Yesterday and Forever

Yesterday and forever He is the same;
Praise and glory be to His holy name.
The Lord all powerful, of ancient days,
Is the same Lord we still claim today.

The Lord who lead the Jewish nation,
Is the same Lord that brings salvation.
He who created the stars in heaven above,
Is the same who smiles on you with love.

The God that our father’s father knew,
Is the God worshiped by me and you.
God does not change to fit a whim,
Nor does His mighty power grow dim.

The God who’s hand parted the sea,
Is the one that today leads you and me.
The Lord that was with Daniel in the den
Will still be walking with us to the end.

The God that saved Isaac from the knife
Is the very same God that saves our life.
Even though times and man’s hearts change,
God’s is the one thing we can trust to be the same.

Yesterday and forever His word is the same.
Yesterday and forever His promise is the same.
Yesterday and forever His will is the same.
Yesterday and forever His love is the same.
No matter what happens or what we claim,
The Lord our God will always be the same.

Carl A. Gooch ~ 27 February 2013

Lord Save us All

As you reveal your word
It gives understanding;
A light to my simple mind.
Polishing my dull thoughts,
Until your loving way shines.

Your statutes are great;
They bring great blessings.
All your promises revealed,
Not one gift from me concealed.

With all my strength I call,
Help me to follow your law;
For it is trustworthy and true.
It is of great benefit I know,
For your love is in all you do.

My mouth opens in hunger,
Longing for your commands.
Smile down on your servant,
Let not your decrees be silent.

Turn to me with your mercy,
There is a river of bitter tears
Flowing from opened my eyes.
I look around in shock and dismay
As your laws the world does not obey.

They cry out in pain and anguish,
Yet reject the Healer’s hand.
Not only with their lips do they curse,
But with their heart and make it worse.

Lord please hear your servants call
Hold me tight so I will not fall.
If what I see unfolding around me,
Is but a glimpse of things to be.
Lord save us all!

Carl A. Gooch ~ 26 February 2013

Hope Shines Bright

In this world the storm clouds
Will gathering over your head.
And those vile winds that are blowing
Will try to crush you on the rocks below.
But in this, the darkest of your night,
His precious light of hope shines bright.

Lift up your heart; lift up your hand,
He’ll lead you through to the Promised Land.
He is the Son of God and the Son of man,
He will lift you up and help you stand.

When the trouble of this world
Are coming at you, hard and fast;
And you start to tremble and shake,
Your mind may question what you know.
But trusting in Him you will be alright,
In His loving arms hope is shinning bright.

Lift up your heart; lift up your hand,
He’ll lead you through to the Promised Land.
He is the Son of God and the Son of man,
He will lift you up and help you stand.

When you body grows old and weak;
When you are tired down to your bones,
You may feel the pain of each passing year
And you may wonder just when He will call.
Be calm and patient, He knows your plight.
The light of His hope shines on you tonight.

Lift up your heart; lift up your hand,
He’ll lead you through to the Promised Land.
He is the Son of God and the Son of man,
He will lift you up and help you stand.

My Guide, my Lead

I will speak of your love and Justice;
For all to hear will I sing your praise.
You came and saved me from my sins;
I will walk free in you the rest of my days.

Your laws lead and guide my path;
In my house you word has final say.
I do not look to the world for approval;
I will not let my eyes lead me astray.

I detest those who will speak twice;
Once the truth and once to please a crowd.
Guard my heart from perverse ways;
So I may stand with you tall and proud.

My eyes will be on you and your ways;
It is my joy; my treasure is to follow you.
My lips will sing of your great wonders;
And with my heart proclaim your love is true.

Every morning I will rise with prayer;
And I will call on you throughout the day.
Only the pure and blameless will I heed;
Only you Lord are my guide; my lead.

Swift and Sweet

My Lord how majestic is your temple;
Man’s eyes see but think it’s simple.
With just a glimpse at the saints,
My soul yearns and grows faint.

My heart and my flesh cry out to you;
I’ve heard your word and know it’s true.
You provide for all the birds of the air;
The flowers cause one to stop and stare.

Blessed are those who with you dwell;
They praise you and your stories tell.
Mighty God, loving Lord righteous King,
You’re my strength, my hope, my everything.

It is by my Lord that I will stand bold;
No good thing does my God withhold.
His hand guides us and blesses us everyday;
His wants us to know His love and honor His way.

I search His word, piece by loving piece;
A treasure to the weary, rest in peace.
Swift is His rebuke; but sweet His promise,
The sting of correction shows love to us.
Blessed is the one who in God trusts.

Gave Everything

My heart calls out to you,

And swift is your answer;

Surely your word I will obey.

I cry out for you to save me,

And you are there to comfort;

My heart listens to what you say.

I rise before the breaking of day,

And I place all my trust in you;

Your laws are just and stand forever.

My eyes open late into the night,

Meditating on your loving promises;

That we may always walk together.

Troubles and distress do come,

Yet in your commands I delight;

Your ways are right and true.

You grant wisdom to the low,

 That my heart will understand

And I will be found always loving you.

You provide for me your servant,

Out of your grace, with mercy;

You are my loving Master and King.

In you alone is salvation found,

You paid the price too high to pay;

For this sinner you gave everything!

Trust & Faith

God has gifted each of us with the powers to achieve the task He has set before us.
In truth and love God’s promises are spoken into the hearts of the believers. Trust and faith are the very lifeblood of the believer, infused in him at his baptism, ignited and strengthened by the word and sacraments. And love will be the response of a blessed heart in the sharing of the love received from God. We love because God first loved us.
Many confuse what love is, because they look at love through the eyes of a sin filled world. They try to bind up love with chains of conditions; but that’s not love. Love is not some warm mushy feeling or the act of physical relations. Love is the discarding of ones self solely for the betterment of another without expectations or conditions. Love is putting the others improvement foremost without hoping for personal gratification.
Love is not always saying yes to others; nor is it allowing others to harm themselves without warning them.
Love is the river that flows from the throne of God through the believer that God’s glory may be known by all.
We, the believers, honor God by reaching out with the same love that He reached out to us with.
As believers use these three gifts God has given: trust, faith and love; God’s light will shine bright in this dark world.

The Lord my God

Praise the Lord, yes praise the Lord.
The Lord my God, is great, yes very great;
Rejoice my soul with songs of praise,
For the Lord my God is very great.
Praise the Lord, my soul praise the Lord.

He has know me since the days of my youth.
He is wrapped in a robe of light and truth.
He stands in splendor and rules in majesty;
His love He sent for all the world to see.

His mighty wonders fills the heavens and the land;
Even the rough seas are calmed by His command.
His message is like the wind that sparks the fire;
He takes a cold empty heart and fills it with desire.

He gives the birds of the air sweet songs to sing;
His hand brings forth food for every living thing.
He gives to us what is needed for life’s demand;
He gives His strength that the weak may stand.

Praise the Lord, yes praise the Lord.
The Lord my God, is great, yes very great;
Rejoice my soul with songs of praise,
For the Lord my God is very great.
Praise the Lord, my soul praise the Lord.

Make a Difference

Many are the thoughts that fill my mind this day.
But it is not for me to choose what I am to say.
If I choose what I say then my words will fail,
For it is His purpose and will that must prevail.

We Christians have been set apart to serve His will;
He has given us wisdom, abilities and power to fulfill.
We face many trials and tests as we go about our day;
The evil one will set many snares to get us to stray.

God’s word gives us the wisdom to see and know;
And the Spirit grants us the power to resist and grow.
Once we know God’s will, we know we can not lose;
If we follow in His way and let our abilities be used.

Understand there is no trail too large or test so small,
That our loving God is not there with us through it all.
Our God is a loving God; in truth our God is love.
And we His children were made to reflect His love.

We Christians were created in love by God above,
We are called to live our life so all can see that love.
We join together to encourage our sisters and brothers;
And to reach out in love, serving God by serving others.

We Christians have been equipped and set apart;
To worship in service to our Lord with all our heart.
With His help we seek out to tell of what He‘s done,
And to make a difference in the lives of everyone.

Father Forgive

Father, do not let your anger fall on me;
Do not crush me with your wrath.
My many sins, they fester within me,
A loathsome road has been my path.

Your hand has shown me my evil ways,
The burden of my guilt overwhelms me.
Selfish sin filled folly has filled my days;
Now I humbly plead you will show mercy.

My heart groans in anguish and sorrow,
My body has become feeble and weak.
I tremble that there will be no tomorrow,
If you turn from me, my future is bleak.

Come quickly dear God do not tarry;
Do not forsake me do not be far away.
This burden of mine is too heavy to carry,
Remember the blood of your Son today.

Nothing I have done can ever save me,
Nothing I say or do, can replace you.
Only your forgiveness can cleanse me,
My salvation is found in you and only you.

It is by your mercy and grace I live,
Have mercy on your servant I pray.
Your grace I see in the blessings you give,
It is your Holy word that guides my day.

A Life With Him

How great your power, how awesome your deeds.
See the wise they hear your word and their hearts heed.
Your enemies are scattered to the winds before you;
All the earth bows down before what it knows is true.

