Rainbow Before the Storm

Today, I saw a rainbow in the sky
I couldn't help but wonder “why”?
Why a rainbow before the storm?
This definitely wasn't the norm.

I pondered over this question
and this was my impression.
God was reminding me, “Don't fear
for I will always be near.”

God is present every day of my life
even before there is any sign of strife.
When clouds appear, I know He's there.
During the storm, He listens to my prayer.

Storms thundered as they came tonight,
Chasing away the final glimmer of light.
During the dark the Son is my consolation
He's the source of my life's transformation.

So remember to look at God's rainbow
and realize that He is not your foe.
Allow Him to comfort and soothe you
as the trials of life He leads you through.

Judy Wood

A Gift To All Mankind

An act of condescension,

An act of love and grace,

When deity became a man

To save this human race.

The two in one, both God and man,

Mistreated and abused,

And oft misunderstood by those

Who stood by and accused.

He laid aside His glory

In order to reach man,

To implement the Father's will,

To put in place His plan.

Indeed a gift to all mankind

Modeling a life of love,

Dependence on the Father,

Direction from above.

And so we walk the path prepared

Thus following His steps,

And wise the man who understands,

Dependence then accepts.

Alone we can do nothing,

Alone we try and fail,

But only as we do God's will

Will truth and love prevail.

The Incarnation demonstrates

Dependence in all things,

For Jesus truly understood

All from the Father springs.

Poem: My Soul Now Sings

My invisible scars
are plain for anyone to see,
as I blindly journey on...
This path of Christianity.

Wanting deliberate faith
ready on my tongue,
I received God's Salvation
when I was dumb and young.

Inflicted wounds to my soul
from a lack of understanding
have been healed by the Power
of Christ's personal anointing.

I am worth dying for
according to His Word;
The Lamb's wondrous sacrifice
had sin to Himself transferred.

Now my soul graciously sings
with overflowing joy!
For redemption has been granted
to this formerly, lost boy.



-----------------------
Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Poem: Only Your Adoration

The essence of God is within,
looking to spring forth in your life.
You have been greatly blessed,
but may be unable to recognize it.
Learn to die to selfish desire
and enable His Spirit to be activated.
All that God requests is your adoration.
Giving praise and singing hymns to Yaweh
means He has captured your heart -
Therefore, your love for Him is... Genuine.


-----------------------------
From my book "Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory"
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Crimson Flow

Red reminds me of how He
Bled on calvary
Head topped with crown of thorns
Shed His life's blood for me

Defend your growing faith
Depend on His grace
Extend a message of hope
Befriend with love's embrace

Raise your lovely voice
Praise Him in joyful song
Always make Him your choice
Gaze upon His beauty

Freedom in Christ

Deceived, they march, time is not on their side
Under millions of banners with no-one to guide
They search with false hope
Through the fog and the smoke
And are being swept away on deaths tide

Their convictions and dreams are enveloped in night
They all reach for bright colors but can't see the light
In their lust and their sham
They forget who I Am
And abandon their heaven bound flight

Who has lied to my children? Who has led them astray?
I call out their names but you steal them away
From your pride at the start
I have known your black heart
For your treacherous crimes you will pay

With their days growing short, still they flock to death row
Holding the dice but unwilling to throw
If they just turn and face me
Or dare to embrace me
I will clear every debt that they owe

They need to draw closer, know what I have done
They know evolution but don't know my Son
Who will turn them about?
Who will stand up and shout
A new song of a victory won?

Who will tell them that Christ has now settled their fees?
He purchased their lives with his blood on a tree
Through dark shadows there shines
A great light for mankind
That will set all who turn to it free

Freedom from hatreds that bind all that's true
If they're washed in his blood then all things become new
Freed from their shame
If they live by his name
And love him in all that they do

Who will go to my children and tell them they're saved?
They are free now from guilt. Yes! Their sins have been waived
If they turn from that road
I will carry their load
A new path laid with gold I will pave

A message to all who the world has enticed
There's a seat at my table - Your love is its' price
But the places are few
And are limited to
All those who have freedom in Christ

The Lord Has Spoken

Before the creation, there was darkness and deep
There was nothing around, not awake nor asleep
No land was in sight, no countries or borders
God's Spirit was hovering over the waters

Then God opened his mouth and said "Let there be light"
The sounds left his lips and creation took flight
A great light appeared and then God said "OK
I'll call the dark night and I'll call the light day

God saw it was good and he winked at his Son
"Too much water all in the one place 'aint much fun
We'll leave some below and we'll put some up high
The bit in-between, we'll call it the sky"

There was water below - there was plenty to see
Then God said "What next? Let's see, what will it be?
Let's bring up dry ground and we'll call it the land
The sea will surround it and it will be grand"

God spoke on day three - day two was so good
"We'll make a few trees, we can make them from wood
Some plants and some fruit and each one with a seed
Some sun and some water is all that they'll need"

God saw what he'd made and he thought it was fine
"Now let's fill up the sky and we'll teach it to shine
The sun by the day, so warm and so bright
The moon and a few million stars by the night"

On the fifth, God looked down from heaven on high
He checked out the water and looked at the sky
"Let's fill them with fish and some birds that can fly
They'll splash and they'll flap and they'll all multiply

Now the sky had its' birds and the sea had its' creatures
The land had its' plants and its' wonderful features
It was all very good - God was far from upset
But he said to his Son "Well we 'aint finished yet"

God spoke again and then more life appeared
From insects to cows and a goat with a beard
Big cats and dinosaurs covered the deck
and a strange looking one with a really long neck

God was so happy with all he had done
But the greatest of all of his works was to come
"We'll make them like us and they'll rule the whole land
and I'll love all my children with all that I Am"

At the end of six days, the Lord's work was complete
On the seventh he rested and put up his feet
"I'll call this day holy and it will be blessed
I'll call it the Sabbath, the day of my rest

Next time that you look at a tree or a bird
Remember the power God has in his Word
He speaks and it happens, no messing about
and when he comes back, it will be with a SHOUT!

Accept Without Understanding

Some day it really won't matter,

The things that I've had to go through,

The pain and the suffering, the tears I have shed,

His plans surpass all in review.

Some day my questions He'll answer,

The "whys" that have lingered within,

He'll lay out His pattern, at last I shall see,

His ways, not my ways, will win.

Confusion, frustration, that haunts me

Will be put to rest in His time,

It really won't matter once I see His face,

The mountains that I've had to climb.

I truly was never abandoned

Though I felt my prayers went unheard,

He carries me through every valley,

I know this 'cause I have His Word.

The trials allowed one day will make sense,

Disease and evil abound,

But He has a plan that I can foresee,

His glory will one day astound.

Some day it really won't matter,

The things we've had to go through,

The pain and the suffering, the tears we have shed,

His plans surpass all in review.

A Colorado Fall

In the brilliance of the golden leaves
I feel His presence there.
Stirring through the quaking breeze
His Spirit fills the air.

Essence sweet with hints of pine
The air so fills and moves me,
That I am speechless, caught in time
Held hostage by the beauty.

I see Him there, I breathe Him there
And often kneel to render,
Heart-felt praise yet in despair
For words to tell His splendor.

Every year when colors change
My heart embraces fall.
A pilgrimage to cross the range
Then up the mountain calls.

Though vivid and alluring
Are the autumn Aspen hues,
They pale beneath the stirring…
Of when I kneel on golden pews.

By Tom Valles



Luke 6:12
“One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.

A Lender's Shopping Mall

The labor pains of writing

Results in many books,

And giving birth to all those words

One cannot overlook.

And for this vast selection

Of titles one and all,

A place for readers far and wide...

A lender's shopping mall.

Vast tomes of information,

Of stories that delight,

Or poetry that lifts the heart

And rises to its height.

A place of inspiration,

That hush that fills the air,

That isolated quietude

That everyone can share.

A place of peace and refuge,

A way to just escape,

A temporary solitude

That can one's life reshape.

A means to travel 'round the world

And never leave one's town,

To cast off heavy burdens,

For a brief time...letdown.

Refueling mental batteries,

To let one's mind engage,

To while away an afternoon

With words upon each page.

A catalog of vast delights

Indexed and shelved with care,

And filed alphabetically

By authors one can share.

Just one of heaven's blessings

Delighting mind and heart,

A brief but true vacation

From an author's "pastry cart".

Send Them Off With A Kiss

The days and hours are fleeting,
Both time and minutes rush by,
We're not guaranteed the next moment
Nor told when our end will draw nigh.

Assuming that we'll have more chances,
Opportunities oft slip away,
Expressing our thoughts and feelings,
With tender emotions convey.

