Songs Of Faith

HELLO.......

2009-11-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

...anyone home?? It seems unusually quiet in Blogville these days! Counting down to giveaway.....19 days to go, and the odds are looking pretty good!

First Ever Giveaway

2009-10-21T08:25:00.001-07:00

I guess the best way to promote a blog is to have a give away, and since this blog has been up and running for over a year, it's about time I had one! So here it is!

To enter, just make a post about the giveaway on your blog, and link to this post. For a second entry, add the Songs Of Faith Button and link to your side bar. Leave a comment here to let me know.

Since I have a few things to give away, I've decided to let the winner choose their gift from one the following:

1. I've Been To The Mountain - songbook

2. Where The River Leads - cd

3. Sail On - cd

The winner will also receive a bonus gift of Sheet music for 10 songs that aren't in the songbook (pdf)

2nd place will also receive the 10 songs

I'll make the draw and announce the winners in one month, November 21st.

Thanks for taking part! ~~~Deb

Charity Collection

2009-10-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

Although I haven't managed to get any recording done, I have already begun putting together another collection of songs. All of these songs touch on the theme of Charity- forgiveness, being of one accord, and reaching out to others in our service for the Lord. Again, the song list is subject to change, if or when I get closer to recording, but these are the songs the Lord has put on my heart the past few months. Some were written several years ago, some are more recent. I'll be posting the lyrics as I have time.

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Charity

1. Charity

2. Forgiveness (previously recorded)

3. Make Things Right

4.Words Fitly Spoken

5. Forgiveness Flows Gently

6. Seventy Times Seven

7. Sitting In The Window

8. Fan The flame

9. What A Work The Lord Can Do

10. Where Will You Leave Your Glory?

11. Let Jesus

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~Deb

Let Jesus

2009-10-12T07:10:00.000-07:00

Let Jesus be your Lord, is my constant prayer for you,
and may you always seek God’s wisdom,

knowing his word is true.

Let Jesus be your refuge from the struggles of this world.
Let Jesus be your strength, for the arm of flesh will fail.
Let Jesus be your Shepherd to guide you with his light.
Let Jesus be your rock and salvation, for in him alone is life.

Trust Jesus in your trials, for he will bring you through,
and may you give God all the glory in everything you do.

Let Jesus be Lord.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Proverbs 3:5,6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
2 Corinthians 10:17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Psalm 62: 6,7 He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

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This is my prayer for all of my children. Unfortunately, I haven’t always put this prayer into practice in my own life. I’ve often failed to seek God’s wisdom, even though I know his word is true. I haven’t always trusted him during the trials of my life, choosing instead to find my own way through. I’ve looked to others to be my refuge, rather than hiding my life in Christ. I’ve too often depended on my own strength, in spite of past failures. I’ve stumbled through dark days, while my Shepherd was waiting to guide me. I’ve tried to build on sinking sand instead of standing on the solid rock. There have been too many times that I’ve allowed the dead man inside me to take control, when it’s only in Jesus that I have life. I’m ashamed that I haven’t been a better example, and I pray that as my walk with the Lord grows closer, my children will see that Jesus truly is Lord of my life, and will want that for themselves.

Where Will You Leave Your Glory?

2009-10-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

Where will you leave your glory

when you leave this world behind?
Where have you given your heart and soul?
Where have you spent your time?

Will it be in the souls you led to Christ;

in the children you have raised?
Will it be in a work you’ve done for the Lord;

in the difference your life made?
Or will your glory stand as a monument

that towers above your grave;
made by a man with marble and stone,

on a base of wood and hay?

Where will you leave your glory,

when you leave this world behind?
Where have you given your heart and soul?
Where have you spent your time?

Will it be in the houses and land you own;

in the money you have saved?
Will it be in the work you’ve done for the world;

in the name that you have made?
Or will your glory stand as a heritage,

extending beyond your grave,
made by a man in service to God,

on his faith in Jesus Christ?

