...IN HIS PRESENCE
Intimate moments with your Savior
by Kathleen Schubitz
SMASHWORDS EDITION
* * * * *
PUBLISHED BY:
RPJ & Company, Inc. on Smashwords
This book is also available in print at: http://www.store.rpjandco.com
Copyright © 2004-2011 Kathleen Schubitz
Smashwords Edition License Notes
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All Scripture quotations used from the King James Version of the Bible.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
For permission to reprint this copyrighted material, contact:
For all those seeking
comfort,
encouragement,
healing,
forgiveness,
freedom,
and intimacy
with Almighty God
My King
In Your Grace
You Are My Everything
Garden of Beauty
Determined
A Weed...
Committed...
A Peek into Heaven
His Masterpiece
I Matter
Call Me Lazarus
No Longer Unforgiven
Trapped or Free?
Love to Forgive
I Will Win!
A Reason to Shout
Wait on the Lord
Heaven’s Treasure
Brand New Day
Pure Love
Mighty God!
Declaration of Freedom
My Word is True
Come Away with Me
True Identity
Healer Within
Thank You
Celebrating Life
UP
Father’s Touch
Honoring You!
Tree of Life
Just Dreamin’
Be
Where is God?
How Will I Know the Right Person?
Come
Heaven or Hell?
God’s Contract
Take My Heart
Always, I Am
Call to the Queen
Change the World
Heart Comfort
Never Lost
I’ll Always Remember...
Seed
of Love
The Voice of Love
You’re Alive!
Gift of Love
Be it Unto Me
The Circle of Your Love
No Greater Love
Extravagant Love
Live in Love
Daddy’s Girl
My Son
No Other Way
Message in the Storm
The Best Years
Any Time, Any Place
Beautiful Day
Rest
Jesus
‘Tis a Happy Day
Everything Inside of Me
Who Am I?
Every Day
From Tears to Gladness
Walking in Victory!
Reflecting
Thanksgiving
I’m So Glad
Where Do I Fit?
What Do I Do?
More of Jesus
Putting on the Armor
Envelop Me
Come to Me
I Am
Wake Up!
Eternal Life
Promises for a New Year
Real Livin’
My God-Given Degree
Winning Side
Hold On
We Have Faith
Prosperity in Praise
Blessing to Bless
You Are...
His Way
A Prayer of Blessing
Happy Birthday...
A Daughter’s Prayer
Friends of Grace
Dinner With the King
Potter’s Clay
In Your Presence
My Jesus
Holiness
Heart’s Desire
Anointed Love
Quiet Will
Lifted Higher!
Worship - A Precious Gift
Published Works by RPJ & Company
…In His Presence was born through experiences of the Father’s unconditional love, despite life’s tragedies and wrong choices. With a desire to please God in every thought, word, and deed, poetry and prose have been written during quiet times alone with the Lord. As we allow Him to purify us through trials, He sends His ministering spirit, bringing words of encouragement, hope, comfort and transformation.
To receive God’s best through this book, read it carefully and prayerfully, a little at a time, or perhaps with repetition, always searching for the hidden nuggets of truth and freedom for your own life. He who knows you and loves you without condition, understands you perfectly. He will speak to your heart through the pages of this book, shutting out the world and bringing you into fellowship and intimacy with Himself.
Some poetry will challenge your thoughts, while others will inspire you to greater devotion with the Lord. …In His Presence will bless your heart as you open your soul to its living messages and reflect on the scriptures.
This book is a timeless treasure and with it go many prayers that God will enrich every life it touches. So, wherever you choose to be, and whatever you choose to do, let it be done …In His Presence!
Kathy
My greatest thankfulness, which words cannot express, is to my Creator and Heavenly Father. Without Him, I would not be here today. You would not be reading the poetry He’s inspired me to write without His redemption and resurrection power working in my life.
Thank you to EVERYONE who has encouraged and inspired me to continue writing poetry.
A special thanks goes to each of my pastors, leaders, and Bible study teachers, past and present. The sermons, words of love and support have given me the confidence to continue writing poetry and allow God to use my expressions of writing to be a blessing to many others.
To my friends, clients and associates for believing in me and providing honest feedback of my writing and my work as a publisher... thank you!
A special thank you to my editorial friend, Margaret Everett. Your knowledge, expertise and giftedness take my written work to a greater level... thank you!
A special thank you to Connie Arnold, musician and poet who found me through blog-hopping! You have a special talent for editing and proofreading. I’m blessed to have you in my life!
God bless each and every one!
The genesis of my career as a poet took root in 2001 with my “9-1-1 call to transformation,” an epiphany that spawned from a series of tragic events that would change my life forever. It began with a job loss and no source of income, which was followed by the purchase of a newer car. Later that year I was devastated by a physical assault I never believed could happen to me. Less than five weeks later, just two days before Christmas, thinking life could not get any worse, I was viciously attacked by a Great Dane.
Thereafter, the Spirit of God raged inside me, urging me to capture my experiences on printed page, and as the torrent of words flowed through my mind, I realized I needed only to focus on one seed thought to express myself. Stemming from the horribly grief-stricken year I – and the entire nation – had just experienced, came “Can a Perpetrator Be Forgiven?”
Once having sowed my emotions into words, I thought my work was done, the worst season of grief behind me and inevitable transformation by the Lord ahead of me. However, it was only the beginning of my edification and the dawn of a new life and career with meaning and purpose.