Just what will our loved ones remember,
What would we want them to know,
When sending our kids off to school
Or leaving for work--"on the go"?

The shadows of evening are hastening,
Another day slipping on past,
If this were our last conversation,
What words would we leave to hold fast?

Perhaps the spirit should ponder
As we send them off with a kiss,
The whispers of love we remember
And grudges, resentment, dismiss.

The mind will recall all the memories
Of times we were held to the heart,
The laughter we shared, the tenderness shown,
What message will our lives impart?

So send them off with a kiss
Instead of a shove out the door,
It's just too important to end with love's touch
Regardless of time's beating score.

Poem: Prism to our Past

A humbling profession is
Biblical archaeology,
where people are found prostrate -
Searching for glimpses of Man's history.

Forgotten souls and evidence have been
covered by layers of earthly dust,
as recent discoveries now include...
The decoding of Israel's "Exodus".

An eclectic collection of artifacts
of the "Hyksos Expulsion" have been laid bare
by Simcha, the "Naked Archaeologist",
on TV's "The History Channel" everywhere.

Proposed is a brilliant theory,
that spans a labyrinth of time,
while he employs computer graphics
to capture believers' hearts and minds.

An unending excavation
of God's Truth will forever last,
while we focus our attention
and gaze through... His prism to our past.

Poem: Silent Words Are Useless

I've got my opinions as any other;
Hopefully, I'll be clear and you'll understand
that our silent words are useless -
For the trees will willingly clap their hands.

The one true God spoke into existence
the birds, fishes, plants, mammals, Earth
and all forms of life including...
Humble beginnings of Mankind's birth.

The sound of our individual voices
is something that God covets and enjoys;
He wants our unadulterated praise verbalized
with heartfelt, cheerful, and celebratory noise.

Our real outward expressions of faith
for acknowledging His holy ways
can only be accomplished via...
Sincere, loving and audible praise.

So open your mouth during Church worship
and praise Him without doubt!
For your silent words are useless -
Causing even the rocks... to cry out.

The Act Of Creation

A whisper from heaven,

A word overheard,

A turn of a phrase

That has the mind stirred.

The notes of a song

That bears one along,

The words of a scripture

That makes the heart strong.

A poem, a story

That brings fresh, new thoughts,

A sermon once spoken

New meaning has brought.

A fresh definition

That wakens the mind,

A new revelation

That has been outlined.

A breathtaking scene,

Some masterful art,

Will cause inspiration

To stir in the heart.

But if we're quite honest

It all comes from Him,

The Creator of words

And each synonym.

It's heavenly insight

As we hold the pen,

The Spirit is speaking

Though written by men.

Pursued by the Father

As children of God,

We give Him our best

Though the writing is flawed.

From Him comes all wisdom,

The flame to begin,

Our senses once stirred

And the story we spin.

But anything good

That was writ on the page,

Comes from the Father

Who our pen engaged.

Joy

It is the confident position
That God Almighty reigns.
It is the thorough expectation
That simple faith proclaims.

It is the song in dire places,
That rejoices through the pain.
It is taking hold of graces
And standing in His name.

It is strength and consolation,
To know He’s in control.
It is void of consternation
As it fills the settled soul.

It is power for believers
And a gift from God above.
It conquers the Deceiver
And dances in His love.


By Tom Valles

Psalm 28:7 “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. NIV

The Tattered Pages

The pages lay on the table
where she left them last night.
Love written there was no fable.
It filled her heart with delight.

Her fingers touched the golden edge
of the papers tattered and worn.
Years ago she made a pledge
to read these pages every morn.

Her love for Him grew each day.
What a sacrifice He'd made.
She knew she'd never stray.
Every day she read and prayed.

She grew closer to her Lord
and would serve Him all her days.
This was the Savior she adored.
Her heart overflowed with His praise.

She lived by the words on its pages.
When she died it was laying by her side.
It had sustained her through all ages.
Now with Her Lord she would abide.

Should This Be My Last

Should this be my last on earth

My heart wants you to know,

My love for you will still go on

As sure as God's rainbow.

I know I caused you heartache,

For that I've grieved for years,

But we cannot erase the past

And mercy's dried the tears.

You are the fruit this vine's produced...

My children, still my own...

With pride and wonder as I've watched

You've blossomed as you've grown.

Your children now have blessed me

And filled my cup with joy,

With love and laughter, pride and awe,

That no one can destroy.

I'm blessed to have this legacy,

A gift from God's own heart,

You and your children from His hand...

Such lovely works of art.

Whatever worlds you conquer

I'll have a part as well,

For lives leave endless ripples

As waves recede and swell.

Should this be my last on earth

I have just one request,

That you would know the love of God,

This One who loves you best.

May your lives be a blessing,

A gift from Him to earth,

May you fulfill His purposes

And know your own self-worth.

And should this be my last on earth

We have this consolation,

If you know Jesus as your Lord,

We'll meet in celebration.

Ephesians 3:17-19

Apologies Again!

I am not sure why Blogger continues to send some of my posts from my Kathryn's Perspective blog here, but I am thinking it may be because whenever anyone posts to Christian Poet's Pen, it resets my settings to make this the prominent blog, and therefore, my next entertainment posts goes here instead of to my Arts & Entertainment Blog! I am so sorry I keep spamming this blog. It is completely unintentional, I assure you! I will TRY to be more aware to check and see if my setting have changed. Thanks for putting up with me!

Lord of the Seas

Though the tempter tries to turn the seas
A captain oversees and hears our pleas.
Though the devil dares to raise the waves
A Savior paves a path and calms our way.

Though one tries to overturn this ship
The Lord is quick to steady and equip.
Though the liar lives to slay believers
The Word: a weaver’s net is His retriever.

By tsv

Isaiah 59:1 Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear.

2 Timothy 3: 16,17 “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”

The Early Tolls

Lord, this one was far too young
To leave this world so soon.
So many dreams and hopes we hung
Now all seem dashed and strewn.
God of Comfort, heal this hole
When early death bells toll.

Lord, this life was far from full,
How could it now be finished?
From thankful then to bitter pulled
From blessed to diminished.
God of Healing, make us whole
When early death bells toll.

Lord, this soul was of your making
The days ordained, the years forsaken.
The birthday and the day of taking
All in providence, none mistaken.
God of Peace, embrace this soul
When early death bells toll.

Lord, the early bells ring loud.
They draw confused and doubting crowds.
How through hearts could God have ploughed
And left our lives in shredded shrouds?
God of Mercy, mend the fold
When early death bells toll.

Lord, your Spirit helped me see
The early bells are gifts for these.
They enter into perfect peace
And find resplendent rest and ease.
God of Sovereign love bestows
Strength to bear the early tolls.

By Tom Valles

Isaiah 57: 1, 2 “The righteous man perishes, and no man takes it to heart; and devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from evil, He enters into peace; they rest in their beds, each one who walked in his upright way.”

Masks

The fixed facades, the masks in place
Yet troubled eyes shine through,
The restlessness, the hopelessness,
The shadowed eyes construe.

The masks perform their empty tasks,
For life, it just goes on,
A seeming carousel they ride,
The same from dusk to dawn.

Enduring life, hour by hour,
Repeating one more day,
What was done the day before
Done once again today.

No purpose in the plodding,
They live, so they exist,
No joy performing all the chores
That daily make their list.

They own so much they must maintain
And still the need for more,
To prove they are successful
With jobs that are a bore.

The masks in place, few people see
The emptiness inside,
Few people know they yearn for more
Or hear the moans they sighed.

Pretending happiness and joy
They hide the inner pain,
Frustrating tears we'll never see,
Convinced their life's in vain.

But there is hope and they must hear
There's purpose for each one,
Designed by God with gifts and tasks...
A race that must be run.

The fake fore'er forgotten,
The masks removed at last,
Perceiving purposes and plans...
Abundant life forecast.

This life a preparation,
Eternity's ahead,
A future of no pain or tears
But joy and peace instead.

For hope lies buried 'neath the soil
Of anxious, fearful hearts,
For we are certain our God reigns
And peace He thus imparts.

With every dawn there is fresh hope
That nurtures life anew,
A new beginning for the masks
If we tell them of You.

Seasons Of The Soul

The soul too has its seasons
But we don't realize
That just as winter follows fall,
The lows must follow highs.

We cannot live on mountain peaks
Or we would not relate
To those whose hearts are crying out
With burdens that are great.

It's through the desert seasons
We've found that God is real,
It's in the wastelands of our lives
Where we have learned to kneel.

For when we reach our limit
And find we can't depend
On anyone or anything
We finally comprehend...

Our props have been our idols,
We've given them first place,
It's then we recognize our need
And finally seek His face.

