We possess few riches of this world. There’s little time for play. Yet there is love within the home, To brighten every day.

All men must have a burden, And we too have our share. But somehow it seems lighter,

Because we know You’re there.

The world will never bow to us, We never will have fame. Yet we call You Father, And You know us by our name.

We know not princes of this world, Yet we are nobility. For we are heirs to the kingdom of God. What more could anyone be?

Dear Mom-to-Be

I am a precious gift from God Waiting to be born. I know this isn’t the best of time, As your life seems tattered and torn. But I’ll be there to comfort you As days and years go by. Don’t look at the humble ground, dear Mom, But see me in the sky. I have a purpose on this earth. There is something I must do, But I need help to accomplish this, God has chosen you. There was a young woman on this earth So many years ago, And for the sake of all mankind, She said yes to life instead of no. God provided for her, He was there throughout her life.

Her joy was great; her pain was great As she faced her trials and strife. But this was something she had to do As we never know our fate. God has given us all a purpose, Be it small or very great. Together we may do great things According to His plan. We all fit into a massive puzzle As a woman or a man. Give me the chance to prove to you All will be all right. Turn your eyes to our loving God And follow in His light.

Your baby-to-be

Give and Forgive

It is not good for a man to be alone. That goes for a woman too. Then just add God to the equation, To bring the right mate to you.

Much must be given to have much returned, But never try to keep score. Give as much as is needed now. The time may come when you will need more.

Now, smile and bring joy to each other, While lifting each other up. It is so easy to stumble and fall, When you drink from a bitter cup.

Give all you can as Christ did for you. Let nothing you withhold. Appreciate all that is given back.

Love can never be bought or sold.

Bury any resentment you feel. Bury it deep and forget. Don’t let it stink the future you have Or cloud it with dark regret.

Life has always been a struggle Ever since Adam and Eve. The truth of this wisdom comes from God. Give and you will receive.

Throw the Stones Away

Drop the stones you carry They do you more harm than good. Though others may have wronged you Don’t stone them where they stood.

God has seen everything From beginning to the end. Let Him be the judge and jury A just sentence He will send.

Throw the stones and rocks away They only tire you out. This may be easier said than done But let God be the judge, have no doubt.

Throw the stones away and rest.

Let Your Wounds Heal

Do you ever feel unappreciated? When you have given your all? Do they turn their back on you? When for them you took the fall?

Think of our blessed Savior He died on the cross for you. Think of Him in Gethsemane When He knew all your sorrows too.

Then think of your Heavenly Father When He gave His only Son. All have turned their backs on Him To have what they call fun.

Think of the Holy Spirit now As He tries to guide our way. Think of the Holy Trinity

And then begin to pray.

Many will never know our God Or appreciate what He has done. They walk away and reject Him When it’s our salvation He has won.

So lift your spirits up, my friend You are not alone. Hand our God your burden For this He did atone.

Think of Jesus, who loves you He knows everything you feel. He forgave those who killed Him So let your own wounds heal.

Wisdom Is

Wisdom is the shield, To deflect the rocks of sin. Cast at us by Satan, Who would have our soul him.

Wisdom is the handmaiden, Of the bride who’d love one man. Giving him all the devotion, A human being can.

Wisdom is the wife, Who would tell her man the truth. Risking his displeasure, When he portrays a foolish youth.

Wisdom is the husband, Who will stand beside his wife. Giving her strength and courage,

To endure the trials of life.

Wisdom is the mother, Who would warn her unruly child. Against unbridled emotion, That would let the soul run wild.

Wisdom is the houseguest, Of the family that heeds God’s Word. Though the world would fall around them, Their prayers will still be heard.

Wisdom is the path, On which all men must trod. To reach the very seat of wisdom, Our Almighty God.

The Path of Life Together

We stood before God’s altar Many years ago, ing flesh and soul together, For all the world to know. Along life’s path together, We knew not what we’d find. God handed us the lamp of faith, That we many not walk blind. We held the lamp between us, As we started on our way. The day was new, the path was clear, We had no chance to stray. But days come and go; it’s dark and light, The path’s not always clear, It twists and turns; there’re rocks ahead, Danger’s sometimes near. At times I feel so weary, Life, I cannot understand.

Then you must lift the lamp, my love, And lead me by the hand. You bear the lamp for both of us. Your hand is firm and strong. You keep us on the path to God, That we many not go wrong. I found my strength while you took the lead, As you stumble this dark day, the lamp to me, my love, Now let me lead the way. The lamp is sometimes heavy, And too much for one to bear. Life will not let us stop and rest, Till we are safely there. God granted us two strong hands When the human dye was cast, One to lift the lamp of faith; One to hold the other fast. If we walk hand in hand each day And lift each other up, Then neither one shall falter

Though bitter be our cup. And when before that gate we stand, Beyond, where grief’s unknown, There we both may rest, my love, We brought each other home.

CHAPTER FOUR

Your Children

Sisters and Brothers

Red or yellow, black or white. What difference does it make? All are created in His image, Try to see this for Jesus’s sake.

For when He died upon that cross The blood He shed was red. Just as yours and mine is The difference is in our head.

Each person an individual Some are good, and some are bad. To judge us by our color of skin Makes our blessed Savior sad.

He shed His blood for everyone Red like yours and mine. Think of this when you kneel to pray

Or receive the bread and wine.

God is living in all of us That makes us sisters and brothers. You are doing unto Him As you are doing to others.

I Am Your Child

Father, I only want to be Your child. Living in Your peaceful home. I don’t desire to see the world. Seeking other paths and aimless roam.

My Big Brother made this possible, For Him I watch and wait, To lead me to the Promised Land, Jesus, please don’t hesitate.

I’m tired of playing grown-up. It’s not all it’s claimed to be. How I wish I were a child again, Happily sitting on Your knee.

As your child, let me enter Your dwelling And run into Your arms. For in You is my home and refuge,

Protect me from all evil harms.

Lord Jesus, I am tired and weary. This world can offer me nothing more. Jesus, meet me at the bridge I am standing, Guide me to Your open door.

Thank You, God

I thank You, Creator Father, For the life You gave to me. I thank You, Jesus, Son of God, From sin You set me free.

I thank the Holy Spirit, Who always walks with me. Who guides us and protects us, Overshadows like a tree.

