How's Your View? (Poem)

 

How's Your View?

Have you taken a look at the Saviour?
Have you thought about His claims?
Have you peered within at your own sin,
And reflected upon His name?
"Thou shalt call His name Jesus,"
The angel Gabriel had proclaimed,
"He shall save His people from their sins" -
And they will never be the same.

Have you felt emptiness in your own life,
And realized there must be more?
Have you hungered for some meaning,
Wondering what the future held in store?
Like many lost souls searching,
Seeking in the Apostles' day,
"I would see Jesus" -
Is that what your heart would say?

Have your eyes glimpsed Christ crucified?
Have you beheld this wondrous view?
Have you rejected your own righteousness,
And accepted His sacrifice for you?
Have you meditated upon the Gospel,
Pondered it with the eyes of faith?
Have you laid aside the weight of your sin,
And chosen to run the race?

Is your vision clouded by the world,
With fears and troubles everywhere?
Are you held by chains of darkness?
Are you overwhelmed with despair?
Then take another look at Jesus,
And cast on Him all your care.
Put your eyes back on the Lord,
And win the victory through prayer.

Are you awaiting the Saviour's return,
Or is your heart set on worldly treasures?
Are you seeking the things of Heaven,
Or is your faith choked by earthly pleasures?
Are you walking closely with Jesus,
Living and abiding in His Word?
Is your sight purified by the blessed hope?
Are you eagerly looking for the Lord?

How's your view? Looking up?

December 14th, 1999
Jerry Bouey

The following are the Scripture verses originally put next to each verse of this poem.

Verse 1: Matthew 1:21; Luke 1:26, 31; 2 Corinthians 5:17

Verse 2: John 12:20-21

Verse 3: Galatians 3:1; Isaiah 64:6; 1 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 12:1-2

Verse 4: Hebrews 2:7-9, 14-18; 1 Peter 5:7

Verse 5: Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:1-2; Titus 2:11-14; 1 John 2:28-3:3

How Do I Remain Faithful? (Poem)

 

How Do I Remain Faithful?

In a darkened world that is rapidly racing toward the end,
I see many Christians compromising like it's the latest trend;
I know for God's truth, I must earnestly contend,
But, my dear friend, how do I remain faithful?

As the signs become clearer for God's children to see,
Lukewarm believers rush madly towards apostasy,
And this world beckons so alluringly to you and to me -
One question remains, how do I remain faithful?

Soon we'll have a one-world economy, a one-world religion;
Tolerance is the byword - they say it's their decision;
As worldly Christians quickly lose all conviction,
Tell me again, how do I remain faithful?

The world follows doctrines of devils, deception's so strong;
Some believers are so blind, they say that nothing's wrong,
But God's Word rings out deeply like a resounding gong,
And I wonder, how do I remain faithful?

Inside, I have no intention of walking away -
But how come the battle seems so strong today?
This world is calling me - I must look away,
And find everything I need in Him.

"Come out of their midst, My people, and live righteously,
I, your God, have chosen you from all eternity;
Keep My Word, My children, awaken and be free;
Blessed are those faithful servants I find waiting for Me."

Only Jesus' blood can rescue from the bondage of sin;
Only God's power can stop us from giving in;
Only His Spirit can strengthen and purify within;
By His compelling love, I can remain faithful.

February 5th, 1997
Jerry Bouey

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 7:1 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Revelation 18:4-5 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 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. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Have Compassion, Making A Difference (Song)

 

Have Compassion, Making A Difference

I thought I was a good Christian, I thought I loved the lost;
I believed I was a giving soul - willing to count the cost.
But there was something that was missing, and it truly came clear to me:
If I wanted to make a difference, having compassion was the key.

Chorus:
Have compassion, making a difference,
Share the truth that will make them free -
From a heart stirred by the love of God,
Making a difference - eternally!

I thought I was so satisfied, serving from day to day;
But somehow I made no difference on the lost who came my way.
"Search my heart, oh God!" I cried, "Make me a vessel fit for Your use.
'Give me souls, or I die.' It's Your will alone that I choose."

Chorus

I see the lost stumbling by, blindly on their way to Hell;
They need to know the Saviour - oh, who will go to them and tell?
Tell them of Jesus who died, so they can live eternally;
Moved with compassion, my heart's cry, "Here am I, Lord, send me!"

Chorus

Have compassion, making a difference,
Rescue souls that are bound by sin.
The Father's House is waiting,
For us to bring the prodigals in.

Chorus

Have compassion, making a difference...

January 8th, 2006
Jerry Bouey

And of some have compassion, making a difference:
And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire;
hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Jude 1:22-23

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying,
Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?
Then said I, Here am I; send me.
Isaiah 6:8

"Give me souls or I die." - John Hyde, known as Praying Hyde.

The story is told about an old man, walking the beach at dawn, who noticed a young man ahead of him picking up starfish and flinging them into the sea. Catching up with the youth, he asked what he was doing. The answer was that the stranded starfish would die if left in the morning sun.

"But the beach goes on for miles and miles, and there are millions of starfish," countered the man. "How can your effort make any difference?"

The young man looked at the starfish in his hand, and then threw it into the waves.

"It makes a difference to this one," he said.

The same goes for each effort put forth to tell others about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It may seem like a never-ending task, but it does make a difference in the lives of those who hear it and believe.

- Taken from a church bulletin.

Chosen In Christ Jesus (Poem)

 

Chosen In Christ Jesus

We deserved wrath, but God showed mercy;
We deserved judgement, but He gave grace;
Our sins excluded us from His presence -
Now reconciled, we can see God’s face.

We dwelt in the kingdom of darkness,
Enslaved by the chains of our sins;
We were dead in our vile trespasses,
Until the Lord Jesus Christ entered in.

Controlled by the prince of this world,
Marred by the depravity of our minds,
But God being rich in His infinite mercy,
Showed that He was so loving and kind.

Now He has made us a royal priesthood,
A holy nation to shew forth His praise,
A people for God’s own possession -
Chosen in Christ because of His grace.

Proclaim aloud His excellent greatness;
For He has called you from darkness to light;
We are seated with Jesus in heavenly places,
For our God has quickened us together with Christ.