Shout for joy to God; sing the praises of His name.
Give Him glorious praise as His wonders you proclaim.
Since time began He’s been our God faithful and true,
Holding no blessings back He came to die for me and you.

Come see and hear what God has done for us all;
Receive His love and mercy, heed His loving call.
He preserves us and His word keeps our feet sure;
Like sliver He refines us with fire making us pure.

Come and hear, all of you, what my God can do.
Open your hearts that you may see what I attest to.
Let me tell you what my Lord God has done for me.
He brought me out of my prison of sin and sits me free.

The God that made me watches over me in the night;
His mighty hand, by day guides me on the path of right.
When troubles came I cried out and He came to me;
In times of peril He kept me calm and showed me mercy.

Those heavy burdens that weighted me down,
He took away forever and gave me a royal crown.
Those vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke
When in my times of trouble, may they never be broke.

With my mouth I cried out to Him to come and save me.
With that same mouth I will speak so the world may see.
The Lord my God that saved me from all my many sins
Sends me to you, that you too may know a life with Him.

Signed in Blood

In days of old you spoke in visions and dreams,
To your faithful people your spirit was seen.
You bestowed your strength on the very young,
You rose up a young man to get the job done.

You found David your servant and anointed him;
Your hand gave him strength and sustained him.
Your faithful love was with him to show him the way;
You were his God to whom he would kneel and pray.

Even in tender years he heard and answered your call;
He knew his adversaries you would defeat, large or small.
Your faithful love is with him, your name he will proclaim;
He will call out to you, “Father” and he will praise you name.

Your child calls to you, my God, my Rock my Savior;
It is in your mercy and grace that I have found favor.
You have appointed him most exalted of kings of the lands;
So deep is your love for him that your covenant still stands.

As your love still stands for David it still stands for us;
You loved us so much you sent your Son to die for us.
You are God, empty vows and promises you do not make;
You wrote an oath and signed it in blood for our sake.

Blessed am I

I am a blessed man; it can not be concealed;
For much beauty to me has been revealed.
When from slumber I wake and clear my eyes,
I see my bride in angelic glow quietly rise.

As my head clears and I rise and start my day,
Before anything else I do, I turn to God and pray.
I pray for guidance and wisdom to follow Him;
And I thank and praise Him as I sing a hymn.

I break my fast and feast on His words of love,
And I know His blessings and mercies from above.
I stand in the mist of His creation and breathe deep,
Upon the breeze I hear the birds waking from sleep.

I hear the squirrels chatter as they run and play,
And I know my God is with me every step of the way.
As I sit on the hill looking down on the meadow below,
I see the splendor of His flowers and feel the warm glow.

Breathing the clear fresh air He fills me with a new life;
And His sweet promise is that He is with me in my strife.
He protects and guides me as we walk along our way,
I have grown to trust Him and He will answer when I pray.

The beauty of His creation surrounds me and blessed am I;
Blessed by those I meet, blessed, though I know not why.
I have done no great deed to deserve His wondrous grace.
Yet blessing after blessing He has set before my face.

Blessed am I, in His love.
Blessed am I, I have a home above.
Blessed am I, His mercy He has shown.
Blessed am I, He calls me His own.

Your Great Love

My mouth is filled with your praise,
Declaring your glory all of my days.
When I’m old and no longer strong,
Give me the voice to sing your song.

Your love has blessed me so much,
I want others to know your touch.
Help me to show the grace I know;
So they may withstand when the winds blow.

Many are the broken hearted I see,
Let them see your love living in me.
Lord you have shown me their hurt,
Grant me words that I may comfort.

Some don’t know how deep your grace;
They don’t know you died in their place.
Even though I am weak and getting old,
Send me the words to see your story told.

I know I’m not the man I used to be;
But I know that you Lord are with me.
I am saved by your mercy from above;
Let everything I do reflect your great love.

Man on a Mission

Given a great commission,
I was made for a mission.
I’ll tell everyone who will listen,
Cause I’m a man on a mission.

I can’t tell you who begat who,
But I’ll tell you what I know is true.
I can’t say trials won’t come upon you,
But I can say who has helped me through.

Time after time trouble came my way,
Then on my knees I began to pray.
He had mercy and turn night into day,
Now He guides what I do and say.

I was given a great commission,
I was made for a mission.
I’ll tell everyone who will listen,
Cause I’m a man on a mission.

That which is in my heart I tell to you,
He paid the price when sins debt came due.
His forgiveness and love He offers you,
His gift of mercy and love forever true.

Call on His name as you start your day,
Knock and you will not be turned away.
He will bless you as you walk in His way,
And the wise will listen to you when you say..

I was given a great commission,
I was made for a mission.
I’ll tell everyone who will listen,
Cause I’m a man on a mission.

Where is God

To my thinking it is very odd,
For one say “where is God”.
In early morn from slumber I rise,
I see His presence without my eyes.

You may say God is in heaven. True.
But He also dwells in me and you.
Are you so blind you will not see,
The blessings He gives to you and me.

On a clear cool morn I sat upon a hill,
Breathing in the day I sat quiet and still.
I closed my eyes and opened my heart,
And I heard God say “come be a part”.

My ears was filled with a beautiful sound;
A stream laughing, bubbling from the ground.
And birds singing sweetly upon a breeze,
A glimpse of heaven was revealed with ease.

The smell of pine needles filled the air,
Mixed and mingled with the flowers there.
A comforting breeze, as soft as a kiss,
Caressed my cheek and I knew I found bliss.

My words fail to describe the peace I felt;
When that day before my Lord I knelt.
So ask “where God is” and I’ll say with glee;
The Lord my God is right here with me.

Proud and Bold

Lord, keep me in you way;
Please, walk with me this day.
Apart from you I am nothing;
You are my Lord, my everything.

I say to my brother in this land;
The wise reach out for His hand.
The children of His noble birth,
Sing praises for all they’re worth.

They are fools who worship men;
And look to the world to bless them.
As for me that road I will not trod;
I will not worship this world’s god.

Lord, you alone my portion be;
You alone paid the price for me.
Your mercy to me you did bestow;
Your loving blessings I now know.

To the believers I praise your name;
And to the lost your love I proclaim.
You place you word in my very soul,
And give me strength to make me whole.

In my life you are the purpose and reason.
Your blessings abound from season to season.
So plentiful are your gifts I can not hold,
But by your strength I stand proud and bold.

Love

I love; a much misused term,
Yet our love we readily affirm.
We say we love this or that,
But that’s not where it’s at.

We can’t get enough; we crave more and more,
But we are not really sure what we’re looking for.
We are confused by what we’ve seen and heard,
The common displays and usage of the word.

The mystery of true love is in its mighty power.
Great strength that last through the final hour.
Love is grace personified an unencumbered force,
That will see us through life’s rugged course.

Love is the divine current flowing from God to man.
It is the source from which we are able to stand.
His true love can change anyone and everyone.
Nothing can accomplish that but God’s own Son.

When we feel love, we feel God speaking to us,
Great comfort and peace when in God we trust.
God’s blessings are revealed within His love,
mighty is the power of love that come from God above.

Unity

How good and pleasant it be
For God’s people to live in unity.
The anointing flows from head to toe
And we are cast in God’s loving glow.

Like precious rain falling down,
Nurturing the seed on the ground.
There we see God’s blessings evermore,
As we walk with Him once more.

Even the dimmest eye can see
His Spirit alive in you and me,
When it is His love we portray
In everything we do and say.

By His love it will be known,
That He has called us His own.
Our lives will sing a sweet refrain,
As we live the One we proclaim.

To the Maker of heaven and earth,
Let us praise His beauty and worth.
We all know that our Lord is great,
He stands calling us to heavens gate.

In Praise let us all now stand as one,
Proclaiming the glory of God’s own Son.
Pure and holy dear Lamb of Sacrifice,
Great your love that paid sin’s price.

Promise True

I sit to write the words that come,
Meditating on my Father’s son.
I think long of His Spirit too,
And the promises for me and you.

Everything else is blocked away,
Except what He gives me to say.
I’ve spent time in His holy word,
to me it was His love I have heard.

My eyes open and focused, I see;
Many are the blessings He’s given me.
That which I need to live, He gives,
And my short comings He forgives.

He blesses me with home and family,
And the best friends that could ever be.
He reminds me too of His faithfulness,
How He has helped me in times of distress.

If someone looked at me sitting here,
I wonder would they also see Him near?
He reaches out and lovingly caresses me;
And whispers in my heart, you belong to me.

I can face this cold world of bitter days,
With all its wicked people and evil ways.
For the Lord my God stand with me,
And Satan’s power has no hold on me.

The words He has given me to write,
Reminds me of God awesome might.
I write these words of love for you,
That you may see His promise true.

Lord of Our Salvation

Prince of Peace; Lord of Light,
Keep us strong through the dark of night.
Mighty God; Lord of our Salvation,
May our lips proclaim our dedication.

We have been chosen to shine the light;
He gave us His spirit to do what is right.
In His love we proclaim to all nations,
His mighty words of truth for our salvation.

Prince of Peace; Lord of Light,
Keep us strong through the dark of night.
Mighty God; Lord of our Salvation,
May our lips proclaim our dedication.