Oh! Lord Jesus, come rapture us, Claim us for Your own. Put Your seal upon us, Let us see You on Your throne.

It is Your kingdom that we long for, None can take Your place. This empty space within us,

Was meant to frame Your face.

Imprint Your image on our hearts, To remain for eternity. Only You could pay the price, From sin and Satan You set us free.

Let me forever sing Your praises, With the voice You gave me at my birth. My heart overflows with love for You, You’re the water of life for which I thirst.

Let my praise go on forever, My Father, my Savior, my Guiding Light. The empty space within me, You now fill with Your divine delight.

If I Could

If I could wipe away each tear, Or tell the rain when to fall. If I could chase away each fear, And make things right for all.

If I could lift the heavy rocks Every troubled soul still carried. If I could remove the stumbling blocks Under which all dreams are buried.

But I am only a mortal creature Created by the hand of God; In His image a most important feature While on this earth I trod.

But only God can do this task When He gave His children free will; To call on Him in prayer and ask

For all our needs to fill.

He can do all no other can do, In taking care of trouble. Prayer will not only carry you through, But your blessings He will double.

The Fork in the Road

I’m standing at a fork in the road. Now I must stop to ponder. Which way shall I turn my face, And cause my steps to wander?

Both are calling out to me. The appeal to my flesh is strong. Yet should I follow the path of man, I feel I would be wrong.

There must be more to us than flesh. I feel it here inside. We’re not only just a body. Within would a spirit abide.

But if I choose the other way, I must deny the flesh. If the road should make me weary,

How shall I refresh?

I hear my God calling me. I’ll walk along His way. I know it is the right choice. From this road I will not stray.

Happy is my heart now. I found the reason for life. God lifts the burden from me, He ends the inner strife.

Dear Lord, I’ve chosen the path to You, But what about another? I must go back to that fork in the road, To point the way for my brother.

Uppy Do, Daddy

I watching my son-in-law Scolding his errant child What a difference in size and power And she really had him riled.

He, six foot two, and she, a toddler not three With fear and repentance in her eyes She looked him in the face Reaching up little arms to the skies.

She said, “Uppy do, Daddy.”

Without hesitation, he reached down And lifted her on high Holding her so tightly to him I thought that she would die.

Together they melted into a pool

Like butter in the summer sun For in that instant, father and child Were once again like one.

So it is with our Heavenly Father With repentance and trust in our eyes If we can just say, “Uppy do, Daddy” He will lift us up to the skies.

So now when I pray, I lift up my arms And my eyes up to this magnificent being And believe I’ll be taken to His heart God is the Father I’m seeing.

His Children

We glory in our children They are everything to us Whether they are obedient Or make an irritable fuss.

So it is with God, our Father He would give us all we ask When He knows it is good for us In our gratitude He would bask.

He gave all of us a talent to use For the good of His family We all have different chores to do He planned it well, you see.

No one is good at everything We cannot do it all We must use the gifts He gave

And lift others where they fall.

God wants one big happy family Where each can prosper and grow He has given all to us Many more gifts will He bestow.

For He has given life to us And everything we need He gave to us His only Son So we too can become His seed.

I Said, He Said

I said, “It is all in your hands.” He said, “See what these hands can do, I have parted the waters For My children to through.

I dropped manna from the heavens I have made the blind to see I have raised the lame to walk Come now, walk with Me.

You will always be in My hands I will bless all that you do As long as you believe in Me I will see you through.

Though you may not see Me, You’ll know that I am near. Take a leap of faith, my child

Banish now your fear.

Hand to Me your burden I will give you rest I can see into your heart And I will do what’s best.”

CHAPTER FIVE

Pain and Suffering

Share Your Burden

Feel my loving arms around you. Here is my shoulder for you to cry. Tell me your troubles while I hold you. Share your burden, and your tears will dry.

Let me drive away the sadness. I will always be here for you. I’m unseen with mortal eyes. But your faith will see you through.

Call to me, I’m always near. Never give in to doubt. I will hear your every whisper. You never need to shout.

I know your inner and outer tears. Nothing is ever hid from me. You were made by our Father forever.

I give you my peace eternally.

God, Come to Me

Holy Spirit, come to me. Comfort me in my need. I cannot stand alone these days. It’s on Your strength I feed.

Bless all the kind people who help me. Those whom I have grown to love. And even the strangers on the street, Who employ Your grace from above.

Lord, I understand now, Why You permit each trial. For when we are kind to others, We gather treasures all the while.

I bless each one of them, oh God As they bring kindness to my day. They are doing unto You,

As they are helping me on my way.

My Father, now I thank You. Let me joyfully do Your will. As I serve in the way You chose for me. My place on earth may I now fulfill.

The Purpose of Pain and Healing

There are many kinds of healing But God can do them all. Though our needs be massive Or sometimes very small.

It isn’t about just us alone Many factors come into play. For me, the healing came about As many began to pray.

How the devil must have felt As others turned to God. He thought, “I’m going to trample her Push her face right in the sod.”

Then were brought heavenly treasures Kind deeds and prayers abound God accepted and listened to

And turned the pain around.

Treasures in heaven increased each day For every kind deed on earth. God accepts all that is given, And values for all it is worth.

Many souls were healed those days For the sake of only one As they reached out to do His holy will And follow the Words of His Son.

Suffering has a purpose then It brings us closer to home Without it, we would go astray It’s so easy for us to roam.

Healing proves His presence As we lift His holy name Miracles are brought about And add more to His fame.

If we all work together And follow His holy will We all will bring about the plan That He sent us to fulfill.

Infirmity

Lord Jesus, what do You have for me today? Give me the strength to follow Your way. My will is waning for what I must. Lord, help me to maintain my trust. It is heavy, this task I carry. Be my strength that I may not tarry.

And He said,

“Think of the burden I carried for all. How many times did I stumble and fall On the road to Calvary So free of sin all mankind would be? So bear for others and for Me All of your infirmity. That others may help you lift your cross To do your task is not a loss. By helping you they do My will.

This is the task you must fulfill. So smile and give joy in all you do. This is the task I have chosen for you.”

CHAPTER SIX

His Will Be Done

Your Way

Lead me step-by-step, oh Lord, This book I write for You. It’s only for Your glory, Let Your guidance bring me through.

The love for You I feel As Your Spirit fills the room Is like a bride awaiting The presence of her groom.