December 12th, 1996
Jerry Bouey

Ephesians 2:1-10 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

1 Peter 2:9-10 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Break Free (Poem)

 

Break Free

Break free from the binds that drag;
Throw away those worthless rags.
Seek the Lord with all your heart and soul;
Precious Jesus - He will make you whole.
Let Him consecrate every part of you,
You'll be refreshed, your heart made anew.
Pray - don't let a day go by;
Today, let your spirit fly;
Sheltered in the wings of His love,
Worshipping the Holy Father above.
Let go of whatever holds you back -
With Jesus, you will never lack;
Providing your each and every need,
From sin, your soul will be freed.

So break free from the binds of old,
And let your heart, the Spirit enfold.
Give love so graciously;
You're changing, and everyone will see
What it is to be a saint -
All that you are, not what you ain't.
They will see Jesus, our Lord, through you,
And be amazed by all you can do
As you're filled with His strength and power -
He will be with you, each and every hour.
He will always be right by your side,
Because His love is so deep and wide.
His glorious grace will never end -
Trust in Jesus, He will be your Friend.

September 12/ 1993
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Dustin Purdy)

Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

To Be With Christ Is Far Better (Poem)

 

To Be With Christ Is Far Better

To be absent from my earthly body
Is to be present forever with the Lord.
Here with you or at home in Heaven -
This dilemma seems a two-edged sword.

I want to be here with my loved ones, 
I want no sorrow to come their way -
But to be present with my Saviour
Is a desire that means more than I can say.

I’ve walked with Jesus for so many years,
Is it time now to leave this mortal domain?
Torn between two desires - which is better -
To depart for Heavenly shores or to remain?

The hope of a new body, oh to be glorified,
No more trials - gone forever - is it time?
There’s so many wonders to look forward to -
But, I will long for those I will leave behind.

Between the glories of eternity, and those who make me whole,
It’s a choice I cannot make - both appeal to my soul.
I’m in a strait between these two - but my spirit is at rest -
For I’m leaving the choice with my Father - He alone knows what is best.

“To depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.”

September 29, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Frances Johnson)

2 Corinthians 5:6-8 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

Philippians 1:20-23 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Passing Through by Annie Johnson Flint (Poem)

Passing Through

“When thou passest through the waters,”
Deep the waves may be and cold,
But Jehovah is our refuge
And His promise is our hold;
For the Lord Himself hath said it,
He the faithful God and true:
“When thou comest to the waters,
Thou shalt not go down, but through.”

Seas of sorrow, seas of trial,
Bitterest anguish, fiercest pain,
Rolling surges of temptation
Sweeping over heart and brain,
They shall never overflow us,
For we know His Word is true;
All His waves and all His billows
He will lead us safely through.

Threatening breakers of destruction,
Doubt’s insidious undertow,
Shall not sink us, shall not drag us
Out to ocean depths of woe;
For His promise shall sustain us,
Praise the Lord, whose Word is true!
We shall not go down nor under,
He hath said, “Thou passest through.”

By Annie Johnson Flint

Isaiah 43:1-3  But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

Psalm 66:12  Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place.

The Valleys Of Life (Poem)

 

The Valleys Of Life

There are so many valleys in this life;
Times of sorrow, heartache, and strife.
In this vale of tears that you are passing through,
I know our Lord will carry you.

As you're walking in the shadow of death,
This troubled life seems but a breath.
When it appears all around you is night,
The Lord will be your lamp and light.

Though giants of distress are drawing near,
My friend, there is no cause for fear,
For the Lord above still rules from His throne;
He will never leave you alone.

When the valleys of trouble loom ahead,
Look to Jesus with faith instead.
Forget the doubts along life's storm-tossed way.
Let God's Word light your path today.

August 30th, 2004
Jerry Bouey

I am the Rose of Sharon, and the Lily of the Valleys.
Song of Solomon 2:1

Jesus is the Lily in all our valleys.
He is there in all of the Valleys of Life we go through!

For a study on this theme:
The Lily Of The Valleys

The Sparrow Has Flown Home (Poem)

 The Sparrow Has Flown Home

She's just a little sparrow,
A weakened vessel made of clay;
Yearning for the day break,
When the shadows will flee away.

Looking for the Sun of Righteousness
To arise with healing in His wings.
As the Saviour waits with open arms,
This little sparrow begins to sing.

Her Heavenly Father numbers each little hair;
Not one of them can come to lasting harm.
Not a sparrow can fall apart from His will -
She is safely resting in His everlasting arms.

Precious in the sight of the Lord
Is the death of one of His own.
Her Father waits to receive His child -
Into the loving arms of Jesus she has flown.

Now she is flying near God's Heavenly altar,
Forever to worship before His throne;
Dwelling in the Lord's presence -
This little sparrow has flown home.

August 30th, 2004
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Carol Trenholm - now truly at Home with her Saviour)

Matthew 10:29-31  Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Luke 12:6-7  Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Psalms 84:1-4 How amiable are Thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!  My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even Thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God. Blessed are they that dwell in Thy house: they will be still praising Thee. Selah.

The Father's Heart (Song)

 

The Father's Heart

The Father's heart is beating, pleading for the souls of men,
Yearning for His children to go and bring the lost ones in,
Crying out against the sin that plagues this darkened land,
The Father's heart is beating still - oh, can't you understand?

Chorus:
The Father's heart is beating for someone here to go,
To tell the prodigal child that He dearly loves them so;
The Father's heart is beating, yearning for the lost,
My child, are you willing to go and count the cost?

The Father's heart is beating, God is calling out your name;
If you listen to His pleading, you will never be the same;
Jesus Christ has paid the price, atonement has been made,
But the Father needs someone to tell them sin's debt has been paid.

The Father's heart is beating, pleading for the souls of men;
Hell is real, it is forever - go and plead with them!
The Father's heart is beating, His message rings loud and clear -
The sands of time are moving, there is no time for fear.

The Father's heart is beating, pleading from His throne,
Yearning for the shepherds to lead the lost sheep home,
The Holy Spirit's convicting, melting your heart of stone,
The Father's heart is beating - won't you make His heart your own?