It became therapeutic for me to express feelings of comfort, forgiveness, healing, and freedom with the creation of poetry and prose, and the stream of words continued to flow, culminating in my self-help book, Finding Purpose after Abuse. I came to understand that my life had been enriched by my devastating experiences and discovered that writing from the heart and expressing thoughts of a loving Father were both encouraging and inspirational, not only to myself, but to all of God’s children.
Challenged by an auto accident in 2007, God once again brought miracle-healing power to my body and soul. As a result, my writing and articulation continued to change and evolve, and maturity has only enhanced the spirit and power of God working within me.
This revised edition of ...In His Presence has been expanded to include a verse of scripture to complement each poem. An index of poem titles and scripture verses has also been added, creating a searchable reference as a table-side companion for years to come. Categories have also been adjusted and new ones added, while extensive editorial changes have been made to enhance clarity and rhythm.
My goal for the book is that it nurture every reader’s spiritual growth with each work of poetry, whether inspired from conflict, joy, tragedy, healing, God’s word, or life experience.
When we aspire to a higher calling or greater purpose in life, we learn that feelings and traumatic experiences are often life’s greatest rewards and special treasures. Be inspired to higher ground!
My King
My heart is drawn to the King
To the inner court, I can bring…
My burdens
My worries
And even my cares;
My gifts
My love
And even my prayers.
Of love for great and smaller things,
His love for me makes me sing.
To His hand I will forever cling,
I might be accused of having a fling.
He draws me to the west side wing,
My heart dances, it feels like spring.
I’m anchored by His love and sing,
Proudly wearing a beautiful ring.
A ring that shows my loyalty,
A ring that says I belong to the King.
My love for Him is in full swing.
I’m so blessed to call Him my King!
Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee. - Song of Solomon 1:4
In Your Grace
Forever in Your grace, Lord,
I’m forever in Your grace.
You cover me, You guide me, Lord,
When I seek Your face.
I will find that heavenly place
When I seek Your face.
Bring me to the place, Lord,
Where I rest in Your loving embrace.
For I long to behold You,
I long to see Your face,
I love to adore You, Lord
As I’m forever in Your grace.
For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. - Psalm 84:11
You Are My Everything
Come and reign in me
You meet my every need.
You are my everything,
Lord, come reign in me.
Come in Your holy power
I need You this hour.
You are my everything,
Lord, come reign in me.
I will give You all the glory
I will give you all the praise.
You are my everything,
Lord, come reign in me.
The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved. - Psalm 93:1
Garden of Beauty
A beautiful rose
made by God in Heaven,
colored in purity
in a garden of many.
Tall trees keep you shaded,
but the sunlight beams through.
All who choose to sit and enjoy
will see the beauty He has placed in you.
Jesus extends his right hand
to reach out and admire,
and capture the moment of
never-ending beauty inside you.
You are so precious to Him.
A hundred others for Him to admire;
His eyes are only upon you
for it is you He desires.
He sees your hidden beauty,
He knows the unfolding taking place.
He can’t wait to see you blossom;
full bloom is what He patiently awaits!
And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. - Isaiah 58:11
Determined
Whether served a full course meal
Or fruit on a plate made of steel;
Regardless of degrees earned
Or education and what we’ve learned;
Life does not always play fair
If we’re blessed with financial wealth, do we share?
Oftentimes, life deals a lousy hand,
But God’s word speaks of His “promised land.”
Will we take what little we have,
And ask God’s blessings so we won’t live in lack?
Are we determined to sulk and feel pity
Or embrace each event as new opportunity?
If we’ve been pushed, kicked and nearly beat to death
We still have a choice to get up, we still have breath.
We can look at the gift of life with new vision today
With God, be determined, and live His way!
But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. - Psalm 37:39
A Weed…
Willing, Enduring, Everlasting, and Diligent!
Did you ever wonder about the life of a weed?
How do we treat them?
We poison them hoping they’ll go away forever.
Greatly determined, we mow them down,
or we yank them up, hoping they’ll never return.
Weeds come in many forms,
average in appearance, blending with the grass.
Others stand very tall, quite noticeable.
Many are so beautiful, we’re convinced they’re flowers.
Let’s be weeds for God;
stubborn and refusing to die.
We’ll always return and live forever.
So, persevere in your walk with God;
be a weed in the world.
Be strong and persistent with a
“Nothing can stop or kill me” attitude.
No matter what people will do or say
to stop you from being who God called you to be,
remember the weed, it refuses to be destroyed;
it lives forever, and will not die!
I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD. - Psalm 118:17
Committed...
To quiet time
to sit with Him
To love myself
to be settled in Him
To every step I take
to love Him is no mistake
To be content
to desire more of Him
To every relationship
to be pleasing to Him
To every task
to do it His way
To serve when I’m called
to know I’ve been chosen
To speak kindness
to consider His sacrifice
To receive His peace
to me He paid a great price
To trust when I fail
to know He’ll make a way
To know I’m committed
to the One who knows me best!
Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. - Psalm 37:5
A Peek into Heaven
Once upon a ladder in a vision ever-clear,
up into the clouds it went just so I could peer.
It was me upon the ladder; I had climbed all the way up.
Little did I know that what I would see would cause upset.
Resuscitation was needed, but no one could be found;
my heart ached for my friend whom I saw bound.
“What can I do, Lord?
How can I help my friend be restored?”