Where will you leave your glory,

when you leave this world behind?
Where have you given your heart and soul?
Where have you spent your time?

What have you done for the Lord?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Isaiah 10:3 d ...and where will ye leave your glory?
1 Corinthians 3:12,13 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
Matthew 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
2 Corinthians 10:17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

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When people tour my parents’ garden, my dad often will dig up a bit of a perennial for them to take home to plant. Although they could probably make a substantial amount of money selling their plants, my dad prefers to give them away. One day he jokingly said, “I’d rather have the glory.” I knew what he meant...the reward that comes from freely sharing our bounty and our gifts far outweighs any monetary reward the world might give. Of course the ultimate gift that we can share is our faith in the Lord, and it’s often those little kindnesses toward others that open the door to share that gift.
Shortly after my conversation with Dad, I heard a message called, “Where Will You Leave Your Glory?” I smiled, knowing I would soon be writing this song. Money and possessions are only temporary, and a monument in a cemetery will one day crumble, but we can lay up treasure in heaven by the way we live each day.
　
　

What a Work the Lord Can Do!

2009-10-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

We’re siblings in a family, and at times we disagree,
but we’re here to serve our Saviour; there’s no time for rivalry.
God has placed us in this family, each with talents for his use.
If we all support each other, what a work the Lord can do!

What a work the Lord can do,

when we speak with love and grace;
When we lift each other up, and don’t need to be first place.
What a work the Lord can do, when we’re all in one accord;
When our eyes are fixed on Jesus, and we’re guided by his word.
　
We’re runners in this life’s race, and we’re looking for the prize,
but we’ve lost sight of our Saviour, if we’ll push someone aside.
God has placed us on our own track,

and he’s mapped out each one’s route.
If we’ll all just run our own race, what a work the Lord can do!

What a work the Lord can do,

when we speak with love and grace;
When we lift each other up, and don’t need to be first place.
What a work the Lord can do, when we’re all in one accord;
When our eyes are fixed on Jesus, and we’re guided by his word.
　
We’re soldiers in God’s army, contending for the faith.
We’ve been called to serve our Saviour;

stand for mercy, truth and grace.
God has placed us in this company;
we must help each other through.
If we’ll march as one together, what a work the Lord can do!

What a work the Lord can do,

What a work the Lord can do!

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Philippians 2:3,4 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Colossians 3:12,13 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
Luke 17:1 Then said he unto his disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come.

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God has created each of us with our own unique personality and he has given each of us specific talents. He doesn’t expect or want us all to be the same, or to serve him in exactly the same capacity. However, he does require that we serve him together, in our local church. Some are called to positions of leadership, while some of us are given ‘supporting roles.’ When we work in cooperation, not competition, what a work the Lord can do!

Fan the Flame

2009-10-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

A young boy listens enraptured to the stories he’s told.
Declares with excitement, the message of old.
With no fear of men, his preaching is bold.
His heart is untarnished by the ways of this world.

~~~~~

Fan the flame! Never let it grow cold.
Fan the flame! Stir those embers ‘till they glow.
Fan the flame! Keep it burning for the Lord.
Fan the flame! Set a blaze across the world!