Won't you make His heart your own?

The Father's heart is missions - won't you make His heart your own?

July 28th, 2004
Jerry Bouey

Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15 And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Luke 24:44-49 And He said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning Me. Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

John 20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as My Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Full Assurance (Song)

 

Full Assurance

(To the tune of So Little Time)

Full assurance - we pray - of understanding
Is yours in Christ - you are complete in Him.
Riches above, are stored in Heaven waiting.
Rejoice, my friend, you're a child of the King.

Chorus:
Today we serve, with fullness of understanding,
Assurance of hope, through eyes of faith;
So let us love our dear Lord supremely.
Let us be faithful, as we run this race.

Full assurance, stand fast in this your hope now.
Be diligent, be faithful to the end.
A crown of life, rewards for those who serve Christ -
Jesus remembers all that's done for Him.

Full assurance - steadfast is the eye of faith.
Approach God's throne, with boldness, plead for souls.
Let us draw near, give all our cares to Jesus;
Behold the prize - press on towards the goal.

2nd Chorus:
Today we serve, with fullness of understanding,
Assurance of hope, through eyes of faith;
So let us love our Saviour supremely.
Brethren, be faithful, as you run this race.

January 22nd, 2004
Jerry Bouey

That their hearts might be comforted,
being knit together in love,
and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding,
to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God,
and of the Father, and of Christ;
Colossians 2:2

And we desire that every one of you
do shew the same diligence to
the full assurance of hope unto the end:
Hebrews 6:11

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith,
having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience,
and our bodies washed with pure water.
Hebrews 10:22

Blessed Is That Man (Poem)

 

Blessed Is That Man

Blessed is that man whose trust is in the Lord,
Whose heart is wholly yielded to God's Holy Word,
Whose faith rests upon a solid foundation,
Who has trusted Jesus Christ alone for salvation.

Blessed is that man who delights himself in God's Word,
Who wields the same as a sharp double-edged sword,
Has a mind for the battle, is willing to fight,
That brave warrior who stands in the strength of His might.

Blessed is that man whose mind is on eternity,
Who stands faithfully in the gap for you and me,
Fighting spiritual battles in the whole armour of God,
Following in the footsteps that other saints have trod.

That good soldier of Christ, that mighty man of God,
Blessed is that man!

November 12th, 2003
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to solid preachers of God's Word)

Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust.
Psalm 40:4

Birthday Poem For A Christian (Poem)

 

Birthday Poem For A Christian

Another year older, a year of living in the light of the Lord,
A time of changing, a time of growing,
A time of learning to use His Sword.

Maturing more as the days go on,
Telling others what Christ has taught you,
Touching hearts as you travel along,
Living love - we can see Him in you.

A miracle is working there in your heart,
A new beginning, He changed you right from the start,
And now you know that there is no turning back,
The grace of God you will never lack.

You're a picture of what our great Redeemer can do,
When you walk in His love, you make an excellent view,
You are changing on the inside, it's really plain to see,
Like a stranger to this world - living for eternity,
Committed to our Saviour, you are resting in His hands,
He planned your future long ago, before your life began.

Oh, delight yourself forever in the living Lord,
Wait on His gracious love and receive His Word,
Taste and see how good our God is,
He is awe-inspiring and His name is Jesus!

He is your refuge when your times get tough,
His provision will always be enough,
Your steps are directed by the Father of lights,
Trust fully in Him, your future is bright.

Shine out, my friend, and show them the way,
Light up the darkness, hold the shadows at bay,
Free the captives, as Christ has freed you,
Tell others the wonders of what our God can do.

Praise God and live a life pleasing to Him,
Lift up your voice and let your heart sing,
Seek the Lord's guidance and live in His will,
Come before Jesus and learn to be still.

Though this life seems so hard and you may fail sometimes,
Get on Hind's feet - there are still mountains to climb,
When you reach the highest peak, there will be joy without end,
God will say, "Well done, My servant and friend."

May 4th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

(Originally written for my sister, Lori)

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
2 Peter 3:18

The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet,
and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.
Habakkuk 3:19

Awestruck And Relief (Poem)

 

Awestruck

I can reach out to the very throne of God
Fall on my knees and worship You with awe
I can lift up my voice and worship the King
I can give You my heart, give You everything
I can bow before You in humble adoration
I can sing to sing You with gladness and exaltation
I can give You my life, give You my all
As I glimpse Your glory - upon my knees I fall
I want to praise You, Lord, and lift You higher
Oh my soul is amazed, You are my desire.

October 19th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

Having therefore, brethren, boldness
to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us,
through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
And having an high priest over the house of God;
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith,
having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience,
and our bodies washed with pure water.
Hebrews 10:19-21

Relief

A stone has been rolled away from my heart,
Peace floods in and the joy of worship starts,
My soul lifts up to Abba Father,
On faith's silvery wings,
Soaring among the Heavenlies,
My heart feels free to sing,
My sins are cast into the depths of the sea,
My burdens are cast upon You,
The only place that I long to be,
Is bowing humbly before You,
I want to adore You, my loving Father,
But sometimes I am unsure of the way -
How do I send these thoughts up to You?
With heartfelt prayer, and these words I say,
I want to worship You, Lord,
As my soul lifts in praise to You,
I want to glorify You in my life,
Like I know You want me to.

October 15th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee:
He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Psalm 55:22

He hath not dealt with us after our sins;
nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth,
so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far hath He removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:10-12

Behold, for peace I had great bitterness:
but Thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption:
for Thou hast cast all my sins behind Thy back.
Isaiah 38:17

He will turn again, He will have compassion upon us;
He will subdue our iniquities;
and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.
Micah 7:19

Autographed By The Author (Poem)

Autographed By The Author

Composed like a Heavenly symphony
in which can be found no wrong,
That my Lord has forgiven me
fills my aching heart with song.

I've gladly turned over
that old tattered and torn page;
Jesus has erased all
of my pain, sorrow, and rage.

My once incomplete life is no longer
such a sorry, shameful mess;
He's replaced my emptiness
with love, peace, and righteousness.