“What shall I do to help her live and not die?
Showing me her soul, what is the reason why?”
“I want to teach you, dear one
to share truth and love; help others find freedom.”
But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. - Psalm 37:39
His Masterpiece
There sits an old rocking chair
Outside and tarnished with no one to care.
It doesn’t have a home or anyone
To make use of the old rocking chair.
Let me give it a try—
Will it hold me?
Will it be comfortable?
Can I give it a special place?
So I hauled it home like a flirt,
Surely it needed love to get rid of the dirt.
I’ll bet it’s a beautiful piece of wood
Under all the tarnish, paint, and soot.
Too large to dip like silver,
It will take time to find the hidden beauty.
So I’ll spend time removing and cleaning.
I’ll see if what was thrown out for trash
Is now a priceless piece, not tradable for cash.
Sure enough! The old tarnished,
Dirty and thrown away chair
Is a treasure—cleansed, sparkling and new,
Ready for the Master’s use.
You may feel like this old rocking chair—
Where people or circumstances made you
Feel tarnished and unclean, and life “unfair.”
Your Heavenly Father wants to clean you up,
Beautify, and make you His Masterpiece!
From the wicked that oppress me, from my deadly enemies, who compass me about. - Psalm 17:9
I Matter
Cleanse me, Oh Father,
from every sin put upon me.
You’ve come to heal,
to cleanse and make me free.
Long ago men violated my rights,
they made me impure.
As I became older
I was convinced to take life’s lure.
Always harassed and tormented,
I thought it was natural.
To say “No” didn’t mean “No”,
it really didn’t matter.
Jesus came to validate me as a pre-teen.
Father longs for the day
when I say “No”,
if only because, I matter!
And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. - 1 Thessalonians 5:23
Call Me Lazarus
When I awoke one February day,
It appeared to be ordinary in every way.
An appointment at the chiropractor’s office,
Familiar surroundings, no thought of any injustice.
Some flu-like symptoms appeared to be creepin’ in,
Added rose hips and peppermint to my daily regimen.
The therapist put his hands on my body,
In a place known to be sacred and holy.
Inside I was screaming; I wanted to get up and leave,
But walking out of the office would’ve created a scene.
After my visit to the doctor’s office
Irritating thoughts and unforgiveness setting in.
My body got so stressed out from this ordeal
Life’s been the enemy’s target, wanting to steal.
Bundled up in blankets and layers of clothes,
My body was extremely chilly and cold.
One hundred and five was the thermometer reading,
Symptoms escalated to the point of judgment day nearing.
Severe shooting pains were constant in my head,
No energy for breathing, thought I was ‘bout dead.
Three days spent — no daylight had been seen,
No strength to eat, drink, or make myself clean.
It took every ounce of strength to use the phone
To call for prayer, so I would not feel alone.
On the third day, just past the midnight hour,
Sensed someone praying for me with authority and power.
The next day I arose to see daylight and open the door.
Filled with little strength I thought, “I’m alive to do more.”
The shooting pains continued for eight long weeks,
Everything I knew to do, yet tears covered my cheeks.
Realized the critical condition, I dialed my bishop’s throne.
God used him to bring freedom and deliverance over the phone!
Didn’t have to live with shooting pains in my head,
Every organ shutting down, is now alive instead!
Call Me Lazarus —
I’ve been resurrected!
And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. - John 11:43
No Longer Unforgiven
When I was a young child,
forgiveness was a faraway friend.
When I was hurt,
it felt natural to be curt.
Getting up in age,
I no longer wished to feel rage.
Though I continued to walk in disobedience,
Jesus was filling me with His radiance.
One day I decided to say, “Yes”;
I wanted all the hurt to be erased.
So I painfully agreed to take His hand;
He walked me into the promise land.
He changed my heart!
We’re no longer apart.
Gone are the roots of that stubborn tree
because this life….it’s not about me.
Make a choice to let Him,
then you’ll be...No longer Unforgiven!
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: - Matthew 6:14
Trapped or Free?
Do you feel trapped or do you feel free?
Are life choices difficult or do they come with ease?
Did you grow up with peace in your background?
Or learn hostility from people all around?
When you’ve been wronged, do you feel bitter?
Or do you allow circumstances to make you better?
The enemy’s plan is for you to fall prey
With temptation disguised by a beautiful array.
Do you play the role of divinity?
For every wrongdoer you call your enemy?
The choice to hate or the choice to love;
The best choice is sent from heaven above.
Do you take on offense and let it fester and grow?
Do you know that you can be wiser for letting it go?
Do you hold onto hurt and emotional injury?
Or do you choose to let every prisoner go free?
The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. - Proverbs 13:14
Love to Forgive
Your love washes over me,
Your love brings healing to me,
Love comes to wash my sins away,
Forgiveness is closer than it used to be.
Peace draws closer here,
Your love removes all fear.
You’ve come, oh Lord, to set me free;
Forgiveness, love, and peace overtake me.
The joy of the Lord rises up in me,
Truth and love surround me;
Your joy dispels my enemy,
Love, peace and joy wash over me.
Your love brings truth,
Joy deep in my soul;
Your love’s exposed the enemy,
Forgiveness with love and truth make me whole.
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. - John 8:32
I Will Win!
I won’t give up
I won’t give in
To turn my back,
and run to sin
The enemy’s trying,
but I won’t sin
Reminded of days gone by,
remembering places I’d once been
My eye’s on the prize —
I know I can win
There’s a plan, I’ve been redeemed —
greater is the One who lives within
God’s love and strength will carry me —
I will press on, I will win!