Please give me the words You want me to say, What is it You want others to know? You will always be near to us, Making our love for You grow.

There is no greater joy, Than praising Your holy name. For You are the eternal Three in One,

All creation is Yours to claim.

Oh, my God, the high You bring No pill could ever compare, Or lift us into ecstasy As when Your presence is there.

Be with me now, be with me always. As I begin my day, Fill me with Your grace and strength, Lord. Carry me through Your way.

Let Me Know Your Will

Lord Jesus, I give my life to You. Use this old and weakened shell. That I may glorify Your name. Let my words create “God spell.”

Each soul was sent for a purpose, Let me know my task. Guide me with Your words of wisdom, This, of You, I always ask.

Let me never be shaken. By the negative words I hear. Hold me steady as I try to walk. Please take away my fear.

But more important, let me know Your will. That I may fulfill this life. Let this be my priority,

No matter what the strife. Let me know Your will.

If He Wills

Many dreams seem impossible But then you never know. Every achievement begins with a dream God, show me the way to go.

I know You have a plan for me The purpose of life is to grow. Please let your work be my guidance Give me the seeds to sow.

May the seeds I sow be for Your glory Bless them with Your power. Let my dream become reality Be it years or just one hour.

So many pieces must fall into place Before the dream can come true. Please! Never let me doubt You

Help me be patient in what I do.

I ask You, Lord, make the next move Then I will follow You. I know You will clear the path for me If You will, make this dream come true.

Free Will

I was walking along a rocky road When I noticed a deep, dark hole. I heard a voice calling, “Help me I have fallen and hurt my soul.

“I can’t get up, will no one help? Will no one pull me out?” I approached the pit, and I looked down. There he stood alone and in doubt.

“Give me your hands,” I said to him. As he held them tight to his side. “I cannot help you unless you reach up.” But my instructions were quickly denied.

“How do I know I can trust you? Prove you will do what you say. I’ve been in this hole a very long time.

Oh! Just go on your way.”

So what could I do if he didn’t reach up? And would not accept my word? He would have to say yes and take my hand. Unless he could fly like a bird.

And that’s how it is with Jesus. He is reaching down for you. But you have to reach up and believe His Word Keep saying no! Then what can He do?

Almost

I’m standing in a doorway One foot in another space But I cannot seem to take the next step And on from this mortal place.

There is something I still must do Before I can continue my way Lord, tell me what You want from me So Your will I may obey.

I love You, Lord, so very much I want to see Your face But I can’t seem to cross the threshold Till You bid me leave this place.

God, You show me in many ways That I am almost there You bid me, write For His Glory

With Your gift that is most rare.

Lord, please provide another’s hands To do what I cannot Or I will be forever Frozen in this almost spot.

The Magic Words

I never knew such power, Till I surrendered control. Into the hands of Jesus, The Keeper of my soul.

I tried to shape my destiny, With carefully thought-out plan. But I never could predict or choose, The ways of fellow man.

As part of an infinite puzzle, I tried to find my place. But like a legless runner, I was bound to lose the race.

Then I accepted the shape He gave, And tried to see His plan. I embraced a greater wisdom,

Conceived since time began.

Now everything falls into place, The race is good as won. I learned to say the magic words, Lord, Thy will be done.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Trust In God

Trust

My God, I place my trust in You. Oh, let me not despair. Heavy, I feel within my heart. The day does not look fair.

To whom shall I turn in my distress? Who will understand? Beloved Jesus, I feel You near. Please take me by the hand.

Lift this burden from me, And ease my aching breast. I place on You my labors, Now let me know Your rest.

I give to You so little, When You gave Your life for me. Accept my most imperfect love,

For it’s all I can offer Thee.

The Hitchhiker

I was hitchhiking along an aimless road So very long ago. When a special person came along And said, “This is not safe, you know.”

“There is danger at every twist and turn, I do not think you should roam. Where do you think you are going? Come, let Me take you home.”

He told me about His Father’s house With mansion beyond compare. There you will find the fulfillment you seek Come, let Me take you there.

He told me about His love for all Where every need is met. There I’d meet others like me

The aimless life I would soon forget.

He told me He is my big brother He would escort me through the gate. He told me things of such great wonder I felt I could hardly wait.

Along the way He showed me pitfalls I never knew were there. I knew then that He cared for me My grief that He would bear.

On the way I understood As I saw the truth He told. The promise came from Jesus As He welcomed me to the fold.

The Living Water

Dwell on My word, think not of this world. Or the troubles it may bring. The water here has become polluted. Drink from My fresh, clean spring.

This life is just a testing ground. It will not last for long. Trust in My word, I will not fail you. My spirit will make you strong.

I will be with you day by day. Do not dwell on tomorrow. I will direct each step you take. Follow My word, put away your sorrow.

Read My word, hear My word. Trust in what I say. You will never walk alone.

Call on Me, I’ll show the way.

Gather with those who are like you. Who seek My way and thirst. I will give you the fresh, living water. If you will only put Me first.

Seek first the Kingdom of God and all else will be given to you. Matthew 6:33–34

Ship and Anchor

Two sailing ships were side by side, Anchored in the bay. The seas were calm, the harbor safe, It was a sunny day. Then one day, a storm arose, And tossed both ships about. It severed a link in the anchor chain, From the bay, one ship was carried out. The ship was free, she saw all shores, She drifted without aim. At first it seemed a blessing, No anchor to make its claim. But the angry sea would have his way, The storm grew worse each hour. The waves would toss and flood the deck, The ship began to cower. She was heading for the rocky shore, And tried to turn away.

But there was nothing to hold her safe, Her anchor was in the bay. She crashed on the rocks with hurricane force, The damage beyond repair. Little was left of this mighty ship, But an object of despair. The other ship rode out the storm, Anchored in the bay. Calm returned, the ship was safe, It dawned a finer day. We all are sailing ships, my friend, The anchor is God’s Word. We will remain safe in the harbor, If we believe what we have heard.

Be Still

Someday I will see You in glory. Although I may never understand. The extent of Your magnificence. The power of Your command.

For I now am only human Though made in Your image am I. To be called and follow after You To Your kingdom beyond the sky.

I want to serve You; I want to please You, But where can I do this best? Lord, please let me hear Your voice, So my body and soul may rest.

I am only one person, I know this. But You gave me a particular task. Give me Your wisdom; give me Your Word.