~~~~~

A young girl hastens to help out; doesn’t wait to be told.
Sings out with such passion, her praise to the Lord.
With love, and through tears, she tells of God’s word.
Her heart is so burdened with the needs of this world.

~~~~~
Fan the flame! Never let it grow cold.
Fan the flame! Stir those embers ‘till they glow.
Fan the flame! Keep it burning for the Lord.
Fan the flame! Set a blaze across the world!
~~~~~
They are so tender and open for God’s hand to mold.
So eager to serve him, whatever the roll.
Oh, kindle the fire in each youthful soul,
and pray they stay yielded to the Spirit’s control.

~~~~~
Fan the flame! Never let it grow cold.
Fan the flame! Stir those embers ‘till they glow.
Fan the flame! Keep it burning for the Lord.
Fan the flame! Set a blaze across the world!

Keep it burning for the Lord!

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Hebrews 3:13a But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day;
Acts 14:22a Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith,

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Our son, Justin, has always shown an interest in the things of God, but to see him, at the age of eight, prepare to preach a message for his Sunday School class was amazing! I couldn’t have been happier. Around the same time, a young lady in our church was preparing for service on the mission field. As I watched her around our church, she was always busy; helping out wherever she could, and taking time to play with all the little children. It’s a wonderful thing to see a child or teenager who is on fire for the Lord, and not something to be taken for granted. Praise God when a young man wants to get up before the congregation and preach the word! Get excited when a young person declares that God has called them into full time service as a missionary or preacher! Even the desire of a small child to sing and recite memory verses for the Lord should thrill the hearts of parents. It’s so important to kindle that fire; that passion for the Lord! Our kids and young people need all the encouragement they can get.

Sitting In the Window

2009-10-08T06:49:00.000-07:00

He’s sitting in the window, checking out the view;
wondering which way he should go, questioning what is true.
He’s sitting with one foot in, leaning further out.
Feeling the tug of some sin, he’s giving in to his doubts.

~~~~~~

Someone’s sitting in the window, choosing for eternity.
A view of the Saviour is their heart’s greatest need.
To see his grace and love shine through you and me,
May pull them through that window to faith that sets them free.

~~~~~~
She’s sitting in the window, seeing things so new;
Feeling so very alone, desiring what is true.
She’s peaking in from the world, edging further in.
Feeling the tug of the Lord, she’s longing for peace within.