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 3:14
A Reason to Shout
Plucked out!
Turned about!
Should I pout?
I wanted to shout!
Lived in a house,
Quiet as a church mouse.
He acted like a louse;
The wrong man became my spouse.
Alone and afraid, I faked the praise;
Something in me needed to be raised—
Above my circumstances and the mess;
My ways yielded little success.
Can’t see a way out of the chaos—
Seems like forever I’d be homeless and moneyless.
So deep in debt, and full of despair;
No one, anywhere, even seems to care.
God’s Word says He loves me—
Unworthy is how I felt inside of “me”.
How could He ever love me?
I didn’t feel worthy of being loved and free.
So many churches from which to choose;
Choosing the right door, I knew I couldn’t lose.
Warmed the seats every chance I had;
Eventually, the enemy would get tired and mad.
But You’ve planted my feet upon the Rock.
For Your name’s sake, I know I’ll be mocked.
You’ve called me to dwell in the promise land,
To live in a house not built on sand.
Determined to be free from the enemy’s hold,
Now I no longer fit in the “mold”.
Your hand and Your heart You gave to me,
Now I know, You’ll never forsake me.
Redeemed and restored,
You’re forever my Lord.
You’ve turned my life inside out;
Now I have a reason to shout!
Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. - Psalm 25:15
Wait on the Lord
Wait on the Lord,
be of good cheer.
Spend time with Him,
you’ll find Him ever so near.
Serving others can be humbling,
delight yourself in life’s little treasures.
No good thing comes from grumbling,
obedience outweighs momentary pleasures.
Listening builds character,
His love lights every way.
He wants to be your life partner,
He’ll make every crooked thing straight.
Wait on the Lord;
serve Him with a smile and gladness.
Remembering no wrongs, He keeps a good record.
While loving and serving, He’ll remove all sadness.
Wait patiently for your answer,
you will never be rushed.
Love and peace will be your anchor,
under your feet, the enemy’s crushed.
So, wait on the Lord;
soon your answer will become clear.
He wants to hold your heart
so you’ll live by faith, not in fear.
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength... - Isaiah 40:31
Heaven’s Treasure
Coming to the Father like a little child,
It is just that simple, I must confide.
When He calls me His precious child,
I’m overwhelmed by love, and become teary-eyed.
Beautiful trees along the hills,
Dwelling here brings no worry of bills.
Walking on clouds, feeling light as a feather,
Sunny and bright, no sign of bad weather.
My time on earth was finished and done,
“But, Lord, there’s too much yet to be done.”
Without speaking, the Father listened to my heart.
Purpose was given for more living on earth.
Enveloped by God’s love and presence,
Priceless in or out of life, it’s Heaven’s treasure.
For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s. - Romans 14:8
Brand New Day
An old word in a new day,
No matter how old it comes forth in a new way.
His mercy is new renewed day by day;
Promises may be forgotten, past, future, yet always today.
Friendships can be taken for granted yet with love, improved every day.
Marriage vows may seem to fade, but I’m told, today’s a new day.
God’s word may be hiding deep in your heart tucked away.
Search for the old word— it’s His word—in a brand new day!
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. - 2 Corinthians 4:16
Pure Love
Sexual impurity
Is gone from me.
It has no more power,
It’s cut off for life.
It tries to harass me
But I know I am free!
Thank you, You’re greater,
Greater than he.
God sees me as pure,
Washed in Jesus’ blood;
Now I’m brand new,
Walking in pure love.
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. - 1 John 1:7
Mighty God!
God is mighty and He will save.
On the cross for us He gave
His only Son for you and me,
so we would live eternally.
He came to live, but had to die;
for our sin, He was crucified.
With every stripe upon His back,
yet in Him we have no lack.
He loves and adores you,
reading His word proves true.
He rejoices over you with song,
resting in your love, to Him you belong.
Let Him sing to you,
allow Him great joy.
Embrace the love He has for you,
life in Him is given for you to enjoy.
So embrace your journey,
spend quiet time talking to Him.
He loves every part of you—
He’s the Mighty God Who dwells within!
As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. - Psalm 55:16
Declaration of Freedom
I declare I can hear
I declare I can see.
I declare I can learn
I declare I can speak.
I declare I have clarity
For in You I have victory.
I declare I have no more disease
You died for my every infirmity.
I declare no more weakness
For in You I have meekness.
I declare I am healed
For Your blood makes me sealed.
I declare and believe
Your Word over me.
I declare, forever,
Forever I am FREE!
But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. - Romans 6:22
My Word is True
Affirming and confirming
Your word over me,
Your word says I’m loved
Your word says I’m free.
Your word says I’m healed
Sealed by the shed blood,
Your word says I’d be rejected
Yet protected as a castaway,
You found the strength to love
Even the worst of enemies.
“So remember things I have told you
I’ve not told you any lies.”
“As you take My yoke upon you
You’ll find my burden is light.”
“Cast all your cares upon Me
Because I truly care for you.”
“Your sins have been cast far away
Deep into the Sea of forgetfulness.”
“You will prosper and be in health,
I’ve made you to prosper, not fail.”
“One promise is Yes
The other, Amen.”
“Blessed are you if you believe
Just for you, My Word is true!”