It's in the desert season
We truly see our need,
For only He can send the rain
That nurtures heaven's seed.

With springtime comes the flower,
The blooming of the soul,
For living waters He pours forth
So we in turn console.

The soul must have its seasons
For growth, for His embrace,
The green upon the mountain height
Is just a resting place.

Hold Me Near

God of comfort hold me near,
gently wipe away sorrow's tear.
Strengthen me through this trial.
Walk with me each and every mile.

When Satan tries to discourage me;
LORD, hear my fervent plea.
Answer me quickly when I call
ere I stumble and fall.

Be with me through darkest night.
Renew my hope with morning light.
Sustain me with your peace
until this life and sorrows cease.

Restore the happiness I once knew
as I continually praise you.
Then forever to be with thee
from earthly cares I will be free.


Judy Wood

Satan's Greatest Weapon

The overwhelming sadness,
The tears that blind the eyes,
The weariness though unexplained,
The barely hidden sighs.

The heaviness of heart and soul
That bends one to one's knees,
The tears that come at any whim
That no one ever sees.

The need for isolation,
To fight this all alone,
Forsaking friends and family
When faith cannot be shown.

The stresses mount with increased pain,
There's trouble on all sides,
But all alone you wage this war
And dry the tears you hide.

Your work no longer interests you,
It's hard to concentrate,
The things that once brought you such joy
No longer contemplate.

The clouds that hover overhead
Can blind the mind as well,
And blocks the beauty of each day,
On negatives you dwell.

Wake up, my soul, you're in a war,
This battle you must win.
The enemy's deceiving you,
Don't take it "on the chin".

These are his greatest weapons
To conquer Christian hearts,
The helplessness, anxieties,
His often favorite darts.

To make us ineffective,
No longer filled with joy,
We've given him his greatest gift
When faith he can destroy.

Wake up, my soul, and listen
For these are just his traps,
You need not fight this on your own,
God's weapons we unwrap.

It is a battle of the mind
And you must take control,
For attitude's a choice, you see,
If you would be made whole.

Some "garment" you must wear each day,
Your choice, it's up to you,
Will praise or pity be your thought,
On what will your mind chew?

To worship or to worry,
Where will your focus be?
Remember God is still in charge,
So blinded eyes can see.

You are a gift God wants to use,
Effective you must be,
Remember all He's promised you
And Satan's traps you'll flee.


"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition (definite requests) with thanksgiving continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace (be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace) which transcends all understanding, shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-8 (Amplified Bible)

"And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from the Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts--deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds--(in that peaceful state) to which (as members of Christ's) one body you were also called (to live). And be thankful--appreciative, giving praise to God always." Colossians 3:15 (Amplified Bible)

He Gives Sweet Peace

I need your peace to soothe my soul
And make me whole.
Please be my guide,
With me abide.

Come walk with me down lovely trails
Where calm prevails.
Sun rise greets me.
Birds sing to thee.

Sense of tranquility you send
by whispered wind.
My cares did cease,
Sweet Prince of Peace.

Judy Wood

The Small Price Of Pain

We are not called to happiness,
We're called to live for Him,
And sometimes it's through thorny ways
We're asked to walk with Him.

Our actions speak far louder
When problems we endure,
His peace and presence are enough,
In trials we're secure.

For in our weakest moments
When we have lost control,
It's evident His strength is there
To lift and to console.

Our suffering may be the key
To bring someone to Him,
The price is small to gain it all,
I choose to live for Him.

If my pain helps another,
I will not, Lord, complain,
For You have given me a joy
This world cannot explain.

God Alone Makes My Heart Sing

When gray skies obscure my view
No human touch will do.
Sorrow so deep I cannot speak
God alone is the one I seek.

When teardrops roll down my face
I feel His warm embrace.
As He holds me near
Satan's whispers disappear.

He gently wipes away my tears,
Releases me from haunting fears.
Joy comes on silent wing
And God alone makes my heart sing.

Judy Wood

The Vine

He is the Vine, He holds me fast,
He nourishes and grows,
And as the branch I draw from Him
The strength that ever flows.

He is my sole provider,
My anchor, my life-line,
And all I need to flourish
Is found within the Vine.

The Vine's responsible, you see,
For life, for growth, for fruit,
For all provisions for the branch
Are found within this root.

And I am grafted in this Vine
By His sweet invitation,
And when the union is complete
The fruit is His creation.

The branch does nothing on its own,
It only must abide,
To put down stakes, remain in Him
And He is satisfied.

He takes responsibility,
There's blossoming, then fruit,
We've tapped into His faithfulness
And nothing can uproot.

John 15:1-11

Gilded Prayers

How precious are the prayers lifted.
Tis not the eloquence of words,
But how from loving hearts we’re gifted
With gilded prayers the Father heard.



TSV

Revelation 8:3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

Poem: Giving Tithes to God

Revelations of the heart
regarding how one's money is spent
echoes volumes about character
and our God-given talents.

For Jehovah is far from being poor;
He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.
He's not into ungodly extortion
to keep you from paying your bills.

By serving two masters,
one will be dearly loved - the other sorely hated;
so one can never be truly happy
until settling the God and Mammon debate.

The wealth of God lies in His Word.
His principle of tithing is a mechanism
to pour out financial blessings upon us.
Therefore, purge your mindset of secularism.

Jehovah desires our faithfulness
to fulfill our ministry to the Earth.
We won't be judged on our daily income -
Know that money can never define... Our true worth.



-----------------
Author Notes:

FYI - Mammon is the church term for the "God of money".

Poem: Giving Tithes to God

Revelations of the heart
regarding how one's money is spent
echoes volumes about character
and our God-given talents.

For Jehovah is far from being poor;
He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.
He's not into ungodly extortion
to keep you from paying your bills.

By serving two masters,
one will be dearly loved - the other sorely hated;
so one can never be truly happy
until settling the God and Mammon debate.

The wealth of God lies in His Word.
His principle of tithing is a mechanism
to pour out financial blessings upon us.
Therefore, purge your mindset of secularism.

Jehovah desires our faithfulness
to fulfill our ministry to the Earth.
We won't be judged on our daily income -
Know that money can never define... Our true worth.



-----------------
Author Notes:

FYI - Mammon is the church term for the "God of money".

Poem: Moments of Clarity

Oh, how I desire more
of Your Light's essence,
to clearly penetrate
the core of my being.

How much can I endure
without Your Presence?
Though I may be frustrated,
it's You Lord, I'm believing.

It's been said before,
in Your Word's eloquence -
"nothing new" has been stated
and it agrees with what I'm seeing.

Moments of clarity, at the door
of Your Kingdom's brilliance,
are revelations of my faith's fate,
found under Your grace and loving... kindness.

Though I Don't Understand

Your methods I don't understand,
Your ways are hard to see,
And yet You hold the universe,
I know You're holding me.

It is not mine to question
The methods that You use,
But it appears the way You work
Is not what I would choose.

My healing seems uncertain,
The pain becomes so real,
I do not wish to stumble, Lord,
Or others' faith to steal.

Yet I know that You are working,
Your Word You do not change,
So I in faith will walk each day
This pathway that is strange.

You are the great Creator,
All power's in Your hand,
If this will bring the greater good
Then, Lord, I'll understand.

I give You, Lord, my body,
The pain, the doubts, the fears,
For You have shown me You are love
And I've no cause for tears.

Faith is a Journey

Faith is trusting as a small child
In a Savior meek and mild.
Others forsake me and flee
Yet God is always with me.

Faith involves a huge leap
Over a chasm wide and deep.
It's getting down on my knee
Even when His answers I can't see.

Faith is a perpetual journey
Until He sets me free
From earthly cares and trials.
He's traveled with me many miles.

Faith is giving my life completely
To a God who loves me absolutely.
He's given me the greatest gift
And daily my soul He does uplift.

Faith is a marathon race
Sometimes I go at snail's pace.
Never from Him will I roam
As I travel on to my heavenly home.

Judy Wood

Through The Valley

You walk through the valley
So dark and so deep,
The low clouds oppress you,
The mountain is steep.

No faith can you muster,
No will to go on,
You're desperate and needy
And wish to be gone.

You'd love to sprout wings
And fly far away,
Yet you know you are trapped
And here you will stay.

Come into His presence
Releasing your care,
The load will be lifted
As you wait in prayer.

God knows your desire,
He knows you are weak,
Confess your frustration,
The future that's bleak.

His presence brings comfort,
Refreshment like rain,
His Spirit works in you
Releasing the strain.

He helps you remember
What He's brought you through
The troubles behind you,
The giants He slew.