For your guidance is what I ask.

I’m at war with so many decisions. Where is this path You bid me trod? And He said to me, “My child, Be still and know I am God.” Psalm 46

The Oak and the Willow

Two fine trees stood side by side In the meadow by a stream. One a mighty, towering oak The other a willow wispy as a dream.

This oak was not as wise As others of his kind. His roots did not probe deep the earth Just below the turf entwined.

“I am a mighty, towering oak Men ire me. My strength is in my branches For all the world to see.”

The oak tree taunted the willow And mocked him unmercifully. He thought not of his shallow roots

Men saw a sturdy tree.

The willow was a humble tree It’s appearance meek and mild. He bent and swayed with every breeze And trusted as a child.

His roots went deep within the earth He drew his strength from her. She held him fast through raging storm And gentle little stir.

Then came one day a frenzied storm It battered every tree. The willow swayed with every gust Its branches fluttered free.

“I will resist,” said the haughty oak. “I know the strength in me.” The shallow roots could not hold fast. Down toppled the mighty tree.

The raging storm soon was over Uprooted lay the oak. The legend of his mighty strength Became a cruel joke.

Beside him stood the frail willow He bent to kiss the earth. His roots had been his trust in her And she had proved her worth.

Among men, too, grow mighty oaks Their roots in shallow sod. But the willows endure forever With deep-rooted trust in God.

The Good Shepherd

I am a lamb in the arms of Jesus The vision is in my mind. I was wandering, lost in the wilderness When my Shepherd went out to find.

He called to me, He searched for me He called me by my name. But I would have to answer Him For Him to make His claim.

I was frightened and alone I knew not where to turn. I needed His protection This is something I had to learn.

I care not for this wilderness There is danger at every turn. To be safe in the arms of Jesus

My heart and soul does yearn.

I cried out to my Savior And He lifted me on high. To bring me safely back to the flock Until the day I die.

I will follow Him, He will carry me No longer will I roam. I am safely in the arms of Jesus And He will bring me home.

Wilderness

I wander in the wilderness I wander day and night I ponder in the wilderness My heart is filled with fright.

I lift my hands to heaven As I bow my head in prayer And suddenly the burdens’re lifted As I know that You are there.

The pillar of smoke before me As I wander through the day The column of fire in darkness I cannot lose my way.

I lost my fear of trouble As I lift my soul to You You brought me through so often

You will do it this time too.

Worry

Why do you so worry When you cannot understand? Why do you so struggle When your life is in my hand?

when you were little And daddy was always there? You gave your trust and followed him Although you knew not where.

You knew he would take care of all No harm would come to you. He was your loving father He was there to see you through.

I am your heavenly Father Don’t try to understand, Give me your trust and follow me

Come! Take me by the hand.

CHAPTER EIGHT

Prayers and Protection

How We Need You

Lord Jesus, how our family needs You. The devil is everywhere we roam. In the workplace, on the streets; He even follows us home.

He knows the weakness in everyone, And sends those who are in his hold. Seeking to tempt away from You The faithful within Your fold.

Give us the strength and wisdom to know What You would have us do. So we may not be deceived by Satan, And always choose to follow You.

Lord Jesus, send the Holy Spirit To surround us with Your holy light, That the fallen ones may avoid us,

Blinded by this heavenly sight.

Lord Jesus, You are the only hope Flood our hearts with Your abundant grace. That someday we may be among Yours When You gather together the human race.

Temptation

Get away from me, Satan. You can go back to hell. I will not believe The lies that you tell.

I have Jesus, my Savior, You tempted Him too, He said, “Get behind me.” As I now tell you.

You torment me with pain, And anxiety too. Saying, “God does not care, With you, He is through.”

And I cry out to You, Lord. Please give me Your strength. To break down our spirit,

Satan will go any length.

With negative thoughts He fills up our mind Hoping a weakness Somewhere he will find.

I know how he hates us Suffering is his delight But I’ll call on Jesus Together we’ll fight.

Jesus died to save us And He gave us this vow He will always be there Jesus, be with me now.

Relieve all my suffering. Make everything well. In Jesus’s name, devil, Go back to hell.

The Enemy

Lord, I have an enemy, You could help me to destroy. Daily she would mock me, With my happiness she would toy.

I know her by her face and deed, And all her weakness too. Yet I cannot conquer her, I need some help from You.

Lord, you know my enemy, And the power I need to win. The hardest foe to conquer, Is myself who dwells within.

My Prayer

Lord, you know all my troubles. You know all my needs. You know all my thoughts. You know all my deeds.

When I address You, No need to say much. With a simple “Help me,” Your heart I will touch.

So I will just say, “Thank you.” All my sins please forgive. Be with me always For as long as I live.

Amen.

Pray for Strength

If you strive to be a jewel In the crown of Almighty God Then expect the devil to bombard you Until you give him the nod.

Why should he go after those Who already are his own When he can steal away from God Those who would sit at the foot of His throne?

Your soul is the prize he is after Wanting all that he can get Expect to be a main target Tempted to do and regret.

So face all the trouble the devil brings And know God will deliver you Call on Jesus when you are tempted

His strength will bring you through.

CHAPTER NINE

Blessing and Praise

Bless This Home

I call upon the name of Jesus Christ. The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. You, who are most powerful, You command the heavenly host.

Cup Your hands around us Above us and below. That our home and those within it Your protection will bestow.

Drive away opposing evil. I invite all who would do Your will. To guard our home and loved ones And around us Your presence fill.

We dedicate this home to You, Lord, Who redeemed us soul and life. Take charge of all who dwell here.

Protect us from the devil’s strife.

All bend their knee to the name of Jesus. He is the Creator’s Son. Holding power in the Trinity, Commanding the world as one.

Extend Your power over us, Lord God. Never let us go. Bestow Your protection over this house And Your presence let us know.

Feel the Peace of God

I wake up in the morning And my heart is filled with dread. I know the day will bring more pain As I step off of my bed.

I think, “Why must I go on like this? I’m old, and I have lived a full life. What more can be ahead for me? Except more pain and strife.”

But then I turn my thoughts to God And all the things He’s done for me. Then I begin to count my blessings And soon I begin to see.

I am here to witness His glory This is how I must live my day. And encourage others to carry on

Toward Him, I must point the way.