And now, O Lord GOD, thou art that God, and thy words be true, and thou hast promised this goodness unto thy servant: - 2 Samuel 7:28
Come Away with Me
Lay down your burdens,
Open up your heart;
Lay down your burdens,
Let the healing start;
Lay down your burdens,
And be set free;
Lay down your burdens,
Come away with Me!
- Jesus
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. - Psalm 95:6
True Identity
Years of lies planted by the enemy
Identified me in what I believed.
Chains had me bound
I thought I’d never be free.
Long time ago when I was born
Hopeless and helpless is what I believed.
Truth of God’s word came to set me free;
Receiving His truth and love were hard for me.
His gentle ways of correcting me,
Finally, set my feet on the path to eternity.
His word’s changed my thinking in how I believe,
With His songs of love that He sings over me.
Accepting words of truthfulness caused me to believe
God’s love and truth could change my identity.
What God did for all of mankind
Has given me my true identity.
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. - 1 John 4:4
Healer Within
You’re the healer of my legs
You alone remove all aches.
Hurt and pain is often what I find
As I grow old, it’s usually from the spine.
My body needs some daily exercise
According to Your Word though, it must align.
You are the great physician
The One who heals without incision.
My body and mind belong to You
You give me wisdom, this is true.
Positive words become harder to find
I must strive to love and always be kind.
Even when I just talk to myself
I shouldn’t hide and act like an elf.
So when my body starts talkin’
I’ll tell it to line up, so we go walkin’.
Lord, You’re the healer inside of me
To live in health, and be pain free.
Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. - 3 John 2
Thank You
Thank you, Lord Jesus,
I thank You today.
I thank You for healing
And for coming my way.
Thank You for the gifts
You put in each of us.
Thank You for using
And blessing all of us.
Thank You for loving
And making us free.
Thank You for dying
And setting captives free.
But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, ...because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: - 2 Thessalonians 2:13
Celebrating Life
Eight, new beginnings,
With Him my life is worth living.
Eight years ago
A story once told:
Life, as I knew it was nearing the end;
Time for tormenting seemed to be without end.
Life had been spared,
All alone in despair.
Where do I go?
Who can I tell?
Who can I trust?
Who will believe that I did not bust?
Alone in the dark,
Afraid of the threat.
Jesus appeared to be distant,
I was prompted to cry in an instant.
Searching my heart through and through,
The meaning of life became new.
Now testifying to God’s love without strife,
Living and celebrating eight years of new life!
But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8
UP
You lift me up
to fill my cup.
Your way is up
to prevent lockup.
My eyes look high
up toward the sky.
All I need is to whisper,
and You show up.
You wrap me in Your arms of love,
promises from heaven above.
Your Holy Spirit stirs me up,
says be still, so I don’t blow up.
“Mind your manners, behave yourself,
don’t fall prey to any gossip.”
“In everyday trials, I’ll lift you up,
preventing harm and likely wallop.”
“You’ll always find Me filling your cup
from every sundown to every sunup.”
“I’ll meet your needs, so now stand up,
push your way through, push up!”
The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. - 1 Samuel 2:6
Father’s Touch
Touch the hearts of Your people,
renew them once again.
Let their hearts not be feeble,
but restore and strengthen them.
Touch the hearts of Your people, Lord,
bring Your fire to purify.
Make the hearts rejoice only in You,
then the sons shall multiply.
Touch the hearts of Your people,
remove their hurt and pain.
Replace the stony hearts in people,
with a heart of flesh, to gain.
Touch the hearts of Your chosen
to bring Your heart to the nations.
For those who cannot be frozen,
You fill and refill, with Your holy radiation.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. - 2 Timothy 2:22
Honoring You!
Lord, I want to honor You.
Teach me to give honor in all I say and do.
Help me to stand firm in my conviction,
So when I stand before You, there is no friction.
When I stand firm, I can say
God honors me, and expects others to obey.
Oh, Father in Heaven, help me to stand
As I choose to grab hold and take Your hand.
I will stand my ground;
I will not frown.
When others don’t understand,
I’ve chosen You to be my man.
If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. - John 12:26
Tree of Life
A tree of life
is a righteous soul.
No matter your size,
God has made you whole.
Be a tree full of leaves,
vibrant in color.
Your trunk size may be different—
it really doesn’t matter.
Be a tree full of life,
willing to share wherever you stand.
Stand righteous, bearing good fruit,
willing to give a hand.
A tree of life,
on living water it thrives.
With sunshine and shade
it will always survive.
Righteous trees,
eternal and full of life.
Trees of life we are,
made righteous, and without strife.
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. - Psalm 1:3
Just Dreamin’
It’s a beautiful sunny day,
Me and Jesus are walkin’ in a field.
He chooses beautiful flowers
to make me a bouquet.
Such love, such joy, He has
just spending time with me.
Skipping and laughin’,
we begin to run, and fall down.
No hurts, no sense of failure,
for He is there to lift me up.
Me and Jesus, just dreamin’.
Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. - Psalm 123:1
Be
I’ve not called you to do,
But I’ve called you into being.
When you are being you’re not doing,
And when you’re being, I can be…Me.
When you’re doing, they don’t see Me;
When you’re being I can rest.
When you’re being, you’ll worship Me;
And when you’re being, people will be blessed.
I’ve not called you into doing
For doing only makes you weary.
I’ve called you into being,
So when I speak or work through you
It can be Me, and I get the glory.