He'll give you fresh courage
And strength to endure,
His presence is with you,
Your future is sure.


"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:9-10 (NIV)

Nail Fixed

Fastened by the steel
Of Jesus Christ’s devotion,
The devil can’t repeal
The plan God put in motion.

Pierced by what He did
When Jesus took the cross;
My life in Christ is hid
And eternal death is lost.

Driven by amazement
That Jesus thought of me.
My hope cannot be fazed,
“I am crucified with Thee!”

Staked upon a sacred hand
When sinners raised Him up.
Condemnation couldn’t stand
When Mercy took the “cup.”

Pounded sure, the nails attest
His love is here to stay.
And just to put all doubts to rest
He died with them that way.

TSV



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

Jesus You Are

A Songbird that brings sweet
Melody into my wistful heart
The savory spice which adds
Zest to my lonely days

The exquisite flowers on a hillside
That bring beauty and delight
Living and cooling water
A tonic to revive and refresh

The master teacher of knowledge
And I, the adoring student at your feet
Light that illuminates my night
Guiding me through raging storms.

A king adorned in purple robe
And I'm your beloved servant
The strong citadel that protects
Me from all dark and evil forces

My loving Savior, your scarlet blood
Flowing from your brow and side
Sweet nectar of forgiveness that
Brings abundant joy to my soul.

Judy Wood

House cleaning

Spam, Comments

Because of the sad little spammers who have nothing better to do with their time than spam our posts, I have now restricted comments to members of this board only. I simply don't have time to come in here and remove their spammy little posts. I will remove any members who spam this board.

Bio, Links

Please remember that any bio info and links should be included on your own profile page and not with each poem

Titles

Poem Titles Should Be in Word Caps, not ALL CAPS!

New Writers

If you have submitted poems from May through  now, I was one of the tens of thousands of Middle Tennessee flood victims in May. I had many thousands of dollars worth of damage, but my brother and some friends lost everything. I didn't have power for almost a week, didn't have phone/internet for almost a month, and my street was trapped by flood waters and mudslides where we couldn't get out for several days. I have not had a chance to approve submissions and do not plan to go dig through the past three months of posts to try to find them. If you are interested in submitting poems here, please post your samples again. and hopefully I will see them this time. Keep in mind, I am still dealing with FEMA, and my fun, hobby boards like this one are not a priority.

Moderators

With that said, if anyone feels like they know their way around a Google Blog and poetry basics well enough to help me moderate, I would welcome some help. Just leave me a comment and let me know if you feel comfortable with Google blog settings, and if you think you could gently determine if poetry form and message are in keeping with a mainstream Christian poetry blog.

Heaven Is Silent

Heaven is silent
As my spirit groans,
When troubles surround
And I feel so alone.

No praises, no anthems,
I watch in dismay,
How could God allow this,
My hopes all betray?

Is He just too busy
To hear all my pleas,
Or lifting in anger
His Spirit from me?

Depression weighs heavy,
There seems no relief,
My prayers hit the ceiling
As I pray in my grief.

Yet I know that God loves me
And He never lies,
He watches the sparrow
And hears my faint cries.

This too He will conquer,
One day bring relief,
He sees that I suffer
And shake like a leaf.

My spirit weighs heavy,
I groan in my pain,
This too He will use
And it is not in vain.

My heart's filled with sorrow,
I spend all my days
Just waiting for answers
As my spirit prays.

And yet heaven's silent,
I feel so betrayed,
The enemy whispers
And I am afraid.

In the depths of my soul
I know God is real,
He's promised His presence
Whatever I feel.

This testing, this trial,
Is part of His plan,
And though He may tarry
I'm safe in His hand.

All pain has a purpose
And at His command,
Though now for a moment
I don't understand.

He's paid for my future,
His blood paved the way,
My ears hear the echoes
Of heav'n...come what may.


"If I called and He answered me, I could not believe that He was listening to my voice. For He bruises me with a tempest and multiplies my wounds without cause." Job 9:16-17 (New American Standard Bible)

"I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth." Job 19:25 (New International Version Bible)

"But He knows the way that I take (He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it). When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold (pure and luminous)." Job 23:10 (Amplified Bible)

What Would Jesus Do?

Would He live in isolation
Ignoring human need,
Or give what is no sacrifice
Some hungry mouth to feed...

A little out of plenty
While He lives on in ease,
Or personally become involved
To free men from disease?

Would He just send a gift or two
And no commitment make,
Or would compassion fill His heart
And other things forsake?

It isn't always easy
To hear the Master's voice,
But once His heart's revealed to us
There is no further choice.

We're called to follow in His steps,
To bear our cross and go,
Whatever is God's task for us
If we but ask, we'll know.

We do not want to see the needs
But help is overdue,
Yet, after all, we're only one...
Is that what He would do?

In Our Weaknesses

We see our limitations
As things to overcome...
The handicaps that hold us back,
That seem so troublesome.

If we could be delivered,
The weaknesses depart,
There'd be much more that we could do,
More work to have a part.

And yet it's in our weakness
That His sure strength shines through,
It's in the pain, the grief, the tears
We find His grace is true.

We learn that in our weakness
We can on Him depend,
And often through those weaknesses
His love to others send.

We cannot hope to comfort
If we have known no pain,
It's through the shadows of our lives
That we have truly gained.

Our hearts have learned to focus,
To soak in His dear love,
To trust Him in the darkest night
And see the light above.

It's often in our weaknesses
God's power can thus shine through,
Our strength are often hindrances
To what our God can do.

My Life Is God's Production

How long, oh Lord, must this go on,
It is so hard to wait,
My life is Your production
A play that You create.

Depression hovers in the wings
And wants to come on stage,
But by Your Holy Spirit
You guide me through each page.

Discouragement's to play no role,
The cast You pre-select,
And though life's trials play a part,
The ending You direct.

My lines are but to trust You,
To watch and persevere,
The script is held within Your hands
Though shadows linger near.

So, Lord, I choose to trust You
For You this play produce,
And this is but one act, one scene,
You'll put to some good use.

I will not trust my senses,
I'll follow, Lord, Your script,
For each scene has a purpose,
No act can thus be skipped.

Dark shadows still may linger
Beyond the gleam of lights,
But when the curtain closes
I'll rise to holy heights.

Wings Of Faith

Not plunging to its peril
This tiny baby bird,
But forced to learn the art of flight
For this the nest was stirred.

A seeming drop from heaven
It learns to try its wings,
It has not been abandoned,
To aid the parent springs.

Some "test runs" may be needed,
But confidence is learned,
And soon it finds it is equipped
To soar as it has yearned.

It takes some outside pressure
To stir us from our nest,
Equipped yet fearfully we plunge
To put faith to the test.

We too are not abandoned,
Our Father is nearby,
Far more equipped than we believe
He gave us wings to fly.

We often feel we can't survive
The height from which we fall,
But if our nest had not been stirred
We would not soar at all.


"Dear friends, God the Father chose you long ago and knew you would become his children. And the Holy Spirit has been at work in your hearts cleansing you with the blood of Jesus Christ and making you to please him. May God bless you richly and grant you increasing freedom from all anxiety and fear." I Peter 1:2 (The Living Bible)

Poem: On God's Mountain

To be on your mountain top
with an elevated view,
could my chances increase
for getting a glimpse of You?

Standing barefoot in your presence
before a burning bush consumed,
would your glory envelop me
as a spiritual womb?

Moses saw your backside,
but show me instead your face and eyes.
Having direct interaction with you
should cause my faith to be revised.

Conquering obstacles of Life
via a mountainous climb,
while developing a personal relationship
help makes the upward trek sublime.



-------------------
From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Poem: Prone to Error

Challenges in Life are meant to be,
assisting us to reach maturity.
For our reaction to circumstance
marks personal growth beyond luck and chance.
Proven is our ability to learn,
expanding mental constraints as hearts burn.
Walking in upright, godly perfection
complements Jehovah's desire for Man's compassion.
The lasting goal is surely not religious fervor,
but moving past our fallen state of being...
Prone to error.


----------------
From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squiddo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

God Wastes Nothing

I thank you, Lord, not for the pain
But that Your love redeems,
I know that I must walk through this
As heavy as it seems.

But when I think I can't go on,
The pain is so intense,
It's then You whisper in my soul,
"Of this I will make sense."

This too You'll use to help someone,
In this I'll give You praise,
I'll gladly bear the price of pain
If this Your hand displays.

For in my weakness You are strong,
This pain is not in vain,
For You waste nothing in my life,
Myself and others gain.

So though I ask for healing,
I want Your plan far more,
For in the center of Your will
There's peace forevermore.