His spirit now guides us; He is our delight.
We are His servants, precious in His sight.
To speak His word in truth is our dedication;
Carrying His spark of hope to all nations.

We go to those who tremble in the night;
Bringing God’s mercy and His loving light.
We watch for His return with anticipation,
For He is our King; the King of all nations.

Prince of Peace; Lord of Light,
Keep us strong through the dark of night.
Mighty God; Lord of our Salvation,
May our lips proclaim our dedication.

Remain

How vast is the number of my foes?
How many come to increase my woes?
They say his God hides and does not see.
But you Lord are a shield around me.

You Lord are my glory as days pass by;
You are the One that lifts my head high.
To my Lord I call out and He answers me;
From the chains of sin He has set me free.

I lie down and sleep through the night;
And He wakes me come morning light.
My every need His love does provide;
Not one thing of need does He hide.

If attacked on all sides I will have no fear;
For my Protector, Lord and Savior is near.
The wicked will flee before the Righteous One;
And I will stand delivered by God’s own Son.

The Lord my God is my source and supplier;
I will remain in His word, not following the liar.
My Lord is in truth, my life and the only way;
That is why I seek Him each and every day.

New Life we Gain

Before the high mountains were born,
Before the mighty seas were formed,
Before you brought forth the world,
From everlasting to forever you are God.

You have been our refuge for all generations;
You are our resting place from the storms,
Your mighty hand protects us from harm,
Truly you are our King over all the nations.

A thousand years to you is a moment in time;
Your love remains as true this day as in ages past,
Your promises are as fresh as when you spoke them.
Nothing is done without your knowledge oh Lord.

Although we are constantly changing, you remain;
Though we question and doubt, you are faithful.
There is nothing we can do to earn your grace,
But by your grace your mercy you bestowed.
Our sins were forgiven and in you a new life we gain.

The Joy

We were so blind that we did not know,
Which way to turn or which way to go.
We wandered in our sins as dark as night,
But God showed mercy and sent His light.

He came to us in a stable humble and low,
And lived a life perfect that we could know,
The yoke now lifted, the chains are no more;
To the cross the burden of our sins He bore.

So bring on the music, the harp and lyre.
Let the praises of God be heard everywhere.
Sound loud the horns, and bang the gongs.
Let us all lift our voices and sing His songs.

Let our soul sing; sing out in His joy,
For His sweet love, no one can destroy.
Come we will celebrate all He has done.
Our strength is in the Joy of God’s Son.

He gave me mercy, He gave me love,
He is my salvation from God above.
He watches over me showing me the way,
He is my life. What more can I say?
And I will praise Him each and everyday.

This Day

The sun sparkled on the clear water,
The fragrance of the pines filled the air,
The sky was a rich and vibrant blue,
The birds were singing sweetly in the trees.
The warmth of God’s love surrounded me.

Claim of this day in the name of the Lord;
He is the one that made it just for you.
Yearn not for yesterday
Nor tremble about tomorrow,
For this day is a blessing God gives to you.

God gave you this day, a day filled with love,
To do great and marvelous work in His name.
How will you proclaim His wondrous glory?
How will you touch someone with His love?

You have received now is the time to give.
It’s time to bring a smile to a broken heart;
It’s time to stand and proclaim what is right.
It’s time we answered the Master’s call;
And show His precious love to one and all.

It doesn’t matter if there’s rain or if it’s dry,
It doesn’t matter if there’s snow or wind.
Claim of this day in the name of the Lord;
He is the one that made it just for you.

Lord I Love You

The Lord God is my strength by which I stand;
His Word, solid as a rock, is my loving command.
When I am confused His word is my stronghold;
In Him do I take refuge from this world so cold.

He is my fortress against the wicked waves;
He is my shield against the sin trying to enslave.
The Lord has delivered me from this evil nation;
The Holy One has paid the price for my salvation.

I called on Him as the arms of death surrounded;
But He heard my prayers and His love abounded.
Within His holy temple I heard His voice reverberate;
He spoke and the mountains shook the earth quaked.

By His wondrous love He moved heaven and earth;
That I may know and understand how much I’m worth.
While I was still a sinner drowning in my wicked sea;
He died and rose from the grave that I could be free.

This is the Lord my God to whom I give praise;
This is the King who rules over the rest of my days.
By His power and His love alone can I stand true;
And only by His Spirit can I proclaim, “Lord I love you!”

Images before me

Outside as the sun rises on this day,
God paints the sky in His special way.
My Lord painted a picture with love,
And placed it in the heavens above.

Through the budding trees I see,
Such a beautiful blessing for me.
Birds in wondrous chorus do sing,
Joyous praises to our Lord and King.

The morning air caresses my face,
And I know God is in this place.
My heart overflows with His peace,
for I know His love will never cease.

The sweetness of flowers fills the air,
The warmth of the sun is on my hair.
I hear the roar of a whisper in my ear,
And I know my Lord God is very near.

God alone has made this special day,
Reminding me that He has come to stay.
He is faithful; to His word He is true,
He is my strength that sees me through.

In The Midst

My bones suffer unable to sleep;
My mind aches from pain deep.
A roar like a waterfall fills my ear,
As long dark shadows draw near.

My enemies surround me to mock,
From their evil lips comes vile talk.
Why is my soul so disturbed within?
Is it from weakness I doubt and sin?

My bitter tears fall as I cry and shout;
From the depths of my soul I cry out.
Lord remember your promise I plea.
Remember the blood you shed for me.

I know even in the midst of my tempest,
You will come to me and grant me rest.
You are the light of hope that holds my hand,
And the strongest storm is at your command.

You are my God and you hear my prayer;
I call out to you and you are there.
I search your word of love that I may know;
All you have done for me that I may grow.

In times of trouble or in times of pain,
My heart will rejoice and praise your name.
You are my Lord, my God, and my Savior forever;
You are the same yesterday, today and forever.

The Light of Hope

The wail of the distant mourners grows;
Those looking through the windows see,
Dark clouds return after the rain is done,
Hear judgment call and the sinner knows.

You were warned in the days of our youth,
Now the sun has no light, the moon grows dark,
Ill winds blow hard and the house trembles;
Yet we chose not to heed the words of truth.

The doors shut tight, the windows barred,
This is the time when strong men fear;
The haunting sound of souls unsaved,
And sin filled world lay burnt and charred.

Children listen well while we still can,
Remember the one, who created us,
Remember His promises and His Son;
Know His words of love and make our stand.

We know not the time so do not hesitate;
There are many seeds to plant and fields to plow,
Many are the lost and lonely that do not know,
They need not be burdened by sins great weight.

We are the eyes for those who can not see,
We are the voice that carries His message;
We are the caring hand that touches the heart,
We are the light of hope that the lost may see.

I Will Win

My trust oh Lord, I place in you.
I trust in you for your love is true.
There is but one King on the throne,
And my hope is found in Him alone.

My Lord, I will never be put to shame,
For I follow you bearing your holy name.
There are wicked men who try to sway,
But it is with you my Lord I will stay.

Lord, my hope is in you all day long;
By your hand alone can I stand strong.
Teach your path, show me your way,
Guide me in truth, Lord help me today.

To me you granted your mercy long ago,
Help me to remember your love to show.
Do not hold against me my rebellious ways,
But fill me with love for the rest of my days.

To me Lord, you are always faithful and true,
Now humbly I come Lord to say I love you.
Cleanse my heart Lord, free me from my sin,
That in you my King the victory I will win.

Glory and Praise

Oh Lord, my Lord wondrous and great is your love;
And many the blessings that come from you above.
Open my mouth that your name is known to the nations.
Let father tell son of your faithfulness for all generations.

The assembly of the wise and holy know and fear you;
They seek your council by meditating on your holy word.
The promises you have given your servants stand forever;
You are our God and we are your people for ever and ever.

With your strong arm you crush and scatter your enemy;
And it is with that same mighty hand that you protect me.
Heaven and earth and all that is in it are at your command;
The wave of the surging sea lay quieted by your hand.

You oh mighty God have created the north and the south,
Grant me that I may sing loving praises from my mouth.
Because of your great mercy and grace my heart overflows,
My lips can not contain the wondrous joy as your love grows.

You dear Father faithful and true is your majestic love;
We know your great love and praise your name above.
Blessed among all people from generation to generation;
With joy overflowing our hearts we proclaim to the nations.

Glory, praise and honor be to the Lord our God.
Praise be to the Son who walked this guilty sod.
And too the Holy Spirit of God that leads us home.
All praise is due you. Amen!

My Strength

Don’t worry over the evil others do;
Or the wrongs they might do to you.
Trust in the Lord and keep doing good;
Walking with the Lord as you should.

Delight in the Lord; and He is your heart.
Commit your ways to the Lord in every part.
Trust in Him and He will see you through;
Knowing nothing is too big for God to do.

Do not fret about some scheme or plot;
Be still and know the salvation you’ve got.
When you live and dwell as one with Him
Love and goodness overflows the brim.

He whose very hands formed the earth,
Watches over you and grants your worth.
My Lord gives quests, tasks and purpose;
He alone has the power to compass.