Being gives you My identity,
It makes you equal with Me.
Your doing makes you work;
Your being represents Me.
So make a decision today,
To BE and not DO,
For in your being…
People will see Me!
Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: - Romans 3:24
Where is God?
He is high in the clouds,
Can you see Him?
He is here, He is there,
He is everywhere.
Aren’t you glad?
Don’t be sad.
Shout for joy!
The Lord thy God is everywhere.
Where is God?
He is high and lifted up.
Inside you, too;
God is everywhere.
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. - 1 John 4:4
How Will I Know the Right Person?
The right person
Will smile
Will be kind
Will be gentle
Will be loving.
The right person
Will not judge
Will not criticize
Will not steal
Will not be lazy.
The right person
Will know Jesus
Will love God’s way
Will respect others
Will always obey.
All these characteristics
that describe the right person;
In reflecting on the right person,
these words must describe me!
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: - Galatians 5:22-23
Come
My hearing’s improved;
I heard the Lord say,
“Come take My hand,
you’ll not go astray.”
“Come sit here with Me,
and rest at the well;
refreshing and refilling
I make all things brand new.”
“Come talk to Me,
come walk with Me,
come take My hand,
I’ll show you the way.”
Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD. - Zechariah 2:10
Heaven or Hell?
Heaven or Hell —
Which one do you choose?
The one you surrender to
knows the other will lose.
Heaven or Hell —
It’s not a game or a chance, but a choice.
Games in life can be serious and cause harm,
the choice is easy—no multiple choice.
Heaven or Hell —
Do you think it’s a place?
It’s a choice you make this day,
your life’s mistakes supernaturally erased!
Heaven or Hell —
A place in the mind,
It’s all how you think and how you perceive
that determines what your life will be.
Heaven or Hell — Which will you choose?
Life or death; love or hate,
health or sickness; freedom or bondage,
peace or turmoil; blessing or curse?
Heaven or Hell —
What will it be for friends and family?
What
will it be for the wrong-doers
that you call your enemy?
Whatever
you choose will be the choice
you make — for you, for your
destiny!
Inspiration from a Mark Rutland Message
...that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: - Deuteronomy 30:19
God’s Contract
What does it say?
Will He want to do business with me?
Will He meet me half way?
Will He compromise the quality to
what He has in store?
Will He devalue my product
and pay less rather than more?
The answer, my friend, is in you.
The answer, for Him, is His word of truth.
He will not overcharge,
He will not trade you in;
His promise to pay for your life
is forever, it will not end.
Your value is a price set up high;
His word He will honor regardless of price.
How about you? Will you honor your word?
Will you give Him what He’s already paid for?
He paid for your weakness,
He paid for your sin;
Doubtful He’ll turn His back on you,
the Bible says He lives within.
Will you share all your hurts
and give Him your heart?
He’ll help you always,
He’ll never depart.
With His blood,
the contract’s been signed;
Consider His love for you,
will you sign on the dotted line?
All He asks is that you love
and obey His command;
to love one another,
forgive and be free in this land.
God’s contract was signed,
sealed and delivered.
It will not lose value;
it will never expire.
The terms have been set;
the blood has been shed.
The price for you has been paid,
so give Him your best!
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. - Matthew 22:37
Take My Heart
Take my hand
so I will walk with Thee;
hand in hand,
You and I will be.
I long to be
heart to heart;
nothing will ever
pull us apart.
You are the breath
that makes me sing.
You are the wind
beneath my wings.
Take my hand
and walk with me
to a place I’ll be
forever with Thee.
And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. - John 16:22
Always, I Am
Will you dance with Me?
I am always before thee—
Standing in position ready,
For My beloved to dance with Me.
Will you dance with Me?
Will you take My hand?
Will you allow Me to cover you?
I will help you to stand!
How I do love thee!
I’m always before and around thee.
My hands upholding and embracing,
I
remain, ready and waiting!
- Jesus
His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me. - Song of Solomon 2:6
Call to the Queen
I’ve crowned you My queen;
Why do you not see what others do to you
When I hear your heart scream?
You are My daughter,
You are My queen;
Please keep yourself only for Me.
Guard your heart,
Protect your surroundings,
For your heart calls to the King.
I love you and I adore you;
You are forever in Me—
And I call you My Queen!
- Jesus
And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head... - Esther 2:17
Change the World
Open your heart,
let Me meet your needs.
Give me all your pain and hurt,
I’ll plant the fruitful seeds.
You can change the world
in your everyday living.
I use any sorrow and everyday trials;
triumphant you’ll be from all your suffering.
Listen to My voice, hear My heart.
Love one another, it’s what I taught.
You are unique, and in My plan you have a part.
I’ve paid the price, you’ve been bought.
The plan of salvation is for all My children.
You are My child, in whom I take great pleasure.
When you surrender your will to Me,
your life anew becomes precious treasure.
You alone cannot change the world,
but acknowledge Me with your heart and sorrow.
I will use your life from today
to impact and change the world, tomorrow!
Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer... that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. - Revelation 2:10
Heart Comfort
Words cannot express
You are so blessed!
You now must know
God is with you even when you’re low.
He’s always had a plan,
Now He’ll bring you to the promise land.
Reach out to others and you will see
God knows and provides for your every need.
Put Him first, talk to Him,
He wants you to give Him your thick and thin.
In your weakness He is strong,
He’s closer now than you thought for so long.