I pick up my pen to write As an orange tabby comes bounding in. He lies upon my pad of paper And purrs, okay now let’s begin.

I think, here is my day’s first blessing A cat that is deaf as stone. Yet he sings a gentle song to me When it could be a woeful moan.

I think, here is a little creature of God Sent to brighten up my way. If a deaf old cat can lift me up How can I brighten another’s day?

I’ll call an old friend who has trouble too And see if I can bring her joy. God is lifting up my heart and spirit As positive thoughts I now employ.

More and more, my spirit soars As I think about a needy friend. I’ll write these words down in a poem And bring my self-pity to an end.

I feel the peace of God.

I Want

I want to sing your praises, Lord. To lift my voice on high. I want to see Your glory As I gaze into the sky.

I want You to come and fill my heart In the place that was meant for You. I want You to be a part of me As I live my whole life through.

I want to be a part of the universe Created by Your hand. I want to know the mind of You. I want to understand.

I want others to see in me Your image. As You created us to be. I never want to walk alone

I want You to be here with me.

I want to completely be Your child, In body and soul and mind. And know the love and peace You bring That on earth no one can find. I want to be one with You.

Hear Me

Hear me, nature, I’m awake. I feel the coolness of a lake., I watch the clouds drifting by, Changing pictures in the sky. I see the rippling waves of wheat. Feel the moss beneath bare feet. I smell the pine-perfumed air. Feel gentle breezes tousle my hair. The song of a bird courting his mate. A towering oak, majestic and great. A cluster of violets beside a log. The warm, fuzzy fur of a puppy dog. The taste of honey fresh from the comb. The musty smell of a mushroom’s dome. The bright summer sun to warm the grass. A clear, still pond is my looking glass. All of nature beckons to me. The simplest pleasures to all are free.

There’s peace and beauty on the path I trod. Hear me! I’m alive! And yet I see God!

My Ecstasy

Lord, let me not fail You. Let me not despair. Let me not lose heart. This body is beyond repair.

My greatest pleasure comes, oh Lord, When we gather in Your name, And sing with our hearts Your praises. While Your glory we proclaim.

I look forward to the day, oh Lord, When I will see You face-to-face And be welcomed into Your kingdom Healed in Your embrace.

My spirit will soar, my voice will sing, As I once did so long ago. While around me glows Your holy light.

And I feel Your presence grow.

Oh blessed Savior, come to me, As I sit alone today. This time with You is beyond compare As in ecstasy I pray.

Father, let Your Spirit come. Bring joy into my heart. As I share these words with all who read. Jesus, let us never part.

The Great Maestro

You orchestrate the stars They play a symphony All the universe sings My God, how great are Thee.

You wave your baton Across time and space And one after another You create a race.

All to blend To praise Your name To bring You glory To proclaim Your fame.

Lord, grant that I May forever be One harmonious note

In Your unending symphony.

CHAPTER TEN

Humility and Pride

Humility and Pride

Within each being dwells two men, The wise man and the fool. Locked in constant struggle, Each their host would rule.

Both would have another, To share his company. The fool would have his ego, And the wise, humility.

Ego is self-seeking, It thrives on flattery. Heeds only as it wishes, The truth it will not see.

It follows those who feed it, Though fattening it can be, Would starve the soul within man,

And never let him free.

Humility harms no other, Though it pays a penalty. But lifts the soul within the man, To his godlike quality.

So heed the wise man, and bury the fool, Though difficult it may be. The fool reigns for the moment, But the wise, eternally.

Take Pride

Take pride in being called a Christian Never be ashamed of the Lord. He will soon be coming in glory And give His faithful abundant reward.

Revel in the Holy Spirit He who watches over you. He is one with the Father and Son Believe the Holy Trinity’s true.

Obey your Father, He is Creator Trust in His only Son. He was sent to earth to redeem you Jesus is the only one.

Never mind if people mock you And say your life’s been wasted. They will never know the joy of heaven

Or the peace of God you’ve tasted.

So tell all of God, who loves you Tell how He sent His Son. Let the Holy Spirit guide you They have always been Three in One.

Blind in Heart

Pity the man who cannot see. He walks through life in blindness. Yet ’tis not his eyes that fail him, But a heart that’s void of kindness.

He sees not the beauty about him. He reaches out in vain. Groping around for he knows not what, Causing those near him pain.

How lost and unhappy is this man, More so than those he’d hurt. For in his garden, many flowers grow, But all he can see is the dirt.

Through the fence, he stretches and strains, To taste a sweeter grass. Like a donkey escaping his pasture,

He portrays the foolish ass.

Is the grass there really so sweet: Has it sprung from better seeds? No! Now that he has tasted it, He finds it’s full of weeds.

So look for beauty in your own yard, With an open heart, try to see. Tend it with love and kindness, Then truly happy you’ll be.

The Poor Rich Man

There was a man who would be rich, Possessing all that he could see. Power, things, and people, “This all belongs to me.”

The more he had, the more he wanted, How he got it, he didn’t care. He had no love or conscience, Shattering lives beyond repair.

But miserable he was inside, So he sought to ease the ache. “I’ll make someone else sadder, From them, their joy I’ll take.”

The search went on throughout his life, On an endless path he trod. Nothing on earth could fill it,

The place was meant for God.

For all his wealth, he paid a price, The road to riches demanded a toll. What profit a man who possesses the earth, And suffers the loss of his soul?

Let Me

My God,

Let me Your gifts— My talents My possessions My power My life!

For these are only borrowed.

Let me to maintain— My gratitude My trust My love My humility!

For these are the payment due.

My God,

Let me never forget. There is no other like You.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Wisdom

Why

Lord, in time of stress, I’ve heard men say, “Why did this happen to me?” And yet, when everything runs smooth, Men tend to turn from Thee.

It is only because You love us so, That You permit us grief. For in time, when man needs God the most, Does he renew belief?

So, Father, draw us near to You, And comfort us this dark day. Help us to know Your wisdom, Then guide our footsteps in Your way.

Life

Life, your meaning would elude man. Your deeds would give him pain. Your manners would confuse him, For your reason he’d search in vain.

“Why have we come to be born?” “What empty space would we fill?” “Only to move on for another, Beckoned by an unseen will?”

All these questions man would ask of life. For the answer, where shall he turn? Friends, turn your eyes and heart to God! From His holy wisdom learn.