~~~~~~
Someone’s sitting in the window, choosing for eternity.
A view of the Saviour is their heart’s greatest need.
To see his grace and love shine through you and me,
May pull them through that window to faith that sets them free.

~~~~~~

Help pull them through that window to faith that sets them free.

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Acts 20:9a And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus,

So many kids who grow up in church go through a period of questioning and doubting. Some of them feel like they are missing out, and are drawn to the world. They’re in church, but they’re on the verge of walking away. Saved or lost, these kids are about to make a decision that will have lasting consequences. On the other hand, there are kids who have not been raised in church, and know very little, if anything about God or Christ. Some have experienced pain and rejection, even abuse, or perhaps they just have the feeling that something is missing in their life. Sometimes those kids have an opportunity to visit church, or to spend time with a Christian family. Whether they are looking out, or peaking in from the world, these kids all have the same need; Jesus Christ! They need to see that the love of Christ is real. Seeing the Lord at work in our lives may be what makes the difference in which way they choose to go.

Seventy Times Seven

2009-10-07T07:24:00.000-07:00

There's a brother who has stumbled

on jagged rocks along the way.

He's angry and he's hurt;

lashing out just brings more pain.

As he struggles for a foothold

through this dark and lonely place,

what he needs is for God's people

to reach out in love and grace.

Seventy times seven is how oft we're to forgive.

Are we weary in well doing?

Did we forget what Jesus said?

Can't we bear another's burdens,

and restore the fallen down?

Can't we take the stones we're holding

and cast them to the ground?

There's a sister who is weeping

and wondering how things went so wrong.

She's lost her hopes and dreams,

and she's trying to be strong.

But the world just keeps on spinning,

though her life has been laid waste.

What she needs is for God's people

to reach out in love and grace.

Seventy times seven is how oft we're to forgive.

Are we weary in well doing?

Did we forget what Jesus said?

Can't we bear another's burdens,

and restore the fallen down?

Can't we take the stones we're holding

and cast them to the ground?

There are soldiers who are wounded;

some for right and some for wrong.

They've tried to fight the fight,

but the enemy's so strong.

They feel beaten and deserted;

years of service wiped away.

What they need is for God's people

to reach out in love and grace.

Seventy times seven is how oft we're to forgive.

Are we weary in well doing?

Did we forget what Jesus said?

Can't we bear another's burdens

and restore the fallen down?

Can't we take the stones we're holding

and cast them to the ground?

Seventy times seven, Lord Jesus, teach us how

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Matthew 18:21, 22 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

Forgiveness Flows Gently

2009-10-06T07:15:00.000-07:00

Like a stone thrown in a river,

the wounds of a friend or a foe
should cause but a little ripple,

then be lost in the water’s flow.

Forgiveness flows gently from Jesus

on the billows of his living stream,
When I rest in the strength of his meekness,

forgiveness flows gently through me.

Like my footprints by the ocean,

all trace of the teardrops I’ve cried
will last but a passing moment,

washed away by the ebbing tide.

Forgiveness flows gently from Jesus

on the billows of his living stream,
When I rest in the strength of his meekness,

forgiveness flows gently through me.

(bridge) From the depth of Jesus love

flows a wellspring in my heart,
giving power to overcome,

and strength to rise above.

Forgiveness flows gently from Jesus

on the billows of his living stream,
When I rest in the strength of his meekness,

forgiveness flows gently through me.

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1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Psalm 25:9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
1 Peter 3:4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God great price.

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I think when people hear the word meek, they sometimes mistake it for the word weak. In reality the two words couldn’t be more different. When I think of meekness, I think of a person with great patience, who is able to endure difficult circumstances without reacting adversely; someone who has compassion and empathy, and the ability to stay calm and even tempered, no matter what comes. That is not to say they don’t feel emotions such as hurt and rejection, but that they have a strength that makes them able to forgive and to let those feelings go without holding onto a bitter spirit.
How I long to be a person of meekness! I know that in Christ, that depth of character is possible. If only I could learn to rest in him, and draw on his strength in every situation, he would give me the power to walk through any ordeal with grace.

Words Fitly Spoken

2009-10-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

When you see someone hurting, do you say,

“Friend, come let’s pray,”
and do you share their burden, and brighten up their day?
Do you give some comfort, as God’s word you share,
or do you ease their heartache, by showing that you care?

When you heed the Spirit’s prodding

to share God’s love and grace,
you’ll never have regrets for the choices you have made.
And you may never know what a few words fitly spoken,