Day after day
The sorrows will fade.
Your loved one is gone, but not far,
The Father in Heaven makes them close in heart.
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. - Matthew 5:4
Never Lost
My child, how I love thee.
My child, I hold you so dear.
My child you are so precious,
and you are so near.
Do you know how special you are?
Do you know how much I care?
Do you know that where you are
is better for you there?
How beautifully God has made you!
How wonderful it must be,
that you are in His presence,
and I must wait to see.
- Love, Mom
For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. - Luke 19:10
I’ll Always Remember…
I'll always remember,
How beautiful God made you.
I'll always remember,
Every birthday, every holiday,
you never forgot to send a card;
And every trip you were on,
you sent a favorite postcard.
I'll always remember,
How you loved cats and how they
brought you so much joy.
I'll always remember,
You loved and gave so freely
to everyone you met.
I'll always remember,
How you loved to labor and give at
Christmas time.
I'll always remember, when you lived in Florida—
how you unselfishly labored to
pick and juice oranges and grapefruit—
and then gave the fruit of your labor away.
I'll always remember,
The walks we took together
and the strolls along the beaches.
I'll always remember,
The day you told me,
"You know, I would die for you.”
I'll always remember,
You were just like Jesus!
- In loving memory of a sister
A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth. - Ecclesiastes 7:1
Seed of Love
You’ve stirred in me
A gift you see,
A gift of giving
I’m sure to receive.
The gift is Jesus
The name above all names;
His name is Jesus
The greatest gift from God.
You’ve stirred in me,
You’ve planted a seed,
A seed of love—
One that can’t be unseen.
The gift is Jesus,
The name above all names;
His name is Jesus
The greatest gift of all.
You’ve stirred in me, a gift you see,
You’ve planted a seed, and now I believe
Love from God will grow and grow,
Inspired by your seed of love.
And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart... to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul... - Deuteronomy 30:6
The Voice of Love
The voice of love
calls me
The voice of love
speaks to me
The voice of love
instructs me.
The voice of love
draws me near
The voice of love
is so dear
The voice of love
makes my way clear.
The voice of Father’s love
flows from beginning to end
The voice of love
in His presence will not end.
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: - John 10:27
You’re Alive!
You’re alive
I’m now aware
Of all my sin
On the cross you bare.
You’re alive
And now I know
When others hurt
It’s not time to be curt.
You’re alive
Tears of compassion
Once could not flow
Lessons I very well know.
You’re alive
The blood was shed
You paid the price
Now I have my daily bread.
You’re alive
Now I can tell
When truth is told
When lies take hold.
You’re alive
My soul must sing
No more sorrow
No more sting!
You’re alive
Now an empty grave
I live my life freely
Humbly receiving what You gave!
You’re alive
The world must know
You did it for me
You did it for one and all!
...Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame... - Hebrews 12:2
Gift of Love
Our Redeemer lives,
His gift of love always gives.
God gave His one and only Son
that every battle would be won.
To us, He gave the gift of peace,
strife and enmity would have to cease.
He put in us His Holy Spirit
that our hearts would be uplifted.
Our Redeemer conquered every sickness,
He makes good of all our messes.
Financial woes may come and go,
our Redeemer forever knows.
He made a way and paved the path,
He loves us through our choices past.
Redeemed, saved and set apart,
now we know, He lives in our heart.
Our Redeemer lives always,
His gift of love is ours today!
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; - Psalm 107:2
Be it Unto Me
I am called Your righteousness,
I am loved and free.
I am crowned with precious jewels
by God who lives in me.
Because I’m filled with Father’s love
I can walk in faith and live in peace.
My heart radiates with light from above,
strife, hatred, and vengeance will have to cease.
When I take Your hand, Lord,
You will always lead me.
When I take Your hand, Lord,
You will forever guide me.
According to Your word
I’m filled with love and glee.
When I take Your hand, Lord,
Your love envelops me.
Your word
Your love
Your truth
Be it Unto me!
...Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. - Luke 1:38
The Circle of Your Love
When no one’s around and there’s no one to call,
Your love strengthens me, and helps me stand tall.
Facing fear and unknowing I will stand,
Feeling the reach of an outstretched hand.
In a crowd or by myself
I don’t need to prove myself.
On an island far, far away,
Until I’m rescued, I won’t be swayed.
Walking on my own or with godly friends,
I’m never alone; You’re with me through the end.
In what feels like the enemy’s camp,
You’re my Savior, You’ve got my back.
Laughing with friends and having fun,
There’s so much joy in life with the Son.
Praying through some current distress
Or waiting for deliverance from an undeserved mess.
In proxy for loved ones suffering great pain,
Living for Christ is a life filled with gain.
Dwelling in the most holy place,
My sins are forgiven, I live under grace.
Contemplating the choice of life or death,
Yet in God’s presence I still have breath.
In the lowest valley looking at a mountain so high,
I know Your love leads me much higher than I.
Wherever I stand, with light and with love—
I’m standing—in the circle of Your love.
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. - James 1:12
No Greater Love
I choose to love You
I choose to obey.
I choose to serve You
and to walk in Your way.
To be happy in this place
where I find mercy and grace.
Longing to be in this place,
dwelling in Your loving embrace.
I choose to love You
because I’m worthy to be loved.
I know there’s none like You
for there’s no greater love.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. - John 15:13
Extravagant Love
His gentle touch
transforms much.