In times of weakness He lifts me up;
When I am thirsty, He fills my cup.
He is my Healer, my Comforter, my King.
He is my Lord, Savior and everything.

See me Through

Through the storms, through the rain;
Through the suffering and the pain,
I have struggled so long and hard.
But you were there to see me through.

Lord, I’m trusting you to see me through,
I know there are brighter day with you.
Lord, I am so tired and I can’t go on,
So take my hand dear Lord see me through.

Many years have I toiled here below;
They were long and hard as you know,
I could not have made it on my own.
But you were there to see me through.

Lord, I’m trusting you to see me through,
I know there are brighter day with you.
Lord, I am so tired and I can’t go on,
So take my hand dear Lord see me through.

I have placed my life in your sweet hands;
But your blood I am yours to command.
Whatever I may face be it storm or grave,
I know you are there to see me through.

Carl A. Gooch ~ 24 February 2013

My Strength

Don’t worry over the evil others do;
Or the wrongs they might do to you.
Trust in the Lord and keep doing good;
Walking with the Lord as you should.

Delight in the Lord; and He is your heart.
Commit your ways to the Lord in every part.
Trust in Him and He will see you through;
Knowing nothing is too big for God to do.

Do not fret about some scheme or plot;
Be still and know the salvation you’ve got.
When you live and dwell as one with Him
Love and goodness overflows the brim.

He whose very hands formed the earth,
Watches over you and grants your worth.
My Lord gives quests, tasks and purpose;
He alone has the power to compass.

In times of weakness He lifts me up;
When I am thirsty, He fills my cup.
He is my Healer, my Comforter, my King.
He is my Lord, Savior and everything.

Savior Raised

To my Lord great praise will I give;
With my life in glory to Him will I live.
Before His family, His mercy I confess;
To those in the dark, His love I profess.

By His word applied, lives are changed;
Forgiveness comes and slaves unchained.
Great are His works, glorious His deeds;
Many blessings flow to those who heeds.

In my lack, I need not run and hide;
All I truly need, my Lord does provide.
Out of His great love compassion came;
Mercy, forgiveness, in His sweet name.

His covenant He remembers always;
Just, faithful and upright are His ways.
The redemption of His people, is His name;
In Him alone can we salvation claim.

His wondrous name holy and awesome;
It is by His love that we have freedom.
He has paid our price upon the cross,
That we to Him would not be lost.

Open up your hearts, let them overflow;
Sing out your love so the world may know.
Shout from the rooftops glory and praise;
Tell everyone you know our Savior raised!

I Pray

What is the good that is done when I pray?
If it is only myself, I follow and obey?
Do not let my lips speak if my heart betrays,
The glory and honor that is yours this day.

Oh Lord what shall I write, what shall I say?
What word of wisdom do you want me to convey?
Loving Lord, let your ears be open as I pray.
Let your wishes and desires guide me this day.

Purge my heart Lord and come to me today.
Open my mind wide to the truth of your way.
By your strength may I never falter or sway.
Let your word be my guide in what I do and say.

When I question, you always point the way,
Your loving promise to me will never go away.
You are the breath within me I breathe today,
Let me walk always with you; this I pray.

Not There Yet

I travel this journey, not yet there.
It all started in the pit of despair.
To the hill where the cross of forgiveness,
Stands and proclaims righteousness.

I travel on fueled by His loving care.
Each step lighter from the burdens I bare.
Onward my heart filled with devotion,
Following His sweet call to my salvation.

Still I travel this journey not yet there.
But I am not discouraged, I do not despair.
I see the empty tomb of resurrection,
And I hear His words of life’s direction.

This journey I live is beyond compare.
I walk in the love of His tender care.
Before me I see the pinnacle of His story,
His light proclaiming the throne of His glory.

I travel on this journey, my eyes fix there.
To the Lord of mercy my allegiance I swear.
My life guided by His love and mighty hand,
I turn not away, but follow His command.

I travel this journey… I’m almost there.
He does prepare me with the robe I wear.
He paid the great cost of my sins long ago,
That I may behold Him in glory’s bright glow.

We Stand Together

Let the Lord God of Israel be praised;
In His mighty deeds we stand amazed.
Let us praise His glorious name forever,
Our God in whose love we stand together.

His mountains and hills feed His people,
And in their heart He builds His temple.
Among the people the weak He defends;
The poor and needy upon Him depends.

His people will always turn Him in trust;
And His foes He will crush into the dust.
His mighty hand rules from sea to sea.
Rivers of love flow down on you and me.

All the kings and rulers before Him bow;
He saves us and death He does not allow.
By His blood He has paid for us, sins price;
The very blood of our Lord was the sacrifice!

From the borrowed tomb of death He rose,
In His victory we know no fears or woes.
In our hearts and lives our Savior reigns;
He is our purpose as long as life remains.

Let the Lord God of Israel be praised;
In His mighty deeds we stand amazed.
Let us praise His glorious name forever,
Our God in whose love we stand together.

I have Been Raised

I will sing to the Lord for He is exalted,
He is my God and I will give Him praise.
My father’s fathers God, He is highly exalted.
It is upon His truth that I have been raised.

Well old Pharaoh he had one hard heart;
He was a stubborn man but not too smart.
Pharaoh sent his army after the Israelites,
But they were protected by God’s might.

God had showed Pharaoh who was boss;
Plague after plague Pharaoh suffered loss.
Pharaoh’s heart was as hard as it could be;
So Pharaoh’s chariots was hurled into the sea.

The Israelites crossed over as on dry land;
lead and protected by God’s mighty hand.
They saw God’s greatness and His majesty;
both horse and rider was crushed by the sea.

The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is His name.
He is the God of my father’s that I proclaim.
All who oppose Him will know absolute defeat,
a mighty God before who the wicked do retreat.

I will sing to the Lord for He is exalted,
He is my God and I will give Him praise.
My father’s fathers God, He is highly exalted.
It is upon His truth that I have been raised.

Now That's Love

God’s word is ever present and swift.

Scripture says (His word is sharper than any two-edged sword. And it judges the thoughts and attitude of the heart.)(Hebrews 4:12-13)

God’s word is sharper than any scalpel a doctor would use, it dissects the heart and peers in at the cause.
Nothing is hidden from God. Everything is laid bare before Him. We have no excuses, no alibis.

How then may we come before Him with petitions and prayers? By His great mercy given to us by His wonderful grace. He who had no sin paid the price of sin that we may come to him. Now that is love!

When I cry out to the Lord, He hears,
And with abounding love calms my fears.
The pain of this world is not my story,
But the reward of standing in His glory.

The Lord is my salvation, I fear no more.
The Lord is my stronghold, and my core.
No one can take what my Lord has given,
He is my source by which my life is driven.

On His promise I will always depend,
Even when temptations on me descend.
His word is the sword in my right hand,
For I know one day by Him I will stand.

Sing Your Praise

I know you set me apart to serve you;
May I be found a servant faithful and true.
Come quickly my Lord, and heal my pain,
So from these lips are heard a sweet refrain.

My God, I call out to you, hear my prayer;
Have mercy and let me know you are there.
Come; give me relief in my time of distress;
Of your presence may I always have access.

Search my heart as I lay damaged and broken,
Find me trusting in your loving promise spoken.
Come now Lord; do not let me tremble in fear;
In this moment of suffering to me appear.

My Lord, in agony my very bones cry out.
My head spins and I grow faint; hear my shout.
You alone can grant me peace as I lie down;
Like a warm blanket as your love surrounds.

My eyes grow weak from the sorrow and pain,
My soul cries out and my tears fall as rain.
I am weary from groaning; tears soak my bed.
But in the mist let not my praise go unsaid.

Come and rescue me with your unfailing love;
Let your blessings flow from heaven above.
Life is fleeting Lord; I know the end of my days;
But with my last breath I will sing your praise.

I Believe

I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus died for me.
And rose from the grave,
That my soul He did save.
I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus talks with me.
And His promise is true,
That He loves me and you.
I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

I believe, yes I believe
He wants the best for me.
I can be free from strife,
If His word guides my life.
I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus set me free.
I’m a slave to sin no more,
Because of the cross He bore.
I believe, yes I believe
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

How Great You Are

Oh Lord, my Lord how great you are;
You are with me both near and far.
Bless me with your love night and day;
That I may remain in your loving way.

From forever to forever are your laws;
That point out our weaknesses and flaws.
They remind us all of our great need,
For us to look to you and on your word feed.

Remind me always what you have done;
That I may praise you till the setting sun.
Open these eyes of mine and let me see,
The many blessings you have granted to me.

When storm clouds gather as they will,
I will not tremble but remain quiet and still.
For all my days you have been my guard,
Whether my trials have been easy or hard.

Lord, you knew me long before my birth;
You formed and shaped me and gave me worth.
Great the honor to carry your name with pride;
Let my lips speak out with your love inside.

By your word you lead and guide me right,
Your love quiets and comforts me in the night;
And as I look up and see your shining star
I will remember my Lord how great you are.

One God, One You

One God, one you, joined together by love it’s true,
That’s the type of relationship God wants with you.

The Lord God of us all speaks and a new day begins;
His precious love shines down on us never to end.
Listen in the quiet of day and in the stillness of night;
Stand watch from the hilltops for a wondrous sight;
Be ready in your heart, for His day is close at hand.