God Bless America

God bless America,
This country built by grace,
Restore the faith that made her great
That she might seek Your face.

Forgive the self-reliance,
Rejection of Your Word,
And grant us the desire
To let Your voice be heard.

No longer do we stand with pride
To bear Your holy name,
For "Christian" now's so widely used
It doesn't mean the same.

Forgive us, Lord, we've wandered far,
Restore us by Your grace,
For You, Lord, first established us,
Redeem this fallen race.

Restore to us Your conscience,
Desire to follow You,
Renew our land that we again
Your principles pursue.

Pour out Your Spirit on our land,
Your mercy may we know,
And in humility we ask
That strength and wisdom grow.

A special blessing, Lord, we ask
For those who rule and lead,
Reveal Your wisdom and Your grace
That Your work may succeed.

We thank You for our country,
This land that You've made great,
With You as our foundation
May love replace all hate.

Emotional Boundaries

There's necessary boundaries
When with the other sex,
Restricting deepest feelings
In marriage God directs.

Relating feelings paves the way
For tender, sweet communion,
And sharing with the other sex
Can break the marriage union.

For we are truly intimate
When we ourselves disclose,
And flesh too often walks the path
That intimacy sows.

True wisdom builds a fence around
An aching, lonely heart,
For from this tiny stepping stone
An avalanche can start.

Emotions are the basis
For two becoming one,
And when we open up our hearts
All others we must shun.

For God has joined together
In body, mind, and soul,
We dare not open up the gate
Another to console.

Divine Handprints

This extra weight I carry
Is not, dear Lord, from You,
The agitation, restlessness,
Mean I'm not trusting You.

I'm reverting to old habits,
The worry and the doubt,
As if the problem's mine to fix
And I can work it out.

But You, Lord, have the answers,
You have not lost control,
And as I simply rest in You
This will not take a toll.

I need not fear the outcome,
It's safely in Your hand,
For everything I am or own's
Provided by Your hand.

When Satan hurls these anxious darts,
I will not even wince,
For in the problems that I face
I see Divine handprints.

To Pine for Christ

Do you have a secret, quiet place
To pine for Christ the Lord?
Do you have a prayer closet space
Where only He’s adored?

Do you seek His daily bread
To pine for Christ the King?
Do you read ‘til fully fed,
Then overflow with singing?

Do you bid the Spirit’s presence
To pine for Christ the Savior?
Has He filled you with His essence
And the joy His angels savor?

Do you break down on your knees
To pine for Christ the Healer?
Have you lingered ‘til you seize
Precious “pearls” from the Revealer?

Do you knock on Heaven’s gate
To pine for Christ’s decision?
Do you want His will and wait
Then accept the Lord’s provision?

Do your tears as rivers run
To pine for Christ the Sovereign?
Do you “get” all He has done
And want nothing less than all of Him?

By Tom Valles

Isaiah 26: 9 “My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.”

Earthly Giants

We all have our own earthly giants,
Challenges we must meet.
Obstacles meant to be overcome
Or our lives are full of defeat.

We do not begin with "Goliath"
But first fight the lion and bear,
For confidence comes with each new success
And faith is the armor we wear.

With every success there's new battles,
And when we "Goliath" must meet,
The past has prepared us, for God has not spared us,
Our giants will lay at our feet.

For Father's Day

All the things I never told my father:

For all the times
I never told you thank you,
For all the times
I ignored what you said,
For all the years
I acted so indifferent,
I want to say
how much I thank you, Dad.


These are the things I should have often told you,
But usually they were left unsaid;
Now these are words that weigh heavy upon me -
How much I want to say, I love you, Dad.

For all the times you reached and I rebuffed you,
For all the years I scoffed at things you said,
I want to say how much I miss my father,
And how I wish I could tell you now, Dad.


Read more:
Father's Day Poems - Poetry for Father's Day

When He Breathes

Soft, still, the silence heaves
I inhale, the Spirit breathes;
Flowing, growing Christ bestowing
Life and strength surpassing knowing.

Scented, soothing, respiration
Taking in His inspiration;
Filling, feeling Christ exalted
Love and Grace supremely vaulted.

Sure, secure the Spirit wind
Where flows the Sovereign;
God revealing Christ resplendent
Hope and purpose codependent.

When He breathes upon the morn
Hope has dawned and life is born;
He my all in all shall be
From now unto eternity.

By Tom Valles

Job 33:4 “The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.”

Olympic Color

Colorful flags are flying,
Excitement's in the air,
And uniforms are on display,
The crowds are everywhere.

Each nation's represented,
Their flags are proudly borne,
The colors bright and beautiful
So gloriously adorn.

The Olympic flag's a symbol...
The five rings intertwined...
To show that all five continents
Unite as humankind.

Blue and yellow, black and green
And red upon the white,
One color shows up somewhere
On every country's flight.

As flags unfurl and athletes stand
Our hearts lift high with pride,
Our best is represented,
Their hard work justified.

As colorful as the display
It pales to what I'll see
When one day heaven is my home
What God prepares for me.

Then too I'll stand before the judge,
I'll raise my banner high,
And hopefully His heart will sing
And proudly He will sigh...

"My child, it is finished,
Your work at last is done,
Achievements did not get you here
But My race you have run.

My blood has covered all your sins,
And you are free at last,
A world of color I've prepared
A world that's unsurpassed."


"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." I Corinthians 2:9 (New International Version)

Poem: Forgiveness

We are wronged by people daily,
but to not forgive is unconscionable.
The Universal King had died for all;
for in eternity's view, we're pardonable.

He has given absolute amnesty
to everyone who has accepted Him.
Make no mistake about this unmerited immunity -
Grace's favor (over the course of Life) wears thin.

Death is inevitable, and our spirits
this mortal frame will leave;
so take advantage of God's condonation
to be granted a heavenly reprieve.

Human lives hang in limbo
under the penalty of death;
speak kindly of others and refrain...
From another wasted breath.



-------------------
Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/



Author Notes:

Condonation is a real word: you can see more about it at: http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=condonation


Since I believe in the Christ's resurrection, His death is in the past tense.

Poem: Visionless?

Visionless is no way to be:
having sight, yet unable to see.
Soul's blindness that's dark and deep
indicates your spirit is fast asleep.

Use the Word to ignite your inner spark
and awaken your slumber by the Lord's Light.
To have Life's purpose and meaning for self
promotes character and personal delight.

Having vision is intended for all,
so get fitted with some new glasses.
Accomplishments are attainable, provided you're
willing to use God's Word, while getting off your....



------------------
From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Temporary Housing

Temporary housing...
That's all this body is,
A place in which the Spirit dwells,
It is not mine, but His.

It serves a purpose in this world,
A means to serve, to do,
But it won't last forever
Though I worry, fret and stew.

It's true that it's important
But not my main concern,
Investing in eternity
Is what my soul must learn.

So if my body is not all
That I would choose or ask,
I can be certain it's equipped
For my appointed task.

Whatever my God asks of me,
For that He will equip,
And that alone is all I need
And it will last the trip.

With any earthly housing
Of course we must take care,
But it is not our prime concern,
It's only what we wear.

Someday I'll shed these earthly clothes,
This body's chains I'll flee.
Fatigue and pain will disappear
At last be truly free.

II Corinthians 5:1-19

Daniel and the Lions' Den

Under the bed is a whole 'nother world
Where sneakers, old toys, smelly socks have been hurled,
Where crayons, gum wrappers, and shoestrings abound,
Where all the lost treasures can usually be found.

Under the bed, a dark scary place,
Where menacing monsters in shadows we trace!
But can you imagine just what you would do
Alone in the dark finding lions with you?

For that's just what happened to Daniel, you know,
Alone in the darkness he paced to and fro.
I'm sure you are asking, "Just why was he there?"
With great hungry lions a den he must share!

A few men grew jealous of Daniel's success,
For he governed the people with so much finesse.
They probed, they examined, to find any flaw,
But there were no grounds for charges at all.

So how could they fault him, remove all his power?
They schemed, and they plotted, and spied by the hour.
For Daniel was faithful to seek out God's way,
And three times each day he was kneeling to pray.

Convincing the king a law to decree...
To the king, the king only, all prayer should be!
There is only one God, and this Daniel knew,
He continued to pray to his God in full view.

For breaking this law he was cast in the den
Where great hungry lions for him had a yen!
The king was distraught, yet the law he enforced,
The door of the den, he then reinforced.

The king in his anguish could not eat or sleep
And rushed out at dawn to the den just to peep.
"Daniel, O Daniel, are you still alive?
Did God in His mercy help you to survive?"

"My God sent an angel and I am unhurt,
I didn't become the lions' dessert!"
The king, overjoyed, then set Daniel free,
No blood was found on him, no wounds...not a flea!