may do to lift the load of one who’s heart is broken.

When a loved one who’s estranged keeps weighing on your heart,
don’t let the moment pass; just call or send that card.
You’ll quickly mend some fences

when you heed that still small voice,
for there’s no wound or chasm too deep for God’s great grace.

When you heed the Spirit’s prodding

When a long forgotten friend suddenly comes to your mind,
don’t push that thought aside; don’t say I’ll waste my time.
A friendly hand extended may just help someone in need,
so kindle an old friendship, and allow the Lord to lead.

When you heed the Spirit’s prodding

You can make a difference with a few words fitly spoken.

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Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
Philippians 2:1,2 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

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I have to confess that this is an area where I need to do better. I’m never quite sure what to say when someone has lost a loved one, or they’re coping with a serious illness. My heart goes out to them, and I pray for them, but those ‘words fitly spoken’ don’t always come out when I want them too. I know there have been times in my own life when it would have helped to just have someone come and offer to pray. Just knowing that someone cares enough to lift us up in prayer makes our burdens that much easier to bear.
There have also been times when someone has come to my mind, and I’ve planned to send a note or a card, but never did. I’ll never know what the Lord had planned, because I didn’t heed his prodding.

Make Things Right

2009-10-04T07:02:00.000-07:00

So many times I stumble over hurt and wounded pride.

So many times I fail to look to Jesus as my guide.

I take my eyes off him, and dwell on each small slight,

forgetting that forgiveness is the way to make things right.

Lord, help me let go the hurt, and put bitterness aside.

Renew a right spirit within me; let Joy and peace abide.

Give me a tender heart, and teach me to forgive.

Lord, help me make things right, each and every day I live.

So many times I'm humbled by such mercy shown to me.

So many times I fail to see the way your eyes would see.

I'll set my eyes on you, and dwell within your light.

Forgiving and forgetting are the way to make things right.

Lord, help me let go the hurt, and put bitterness aside.

Renew a right spirit within me; let joy and peace abide.

Give me a tender heart, and teach me to forgive.

Lord, help me make things right, each and every day I live.

Forgiveness

2009-10-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

Forgiveness, precious gift of God.

Forgiveness, promised in his word.

Jesus paid the price, became the sacrifice,

when he laid down his life for me on Calvary.
For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.

But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.

When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,

I found forgiveness and now have peace within.

Forgiveness, precious gift to me.

Forgiveness, God’s love pardoned me.

Jesus cleansed within, my heart so stained with sin,

when I reached out and took the gift he offered me.

For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.

But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.

When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,

I found forgiveness and now have peace within.

Forgiveness, precious gift to share.

Forgiveness, answer to my prayer.

Jesus gave to me, such joy, such victory,

when I learned to forgive as he forgiveth me.

For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.

But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.

When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,

I found forgiveness and now have peace within.

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Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.Luke 7:47a Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven;Psalm 86:5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

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Forgiveness was previously recorded on the cd Only God Is Able, but will also be included in the Charity collection.

Charity

2009-10-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

I may speak the word with power,

understanding all mysteries.

I may have faith to move a mountain;

sacrifice my everything.

But I am just as sounding brass

if I have not charity.

I am just a tinkling cymbal

if God's love can't flow through me.

For charity is kind and endures all things;

never seeks her own, but hopes and believes.

Charity rejoices in the truth, and never fails.

When all else has ceased to be, then abides charity.

May I live a life of meekness,

showing mercy in every deed,

and may my faith be moved to action,

reaching out to those in need.

And may I have abounding grace

toward every soul I meet.

I am nothing without Jesus,

and his gift of charity.

For charity is kind and endures all things;

never seeks her own, but hopes and believes.

Charity rejoices in the truth and never fails.

When all else has ceased to be, then abides charity.

I am nothing without charity.

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Based on 1 Corinthians 13

Worship Collection: My Reason To Sing

2009-06-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

My Reason To Sing
Nothing Can Compare
Abba Father
Unto My King
I Will Sing
Come And Rest
But God
He’s My All In All
I Will Call On You
She Loved Much
There’s More To Come
Until The Break Of Day