Wisdom

Turn to God for wisdom. Try to understand. All the trials have a purpose. Take Him by the hand.

Seek His Word for guidance We do not think as He. He sees the entire picture. It’s not just you and me.

We all are like a puzzle piece. Each unique in our own form. Made to complete a picture For His purpose we were born.

Every trial and tribulation, Matures each life that is touched. Seek the match next to you,

You are needed very much.

You may not feel important. But still you have a place. Without you, the picture is incomplete, Hold the next piece in your embrace.

Place trust in His most perfect plan. His purpose to fulfill. He is the master artist. Lord, help us to know Your will.

Lord, Tell Us

Lord, we know not where to turn. So many would say “I am He.” The devil would deceive us, Though we seek to follow Thee.

Bestow on us Your wisdom. Let Your Spirit guide our way. We are but lowly creatures. What would You have us say?

If we could carry You to man, So others see You as we do. But how can the unworthy speak, Of magnificence such as You?

Lord, You gave us each a special gift, To serve both You and man. How wasted would be our humble life,

If we did not fulfill Your plan?

This world would tear us from You. The ways of flesh is everywhere. Man wallows in sin around us. For Christ, he does not care.

You weep for ways of wicked men, For they will not come to You. How may we bring You to them? Lord, tell us what to do.

The Different Star

God gave each of us a special gift, So we may serve each other. In doing so, we serve Him, As we do unto our brother.

Together we fulfill a plan, He conceived so long ago. Fitting together like an infinite puzzle, Our place we would learn to know.

As we search for our place, keep Him in view, He will lead and point the way. Many little subtle clues appear, As we live out our life each day.

We may often need to twist and turn, To find a fit just right. But do not be discouraged, friend,

Let Jesus provide the light.

No one will ever be cheated, Out of the gifts they will receive. But we all will be of a different design, To complete the plan He conceived.

So never wish you were like someone else, You are important as you are. We all will be like the sky at night, Each one of us a different star.

Which One Are You?

Look into the fire, my brother, The logs are side by side. One is burning brightly, The others their warmth would hide.

Which one are you, my brother? Are you warmth, or are you cold? Do you spread your cheer to others, Or do you your light withhold?

Are you near the one that’s burning? Will the flame catch on to you? Will you spark into a loving blaze, Then it to another too?

See the one that smolders? He will not share his light. Damp and cold, he lies there,

To hide his warmth, he’d fight.

Someone will cast that selfish log, Out in the cold, he’s dead. Bury him in your memory, Drive him from your head.

He gave his warmth to no one, Nothing he left behind. The beauty that might have been in him, No one will ever find.

See the one that’s blazing? The flame may not last long. But the embers will retain the glow, The warmth will still be strong.

So warm the hearts around you, That when you too are gone, Thoughts of you will still live on, In fond memories you’ll belong.

I Must Not Fail

Lord, I look around me, And my heart is filled with grief. So many have turned away from You, Or never found belief.

Somehow I feel responsible, I’ve not done all I can. For the duty of Your children is, Bringing You to fellow man.

Sometimes I feel self-righteous, And I know that this is wrong. For on my own, I’d turn from You, It’s Your grace that makes us strong.

Oh, Father, give me wisdom, To reach my fellow man. Or my life will be a failure,

For not doing all I can.

Father Knows Best

He knows every feather on a sparrow’s wings He knows every note a mockingbird sings He knows every need, He knows every deed He knows how many apples are in every seed There is nothing that is unknown to Him Your greatest desire or tiniest whim From the drops in the ocean to the grains of desert sands Creation all cradled in the palms of His hands So put all your cares and woes aside Put your heart and mind to rest Put it in His capable hands Give it to God, He does it best.

This Life an Illusion

The only time my mind is clear Is when the Holy Spirit is near For then I lift my hands and pray And the false reality slips away For it is this life an illusion be As the only thing real is eternity.

Only God Knows the Future

Never try to outguess God The future is not for us to know Stop making promises you may not keep Only God knows how the wind will blow.

Intentions are not the same as doing The way is not always clear Only God sees in the darkness Only God your ship can steer.

Live each day the dawn will bring Keep hope, but don’t demand One day you may find an oasis The next day, only shifted sand.

Trust but don’t think you know the future That is in His hands Ask and follow Him day by day

He decides the future, don’t make demands.

Never make promises for another Ones you have no power to keep Never promise an abundant harvest From seeds you may never reap.

Only God knows what the future holds.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Redemption

Gethsemane

Heavy and dark the clouds that fill the air. Heavy my heart with sins of man I bear Carried for every soul compounded, pain beyond compare Hopeless, forsaken, alone, the depth of hell is My despair.

Upon My knees, tears of blood I cry. I alone must wait none of My tears to dry. Their spirit would be willing, yet the flesh would defy. Fickle is human courage, soon My name they will deny.

Filled to overflowing, the bitter cup I drink. Lower and lower with their burdens of sin I sink. Between my Father and man, I am the only link. Each pain a payment for sinful man, beloved ones, think!

Many will hang upon a cross to bid their souls depart But only I will suffer the burden of every human heart. For all at once, the depths of hell I see

Now in this garden called Gethsemane.

Your Blood

Wring me out of all conceit As humbly I kneel at Your feet Shower me with Your precious blood Let Your grace become a flood.

You’re all that I could never be From sin and the devil, You set me free Now I can stand as a child of God On a righteous path I’m free to trod Never enough can I do for Thee Your blood gave me eternity!

Christ, Our Champion

Wielding a sword of truth With armor of brilliant light, Comes Jesus Christ, our champion His horse, on a cloud of white.

Our noble knight in shining armor To battle the devil and sin, Defending us in our weakness Being our only chance to win.

He battles the prince of darkness Driving back the blackest night. From His mouth comes truth of salvation Our acc struck down in the fight.

We, the accused, stand absolved of blame Gone the sentence of death for sin. We are freed to follow our Savior,

King of Heaven, only through You do we win.

Jesus Did It All

Never fear when death is near Jesus did it all. He bled for us, He died for us Jesus took the fall.

Our ticket now is paid in full Nothing more is owed. The slate’s wiped clean, from this we glean We reap what He has sown.

With joyful heart, our praise we sing Nothing more need we bring. Jesus did it all.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Righteousness

The Seed

The seed has just been planted. The floodgates now are closed. A sudden onrush of water, Would leave the seed exposed.