The Mighty One, the God of Israel will claim His own;
His people whose covenant and sacrifice was known.
All heavens proclaims the righteousness of His justice;
He who made the law, fulfilled the law in the pureness.
Do not forget the sweet taste of these peaceful days,
As the angry clouds of the tempest darkens our way.

There is but one God; the same God for old and new;
The God of Jacob and Isaac, is the God of me and you.
The promise He made with Abraham, He honors still.
When we love and honor Him our hearts He will fill.

One God, one you, joined together by love it’s true,
That’s the type of relationship God wants with you.

Spoken

Your mercy and grace you showed were ever true,
From my heart an offering of praise I make to you.
This covenant, written in blood, is mine forever;
Blest am I above all, that you will fail me never.

I was in trouble and vows to you my mouth spoke;
Now in joy let not the promises of my lips be broke.
While I was in great need my mouth cried out to Him;
Now in time of plenty, upon my tongue is praise of Him.

What an awesome God; He made the moon and sun.
Everyone come; come and see what God has done.
Those who can hear my voice, come and listen to me.
I want to tell you what God has done so you may see.

Join with me, shout for joy; Sing the glory of His name.
He is glorious, and He will not let you be put to shame.
The mighty power of His hand set the stars up above,
and the same mighty hand He reaches down with love.

This powerful God who has the power over all, it‘s true,
Is the very same loving God that gave Himself for you.

One Little Lamb

Just one little lamb,
Lost and alone,
You came to find,
And carry home.
Here I am Lord, Here I am.

Death and destruction,
Loomed all around.
Scared and Frightened,
No peace I found.

Just one little lamb,
Lost and alone,
You came to find,
And carry home.
Here I am Lord, Here I am.

So tired and weak,
I had no power.
As wolves surrounded,
Threatening to devour.

Just one little lamb,
Lost and alone,
You came to find,
And carry home.
Here I am Lord, Here I am.

For this one little lamb
You came from above,
Showering me with your
Mercy and love.
Here I am dear Lord, here I am.

Hearts and Flowers

Look; see the hills explode in bloom,
As they awake from winter’s tomb.
The truth of a new life is revealed,
No more by the grave concealed.

A new life with the energy of youth,
Proclaims the beauty of God’s truth.
Warm winds fan the embers to inspire,
The Source has sparked the heart desire.

See them as they dance a dance of love,
Their strength comes from grace above.
The rains come to make them strong,
That in praise they may sing His song.

Behold as His grandeur does unfold,
As with each word of His story’s told.
Thankful hearts on His word meditate,
As we regard all His hand did create.

In the meadows the flowers sway,
In His love that comes their way.
His splendor to us has been revealed,
Let not our heart’s reply be concealed.

Sweet Victory

I’m walking in the sweet victory
That Jesus won for me on Calvary.
No more a slave to sin, I am free;
And I’m walking with Him in victory.

There was a time I did not know,
Where to turn or where to go.
Then in sin’s darkness I heard,
Of His loving mercy in His word.

Now I’m walking in the sweet victory
That Jesus won for me on Calvary.
No more a slave to sin, I am free;
And I’m walking with Him in victory.

A cold hard heart that I once knew,
I can say it‘s true; He has made new.
I lay dying in that old life, a pit of sin;
I cried for mercy and He came within.

Now I’m walking in the sweet victory
That Jesus won for me on Calvary.
No more a slave to sin, I am free;
And I’m walking with Him in victory.

On that dark, dark day, so long ago,
He died for me for He loved me so.
Then from the grave He did rise,
Defeating Satan and all his lies.

I’m walking in the sweet victory
That Jesus won for me on Calvary.
No more a slave to sin, I am free;
And I’m walking with Him in victory.

Our Worship

Worship the communing between man and God
I know to you that may sound strange or odd.
Grace and mercy, God gives and man receives,
And in God solemn promise we can believe.

My heart overfull from the love God shown
And the blessings and mercy that I’ve known.
In joyous response to Him, in blessed fellowship,
With a thankful heart my life I give; this is my worship.

As we join as one body He stands with us here,
Wrapped in His loving arms we have nothing to fear.
He nourishes us by His body and blood and word,
We are strengthened by His bond and what we’ve heard.

We can resist the temptations of this world by His power,
For we are living sacrifices, minute by minute each hour.
In humble thanks we sit in silent awe of what He has done,
As the many come together to worship as one.

Each voice is different but lifted high in praises sing,
In adoration for our Lord it is worship we bring.
It is our personal testimony that we publicly acclaim,
As we worship our Lord and praise His holy name.

Happy Valentine's day my Love

Endless are the terms of endearment I could use to try to express my love. But they would all fall way short; for none could possibly describe the vast depth.

I stand in awe of her honesty, warmth and kindness and her tenacious resolve live by them. She brings great honor to me that she bears my name with pride.

I can only thank God that He brought us together forty-two years ago. And that she agreed to be my bride. She is a most treasured blessing. She blessed me with the gift of three wonderful daughters that know her qualities.

Each moment I get to spend with her is a gift from God. She is a constant reminder to me of how much God loves me and wants the best for me.

I tell her each day that I love her, but that is not enough. A precious treasure such as her should be polished with praise and displayed with pride. Every thing I do and every word I speak should be done with her in mind.

I know it will take a lifetime for me to show her how much she means to me. But each day brings a new opportunity to be a little more appreciative of her.

Yes, I love my wife! Always have. Always will.  That I proclaim; that I vow!

Praise the Lord

Halleluiah Lord Halleluiah
I will praise the Lord.
I will praise Him in His house,
I will praise Him to heaven above.
Halleluiah Lord Halleluiah
I will praise the Lord.

I praise Him for His mighty Power,
I praise Him for His greatness.
I will praise Him with my song,
I will praise Him with my words.
Halleluiah Lord Halleluiah
I will praise the Lord.

I praise Him in my joy,
I praise Him in my sorrow.
I praise Him for my work,
I praise Him for my rest.
Halleluiah Lord Halleluiah
I will praise the Lord.

I praise Him when I rise,
I praise Him when I lay down.
I praise Him for the bounty,
I praise Him for the blessings.
Halleluiah Lord Halleluiah
I will praise the Lord.

With my last breath I will praise the Lord.
Praise the Lord!

Grateful Heart

My Lord, you alone are my God, I seek you;
It is upon your strength alone I do rely.
My source and purpose is found only in you;
Without your blessings I would wither and die.

Food, water and shelter you give to me;
Everything, even the air I breathe you provide.
In times of need you are always with me;
When I cry out, your face you do not hide.

I have walked with you along the rocky road;
I have seen your wondrous glory and power.
You are my stronghold that nothing can erode;
From heaven above love and mercy does shower.

As I rise to greet each day, I will call your name;
As I dress for the day my need for you I confess.
As I lift my hands in Morning Prayer, I proclaim;
It is you alone and your love today I will profess.

As I climb the hill of the day, I cling to you;
My soul rejoices in your love for you lift me up.
From the hilltop my voice will sing of you;
The praise of my heart will overflow my cup.

Only in you have I strength in you alone I stand;
You alone are my comfort and my guide.
Through this journey you lead me by the hand;
As each day your word within me does reside.

You paid the highest price for my salvation;
There is no way that I could possibly repay.
To you alone I owe my all, my life’s dedication,
Out of a grateful heart, I give thanks each day.

Walking in the Way

Those who live by this worlds flow,
Have set their minds and can not grow.
Their hearts crave its poisonous desire,
And so can not raise themselves higher.

But those who live in Christ will show,
And their Lives live out what they know.
Their hearts are filled with God’s desire,
And they know His promises will transpire.

The minds ruled by sin, live no more;
But those ruled by Spirit live and soar.
The mind of this world is hostile to God;
To submit to His will to them seems odd.

We, who believe, know our old ways died;
And we live free walking by Christ’s side.
He fills our heart with His mercy and love;
That we may reflect His glory above.

We carry His words of hope into the dark,
So that the lost may see His loving spark.
Our heart fills with joy as we serve Him;
That we may be used to reach out to them.

As we continue to walk in His way we grow;
Blessed in truth, the more of Him we know.
As I lay in rest, He shares His words of love;
I see a glimpse of the beauty of heaven above.

God of all Time

I will always trust in Him,
I will forever praise His name.
He saved me from my sin,
It is Him I love and proclaim.

He is God of all time,
The Lord of all nations.
My God most high,
The King of my salvation.

In my desert of despair,
He is my oasis of life.
Wrapped in His loving care,
Safe from all the strife.

In that dark pit of my sin,
When all hope seemed to fail
He came and pulled me in,
And His love will prevail.

He is God of all time,
The Lord of all nations.
My God most high,
The King of my salvation.

The Lord of all nations,
The King of my salvation.
My God most high,
He is God of all time.

Trust and Hope

Those who know your name trust in you,
They know your promises and love is true.
They place their hope in you Lord of mercy,
For it is you alone that has set them free.

I rejoice for I trust in your unfailing love,
I know that forgiveness comes from above.
My fathers placed their trust in you alone,
You delivered them calling them your own.