Your awesome Word is written
on my trembling soul.
Until that day
the final trumpet doth toll,

Your kingdom, O Lord,
is what I'm striving for,
Because now I've been -
Autographed by the Author.

1993
Jerry Bouey

The love for which Christ has died,
For believers, cannot be denied.

We can rejoice in being alive,
And count Christianity's cost,
Because when the final trumpet sounds,
We won't be at a loss!

March 9th, 1993
Jerry Bouey

Song of Solomon 4:7 Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee.

2 Corinthians 3:2-3 Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

Hebrews 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:

A Lasting Impression (Poem)

 

A Lasting Impression

For I delivered to you as of first importance
that which I also believed,
The Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ,
that which also you received:

In the truths of the Scriptures
you took your stand -
Holding fast to the salvation
which our God has planned;

Christ died for our sins, was buried,
and was raised on the third day,
According the Scriptures;
testifying that this is the way.

My beloved brethren, be unmoveable,
diligent and always steadfast;
Knowing that if you persevere in the Lord,
your labour will surely last.

September 19th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

1 Corinthians 15:1-3 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Jude 3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

Shine Your Light (Poem)

Shine Your Light

Shine Your light into my soul, dear Lord;

Like Moses, I long to see Your glory.

Shine the Truth into the hearts of men,

Enlighten them to the Gospel story.

Illumine my spirit through Your Word,

Open my clouded eyes that I may see -

Then shine brightly through my life to others -

May they catch fiery glimpses of You in me.

Change my heart by Your radiant glory:

Dispel the shadows that are a part of me;

Transform my soul through Your Holy Spirit;

Remove the dross of my sin - make me free.

Shine Your light into my life, Lord Jesus.

Like a glowing jewel, burn intensely through me.

Let the world only see Your glory alone -

Let them see You shining brightly, not me.

Shine brightly, dear Lord Jesus, through me.

July 24, 2024

Jerry Bouey

Exodus 33:18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.

Psalms 119:18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

Psalms 119:130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

2 Corinthians 4:6  For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

A Breath Of Prayer (Poem)

A Breath Of Prayer

A breath of prayer in the morning

Means a day of blessing sure;

A breath of prayer in the evening

Means a night of rest secure;

A breath of prayer in our weakness

Means a clasp of a Mighty Hand;

A breath of prayer when we're lonely

Means Someone to understand.

A breath of prayer in our doubtings

Assures us the Lord knows best.

A breath of prayer in our sorrows

Means comfort and peace and rest;

A breath of prayer in rejoicing

Gives joy an added delight.

For they that remember God's goodness

Go singing far into the night.

There's never a year nor a season

That prayer may not bless every hour,

And never a soul need be helpless

When linked with God's infinite power.

Frances McKinnon Morton

Luke 18:1  And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

And They Shall Run (Song)

 

And They Shall Run

In this world of pain and woe,
You may stumble and falter.
Grab the hand that reaches down
From your Heavenly Father.

He will lift you up high,
So that you may rise above;
And He will hold you there
By the power of His love.
And you shall run...

They that wait upon the Lord
Shall renew their strength,
They shall mount up with wings as eagles;
And they shall run...

The battles are often fierce
In this dark world we live in.
You may find your soul is weak,
And you feel ready to give in.

But don't give up, just press ahead,
Keep reaching for that high prize.
Keep on looking unto Jesus -
As your strength begins to rise...
And you shall run...

And they shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.
And they shall run...
They shall be more than conquerors.
And they shall run...

There are voices crying out -
To break your will and compromise.
But stand fast, and hold your ground;
Mount up on wings, towards the skies...
And you shall run...

They that wait upon the Lord
Shall renew their strength.
And they shall run...

They shall be My sons and daughters.
And they shall run...
And they shall run...

November 30th, 2005
Jerry Bouey

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.

Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

2 Corinthians 6:17-18 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

A Friend When You Need One (Poem)

 

A Friend When You Need One

It's so easy to get discouraged,
To be downcast or in despair.
When you feel all alone in your wilderness,
And it seems that no one cares.

That's when temptation hits the hardest,
Where the battle is nearly lost - or won.
When you stumble through dark valleys
And gloomy shadows hide the Son.

In your loneliness and your struggles,
Here's a solution that may seem odd -
Don't look around to man for comfort,
Instead, with hope, look up to God.

Jesus will provide the grace you require
And His Word will light the way.
All you need is faith to claim His promises,
And your night will turn to day.

The Lord knows your each and every need -
He knows, before you even ask in prayer.
Just keep on being faithful to Him,
And, in time, His answer will be there.

So instead of giving up in disgrace,
Do the work that must be done;
You will find that as you run the race,
God will bring a friend when you most need one.

December 8th, 2001
Jerry Bouey

And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer;
and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.
Isaiah 65:24

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly:
and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24

A Friend Loveth At All Times (Poem)

 

A Friend Loveth At All Times

A friend loveth at all times -
You've been so faithful and true.
A friend loveth at all times -
I know I've been loved by you.

You've been there through all the joy and pain,
In fact, you've stuck like glue.
When I needed someone, you stood by me,
And your words brought comfort too.

You shared God's Word to cheer my heart,
You cared so much for my soul.
You brought me before the throne of grace,
So in Jesus I would be whole.

You are my friend in Jesus Christ,
My Heavenly Father is your Father too.
When the trials came to test my faith,
I know my Lord sent you.

A friend loveth at all times -
I've learned so much from you.
You shared your joy in the Lord;
Now His joy is my strength too.

A friend loveth at all times -
God's promise stands sure and true!
A friend loveth at all times -
I know I have found a friend in you.

July 25th, 2003
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Kat Aulin, my friend)

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:17

In Your Grief (Poem)

 

In Your Grief

In your grief, what comfort can I give?
I have nothing but Christ to offer you.
You are not left alone to grieve,
Jesus, Himself, can pull you through.

In your grief, though loss overwhelms you,
Don't let the pain within tear you apart.
I know the only place of safe refuge,
Is when Jesus is living inside your heart.

I know you are hurting and I offer you hope.
Even in the midst of your aching sorrow,
There is a peace that can help you cope.
Don't let your grief steal away your tomorrows.