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These are the titles that I am hoping to record next. There are a couple that I'm not completely sure I want to include, so it may change as I go along. Usually I end up writing a new song during the recording process that goes with the theme, so that could also change the final version!

I've posted the lyrics below, and also links in the sidebar. I hope to record within the next six month, God willing.

Until The Break Of Day

2009-06-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

Jesus promised that he would come again,
and with a shout he’ll call out every saint.
But before that day arrives we must give our hearts and lives,
until the shadows of the night give way to light.

And when the morning dawns we’ll rise to meet the Son.
We’ll fly beyond the clouds where shadows never come.
Forevermore we’ll gaze on Jesus precious face.
But now we watch and pray as we wait for that day.
There’s work for us to do until the break of day.

Though the night watch may seem so very long,
and there are times it’s hard to carry on,
Jesus said that we must go that the lost may come to know,
that there is hope beyond the shadows here below.

What a wonderful day it will be when time comes to an end, and we will be forevermore with our Lord! But until that day comes Jesus calls us to serve him with our whole heart, and to use the talents he has given us to reach the lost, to encourage the brethren, and to bring glory to him.

1 Thessalonians 4:16,17 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
Luke 12:37a,38 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching:
And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

There's More To Come

2009-06-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

Jesus left his heavenly glory to take the form of man.
When his blood was shed at Calvary, he fulfilled the Father’s plan.
Then he rose up from the grave;

defeated death, and the victory won.
God prepared for me a Saviour,

and more blessings are to come.

Precious promises prepared by my Father;
wondrous blessings he sends from above.
Praise God, my cup is overflowing,
and I know there’s more to come.
Praise God, there’s more to come!

Though I’ve lived in many houses; had rooms to call my own,
Jesus promised me a mansion, when I reach my heavenly home.
In that city of pure gold, with walls of jasper, on precious stones,
God’s prepared for me a blessing,
and there’s more to come I know.

Precious promises prepared by my Father;
wondrous blessings he sends from above.
Praise God, my cup is overflowing,
and I know there’s more to come.
Praise God, there’s more to come!

God gives friends to share in laughter; sends sunshine after rain.
He gives strength to bear each burden,
and his word to guide my way.
He gives wisdom, joy, and peace,
unending mercy, such grace and love.
God prepares me daily blessings,
and I know there’s more to come.

Precious promises prepared by my Father;
wondrous blessings he sends from above.
Praise God, my cup is overflowing,

and I know there’s more to come.
Praise God, there’s more to come!

Philippians 2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
1 Corinthians 15:3b,4 how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures: and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
Revelation 21:11,19-21 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like jasper stone, clear as crystal; And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, and amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
Hebrews 11:10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

As a child, I always had a fascination with shiny stones, and I collected them whenever I had an opportunity. My favorites where called agates. I liked the way the light shone through them when I held them up to the sun. One of my older brothers even built me a special box to keep my rock collection in. I don’t know why we humans are so attracted to glittering stones and gems, but it’s obvious from the size of the jewelry industry that I’m not the only one who likes them.
When I began to seek God through his word, one of the first books I read was Revelation. I didn’t understand much of it, but when I came to Chapter 21, I began to read the description of the Holy City, Jerusalem. As I read about the light being like a jasper stone, clear as crystal, and how the foundations of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones, I couldn’t imagine anything more beautiful. I could picture the jasper light shining through the walls in some places, and reflecting off others, causing prisms to dance along that street of transparent gold. I thought about how most of us would be thrilled to hold just a handful of precious gems. I’m sure God knew how much importance we would place on these shiny bits of his creation. To think that he had used these gems as building blocks and paving stones made me realize just how small our dreams are in comparison to what God has prepared. I think I decided right then that I wanted to see that city for myself.

She Loved Much

2009-06-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

She washed Jesus feet with her tears,

and wiped them gently with her hair.
She poured precious ointment from an alabaster box,
anointing the Lord, before all those standing there.
Though Jesus said, “She hath wrought a good work on me,”
She knew she could never give enough,

for her sins, which were many, he’d forgiven.
She owed so much………….and she loved much

Though they were many, he forgave all my sins.
All my love can never be enough.

How I long to hear from my Saviour dear,
“She loved much; yes, she loved much.”

She sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word,

and left her sister serving there.
She shared precious moments in the presence of her Lord;