Guide me in your truth and teach me your way,
For my hope is in you to the end of this day.
You are my Lord, my God; I trust in you,
When troubles come you help me through.

Each morning when I rise beauty greets me,
The blessings of the day you help me see.
As your word I read your love is unveiled,
Your presence in my life can not be concealed.

Your holy kiss is in the wind on my cheek,
Your sweet voice I hear in the cheerful creek.
My heart is as light as the air I breathe,
For I know you are walking beside me.

In you my Lord I trust, you are my hope.
You are my purpose, my strength to cope.
You place a song on my lips and in my heart,
I know from me you will never part.

Worship With Me

Join with me in a song to the Lord;
Lift high your voice in praise to Him.
Let our voices lift up in one accord;
And sing our rock of salvation hymn.

Let us bring to Him all our praise;
In thanks for all He has done for us.
May our lives extol Him all our days;
Let glory from our lips flow in chorus.

From the high mountains to deep sea,
Great our Lord God, mighty our King.
He is the creator; He has a plan for me;
When I see what I owe; it’s everything.

Valleys deep and peaks that touch the sky;
And the seas waves fierce and strong are His.
He made all this, yet knows when you cry.
He called you for His own and you are His.

Come join with me in worship to our King;
With humble hearts let us kneel in respect.
He’s our Maker, our God, He’s our everything;
It is with Him that we strive to connect.

Let us turn our hearts and minds to Him;
That in all things we may be lead by love.
Rejoice and sing with me victory’s hymn;
For salvation rests in our dear Lord above.

Troubled Times

Mighty is our Lord, He is our guard;
He is our help when times get hard.

There is no call for us to fear;
Even if the earth should give way,
Or the mountains fall into the sea,
Look faithfully and find Him near.

We may get tossed about by rough seas,
we may see mountains tremble and shake,
But there is a peace that can be found;
Found in our Lord, on our bended knees.

From the throne of God, like a river flows,
He sends our blessings and our strength.
From the place where the Most High dwells,
He hears our pleas and His love He shows.

If God is with us then we can not fall.
Nations are in turmoil, kingdoms in ruin;
They have turned from the wise words of old.
His mighty hand keeps His people standing tall.

The Lord our God is our refuge and fortress.
It is in Him that we are safe and secure,
With each passing day we need Him more.
Remember His love in these times of distress.

In time of trouble, in times of joy,
I will praise the Lord!

Venting

This is a vent, the letting off of pressure that anger may not consume.

The church today has many ministries to address the needs of its congregation and the community as a whole. Both physical and spiritual needs can be filled. But if either the person in need or the one trying to fill that need does not recognize that there is a need nothing will happen.

Let me try to explain it to myself. If one of our brothers has a need for medicine but has not enough money to cover the cost, he may say, “oh, I don’t really need it that bad.” So he does not ask for assistance.  And the church does not know he needs help, so his physical needs are not addressed.  And the brother may die from not knowing.

Even more troubling is when it is a matter of the spiritual needs not being met. The church today has men well learned in scripture with the authority to address these needs.  Yet I see brothers and sisters not aware of their need for spiritual help. And our learned men not meeting with them to see what is going on in their lives so they can help them. And with each brother or sister that dies spiritually the church itself slowly dies.

People as a whole, don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. Instead of the church trying to put out fires as they pop up, it may be better served to prevent the fire before they happen.

A periodic visit with each family may reveal who does or doesn’t have a pressing need and how and by who that need should be addressed. If a need is revealed it can be addressed before it becomes to late, if there is no need found at least the family would know how much they are cared for that in the future they know where to turn.  Love is the strongest medicine, and God has given us an endless supply.
These are just thoughts that have built up in my mind and needs to come out.

The Message

It is not about me, I am not the one.
It is about the cross, of God’s loving Son.
For on that cross forgiveness abounds,
Through His mercy salvation is found.

I speak of the message, I now testify,
Because of our great sin He had to die.
His grace, His love paid sins high price,
Because of His great love He did sacrifice.

He rose from the tomb and walked again,
That we would be free to live for Him.
The gift of life He offers to you and me,
That we may walk with Him forever free.

His loving promise they tried to kill,
But with each of us His love lives still.
All of our dark sins have been forgiven,
We’ve been set free and in Him we’re living.

He sent His spirit to guide us through,
That His glory may dwell in what we do.
We are children of the heavenly throne,
And by His wondrous love we will be known.

God is Our Strength

We have no fear, we tremble no more.
For God is our refuge; God is our strength.
From the heavens above blessings pour;
Yes God is our refuge, God is our strength.

Over mountains and valleys we may roam;
He is ever-present, He is always there.
We may travel waters that far from home;
But His love is with us, it goes everywhere.

We have no fear, we tremble no more.
For God is our refuge; God is our strength.
From the heavens above blessings pour;
Yes God is our refuge, God is our strength.

Glory is His for mercy we find in His Son;
Holy is the place where the Lord does dwell.
Lord look in my heart; see what you’ve done;
You forgave my sins and saved me from hell.

Weary and wounded from the battles today;
Lord God of Jacob it is in you we find our rest.
Our foes may be strong that come our way;
The Lord Almighty is with us, He is our fortress.

We have no fear, we tremble no more.
For God is our refuge; God is our strength.
From the heavens above blessings pour;
Yes God is our refuge, God is our strength.

Winter Comes

Winter comes bringing snow,
Mind your step sure and slow.
Some hang their head in dread,
Thinking it is a time of the dead.

But it only sleeps, a time of rest,
It’s just a slowing of pace at best.
It’s a time to think and meditate,
To draw strength and rededicate;
To immerse ourselves in our source
Surrounded by God’s love of course.

Although the air maybe cold out,
As the winds blow strongly about,
We take refuge in His warm mercy,
Knowing His love for you and me.
He stands guard as we hibernate,
No fears do we need to contemplate.

We rest safe and warm in His grace,
A blessing of His promised place.
When Spring blooms forth once again
We will be able to stand strong in Him.

So as winter comes with its chill,
Let us enjoy the calm and still.
And as we enter this land of nod,
Let us draw closer to our God.

Glory to the Father

John 12:27-28 (NIV)

27 “Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour.
28 Father, glorify your name!”


The things of this world can distract;
And the wicked of this world attack,
But out of darkness His glory will shine.
It is a light that will shine for all time.

The light of the Father’s glory lives;
It shines with the love He gives.
It shown through Jesus Christ, His Son,
Whose love reaches out to everyone.

He has called us to live for Him;
With love to reflect the glory of Him.
Each of us He polishes with pride,
That from this world His love will not hide.

Glory to the Father, creator of us all;
and to the Son, the sacrifice for us all;
and to the Holy Spirit that brings the call.
Glory, glory, glory to the Father of us all.

Be calm my soul for this I know,
For the Lord God’s glory will show.
It is for His purpose He made this hour;
Here I stand by His word, by His power.

Forevermore

Let us put off our stubborn youth,
And receive God’s word as truth.
The Lord our God reigns from above;
He reaches down with mercy and love.

It is good and pleasant, my son,
When god’s people live as one.
In our hearts the Lord is feared,
As anointing oil runs down our beard.

As it ran down Aaron’s beard of old;
Down the collar of his robe, I’m told.
Like the dew of heaven it is falling,
As we heed our Master’s calling.

Blessings of the Lord abounds,
Trumpets and gongs resounds,
Rejoice pain and sorrows are no more;
Christ came to give life forevermore.

Your Glory

The Lord has given us rich land,
Fertile where great crops stand.
He gives us the sun and rain in season;
He blesses us beyond all reason.

He gives to us His word and love,
To lead and guide us from above.
He is the King of righteousness;
The Ruler who rules in justice.

He is our shelter from the wind,
We are always welcomed by Him.
He is our refuge from life’s storms;
Lives in His loving care transforms.

He is the water in a parched land;
The fountain of salvation for man.
In His protecting arm we find rest;
He gives us strength to pass the test.

Lord, keep our eyes open so we can see,
The many blessings that comes from thee.
Unplug our ears that we may hear and do,
The message of love that is forever true.

Lord, grant that our words be clear;
That those who are lost may hear.
Let our lips proclaim your Holy story;
And everything we do reflect your glory.

Forgave Forgiven

The Lord is faithful in all He does;
He is the same as He always was.
His ways are upright, just and true.
He came down to save me and you.

For His wondrous mercy, sing out;
In His blessings there is no doubt.
Because of all that He has done,
Sing your praises to God’s own Son.

With the sound of the harp rejoice;
May all that know Him give voice.
With gladness your hearts employ,
Sing to Him your song filled with joy.

To Him who made heaven and earth;
Proclaim His name for all you’re worth.
In Him alone are you freed from sin,
So with all your body and mind praise Him.

He who forgave you, helps you forgive;
It is by His mighty strength we can live.
To forgive those who deserve it the least,
Is to break the chains that bind us to the beast.

Rejoice my heart, rejoice and give praise;
For you are forgiven in the Lord all your days.
Be filled with His Spirit of mercy and love,
And you will know our Lord God above.

Farming the Fields

Fire up the tractor, hook up the plow,
Ready the fields the planting times now.