In your grief, I can offer you life,
Though someone so dear to you has died.
I can offer you all that the Lord has to give,
If you will turn to Jesus, the Crucified.

Believing in Him doesn't mean there's no sorrow,
Because I know there is tremendous pain,
But if you will give your life to Christ, the Saviour,
In your broken heart there will be joy again.

September 8th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Which Is Better? (Poem)

 

Which Is Better?

Which is better:
To play loud music for the masses,
Or to sing softly for the Holy One?
To soar among the heavens,
Or to walk beside God's Son?

Which is better:
To touch the lives of others
Who only touch your own?
Or to reach toward another
Who feels left out and alone?

Which is better:
To climb the highest mountain,
And to swim the raging sea,
Or to worship Him who made them both,
And who also created me?

Which is better:
A life filled with rose-strewn pathways,
A life of ease and luxury,
Or a life that has its pain and suffering,
And a God who cares for me?

Sometimes I want the easy way,
A way that doesn't test my faith,
But then the hard times come along,
And my dreams vanish away like wraiths.

I don't want to stumble blindly in darkness,
I would rather pierce the night,
But I will gladly give away all my candles,
And let Jesus be my guiding light.

I won't let my emotions play upon my faith,
As if it were a jungle gym,
I will let life's situations be the pressures,
That ever draw me close to Him.

October 15th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
the LORD is the strength of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:1

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12

My Faltering Heart (Poem)

 

My Faltering Heart

There are times when it seems my courage is so frail and small.
I look within my own life and I see how I fail and fall.
I know in myself I falter and I am nothing at all.
But how do I follow You, Lord Jesus, when I hear Your loving call?

Sometimes my emotions deceive me and my heart isn't fully Yours.
So many things distract me and I find I am led off course.
And I realize again, somehow, my love has grown dim.
Yet how do I repent and now have my heart stayed on Him?

I lose my devotion so easily, yet nothing stands in my way.
What is it within my own heart that pulls me further away?
How did my joy dry up? Why doesn't it ever stay?
How does my desire wane? Restore me, Oh Lord, I pray!

I see within myself that I have nothing to offer you.
My vision seems so faded - Lord, grant me another view.
I don't know why my heart wanders or why it so often roams.
Why can't I follow You fully, and seek Your face alone?

Take my fragile heart - I offer it to You again.
Do Your will in my life, Lord, and help me to say, Amen!
Change my heart, transform my mind, and help me return to You.
Be my everything, dear Lord. Restore, remake, renew!

January 26th, 1997
Jerry Bouey

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9

If Jesus Came To Your House (Poem)

If Jesus Came To Your House

If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two -
If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you'd do.
Oh, I know you'd give your nicest room to such an honored Guest,
And all the food you served to Him would be the very best,
And you would keep assuring Him you're glad to have Him there -
That serving Him in your own home is joy beyond compare.

But when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door
With arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly Visitor?
Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in?
Or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they'd been?
Would you turn off the radio and hope He hadn't heard?
And wish you hadn't uttered that last, loud, hasty word?

Would you hide your worldly music and put some hymn books out?
Could you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about?
And I wonder - if the Savior spent a day or two with you,
Would you go right on doing the things you always do?
Would you go right on saying the things you always say?
Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?

Would your family conversation keep up it's usual pace?
And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace?
Would you sing the songs you always sing, and read the book you read?
And let Him know the things on which your mind and spirit feed?
Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you'd planned to go?
Or would you, maybe, change your plans for just a day or so?

Would you be glad to have Him meet your very closest friends?
Or would you hope they'd stay away until His visit ends?
Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on?
Or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone?
It might be interesting to know the things that you would do
If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you.

By Lois Blanchard Eades

1 Peter 1:14-16  As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

1 Corinthians 10:31  Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

From Broken To Beautiful (Poem)

From Broken To Beautiful

From broken to beautiful;
Made with the Potter’s own hands,
Transformed into gold and silver -
Part of God’s wondrous plan.

Vessels of the Lord’s mercy,
Of His forgiveness and His grace;
From a past of brokenness
To true beauty in its place.

Once separated from God’s family,
Now adopted as a child of the King;
Precious treasure in earthen vessels -
To the Lord, worth more than anything.

Vessels of honour, fit for the Master,
Sanctified, forgiven, and set free;
From forsaken to accepted in His sight -
Beloved, and transformed for eternity.

From broken to beautiful,
Given a new purpose for His glory,
Renewed, and made righteous in Jesus Christ -
That is salvation’s story.

April 15th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

The Lord can take the broken pieces of our lives, the broken or cracked pottery, and remake it in such a way that it brings glory to Him. Like Mary broke the box of spikenard and the savour of it diffused throughout the room when she anointed the feet of Jesus, so may our lives bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ and may His savour touch every area of our hearts and lives, affecting all that we come in contact with day by day.

John 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

Song of Solomon 1:3  Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee.

Song of Songs 1:10-11 Thy cheeks are comely with rows of jewels, thy neck with chains of gold. We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver.

Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Hosea 2:23 And I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.

Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Duct-Taped Smiles (Poem)

 

Duct-Taped Smiles
(A Mother’s Day Poem)

As a mother, you reminisce over the many winding roads you’ve travelled;
Filled with wonder and with joy, though at times your threads seem a little frayed and tangled;
But the Lord has paved your path with love over each and every weary mile -
The cracked pottery of your life is covered with bandaged elbows and duct-taped smiles.

Each day of motherhood is like a book, with the pages a little tattered, a little torn;
By gleaning God’s wisdom through the years, those rough edges have softened and become a little worn;
The cover is more faded now, and you see some new creases here and there,
But the joy of being a mother is a blessing - naught else could ever compare.

Along the journey of their childhood, the memories of each precious loved one flood your heart.
To see them grow, following in your footsteps - so many wondrous miracles, oh where to start?
Showing them the Saviour and how He brought you through all those fiery trials,
Brings a tear or two sometimes, but also lasting joy, and even more duct-taped smiles.

The Lord uses motherhood to teach us lessons we may not at first understand,
But through the hard days, and through the growing years, you catch glimpses of His perfect plan.
When you see your children all grown up, remembering each little hand you used to hold,
It is then you realize, this broken pottery has been transformed into a treasure of purest gold.