A little water is given now. The seed will germinate, And grow from a little seedling, To a plant that’s strong and great.

The plant is more mature now, As the roots grow deeper still. Each day more water is released, A deep thirst to fulfill.

Harvest time is almost near. The gates are opened wide. The saving water is rushing forth,

To among the plants abide.

We are the planted seeds, my friend. The water is God’s grace. He releases more as we mature, Till He harvests the human race.

Communion

Open up the floodgates Let the waters flow Open up the heavens On us Your grace bestow.

Rain down on us abundant love Let nothing You withhold A gift like Yours beyond compare More precious than finest gold.

Eternal life in heaven with You And Jesus, Your only Son Whose blood was shed upon that cross Eternal life was won.

Now let us sing Your praises With heartfelt gratitude Quench the thirst within us

Let Your body become our food.

Holy Spirit, always remind us As we walk with You day by day The ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Took all our sins away.

The Human Race

All of mankind must die someday. This life is just our starting line Where we begin the race to heaven. To seek a prize most divine.

Will we concentrate on the finish line? Keeping our focus on the prize? Or will we be distracted By what we see with wandering eyes?

There are so many tempting times When we may pause to tarry. And forget the reason we started the race Our true purpose we would bury.

God has clearly marked the route Which we all are required to follow. Don’t stop to stomp your feet in a puddle

Or in the mud don’t wallow.

Let nothing now distract you. The finish line is just ahead. The prize of eternal life is waiting With Jesus, there is no such thing as dead.

Grace

Lord, I beg the grace from You, To conquer the inner me. Although my faults lie buried deep, Each one is known to Thee.

I’ve tried to live as Christians should, So an example I would be. But my faulty human nature, Has made it a mockery.

And yet I desire to follow You, In thought and word and deed. Oh, God, grant me the nourishing food, So a starving soul can feed.

Jesus, the Winner

Stop beating yourself to a bloody pulp. Christ took that all for you. He shielded you with His own mortal body To pay the devil his due.

The devil is your acc of sin, As you stand before Almighty God, For none but Jesus is perfect While on this earthy path we trod.

He took the punishment we deserve, Like a loving older brother Deflecting the blows thrown by the devil, In one way or another.

Just say, “Jesus, save me!” Mean it with all your heart Then promise to try to do better

From His way, do not depart.

His way is in the Christian Bible. His Word can be learned in His church. Go where the treasures are hidden. Learn to know where to search.

Accept the Father’s most perfect gift As He sent His only Son To be sacrificed in our place, Our forgiveness Jesus has won.

Righteousness

God, I hope You will judge me righteous; I do so want to please. Yet I know that this is impossible, As I fall down to my knees.

But I know it doesn’t matter; Just as long as I have tried. And put my faith in Jesus, Who on the cross had died.

Now all I need is to thank Him; As he paid for the sins of all. I am righteous in the sight of God, Because Jesus took the fall.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Treasures In Heaven

Good Deeds

Good deeds are your treasures in heaven. But they cannot get you there. For all have failed and come short of perfection. Jesus died for our sins to bear.

Only the one true Son of the Father Could lead a righteous life, And pay the price the devil demanded, When he caused the human race strife.

When we choose to follow God’s teaching, Doing it as best we can, The gate will be opened by Jesus To it every woman and man.

All that is needed is to try and believe. Good deeds, His way and command. We will receive our treasures in heaven,

When before our Savior we stand.

Gather your treasures now here on earth, Do good deeds, and let God repay. But above all, believe in Jesus Christ, Be ready for your judgment day.

The True Saints

I hope that I’m in heaven To witness a wonderful sight. God handing out the crowns and treasures Rewards for doing what’s right.

Among the saints will be nurses and aides, Angels here on this earth. For all their kindness and hard work too Rewarded for all they are worth.

The pay is little for all kindness and joy They bring to another’s day. Serving sometimes an ungrateful patient When they can’t respond right away.

God bless all the good doctors And all the therapists too. That put us on the path to health

Without you, what would we do?

Athletes and actors, politicians too Have their reward here on earth. But they do little where it counts And paid more than what they are worth.

, dear ones, when things don’t go well And your own problems overwhelm you. Each kind deed is a treasure in heaven God will pay you for all that you do.

Lifting Spirits

If lifting weights can build your body See if this is true Try lifting another’s spirits See what that can do for you.

The more you lift, the more you gain Start small with something true Like, “Oh, your eyes are beautiful I wish that mine were blue.”

You lifted up two spirits “Pretty blue eyes” and your own, Hers with a sincere compliment But not just hers alone.

You see that she felt special It brightened up her day. And you felt happy to make her happy

Before you went on your way.

Or maybe you’d see at the grocery store Some needy person a few dollars short. Open your wallet and your heart Come on now, be a good sport.

When we lift the spirit of someone else We also strengthen our own. And deposit our treasure in heaven Before God’s mighty throne.

Stronger and stronger you become As more and more you lift. the Father when He gave His Son That was the ultimate gift.

You Are Not Alone

I wake up in the morning And the devil starts in on me. I’m overcome with negative thoughts Of what pain and trouble today I’ll see.

I know he is having a barrel of fun, He delights in my misery. His goal is to break me down this day, And I ask, “God, why do you do this to me?”

But then I think, God isn’t doing it, He is waiting there for me. To run to Him for protection, It is from the devil I must flee.

Turn to Jesus, and pray for help, And believe He hears your prayer. He will send another to help,

Sometimes in a way you are unaware.

His plan is for us to each other. This, our treasure in heaven will be. I’m not the only one involved, It’s about all of us, you see.

So turn to Jesus when this happens to you. Don’t let the devil win. Ask for God’s help as you carry on, With Him let your day begin.

You are not alone.

The Treasure Chest

What will be in your treasure chest, When you reach the kingdom of heaven? Will it be overflowing with jewels, Or flat like a bread unleaven?

Every deed of kindness, Every patient thought, Is a jewel in your treasure box That on this earth was wrought.

The image of God is love and comion, Something He instilled in you. The treasures you store up in heaven Depend on what you do.

Gold and silver you will leave behind; Stocks and bonds are worthless too. But the good that you do for others

Are the treasures you take with you.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Home In Heaven

Voice of an Unborn

Why am I here so soon, dear Lord? I was not even born. Will no human heart ever welcome me? For my loss, will no one mourn?