God has called us to plant His seed,
That on His holy word they may feed.
By His love they are nourished to grow,
That in each life His glory will show.

God prunes the weeds and rakes the soil,
That the fields may be blessed from our toil.
The tender sprouts need a lot of loving care,
As we show them that God is always there.

After the seed is planted there’s much to do,
But tired and weary we plow on through.
The season is short till ripe is the harvest,
Only then does God grant His heavenly rest.

So fire up the tractor and hook up the plow.
The fields await for the planting time is now!

Where Were You

Do you think God ever gets exasperated with us trying to tell Him what to do and how to do it?
We always want things our way. Done our way and when we want them. We want to be in control of everything. We think we know so much more than God.
Imagine having to stand before God and answer the following.

“Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge?
Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me, if you understand!
Who marked off its dimensions?  Surely you know!
Who stretched a measuring line across it?
On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone
while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?
“Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place, when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’?
“Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges
and shake the wicked out of it?
The earth takes shape like clay under a seal; its features stand out like those of a garment.
The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken.
“Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea or walked in the recesses of the deep?
Have the gates of death been shown to you?
Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness?
Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth?
Tell me, if you know all this.
“What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside? Can you take them to their places?
Do you know the paths to their dwellings?
Surely you know all of this, for you were already born!
You have lived so many years!

How well do you think we could withstand such a grilling?  What right do we have to whine and complain when we have no idea what God has planed for us.  God has a reason and a time for all He does. And we can not fully understand His ways. We need to use the faith He gave us and trust in Him. After all He created everything and everything is His. (Yes that means us!)

When we do as we please and say “this is what God wants me to do”, without Him having told us to do it, we put ourselves above God. And when we try to change God’s word to make it fit our actions, again we sin against God.
God has a plan for us, a plan for our good, to have us prosper and grow. If we are wise we will seek His council and follow His word.
If we get ourselves out of God’s way and let Him have control over our lives, great blessings will flow.

This Wonderful Day

Cool and fresh the breeze against my cheek,

Sweet music is the laughter of the flowing creek.

Wild flowers fragrant and pleasing to the eye,

So dear the scene it causes the soul to sigh.

Early this morn in paradise we greet the day,

We draw close to God to hear what He has to say.

The chattering of a squirrel, the call of a bird,

He spoke volumes to me, yet said not a word.

A leaf danced and dived upon a gentle breeze,

I tell Him that I love Him and want to please.

I know I have no control that is His sacred part,

I feel His smile upon me and peace fills my heart.

The roar of His whisper fills the inner place;

By mercy you were saved, to be lead by grace.

We have been called to serve God by serving others;

By showing His love to all our sisters and brothers.

This day was created special that you may know,

God stands with you always and helps you grow.

Enjoy each blessing God bestows every day,

And with a thankful heart turn to Him and pray.

Look around at the wonder, see the beauty;

Oh, what an awesome Father divine is He.

He knows and provides for all of our cares,

The very best there is He lovingly shares.

Ex

Today I will be asking a question… that is not in poem form.
But it still gives me a cause for pause….

How long does it take to become an “Ex”?

When someone overcomes an addiction such as smoking you can’t really call them non-smokers. So they are referred to as “Ex-smokers”, showing that they no longer smoke but have in the past.
My question is simple. At what point do they become “Ex-smokers”? Do they become “Ex’s” on the first day? First week? Month? Year??  Maybe someone can answer and make it clear. Or maybe just maybe, they never become “Ex’s” at all just long term quitters. Sort of like a recovering smoker.
I was asked by one doctor how long had I had a smoking problem? I guess he didn’t understand, I didn’t have a smoking problem; my problem was with the quitting.
As one who is currently attempting to give up cigarettes, I’m not going to tell you how easy it is; because it isn’t. But then nothing worth doing is going to be easy. The struggle you face, will show you on whom you can rely. And He will strengthen your faith each day.
Well, maybe I will never become an “Ex-smoker”, that’s okay with me. I never became an “Ex-sinner” either, just a forgiven child of God. And God continues to work in my life everyday.
I guess it doesn’t really matter what you call me, cause I’m deaf in one ear. I only hear about half what is said anyway. Just knowing what I am is enough for me; a blest child of God.

You Alone

Oh Lord, hear your people shout for joy;
Of your great glory their songs employ.
Their praises rise up to greet you all day;
Great is your mercy, love is your way.

We see your deeds and awesome power;
And know we are blessed hour by hour.
All the earth will bow down before you;
And sing praises to our God who is true.

You Oh Lord, provide for all of our needs;
We see and know of your awesome deeds.
You have come into our lives to be a part,
Showing your love and changing our heart.

Precious is your blood, mighty is your word;
To the ends of earth let your praise be heard.
Let it be known in each and every nation,
You are the Lord God, our only salvation.

We cried out with fear upon our tongue,
And you came to forgive our sins, everyone!
Oh Lord, hear your people shout for joy;
Of your great glory their songs employ.

You alone are God; you alone are the Lord.

Easy

(2 Corinthians 11: 24-27)
Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one.
Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked.

To follow Christ is not always easy;
In fact it can be downright demanding.
Think of all of what Paul did endure;
Because he heeded the Masters’ calling.

Paul faced hardships of many kinds,
Yet he trusted Christ to see him through.
I’m sure he did not enjoy being beat,
But he endured everything he had to.

I can not help but think of myself,
Of what I might do in trials like those.
My walk has been mostly blessings;
To face such test I can only suppose.

By what power could I stand strong?
Only by the strength of Christ do I hope.
It is knowing of His great love for me,
That I can fully trust He will help me cope.

I do not know Paul’s trials as my own;
But I have looked in the eye of my own share.
And when the pain became too great;
I called out and His strength was right there.

Do We Obey

Thoughts rush in confusing the mind,
Making it hard to focus from time to time.
We must be aware of what we say or do,
Making certain that we act good and true.

Sometimes we all have thoughts unsure,
And the devil will try to make them impure.
The anger of our words we can not retract,
When in the heat of conflict we speak or act.

Daily upon God’s holy word we should feed,
To still the thoughts of selfishness and greed.
Let us seek our thoughts that we may find,
That which has come to trouble our mind.

Daily our minds we should refresh and renew,
That we may speak and act proud and true.
In God’s holy word let us start each day,
That we may know just what He has to say.

Let His word be with us and forever remain,
When thoughts come to scramble our brain.
We proclaim that we want to walk in His way.
But do we really listen to what He has to say?
Do we obey?

Meditate

I will speak the deeds of the Lord in praise;
I will Proclaim His miracles of bye gone days.
I will think of His works both small and great;
In wonder of His awesome deeds I will meditate.

There is but one God; One God Holy and true.
There is no other god, no other god but you.
He who was in the beginning, will be in the end;
He who created everything, calls you to Him.

Mighty miracles He placed before our eye,
Yet with tenderness He dries each tear we cry.
More than wishes, it’s more than a daydream;
We are His people and by His blood redeemed.

I will speak the deeds of the Lord in praise;
I will Proclaim His miracles of bye gone days.
I will think of His works both small and great;
In wonder of His awesome deeds I will meditate.

My Lord and I

The Lord is my guide and protector.
He plants His desires in my heart.
He supplies for all my needs and I lack nothing.
He guards me and gives me rest,
He is my shelter, my quiet calm.

From His grace He grants me strength,
And a deep hunger to follow Him.
I Long to be known as His own.
Even when facing the heat of the fire,
I rejoice knowing He will lift me higher.

I do not tremble in fear from harm,
For my Lord and I walk arm in arm.
His laws are my course, His grace my reward.
Great the blessings from Him I know.

Pleasing to my heart is His call,
Before the scoffers I was chosen.
Caressed in the warmth of His love,
Anointed by His spirit my heart overflows.

Only goodness and love fills my days,
For the will of the Lord is upon me,
And I will live with Him forever.

Forever

About the Word of life I proclaim,
It is the truth that puts all to shame.
That which stood with God before time,
Stands now and will stand for all time.

Just as the Father and the Word was one,
Through the Spirit we are one with the Son.
The Son is the Word of God made flesh for us,
So we may see and believe in His love for us.

As we receive the blessing of salvation,
The Spirit calls us into His holy nation.
As we receive freedom from sin’s strife,
We are born anew into a God led life.

There will be battles from day to day,
But the Spirit is there to show us the way.
Guided by the Word, led by the Spirit,
We rely on God’s strength to win over it.

This I proclaim that all may understand;
With the Father, Son and Spirit we stand.
Come join with us in fellowship together,
That we may all live the joy of Christ forever.

Christmas Time Again

It’s Christmas time again
When some let the stress in.
But it’s time to remember Him,
The one who saved us from our sin.

See the people rushing around
Listen to the wonderful sound.
As the snow falls to the earth,
The carolers sing of His birth.

Outside the snow is falling.
Do you hear the voices calling?
Come see, come see the light,
Rejoice our savior is born tonight.

On a night so long, long ago,
In a manger humble and low.
A child came for you and me,
That from sin we could be free.

Join now as we worship Him,
With all our hearts we begin.
Remembering His wondrous love,
Raining down from above.

Sing with all your worth,
Praising His holy birth.
Jesus is the gift of salvation,
He came to save every nation.