March 30th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to my friend, Deborah Cox, who helped me iron out the words of this poem. Thank you for being a blessing to me.)

Psalms 68:13 Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

A Call To Remembrance (Poem)

A Call To Remembrance

I’ll never forget all the things You’ve done for me;
How You died on the cruel cross of Calvary;
You redeemed me from my sin and set me free;
Now Lord Jesus, I am Yours eternally.

I was a black sheep that had wandered astray;
As a Good Shepherd, You sought me that day;
You rescued me from all that kept me away;
Changed forevermore, I’m Yours, come what may.

Any good in my life is because of You;
Every breath I breathe, I owe it all to You;
You’ve taken my heart and made it brand new -
I’m transformed by Your love, by all that You do.

Looking back on my life, and all my past sin,
I praise You for Your grace that cleanses within;
I recall to my mind how faithful You have been;
And rejoice in the hope that You’re coming again.

February 27, 2024
Jerry Bouey

Ephesians 2:11-13 Wherefore remember… That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.

Lamentations 3:21-23 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

More Than Enough (Poem)

More Than Enough

Mankind is always seeking for some lasting substance to be found;
Everywhere the heart can glean, he thinks valuable treasures will abound;
But it seems of the world’s riches, there is never enough to go around -
With all that I have in Christ, the Word of God clearly resounds:

More than enough wisdom to guide me in His sight,
More than enough strength for these battles that I fight,
More than enough truth - in fact, the Lord is my Light!
Whatever I face in this life, Jesus Christ is more than enough.

More than enough new mercies to help me through each day,
More than enough forgiveness when my steps lead me astray,
More than enough grace for those trials that come to stay -
With my Saviour, I have more than enough to face whatever comes my way.

More than enough promises for me to live a godly life,
More than enough peace to calm every sort of strife,
More than enough power to command that every storm be still,
In my Saviour is more than enough for me to do my Father’s will.

More than enough provisions which come from up on high,
More than enough comfort for every teardrop and sigh,
More than enough hope - one day, I’ll meet my Lord in the sky;
For all that I will ever need, Jesus Christ is more than enough.

January 31, 2024
Jerry Bouey

Romans 5:5-8 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 8:31-32 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

The following was written by a recent visitor to my church as a challenge to others. He passed it on to me to use as a theme for a possible poem.

The owner of a Rolls Royce wrote a letter to the CEO of the company and asked him what the horsepower was of his vehicle.

His reply was a one-worded letter: "Adequate.”

Of course there are many more features of the Rolls Royce than the horsepower that we could describe as adequate, the many features of the controls, appearance of the interior, design and leather of the upholstery, and the statement this car makes from its outside appearance.

My thoughts turned to my God and I began mentally listing all the ways in which I considered Him to be adequate.

Omnipotent: All POWERFUL, created the universe, the earth, the sun, moon and stars, our lands with all kinds of animals, our vegetation, trees, oceans and lastly human beings, which He did in just six days, His power, more than ADEQUATE.

Omniscient: KNOWS EVERYTHING, Even the very hairs of your head are numbered, not counted, but numbered. Just one example from Matthew 10:30. His knowledge, More than ADEQUATE.

Omnipresent: PRESENT EVERYWHERE, Omnipresence means that at the very minimum there is no place to which God's knowledge and power do not extend. You cannot hide from God. More than ADEQUATE.

Immutable: GOD CANNOT CHANGE, Hebrews 6:17,18, The promise of blessedness which God has made to believers is not a rash and hasty thing, but the result of God's eternal purpose. (2.) This purpose of God was agreed upon in counsel, and settled there between the eternal Father, Son, and Spirit. (3.) These counsels of God can never be altered; they are immutable. He is the same from everlasting to everlasting. More than ADEQUATE.

These are considered the attributes of God, but there is one more very important thing, and some theologians would disagree with this but I don't think the following statement about love is an attribute of God.

GOD IS LOVE! This very brief statement is from 1st John 4:18. At His very core, God is Love. Love so great that He gave His Son to die a very cruel death to save us from our sins. More than ADEQUATE!

There are many more examples of how God is adequate in Scripture. His promises, hundreds, maybe thousands of them (I didn't count them), but I would challenge you as you come to them in your reading, stop and think of how adequate that particular promise is FOR ME/YOU today.

Gary Carruthers

(Used with permission)

Martha And Mary (Poem)

Martha And Mary

Martha and Mary, two sisters together one day.
Each sought to follow Jesus in their own unique way;
Martha was so busy still, but Mary would not be dismayed:
She wanted to spend time with her Master - with Jesus, come what may.

Nothing wrong with serving, but what is the end goal of your life?
Do you desire the Saviour more than the bustle and the strife?
Would you rather be so focussed, with everything placed so neat -
Or does your spirit and soul crave to worship at His feet?

In all of our opportunities, with each day that we face,
What’s the outcome, what’s the priority, when everything finds its place?
Did we seek to spend more time with Jesus, love Him more than all these things;
Did we fill our hearts with activities or with worshipping our King?

Are you more like Martha, or is Mary’s desire more your size -
Are you looking at the world, or keeping your eyes upon the prize?
Here is your dilemma - I don’t want to be contrary -
But whose example will you follow: Is it Martha or is it Mary?

January 30, 2024
Jerry Bouey

Luke 10:38-42 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he 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 came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and 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.