a place at his feet, so much more than she deserved.
Though Jesus said, “She hath chosen that good part,”
She knew she could never give enough,

For her sins, which were many, he’d forgiven.
She owed so much………...and she loved much.

Though they were many, he forgave all my sins.
All my love can never be enough.

How I long to hear from my Saviour dear,
“She loved much; yes, she loved much.”

Luke 7:37,38 And behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and annointed them with the ointment.
Mark 14:6 And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? She hath wrought a good work on me.
Luke 7:47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
Luke 10:38,39,40a,41,42 Now it came to pass, as they went, that they entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving,
And Jesus said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

I read these accounts and imagine how wonderful it must have been to be in the presence of Jesus; to sit at his feet, and to hear him speak. But then I realize that I have that same privilege. I may not be physically in the presence of the Lord, but I can still sit at his feet in worship, I can still hear him speak through his word, and I can show my love for him by serving him until the day I see him face to face. Oh to hear those words, “She loved much.”!

I Will Call On You

2009-06-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

In joy I will praise you; in peace I will worship you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.
In sadness I will cling to you; in turmoil I will rest in you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.
When things go awry in this world of sin,
I’ll look to you for wisdom and strength.
When all is well, and I have peace within,
I’ll look to you with love and devotion.
In truth I will seek you; in faith I will follow you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.
In doubting I will turn to you; distressed I will trust in you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.
When lives all around are filled with such pain,
I’ll look to you for compassion and grace.
When prayers are answered; loved ones born again,
I’ll look to you with thanksgiving and praise.
In love I will serve you; in hope I will wait for you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.
In gladness I will give to you; obeying I will live in you.
In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.

Philippians 4:11,13 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am , therewith to be content.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

I wrote the beginnings of this song when I had been saved about a year. It was the end of a bad day, and I had poured my heart out to the Lord, in the form of poetry; something I had never done before. I tucked that poem away, and forgot about it, until ten years later when I came across it. I added to the initial lyrics, but the theme remains the same. It’s the answer I found as a baby Christian when I was overwhelmed by the frustrations of this life: In all I will call on you, my Saviour, my Lord.

He's My All In All

2009-06-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Just like the woman at the well,

I couldn't see my real need,

'till one day I met the Master,

and he knew my every deed.

When he offered me a drink

from and everlasting flow,

oh, I drank His living waters,

and he quenched my thirsting soul.

Now He's my Saviour, He's my healer,

by His touch I've been made whole.

He's my Shepherd, He's my Master ,

and He's there each time I call.

He leads my by still waters;

He restoreth my soul.

His rod and staff are my comfort,

and He's my all in all.

Just like the woman in the crowd,

I'd sought help time and again,

'till I finally looked to Jesus,

knowing he could take my pain,

for I'd seen him heal the lame;

make a blind man to see.

When I touched the hem of his garmeny,

such sweet healing flowed through me.

Now He's my Saviour, He's my healer,
by His touch I've been made whole.
He's my Shepherd, He's my Master ,
and He's there each time I call.
He leads my by still waters;
He restoreth my soul.
His rod and staff are my comfort,
and He's my all in all.

Just like the woman who knelt down,

and with her tears washed Christ's feet,

I will never cease to thank him

for the grace He's shown to me.

Since I reached out for that hem,

Jesus garment covers me,

and that spring of living water

satisfies my every need.

*Will add song behind the story and scriptures later.*

But God

2009-06-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

There are times I feel like David,

and a giant's taunting me.

He keeps pointing out my weakness

and all my shattered dreams.

But God can take a little stone

if I'll offer it to Him;use it for his own glory,

for in His strength I win.

But God is the strength of my heart

He will bring me through every trial

I will praise Him and thank Him,

delight in Him and trust

I'll commit my way to Him

and He will bring it to pass.

I was trudging through a valley,

shedding tears along the way.

Through those days so dark and dreary

all life's colors seemed to fade.

But God can make a flower bloom

out of season and in the gloom,

just to say,"You are loved,

and someone is praying for you."

But God is the strength of my heart

He will bring me through every trial

I will praise Him and thank Him,

delight in Him and trust

I'll commit my way to Him

and He will bring it to pass.

As I think of days gone by

and the heartaches I have known

I can see now I was learning

I can't make it on my own.

But God brought healing and sweet peace

out of tragedy and grief,

and the memories that linger

are now so precious to me.