Brave and Sure

In my anguish and pain I cry mercy;
I wait knowing my relief soon I will see.
My Lord hears my prayers in Him I trust,
There is a bond of blood between us.

My Lord rules my life for He paid the price;
I live because of my Masters’ sacrifice.
He no longer holds my sins before me,
Because His blood has already set me free.

I dine at the masters’ table; I sit with my King;
A feast set before me, the best of everything.
I follow His word and will and blessings abounds;
His wonders and miracles my mind astounds.

Like a small child He leads me through my trial;
His love surrounds as He teaches all the while.
With a love so great, wanting to give me the best;
He calls me His own son, treasured and blest.

I know I can go to Him with anything anytime;
He is my Source and will be until the end of time.
The shiny things of this world will not distract me;
My strength is in His Spirit that dwells with in me.

I say “For me and my house we will serve the Lord!”
Our lives lived to bring Him glory is never bored.
The journey from start to end is an adventure;
But He will guide your every step brave and sure.

He has equipped you to do His will and tell His story;
So stand firm and speak boldly of His wondrous glory.

Alive

Each of us at one time followed the world’s ways.
The spirit of disobedience ruled all of our days.
We only gratified the hunger desires of our flesh.
We deserved God’s anger because of our mess.

Now followers of Christ, are we not dead to sin?
We have turned from the world and live in Him.
Because of His great love for us, He sent mercy.
He sent His Son to pay the price for you and me.

While dead in our transgressions He made us alive;
We were all dying in our sin, until grace did arrive.
In Christ God’s pulled us out of our muck and mire;
What He had in mind for us was so much higher.

We are saved by His grace, through faith His gift.
We are called for His purpose, not just sat adrift.
He draws us close to Him, close to our source;
So that in times of trouble we may stay the course.

His blessings come to us in His laws and in His word;
His strength is found in obeying what we have heard.
A tree planted in fertile soil will grow strong and true;
it grows closer to it’s source, the same for us is true.
Our source is Christ and in His mercy and grace we live.
Salvation our greatest gift, our sins He did forgive.

A World Turned Away

Many are the thoughts that fill my mind as I examine the world around me. Scenes from long ago when the people rebelled flash in front of my eyes.

A world run a muck, swimming in a sea of sin, blinded by lust and greed it feast upon it decaying flesh. The few have now become many, and the many, few. Those who have been crowned kings now worship at the feet of their own desires clouding the minds of the people and turning them away from the truth.
I do not speak of this lightly nor do I speak of darkness and doom for its own sake. I speak that they may see and remember of their forefathers who turned away and became wicked and evil in the eyes of God.
In this land we have known many blessings we need to remember them for they were from God above, a loving God, a God of mercy. But also we must never forget His wrath for those who oppose Him. Remember well those from long ago that rejected the blessing and received a curse.
Do not look to the problem but to the promise for it is the hope in which we trust. Let us stand together against the wickedness and not be blinded by it, cloaking ourselves in the word of our Lord.
The time is at hand, in fact it is at the door when in our own house lies will be spoken as truth to muddle your mind. Only the word of God can stand and correct our thinking saving our house from the evil of our day.
We must move swiftly and with focus, knowing the truth of God’s promise. Let His word be alive in us, let it be the fuel that drives us. Let it be the heart that beats within us.

A Shining Light

Do not run or hide in fear,
Lift your eyes, look around.
The Lord is with you always,
His grace and mercy abounds.

Stand and reflect the light,
that has come into your life.
You carry the torch of hope
For the ones living in strife.

Let the peace of the Lord
Shine brightly on your face.
you are the voice that guides
The lost from this dark place.

You have been called to be
A testimony of His glory.
You are the messenger
That tells of His great story.

See the darkness that covers,
That heavy blanket of sin.
Proclaim His love for us,
The reason He died and rose again.

Even the smallest of candle
Shines bright in the night.
By the power of His word,
You can be a shining light.

It's a Wonderful Life

Frost on the windows glistening in the sun,
A new day born, new victories to be won.
The fire rages within; the passion of the day,
His strength supports, His word guides my way.

The trials that I may face matters not at all,
For I follow His commands and heed His call.
From deep within He speaks and I must obey,
He is my life, my breath my answer when I pray.

Wicked and dark my sins far too great to say,
A slave to a selfish self, my debt too high to pay.
Then I cried out and He heard my mournful plea,
And in His loving mercy He came to rescue me.

The wonders of His love shook me to the core,
For it was by His own blood my sins are no more.
With His suffering and death my debt was paid,
a new life came from the grave where He laid.

A new day reigns, no more under sins heavy load.
My life is mine no more, because to Him it is owed.
He provides for my needs that I may tell His story,
That my very life may reflect His wondrous glory.

Join With Me

Praise the Lord, yes Praise the Lord
Praise Him in His sanctuary…
Praise Him for your bounty…
Praise Him. Praise Him.. Praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord, yes praise the Lord
Praise Him to the stars above,
Praise Him for His endless love.
Praise Him. Praise Him.. Praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord, yes Praise the Lord
Praise Him in the midnight hour
Praise Him for His mighty power.
Praise Him. Praise Him.. Praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord, yes Praise the Lord
Praise Him for the food on your plate,
Praise Him for His mercy so great.
Praise Him. Praise Him.. Praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord, oh Praise the Lord.
Praise Him may all hands be raised,
Praise Him, He is worthy of our praise.
Join with me now and praise the Lord.

Host of Host

Come, join with us in praise;
Holy hands to Him be raised.
The King of kings, Host of host;
Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

To the lord our praise proclaim,
As we make music in His name.
He shows His love by day light,
And He is faithful in the night.

With strings and voice we unite,
Praising the Lord is good and right.
Sing with joy for what He has done,
Giving glory to God’s own Son.

Come, join with us in praise;
Holy hands to Him be raised.
The King of kings, Host of host;
Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

The world does not understand,
Why it is we follow His command.
For all our sins He paid the price;
Out of God’s love He did sacrifice.

In our lives He does so much;
In every part His loving touch.
He guards us from evil snares;
In His mercy He shows He cares.

Come, join with us in praise;
Holy hands to Him be raised.
The King of kings, Host of host;
Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

My Lord

My heart belongs to the Lord,
He heard my cries for mercy.
He made haste to rescue me,
and paid the price I could not afford.

I live each day with love for my Lord,
The cords of death ensnared me,
But I called out and He saved me.
By His grace my life in Him restored.

Great and just are the ways Lord,
In mercy He show compassion on me.
He saw me enslaved and freed me.
Great His love that be my sweet reward.

My soul finds its rest in the Lord.
My eyes He dried as tears flowed free,
The compassion of the Lord blesses me.
Each breath I take, I take for my Lord.

I will stand always with the Lord.
Lost, my feet stumbled under me,
From sins dark grave, He spared me.
May I walk forever with my Lord.

My Lord, My Lord you are my life YOU are my Lord!

Love in Christmas

Into a world cruel and cold
Came the gift brave and bold.
All the angels sang that night,
Proclaiming God’s loving light.

The gift came with hope and trust,
The Fathers love revealed to us.
No ornaments or Christmas tree,
But salvation born for you and me.

The wise drew close in praise,
And were blessed in many ways.
In His presents peace is found,
In His word love does abound.

Join we now in remembrance of,
The night God sent down His love.
The promise of love from long ago,
Alive and well, a never ending flow.

Remember why we celebrate,
Upon on His word meditate.
Become alive again in His way,
For He lives within us  today.

Let us lift up our voices in chorus,
That all know the love he has for us.
That is the true love in Christmas.

Not the Man I Used to be

Some people think I am always strong,
But there are times they would be wrong.
My family can tell you without pause,
I am far from prefect, I have my flaws.

Sometimes the words spoken in haste,
By people who think of me as a waste;
Invoke thoughts of violence and wrath.
The scars run deep from my sin filled past.

Those in position, who see themselves higher,
Spark my anger and fan it to a raging fire.
I know it is I that has allowed this to be;
And only the love of God can change me.

I do not claim to have changed on my own;
It’s the blood of Christ that sins are atoned.
When I find the world getting the best of me,
I remember the cross and He who set me free.

You need to understand, the man you see,
Is not the same sinful man that used to be.
My Lord came in mercy and grace to save,
This wicked man from death and the grave.

Blessing on the Way

There’s a blessing on the way.
The Lord is with me everyday.
even if a storm comes my way,
I can still smile and say,
There’s a blessing on the way.

Oh yeah, I once tremble in fear,
every time trouble came near.
But His love came to let me see,
From all my sins Jesus sat me free.

So when those dark clouds roll by,
I can sing for joy instead of cry.
My Lord has shown me His way,
And there’s a blessing coming today.

There’s a blessing on the way.
The Lord is with me everyday.
even if a storm comes my way,
I can still smile and say,
There’s a blessing on the way.

When it seems I wait and wait,
I trust in Him He will not be late.
I know His ways are greater than mine;
And His wondrous love for me is divine.

The Lord is with me everyday,
There’s a blessing on the way.
even if a storm comes my way,
I can still smile and say,
There’s a blessing on the way.