There is nothing, no nothing, that's bigger than God,
No mountains too tall, no valley too broad.
When we're in a "dungeon", don't know what to do,
With eyes fixed on Jesus, He'll "lions" subdue.

Daniel 6

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is no option,
It's required for God's grace,
For in forgiving other's wrongs
His peace we'll then embrace.

The bitterness we harbor
Is cancer to the soul,
It eats away our peace of mind
And we then lose control.

Death is the final outcome...
Contentment is no more,
And we have lost our joy and peace
Because we're keeping score.

Resentment knows no boundaries,
Our minds list every wrong,
And every moment we are bound
We're deaf to God's love song.

For in releasing bitterness
That person can't control,
Our change of heart, our attitude
Brings freedom to our soul.

We know we are not perfect,
We've been forgiven much,
How can we then refuse to give,
Forgiveness to us clutch?

Forgiveness is no option
If we God's grace would know,
For in forgiving other's sins,
God will His grace bestow.


"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part." Matthew 6:14-15 (The Message)

"And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive--only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins." Mark 11:25 (The Message)

We Simply Shout, "Amen!"

Prayer defeats the enemy,
We know that still is true.
God's promises, His faithfulness,
At last come shining through.

So often worry fills the mind,
We reason it all out,
Until one day we realize
God's weapons it will rout.

With both feet standing on His Word,
We raise His banner high,
And clasp His promises of truth
When enemies draw nigh.

It is not ours to question,
The why, the how, and when,
But when our answer finally comes
We simply shout, "Amen."

God's given every weapon,
A purpose of each one.
His words the sword we wield
And the enemy's undone.

His helmet of salvation
To guard our thoughts and minds,
The belt of truth we tighten,
By truth all lies it binds.

The breastplate of His righteousness
So morals are not blurred,
Held closely to our hearts
We stand upon His Word.

Our feet shod with His Gospel,
Firm footed we thus stand,
And faith we lift up as a shield,
All doubts and fear withstand.

God's written Word our sword,
We wield with truth and grace
To fight off all life's enemies
And mental darts we face.

Penned by the Holy Spirit,
God's Word still holds the key,
And standing firm upon this base
All enemies will flee.

It is not ours to question
The why, the how and when,
But when the answer finally comes,
We simply shout, "Amen!"


"Therefore put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day (of danger), and having done all (the crisis demands), to stand (firmly in your place)." Ephesians 6:11-18 (Amplified Bible)

My Mother's Hands

My mother's hands are beautiful to me.
I see loveliness in them that others may not see.
The skin covering them is so very thin
That it's unable to conceal the veins within.
The loose skin that's folded into wrinkles is so fine,
That it reminds me of desert sand blown line upon line.
For years, the skin was work-worn, calloused, dry, and chapped;
Now, it's like that of babies she once held while they napped.

My mother's hands are beatuiful to me.
I see loveliness in them that others may not see.
I remember how they soothed my feverish brow,
And how they often "showed me how."
I recall how her hands always found work to do,
Seldom being idle these 86 years through.
They stored hay into the barn loft many a day,
And fashioned feed sacks into clothes just right for play.

My mother's hands are beautiful to me.
I see loveliness in them that others may not see.
I am awed by all her skillful hands have done--
How they've worked constantly from sun to sun.
I'm grateful for all they've done--so much, much, much!
I'm comforted by the memories of their gentle touch.
I'm also thankful for the love her hands have shown
As, through the years, they've cooked and washed and soothed and sewn.

(C) December 3, 2002, by Johnnie Ann Burgess Gaskill

Note: Mother is now age 93 and, sadly, no longer knows any of us who love her dearly. But we remember her! And the remembering makes us cherish her all the more and increases our gratitude for her life and the wonderful example she set for us.

Together Again

Always there to give advice,
To listen for awhile,
But most of all I knew your love
And pride was in your smile.

I miss you more than you can know
My mother, dearest friend,
Because you were God's light of faith
We'll meet at day's long end.

Poem: Danger of Zealous Fervor

Yes, the goal is to reach souls;
but at what further cost?
Unacceptable is using fear as mind control
for reaching those considered 'lost'.

When not as an example of victorious living,
the principles of God appear to lose credibility.
If not demonstrating a God that's loving,
then appeal of the Kingdom lacks desirability.

To berate skeptical souls with Hell's threat
will deliberately cause immediate offense.
Salvation is not a game with souls to bet -
Offer encouragement to get off the lukewarm fence.

Our responsibility is to share Salvation's plan,
not forcing people to immediately decide.
We are to be God's vessel to reach Man
and not propagate the Eternal Divide.



From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Poem: Eternity

In the quiet garden of Heaven,
one day I'll walk beneath the trees
with the coolness of God's Spirit
flowing more gently than an Earthly breeze.

In the royal kingdom of priests,
I'll run barefoot on streets of soft gold,
overwhelmed by the perfection of peace,
following where angels had previously strolled.

Before the awesome throne room,
I'll exude continual heartfelt praise
as part of God's familial host
safe and secure in everlasting days.



From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Blogger Glitch & Mother's Day

For unknown reasons, this blog disappeared for about 48 hours. I contacted Blogger and they never responded other than the blog showed back up in my Blogger dashboard for me to repost today. I don't know what was going on, but we are back now!

Anyone have any special poems for Mother's Day they want to share during the next week is invited to post them here!

Raindrops From Heaven

My tears fall like raindrops from heaven,
And yet through the dark clouds I see
His promise of blessing is stamped
In the sky,
The sun is still shining for me.

My tears are His treasured possession,
They soften, they nourish, they cleanse,
And just like His raindrops,
They bring fresh new growth
As my prayer to heaven ascends.

Surrender is sometimes so painful,
Yet all that I gain's worth far more,
For all that I cherish
Can never compare
To the treasures He has yet in store.


"For the Lord is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows (present) grace and favor and (future) glory--honor, splendor and heavenly bliss! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." Psalms 84:11 (Amplified Bible)

Dancing in the Rain

Here we are before you , Lord
to dance in the falling rain
no matter the type that soaks our heart
Lord , we know Your love will be the same

Yes, here we are soaking in the rain
letting Your peace soothe every weary part
and when life gets to heavy to bear all alone
it's there, where Your healing covers our heart

chorus:
Yes, to dance, to dance , to dance in His rain
oh what a comforting thought to feel
no matter how hard the day might become
Jesus , it's Your powerful presence that is real

Fall down on us, O God, with a rain of joy
and in the storms, reach down with healing hand
and even in the midst of uncertainty or fear
Lord , we know You're here to lift us up to dance

Chorus:
Yes, to dance, to dance , to dance in His rain
oh what a comforting thought to feel
no matter how hard the day might become
Jesus , it's Your powerful presence that is real

Yes, to dance, to dance, to dance in the rain
what a dance that is sure to be
for no matter how heavy life seems for us all
it's there , that God's Dance of Rain will set us free

A Place of Hope

In times of hurting, pain or fear
we have a God who hears, and cares
and in the times that we feel all alone
it is our God, who is always waiting there

Yes, He is here, to stand beside you now
His Love conquers all pain , or worry or fear
for in the place where our God holds you close
it's in His hands, that He holds your every falling tears

chorus:
For He is our Hope, in rough and stormy seas
He is our hope when waves come crashing down
and in our days and nights where many tears may fall
it is our God - whose peaceful presence comes to surround

Oh , in His healing hands that come from above
our Father comes to bring the gift of peace
for the hope we have in His comforting hands
it is our God, whose faithfulness will never cease

Yes, there is hope.. there is hope - in Him, a Place of Hope
a place , where we come to lay our burdens down
and in the wait and see , of answers unknown
it is our God, whose presence is always found

chorus:
For He is our Hope, in rough and stormy seas
He is our hope when waves come crashing down
and in our days and nights where many tears may fall
it is our God - whose peaceful presence comes to surround

For He is here, to stand beside you now
His Love conquers all pain or worries or fear
for in the place where our God holds you close
it is in His hands, that He holds your every falling tears

so look up to the Hope , yes, look up to Him
the Hope that comes from a Father's love
for in this time, where healing needs to be
it is now, where Hope is found from above.

Poem: A Sinner Like Me

Pushing this flesh into alignment,
guided by The Word most holy and pure,
I'm striving to learn principles
for a sanctified life to endure.

My Lord loves me without hesitation
and allowed a part of Himself to die.
He's calling me homeward without reservation;
by His Spirit, to His side, I'll eventually fly.

Knowing I'm a child of His,
during trying times I find true encouragement.
I'm able to lean on His strength
while in search of heavenly ascent.