I did so want to feel the earth, To gaze at Your blue sky. Who decided I should not be? Who, to me, would life deny?

Mom and Dad, didn’t you know When my tiny life began, That a soul created by God’s hand, Must become a woman or a man?

I wanted to cuddle close to you, And touch a mother’s smiling face. I once was cradled under your heart,

Now your womb is an empty place.

I’ll pray for you and others, That God forgives your sin. Mother, if only you had let me grow, Other hearts I’d win.

Two kind people would welcome me, I’d bring joy into their day. Why didn’t you just give me life? And then go on your way?

The Starter Home

I really am tired of this old house. A new paint job is in vain. The main s have been replaced, Only to result in pain.

It’s falling down around me. Even the roof has leaks. The shingles are dropping one by one, Of deterioration it speaks.

It’s time to move to a new neighborhood As this earth is going to hell, Turning their backs on Almighty God, Falling under the devil’s spell.

Lord, where is the place You prepare for me? A new body and home like Yours. Please say this was just a “starter home.”

For all problems, you have the cures.

But the windows still let in the light, And a brighter day I see. When will You finish my place in heaven, And You will say, “It’s finished, come with me.”

The Feast

Hungry for Your presence, I long to see Your face. Hungry for Your very Word, To rest in Your embrace.

My table, full and plenty, I have all that I desire. Yet I am starving in my soul, You are what I require.

And God said, “You have labored, To fulfill my every plan. But you still have work unfinished, Now do the best you can.

“The table waits here for you, The feast that you desire. Finish the tasks I have given you,

And do all that I require.”

So throughout my days I’ll labor, With the feast awaiting me. My hungry soul to satisfy, And be all that I can be.

Lord, take me in Your presence now, That’s all that I can do. And He will say, “Come feast with me, Your day is finally through.”

The Recall

We will not be recalled Until our task is complete. Live for His glory, honor His name. For His favor try and compete. All this world is vanity And will not last for long. Heaven is eternal. Ask our God to make you strong.

The Beginning and the End

In the beginning, God was alone. The earth was confusion and void. The magnificent One said, “I will create.” And His almighty power employed.

He brought forth oceans, sun, and stars And beheld them in His hand. To this He added animal life, Flowers, trees, and grains of sand.

The earth was ready to receive, The product of His great plan. “I will make him in my own image.” And God created man.

At first, man knew his Father. Then he became self-satisfied. Progress became his new God

And the natural order was defied.

Man gained dominion over the earth, But nature he destroyed. For man created, and once again, The earth was confusion and void.

The New Ark

Very shortly now, A new ark will appear But you will not be left behind Never more to fear.

All the pain and all the tears, He will wipe away. When you see it in the clouds, Night will turn to day.

Like a rolling thunder You will hear Him say, “You choose Me as I have chosen you Come, I have a better place to stay.

“Shut the door behind you. What is to come is not your care. The wicked cannot find you.

You are here, and they are there.

“You are My beloved There is nothing you can bring. I have done it all for you. Just let Me hear you sing.

“For in doing so, you give Me glory And to the One who created you. I have done all that is needed Come, your work on earth is through.”

Your Reality

I see Your glory around me, All earth is hallowed ground. Nature sings Your praises, Their wealth with me abound.

With nothing, I come into this world, Little I’ll leave behind. But let my life reflect You, To all, let me be kind.

For Your kingdom is all that matters, This life as illusion be. Let me wake from mortal slumber, Into Your reality.

Fulfillment

I hope that when I die, All will sing and dance, And celebrate my ultimate birth. My soul can then advance.

For we are like the butterfly. The egg is our mother’s womb We hatch into a caterpillar Feeding and growing until the tomb.

We crawl about, most limited Thinking only of here and now Not realizing there is more to come. To our mortal needs we bow.

But then will come the chrysalis As we soon will fall asleep And transform into the butterfly

The ultimate form to keep.

We will fly about untethered Seeing all from a higher place To seek and find fulfillment In God’s most beautiful face.

Millennium New Hope

There will descend a New Jerusalem Adorned with jewels of light Commanded by a radiant warrior Endowed with power and might.

He will level the ground beneath Him Stamp out evil with a sonic sword To make way for His faithful loved ones A clean earth is their reward.

He will rule with wisdom and justice For a thousand years, He will reign All will sing and rejoice in His love Praising His holy name.

All bodies will be perfect and strong Each tear will be wiped away We all will be in the prime of life

Enjoying our earthly stay.

All will live life to the fullest And work at a job they love Not eating the food earned by another All needs provided from above.

For a millennium, Christ and peace will reign The devil will be chained But then break loose for one last chance A kingdom to be gained.

But the Creator will never stand for this His infinite power be known The old heaven and earth will away Created anew with God on the throne.

Dreams of the Heart

Lord, I am a simple soul I care not for fancy things Just to see the good green earth And smell flowers the spring rain brings.

I do not desire a mansion Or a palace fit for kings But only a small log cabin On a lake that’s fed by springs.

To look out and see the mountains Sunlight dancing on the lake My eyes follow the loon I heard last night As he leave behind his wake.

To see love in the eyes of my faithful lab Or stroke the head of a shaggy big dog As we check out the lily pads

Crowned with white, hosting a lazy frog.

To stroke an orange-and-white tabby And feel his downy soft fur And hear him say, “I love you” With a happy gentle purr.

This to me is heaven on earth Though my dreams may never come true Lord, save me a little spot like this When I make my home with You.

The Host Gift

I know, You ask nothing but faith from us. That my ticket home is free. But please accept this gift with love, My Savior, to You from me.

I came into this world with nothing. Only my gifts from You. A voice that I could sing Your praise And a gift of poetry too.

Not only these talents, but many more. All to praise Your holy name. The Father created us in His own image. But not for our own glory and fame.

But to glorify the Trinity, As they all Three are One. Jesus has taken me into the family.

My freedom from sin He won.

Not much have I accomplished. With all that I have been given. But I hold in my hands For His Glory The host gift I’ll bring to heaven.

Father, welcome me into Your home. In the name of Jesus, Your Son. Let me walk with the Holy Spirit To my place in heaven Jesus has won.

Then - John and Bev

Now- Bev and John

Little Man the therapy cat

Bev, John and Deborah

Take time to smell the roses

Bev and her helper