As much I give
His life to live.
Through His love
sent from above,
I could not love
without His Son.
The Son He gave
The price He paid!
He watched Him die,
what if the child were mine?
God’s love for me
transforms and makes me free.
I’m free to live and free to love—
to be a vessel of Extravagant love!
...Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. - Jeremiah 31:3
Live in Love
The depth of wisdom from God above,
how could it be without His love?
Love He has for me and you,
tested and tried, forever true.
No matter the choice,
you can hear His voice.
He’s calling His people, this is true;
He’ll make all things once old, brand new.
Will you trade in your old wineskin?
He promises to remove all your sin.
Will you heed His voice of love?
Will you walk with wisdom from above?
He will give you His very best;
He has the answers to pass every test.
Walk with wisdom, live in love;
His banner over you — He made it Love!
To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. - John 10:3
Daddy’s Girl
Because He first loved me
I can smile whatever life may bring.
I am free to dance as He leads me.
He loves when I use my voice to sing.
Because He first loved me
I can lend a helping hand.
You and I can pray together
He made us friends in this land.
Because He first loved me
I can walk and not crawl.
He teaches me to write and speak;
Because of His love, I can stand tall.
Because He first loved me
I know His love is real.
He made me to be me,
That’s why I know, I’m Daddy’s girl!
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. - Psalm 95:6
My Son
I’ve called you Son,
don’t be a child.
A Son can feast,
but the child whines.
A Son can relax;
a child can’t sit still.
A Son will hear instruction,
a child enjoys a daily thrill.
Be a child no more,
let the Son stand up.
Sit that child down,
let My Son come forth.
And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. - Galatians 4:6
No Other Way
Your ways lead me to You,
always refreshing and new;
Your way is righteous,
and it brings me to You.
I choose to obey, Lord,
to walk in Your way,
I choose to speak words
of kindness and pray.
Jesus, You are my life
and You are my love;
You are my everything
sent from Heaven above.
There’s no one like You,
You’ve made me brand new.
You’ve done everything,
so I choose to trust You.
There’s nothing undone,
and nothing to repay;
You’ve done everything,
so I choose to obey.
...Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you. - Jeremiah 7:23
Message in the Storm
The storm is raging.
Can you hear what it says?
Is God calling you to sit and be still?
Is He calling you to trust in Him?
He is a jealous God,
Do you know He is your source of life?
He is your breath and strength,
Without Him you would not exist.
God says, don’t fear—
For perfect love casteth out fear.
His love covers a multitude of sin,
For His love and peace dwell within.
His call is for you—
Will you take heed, listen and obey?
He’s calling and waiting for you
To respond to His call and not be afraid.
His love lights the way through the storm;
His love toward you is Father’s best.
His love will not cast you aside;
Everything—love, peace and joy—within you, resides.
- Written During Hurricane Charley
- August 13, 2004
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? - Romans 6:16
The Best Years
Meaningful life begins past half a century;
We become less serious about things from the past.
Life after fifty is when we learn to be thrifty.
Many a business begins with retirement.
In our youth, we wished life would hurry up;
It moved too slowly everywhere we went.
Through trial and error, sometimes made a mess,
We strived to be kind in our daily lives;
Putting forth effort, always doing our best.
We spend quality time with family and friends.
Seeking purpose in God’s plan for our lives.
Meaningless relationships come to an end.
Now we look forward to the best years,
With the right attitude and years of practice,
Expecting our best years to be the most blessed years.
Life with meaning begins when He imparts.
When God gives instructions for our lives,
He knows the plan, He’s waiting for us to start!
Ye shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you... - Deuteronomy 5:33
Any Time, Any Place
Where are you, Lord?
Why can’t I see your face?
Where are you, Lord?
God is Spirit, found in every place.
Where are you, Lord?
No distance found in time and space.
Where are you, Lord?
I sit quietly, ready to hear Your voice.
In Your special way
Draw me to… our secret place.
I’m so glad to know in my heart
You’re everywhere… any time, any place!
Whenever I feel discouraged or frustrated,
Your Word lets me know I’m not defeated.
When the words of others wound my soul
I press on — toward the finished goal.
Happiness is a choice I make;
With friends I’ll take a coffee break.
During moments of feeling somber
I reflect; my mind begins to wander.
In whatever state I can be found
I know You’re there… any time, any place.
Because I choose to live for You
You’re here with me… any time, any place!
Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee. - Proverbs 7:15
Beautiful Day
It is a beautiful day
and the Lord wants to say,
Come take My hand
Walk with Me this day.
I will lead you and guide you,
So come follow Me.
I will lead you and guide you,
I will teach you all things.
For today is the day
I will rest in your love,
Today is the day
I call you My Love.
I love you, my child,
You make My heart smile,
Forever I will love you,
I will be by your side.
I will never forsake you
Always I am with you,
I will continually pursue you,
Forever I will be with you.
Love, Jesus
The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing. - Zephaniah 3:17
Rest
In Your presence, Lord,
here I find rest.
Nothing to ruffle a feather,
not even the weather.
Clouds may come to bring rain;
nothing can stop me from giving You praise.
Sunshine will always permeate life’s haze,
even when I feel a little bit crazed.
Here I am, Lord,
desiring Your rest.
Come here to me, Lord,
I will give You my best.
You have come to make new,
refill, and refresh.
Come to me now, Lord,
bring me Your rest.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. - Matthew 11:28
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