Stumbling forward with pained progress,
I've chosen to turn myself towards Thee.
On Your path, lit by spiritual Light, I'm hoping...
That You will still forgive... a sinner like me.



From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Poem: His Blessings

His blessings upon my life flow -
No matter where I am
or wherever I happen to go.

Overcoming the curse of Mankind,
is a consuming, infinite Love
from the One declared divine.

As I continue inside His Will,
sheltered by Sacrificial grace,
His many promises are fulfilled.

Truly blessed, to be a blessing
is simple for anyone to see -
As I'm fully submerged... in God's covering.



Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Resurrection Song

My sin I bring , humbly to You , Lord
to the place where You once laid it down
My sin , I surrender as You took it all
Yes , as You've led me to such Holy ground

It is here in Risen splendor , Lord
You are here , yet , now reigning free
Your Holy presence in this awesome place
O Lord, for all, may Your Glory, be all we see !

Yes , my Redeemer died and now yet lives
He leads us to where the cross , once stood
It was there You took our sin upon Yourself -
Yes, the cross stained with all sin
and nothing else but the Savior's blood

It's here on such Holy ground
calling out, O God - You are the King of Kings "
with this , my sin , I hand to You , O Lord
its by Your Redeeming blood
now my salvation song, I can sing :

I believe, I believe - this song I shall sing
It's to Jesus the Redeemer , my hands I raise
it was from the Cross that I first saw the Light
and now, to You, O Lord, this heartfelt song of Praise :

Yes, I believe, I believe, that my Savior lives
because of my sin debt, my Savior came
From the Cross, to the grave , where my Redeemer Arose
I sing - Hallelujah to the Risen One
Yes, Hallelujah, My God forever Reigns!

The Path To Joy

Negativity gets us nowhere,
Our attitude, our choice.
We can view our blessings
Or grumble with our voice.

The clouds may still be present,
May nag our every step,
With Jesus as our focus
Our hearts know we are kept.

In complaining lies ingratitude,
A victim we become
To Satan's darts of fear and doubt
Until God's kingdom comes.

God's children know their future,
It's temporary here.
Rejoicing and thanksgiving
Will rout those darts of fear.

God's grooming us for better things,
Of this we can be sure,
Preparing us for what's ahead
In His hands we're secure.

Our bitterness a habit,
It's far past time to break.
And bitterness can oft repel
The friends we hope to make.

Our spirits filled with sunshine
Oft magnets then become,
A draw to friends and neighbors,
A witness then to some.

For nothing matters more on earth
Than leading souls to Him,
And spirits filled with sunshine
Will cause the clouds to dim.

A thankfulness develops
For His great gift of love,
The enemy's attacks on us
We then can rise above.

In the Midst of Thieves

One on His right, one on His left;
All were sentenced unto death.
One hurled insults, one defended
One found life, the other’s ended.

One repented, one maligned
All saw grace through Him defined.
One by Christ found paradise,
One defiant, paid the price.

One feared God and saw the vision
All there witnessed their decisions.
One there asked to be remembered
One alone, would meet the embers.

One like you, face this decision
All will come to this division.
One found life, the other death.
Choose while there remains a breath.

By Tom Valles

Luke 23: 39-43 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.”
And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise. (KJV)

Jesus Christ , Crucified

Jesus Christ crucified
His blood shed for sins of man
The sacrificial Lamb of God
Yet , He arose , The Great, Great I Am!

As you try to picture all He did
and the pain that He went through
remember on that old wooden Cross
it was His pain, endured , for me, and you.

Yes, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God
it was He, who took away our sin
He was the sinless , perfect Son of God
and He came to cleanse our hearts within

But hanging on that blood stained cross
Our Savior suffered such depths of agony
and dying that day with 2 men by His side
He knew it was the only way we could be set free

So He carried our transgressions up that hill
to offer forgiveness for every man, woman and child
and by the mercy and Grace of the Redeemer that day
it was our sin death, that His blood , reconciled

Yes, His blood flowing from that simple cross
as His earthly flesh mutilated, whipped and torn
wearing nothing but a torn scrap of cloth
and on His head , He wore a Crown of Thorns

Yes, it was Jesus Christ , Crucified
His blood shed on the Cross for those He loves
And today, coming to that very place
It's in Praise, that I raise my hands to Christ above

Yes, to sing songs of rejoicing today
for all that my Lord and Savior has done
No sacrifice can ever repeat the events that day
for it was all about Jesus , our Redeemer and Holy One

On Yahweh's Altar

In the stillness of the night, it's you and me.
I read and weep and pray and pant for Thee.
I humbly bow and fall upon your mercies
And recognize the graces you have shown me.

Sweet and deep His Spirit in me flows,
Restoring and replenishing my soul.
Cherished and reviving is His wine
Poured upon me from Thy cup divine.

Hallowed is the quiet when we meet
And sacred is repentance at your feet.
Joyous too, are nights with lifted hands
Thanking you for blessings small and grand.

Altar nights; my prized and chief success:
Being near to God, yea pressed upon His chest.
Slain to rise because God never falters,
When I come and break my heart on Yahweh's altar.

Psalms 51:17 "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God,
you will not despise." NIV

By Tom Valles

A Promise fulfilled - an Easter poem

Jesus, Savior and Risen King
He was crucified for you , and me
mocked, and tortured on an old wooden cross
yes, it was Jesus who died for all to see

Yes, by His Grace, He saved us all
His death brought new life for all to see
Oh such endless love, where our Savior hung alone
but Praise God, it was Jesus who came to set men free!

Such mocking, whips and taunting jeers
it was Jesus who suffered acts of cruelty , and shame
and then led away to lie in a grave of stone
a miracle happened - it was Jesus who on the third day, rose again!

It is because of the Cross - the Savior died for us all
As His promise was fulfilled on that appointed day
with Jesus ascending to Heaven, to sit on His Throne
Now we sing He lives! He lives !
Our Savior has Risen to Glory today!

Oh yes, I lift up the Name of Jesus my King
Hallelujah, from the grave He rose again -
because of the Cross we sing Hosanna in the Highest!
Yes, we sing to the King of Kings, the Redeemer of all men!

From Mount Calvary, Victory Arose

As fire consumes the darkened forest
and like a flame sets the mountains ablaze,
our God raised His hands of mercy
when on the cross, His awesome love was displayed

He took the sin of those who walk in darkness
yet , forgiving our sin that took away His life
and , all that Jesus experienced on mount Calvary
was how He paid sin's debt with nails , whips and stripes

But our Redeemer - praise God , rising up in Glory
brought forgiveness and hope to the world , and it's sin
He arose, from a grave as the Victor of all victors
with believer's straining, " just to get a glimpse of the Savior of all men!"

And with shouts of Praise and Proclamation
lifting my hands in Honor and in praise
for the Victory over sin has been settled
as my God ascended Heaven, from now , yes , an empty grave

Hallelujah, yes " Thine the Glory "
all heaven and earth will sing songs of praise
it is to our God, Savior and our Redeemer
that we sing, Holy, Holy Holy,
Yes, Jesus - The Ancient of Days!

The first two lines of this poetry in song came straight from Psalm 83. I do not know why those words spoke to me, but the Lord did, and led me to write the rest of the poem as a " Pre - Easter " song of praise.

The Cross, Somewhere Safe to Go

For those that might be in a place of great wounding, may this poem, and prayer become your heart. May you sense God's heart loving you, bringing rest, and peace. May you feel His presence when you feel nothing but deep gaping wounds of the soul.

When things are hard, and answers aren't there
and in rough waters, feeling as if you're 'bout to drown
instead of sinking in despair, with a spirit of defeat
just call out to Jesus - He hears every prayerful sound

He won't leave you between a rock and a wall
and He'll never leave you to hold your head in shame
for in that time when life tries to break you apart
let go - let go - For God will walk you through the pain

Yes, when things are hard, and answers are few
our God, knowing all that has taken place
and in the time when you need somewhere safe to go
it's to the Cross, where you know God will meet you, face to face

Wonder - an Easter Poem

Was it an ordinary day? Were shepherds in the field
with sheep idly ambling through Judean grass?
Did children play in the dusty streets? Were mothers baking bread,

Did sweethearts share a chaste kiss in the olive grove's deep shade?
Did merchants weigh their shekels while beggars asked for alms,
emaciated hands extended in hopeless pleas for aid?
Did the day drag by in ennui under the desert palms?

Or did the rocks sing of an empty tomb
while children and beggars danced
in the joyful streets of Jerusalem?

Rise up! Rise up in Victory!