Taken from Spurgeon’s Morning And Evening Devotional for the Evening of May 9:

"Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field... let us see if the vine flourish." Song of Solomon 7:11,12

The church was about to engage in earnest labour, and desired her Lord's company in it. She does not say, "I will go," but "let us go." It is blessed working when Jesus is at our side! It is the business of God's people to be trimmers of God's vines. Like our first parents, we are put into the garden of the Lord for usefulness; let us therefore go forth into the field. Observe that the church, when she is in her right mind, in all her many labours desires to enjoy communion with Christ. Some imagine that they cannot serve Christ actively, and yet have fellowship with Him: they are mistaken. Doubtless it is very easy to fritter away our inward life in outward exercises, and come to complain with the spouse, "They made me keeper of the vineyards; but mine own vineyard have I not kept:" but there is no reason why this should be the case except our own folly and neglect. Certain is it that a professor may do nothing, and yet grow quite as lifeless in spiritual things as those who are most busy. Mary was not praised for sitting still; but for her sitting at Jesus' feet. Even so, Christians are not to be praised for neglecting duties under the pretence of having secret fellowship with Jesus: it is not sitting, but sitting at Jesus' feet which is commendable. Do not think that activity is in itself an evil: it is a great blessing, and a means of grace to us. Paul called it a grace given to him to be allowed to preach; and every form of Christian service may become a personal blessing to those engaged in it. Those who have most fellowship with Christ are not recluses or hermits, who have much time to spare, but indefatigable labourers who are toiling for Jesus, and who, in their toil, have Him side by side with them, so that they are workers together with God. Let us remember then, in anything we have to do for Jesus, that we can do it, and should do it in close communion with Him.

God Is So Good (Poem)

 

God Is So Good

God is so good,
But this life is so tough.
The days seem so long,
The road is so rough.

Sometimes I get bogged down
With the things that I find.
The pressures seem too much,
The world's lies claw at my mind.

When I begin to feel trapped,
Locked within this rat race,
I know that there's real truth,
And it's only found one place:
The answers to my search for life
Do not lie within.
Inside is a rebellious heart,
Marred and scarred with sin.

When I need true peace
That takes away the fear,
The doubts that come
Lord, I know they're here,
When I need hope
That overcomes the pain,
A will to live,
And grace to start again
I look to Jesus -
Oh He loves me I know;
I can feel His mercy and strength
Beginning to flow.

January 4th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
John 17:17

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure,
whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report;
if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Those things, which ye have both learned, and received,
and heard, and seen in me, do:
and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9

Northern Lights (Poem)

 

Northern Lights

We saw the Northern Lights tonight, glittering up in the sky.
In rapture, we beheld the sight, and my how the time passed by -
In worshipping and praising the Lord who made all these things.
In amazement and wonder, our souls began to sing.

We talked about God's love tonight, and sang songs from His Word;
About how Jesus died to give us life - so glad that we had heard.
Awestruck at all the colours, bright green and white and red.
Praising Christ for Calvary, and for the blood that He had shed.

Night grew a little bit colder, but now we were warmed within.
We thanked Jesus for having saved us and forgiving all our sin.
Remembering God's past mercies, and sharing them again,
And all through this time of worship, our hearts drew closer to Him.

Thank you, Lord, for your awesome gift of creation,
and for making us new creatures in Christ Jesus.

Amen.

October 4th, 2000
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to the Trenholms,
from whose backyard we got to see this wonder together.)

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers,
the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
What is man, that thou art mindful of him?
and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
Psalm 8:3-4

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:
old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
2 Corinthians 5:17

Esther's Prayer (Poem)

 

Esther's Prayer

I have a prayer for when I go.
It may be soon, I just don't know.
There is a bit of fear I guess.
I have some worries I must confess.
When the doubts come and the fear,
Help me remember, Lord, You're near.

What will happen when I'm gone?
Who will help my loved ones carry on?
Who will comfort them and ease their pain?
Who will provide their needs and explain
That I've gone on to a better place,
To gaze upon my Saviour's face?

Let me learn from the sparrows, Lord.
And teach me from Your Holy Word,
That You watch over each and every one,
And You decide when their time has come,
Then gently remind me that You are in control,
And I can still trust You, Lord, with my soul.

If You can preserve Your Word forever,
Then surely I need not doubt, no never,
That You know what's best for me and mine,
And that I can trust You when it's time,
To give them solace in their pain,
And bring them rainbows in the rain.

I thank You, Lord Jesus, for taking my fear,
And Heavenly Father, for drawing near,
And Holy Spirit, for Your comfort and peace,
For letting the doubts and worries cease.
I thank You again for peace in my soul,
And reminding me, You are in control.

August 20th, 2000
By your friend,
Jerry Bouey

My times are in Thy hand…
Psalm 31:15

Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.

Luke 12:6-7 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

John 14:16, 26 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter that he may abide with you for ever; But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Following (Poem)

 

Following

Following in Abraham's footsteps,
You are going like never before.
Though uncertain of the outcome,
In faith you will trust the Lord.

While you wait upon God's guidance,
Unsure of where to start,
Like Moses of so long ago,
Waiting for that Sea to part.

Like the Israelites in the wilderness,
Receiving Manna from the skies,
You will follow God's own leading,
As His path opens before your eyes.

For we know Jesus has great plans for you,
A future that's laid up in store;
A path of peace and holiness,
With Christ's blessings forevermore.

It's in Him we live and move and have our being,
Trust in His Word - it's worth believing.
As you seek wisdom and leading from the Lord above,
You'll find what you need through His mercy and love.

Persevere in the race and stand firmly too.
As you are transformed by His grace
Let His love shine through.

April 7th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

I am the light of the world, he that followeth Me shall
not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12

My sheep hear My voice,
and I know them, and they follow Me.
John 10:27

Hebrews 11:8-10 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

First Steps (Poem)

 

First Steps

As I learn to walk with You, Lord,
I'll take each step, however small.
Though I may stumble from time to time,
I know with You I'll never fall.

I'll hold onto Your hand, Father,
As You lovingly guide the way,
Knowing that wherever You lead me,
On Your path I will always stay.

Through dismal tunnels dark,
Into bright passages of light,
I'll walk forward with You, Lord,
Bravely facing the night.

When I falter in Your footsteps, Jesus,
I know You will gently lift me up.
When my feet are tired and worn,
You'll let me drink from Your loving cup.

Each new fresh morning is another walk;
Oh, there's so much more I have to do,
But I'll take each welcome step, dear Lord,
Because it will bring me closer home to You.

August 28th, 1993
Jerry Bouey

For even hereunto were ye called:
because Christ also suffered for us,
leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.
1 Peter 2:21

He that saith he abideth in Him (Jesus)
ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.
1 John 2:6

Will You Be A Jonathan? (Poem)

 

Will You Be A Jonathan?