But God is the strength of my heart

He will bring me through every trial

I will praise Him and thank Him,

delight in Him and trust

I'll commit my way to Him

and He will bring it to pass.

*Will add scriptures and story behind the song later.*

Come and Rest

2009-06-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Come and rest a little while

by the water so serene.
The peace will bring a smile,
as you sit at Jesus feet.

They that wait upon the Lord,
shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
They shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint,
they that wait upon the Lord.

Leave your burdens and your worries
in the Saviour’s caring hands,
and walk beside still waters through
this dry and thirsty land.

They that wait upon the Lord,
shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
They shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint,
they that wait upon the Lord.

Bring your worship to the Lord.
Lift your voice and sing his praise.
You’ll find your burdens leaving,
when you glorify his name.

They that wait upon the Lord,
shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
They shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint,
they that wait upon the Lord.

Give your heart to serving Jesus,
and he’ll guide you through this life.
You’ll know peace and contentment,
with the Saviour by your side.

They that wait upon the Lord,
shall renew their strength.
They shall mount up with wings as eagles.
They shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint,
they that wait upon the Lord.

Psalm 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
Psalm 63:1-3 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.

I Will Sing

2009-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Jesus sought me and redeemed me with his precious blood.
Forever I will sing his praise.
I’ll rejoice, for Jesus loves me and abides in me.
I will sing of his mercy and grace.

Yes, I’ll sing of the mercy and grace of God;
of his comfort, his love, joy and peace.
I will sing of his glory, his victory, his power.
I will sing till he comes back for me.
When I’m walking through a valley, Jesus takes my hand,
and guides me to the pastures green.
Then he leads me by still waters, and restores my soul.
Of his comfort and love I will sing.

Yes, I’ll sing of the mercy and grace of God;
of his comfort, his love, joy and peace.
I will sing of his glory, his victory, his power.
I will sing till he comes back for me.

I commit my way to Jesus, and I trust in him,
for he will always meet my needs.
God’s peace keeps my heart and mind through Jesus Christ, my Lord.
I will sing of his joy and his peace.

Yes, I’ll sing of the mercy and grace of God;
of his comfort, his love, joy and peace.
I will sing of his glory, his victory, his power.
I will sing till he comes back for me.

The creator, precious Saviour, Jesus Christ, my Lord,
the Lamb of God, the King of kings.
I will tell his wondrous works, and glory in his name.
Of his victory and power I will sing.

Yes, I’ll sing of the mercy and grace of God;
of his comfort, his love, joy and peace.
I will sing of his glory, his victory, his power.
I will sing till he comes back for me.

Psalm 23:2-4 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Unto My King

2009-06-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

The God of all comfort, the Father of glory,
our God is faithful and true.
He is the only King of kings.
To him all glory is due.

Now unto the king, eternal, immortal,
be honour, and glory, and power,
through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord,
Forever and ever, Amen.

The God of all hope, the Father of mercies,
the everlasting and wise.
He is the blessed Lord of lords.
All nature testifies.

Now unto the king, eternal, immortal,
be honour, and glory, and power,
through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord,
Forever and ever, Amen.

2 Corinthians 1:3,18 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
Ephesians 1:17a That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory,
Romans 15:13a Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,
Romans 16:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.
1 Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Timothy 6:15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
1 Timothy 1:17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Abba Father

2009-06-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

Abba Father, Abba Father, my heart cries unto thee
Abba Father, Abba Father, you alone hear my plea.

When I don’t have the words to say, you know my every need.
When I don’t know just how to pray, your Spirit intercedes.

Abba Father, Abba Father, my heart cries unto thee.
Abba Father, Abba Father, you alone hear my plea.

When I can’t seem to find my way, you draw me to your side.
When I reach out in childlike faith, your Spirit always guides.

Abba Father, Abba Father, my heart cries unto thee.
Abba Father, Abba Father, you alone hear my plea.

When I am burdened down with care, you gently comfort me.
When I surrender all in prayer, your Spirit gives sweet peace.

Abba Father, Abba Father, my heart cries unto thee.
Abba Father, Abba Father, you alone hear my plea.

There are so many times when I really don’t know just how to pray or what I should pray for. All I know is that I want God’s way and will in my life, and in the lives of those I love. It’s such a comfort to know that I can go to God in silence, and he will search my heart and his Spirit will make intercession for me.

Galatians 4:6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
Romans 8:26,27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.