I sing in praise " Jesus You are my victory! "
there is no other name that take the prize
for you will always be my Lord and Redeemer
and on You, Lord, I firmly set my eyes

For in Your Victory I will always stand
lifting hands to the Redeeming King
for on the Cross of Calvary He died
yet from the grave Hallelujah came -
as my lips in Praise I will sing

Yes, there is mighty Victory in Jesus
Oh what Power that He holds
for it's in the Mighty Name of Jesus, I sing
of the Greatest story ever told

Rise up, rise up O King of Kings!
this Song of Praise to lift Your Name on High
for it's by the Mighty Power of the Cross
that Your Glory now fills all earth and sky

Yes, rise up, rise up ! O King of Kings!
Your marvelous Glory to be extol
for in all of Heaven we will proclaim all Victory
Yes, it's Jesus who arose - His Glory to behold !!

Poem: My Proverbs 31 Wife

My earthly desire is to have...
a woman comprised of softness,
both in flesh and soul.
Her presence offsets the hardness
of everyday living that bluntly smacks me.
To be with a spirit, overflowing with joy,
greeting me daily with unexpected sweetness,
soothes all internal bruises from
the day's accumulation of subtle brutality.
Rubies belie her value to me;
her natural radiance permeates my core,
allowing me to experience intimacy.



From my book: Reaching Towards His Unbounded Glory
The ISBN is: 1-4196-5051-3

Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Poem: Spiritual Irony

Foolishness of Jehovah
exceeds the wisdom of Mankind;
torture by crucifixion
was to serve as a deterrent
to stop all forms of crime.

Inhumane treatment
demonstrates insatiable blood thirst
in a vain attempt to bring out
the best character of man
by placing World's justice system first.

However, death of the Innocent Lamb,
a perfect sacrifice God did decree
to bridge the gap of sin
using Man's worst punishment
in a twist of spiritual irony.



Learn more about me and my poetry at:
http://www.squidoo.com/book-isbn-1419650513/

Was It I?

Is it I who bowed His head,
Who nailed Him to the tree,
Who caused His anguish and His pain,
O, Lord, could it be me?

Did I crown Him King of glory
Then when hardship came my way,
Did I run with all the others,
Did I fear what people say?

Did I proudly call Him, "Master"
Then proceed upon my own,
Did I crucify My Savior
And then walk my road alone?

Was it my sins that He died for,
My self-centeredness, my pride?
In my arrogance I shunned Him,
Did I cause the tears He cried?

Did my foolish pleasures hang Him,
Could His love I fail to see,
Would He still the cross have chosen
Even if it were just me?


"But now God has shown us a different way of being right in his sight--not by obeying the law but by the way promised in the Scriptures long ago. We are made right in God's sight when we trust in Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, no matter who we are or what we have done.

For all have sinned, all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in his gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins. For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us." Romans 3:21-25a (New Living Translation)

His Delight

What comfort and reprieve I find,
What wondrous peace of mind!
To know my God delights in me,
Revives my lanquid levity.
Though I may fail He never does,
Though I am frail I'll rise above;
Every trial and every test-
He'll one day put to rest.
I am assured I am His child
I am forever reconciled.
In reverance and hope in Christ,
A promise holds me tight:
Despite my inconsistencies,
He still delights in me.

Psalms 147: 11 "the LORD delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love."

Delayed Healing

You said You are my Healer...
This is my year, my day,
And though I see some differences
Full healing You delay.

I do not know Your timing,
I do not know Your plan,
Yet it's Your hand that healeth me,
I need not understand.

In confusion and frustration
The enemy delights,
If he can plant a seed of doubt
Mistrust I then invite.

I know that I can trust You,
You've proven always true,
The past reveals Your faithfulness,
The things You've brought me through.

So, Lord, I will not doubt You,
You've shown Your love for me,
This healing I release to You
Until one day I see.

How Great is our Lord

Oh how Great is the Lord of All
yes, the One that died and rose again
to whom all praise is given
To Jesus, the Redeemer of all men

Yes, how Great is the Lord of All
for you and me, our Savior rose in victory
almighty, powerful , everlasting
Yes, Jesus , the God of all Eternity

Yes, my God, how great is Your Name
Redeemer , and King of Kings , above
it's by His grace, and mercy that I now live
Yes, it's because of Gods amazing Love.

I sing, " Oh how Great is the Lord of All "
Yes , the One that died and rose again
to whom all praise is given above
His Name, Jesus, the Redeemer of all men!

Glory to my King of Kings

We've come to praise and worship Him
We sing of God's amazing story
we lift our eyes, to the King of Kings
Yes , we sing praise of God's amazing Glory

We sing Praise in all we Worship
we sing of the Glory of God's Name
Oh what a wondrous God we have to serve
Yes, its Christ, who died to free my shame

Oh to stand in Your Presence, Lord
this place that I never want to part
receive my offer of Praise , O Lord
yes, this song that comes deep within my heart

Yes, may this song exalt the King of Kings
a song of praise, bowing low to Him
from my soul , all Glory to our God who Reigns
Yes, its to Christ, who I come, humbled with my sin

Here I am, before the One
whose death gave me new eyes to see
as He gave His life for all
I'll praise my God - for He reigns in Victory!

Breathe in Me, O Lamb of God

O God,
BREATHE IN ME , O Lamb of God...
giving life so full, abundant, and free
come deeper inside, and fill me within
O Lamb of God, yes, come and breathe in me

O God,
Open my eyes, to seeing ahead
of the gifts of life - you've given to me
from peace, and joy - to resting in Your Word
oh Lamb of God, I long to Honor , Thee

Yes, breathe in me, O Lamb of God -
the One that came down to receive my praise
and in this song I bring, to the glorious Throne
To you, all Glory, and Honor I humbly, raise

A Beautiful Place

A Beautiful place, when a life is at peace
It's with a God who comes to make one see
that in that place, where True joy is found
it's the place of Grace, that's given for you, and me

Yes, a beautiful place , God's Holy place
a place where our King has ransomed sin , and shame
and in that place, where we meet our Savior , alone
it's there , at the Throne, where our God will always Reign.

I bow, low - before my Lord, and my King
I lift all praise, with not a single word
with just my eyes, looking to the Throne above
yes, to my God - tonight, let my silent praise, be all that's heard

Oh Beautiful Lord, Almighty King
It's to You, at the Place , where we come to bow
with praise, and Honor and Glory to God
Yes, its His True Love, that now abounds

My Daughter, My Own

I carried you beneath my heart,
My daughter, you're my own,
And now a woman you've become,
My little girl now grown.

Perhaps one day you'll understand
The love for you I feel,
When tiny fingers clutch your heart
A mother's love reveal.

Flesh of your flesh, bone of your bone,
A gift you can embrace,
A miracle you'll always glimpse
Each time you see her face.

And though I'd give my life for you,
There's One who loves you more,
Who longs to hold you in His lap
Affection on you pour.

So when you're lonely and afraid
Remember you are loved,
Not only by this mother
But the Father up above.

His Healing Hand

To seek the King in the pain
laying burdens at His feet
in the turmoil of this life
Lord, at the Throne, we come to meet

Take me Lord, and draw me close
take the pain into Your healing hand
Lord, I am yours, and You are mine
Lord, to the Throne, is where I've come to stand

Father, that Your love goes to the point of grace
where I can't sit, or where I can't stand
where I long to be in Your presence , O God
where, I know You wait, holding out Your Healing hand

Yes, O Lord - I am Yours
hold me in Your strong embrace
in the leaving of pain at Your place of rest
Lord, lift me up , to meet You, God, face to face

Yes, I need You now, just where I am
where You see me in this desperate place
Lord, seeking You, my King of Kings
My Abba Daddy, just draw me in Your sweet embrace..

Odd posts

I apologize that occasionally random posts will show up here. One of the sites I write for is automated to post blurbs to my blog every time I submit, but somehow the automated feature has started sending the posts here instead of to my blog. I am trying to get it fixed, but so far the things I have done have not succeeded in getting this automated feature back on track. If you see any odd "How to" posts here, it is not my intent to spam this board. I thought I would have it fixed  by  now.

His heart of Love

Love opens wide My heart to you
I've come inside to fill you up
and in My Love, such peace is found
its in your soul, Love fills your empty cup

You see, I came to bring life abundantly
not just when you're lonely or afraid
for in every step of life's journey that you take
My Love, on the cross, for you, was beautifully displayed

Come drink in deeply all I have for you
savor each part of the Love I've given
for in that place, where I've come to fill
Is My Love , for you, crucified, and risen

Yes, My heart widened, just for you
My blood shed for the sin of fallen man
but in My Love, where redemption is found
I draw closer to you, because of My outstretched hand