When I feel like David and I am weighed down,
When I need encouragement from you,
When I don't feel so brave and my heart is frail,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

When I lose the vision and my eyes are dim,
When I can't see God's blessed view,
When I need reminders of God's perfect love,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

Will you make a covenant to stand by me,
In tough times will you help me through,
When I stumble and falter in my walk with God,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

Will you think of me before yourself,
Demonstrating what a servant should do,
Will you show me how to live before the Lord,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

Will you love me as you love yourself,
Will you delight yourself in me too,
Will you speak well of me to my enemies,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

Will you risk your life for me to show your love,
Will you do your best to be true,
Will you encourage me in God, and strengthen my heart,
Will you be a Jonathan too?

Thank you for your friendship, and for all your love,
I feel like I've been renewed;
Now that my faith is strengthened and my heart has healed,
I can feel the Lord's love flowing through.

My life is right with God,
I can see His glory now,
And I am no longer blue;
But when I see your pain,
That you are struggling again,
I know I can be a Jonathan for you.

November 3rd, 1996
Jerry Bouey

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly:
and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24

And Jonathan Saul's son arose,
and went to David into the wood,
and strengthened his hand in God.
1 Samuel 23:16

See also 1 Samuel 18:1-4; 19:1-2, 4; Chapter 20

Friends Forever (Poem)

Friends Forever

Birds of a feather, that's what we are,
Friends forever, whether near or far,
A friend will stand by you and never depart,
We're friends together, touched by the heart.

Whether you are in sickness, sorrow, or pain,
Even when it seems there is nothing to gain,
Life could get bitter, sweet, or tart,
We're friends however, sometimes torn by the heart.

We'll stick close together when the going gets tough,
We'll journey this road, no matter how rough,
Companions eternal, whether we're apart,
Through Jesus we're living, joined by the heart.

September 8th, 1993
Jerry Bouey

A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:17 

Our Little One (Poem)

 This poem is dedicated to “Our Little One”, who went to be with Jesus on May 21, 1997, after being in Momma’s belly for 15 or so weeks. In October, 1997, I (Angela) found out I was pregnant again, and gave birth to Abigail, June 1998, then Melissa, June 2001, and Carolyn Ann-Marie in October 2004.

It is my hope and prayer that many find solace in the confident hope that their precious “little one” is with the Lord.

But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me. 2 Samuel 12:23 (King David speaking)

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 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. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

God is gracious!

Our Little One

Didn’t know if you were a boy or girl.
Would your hair be straight, or would it curl?
Would you be dark like your Daddy,
or would you be fair skinned like me?

Would you love to run and play outside,
or be a homebody by Momma’s side?
Would your mind in the clouds often wander,
or would engineering feats, be what you ponder?

The Lord never let us know these things,
but he knew the joy you’d bring.
Even carrying you for such a short time,
making me yearn for a new Little One in His time.

Your time with us was, oh so brief.
Your loss, brought us so much grief.
Yet through it all, I learned to see,
how My Lord, He walks with me.

I could not wish you back with us,
for surely, I have learned to trust,
and know you are safer with the Lord,
and am glad for the short time He could afford.

For surely, He must love you so,
to take you from us, and this I know,
that one day up in glory, when my Jesus I shall see,
there’ll be another Special Little One, waiting up there for me!

Angela Trenholm
September 26, 2000

Wings (Song)

 

Wings

I'm flying with the wings of an eagle
Soaring up above in the sky
My thoughts are on the things of Heaven
I'll worship my Creator on high.

I'm swiftly running - somehow I'm not weary
I won't give up, there's a race to be won
I'll keep my eyes on the Author, Finisher of faith
There's a new song of praise to be sung.

I'm walking while the going is easy
I won't tremble though the road gets hard
The Son of God is a mighty fortress
He's my Rock, my shelter, my guard.

Though Satan desires I should stumble
As he sets each trap, to my protector I fly
When it seems I can't win, and the snare closes in
On wings my Father will bear me up high.

Though thousands around me should perish
I won't fear for my redemption draws nigh
While lightning flashes across the heavens
On wings of rapture I'll meet my Lord in the sky.

December 10th, 1994
Jerry Bouey

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.
Isaiah 40:31

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress:
my God; in Him will I trust.
He shall cover thee with His feathers,
and under His wings shalt thou trust:
His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Psalms 91:1-2, 4

Prayer For Perfect Peace (Song)

 

Prayer For Perfect Peace

(To the tune of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness")

I need Your peace, dear Lord, oh how I dearly cry,
Fill me with strength and grace before I die!
I'm at the end of hope, help me to cling and cope,
Hold me in Your arms and bear me up high.

Help me to look to You and cling to You daily,
Help me to trust in faith, and cast fears away,
Grant me your perfect peace, please fill my mind with ease,
Comfort and strengthen my heart, Lord, I pray.

Father, I'm trembling, and troubled, and worried;
I give these cares to you, oh take them away!
Help me to lean on you, I'm wearied with struggling,
Fill my aching heart with Your peace today.

June 3rd, 2001
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Mama Pat)

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,
whose mind is stayed on Thee:
because he trusteth in Thee.
Isaiah 26:3

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,
shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7

True Love (Poem)

 

True Love

A love so true, someone who is always there,
You love me, Lord, and I know that you care.
Though others disappoint and are always changing,
I know that You never will.
When life is turbulent and the road is twisting,
You say to my heart, "Be still."

I must rest solely in Your tender arms,
Guarded by the strength You convey;
All others will fail time and again,
But You, my God, will always stay.

When my heart is aching inside,
no matter the reasons why,
You touch the wounds, heal the hurts,
and dry these tears I cry.

When something is missing in my life,
And my heart yearns for something more,
You teach me of Your covenant love,
And the hope that is laid up in store.

When I'm lonely inside, Your arms are open wide,
Sheltering and protecting, so strong, yet mild.
Your Spirit stirs within my heart, fixing every broken part,
Reminding me that I'm Your child.

Though some things in life are unsure,
And at times I feel left all alone,
You touch my heart and I am content,
Your love surrounds me - I feel right at home.

August 13th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

We love him, because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19

The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms...
Deuteronomy 33:27a

Be still, and know that I am God:
I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10