Is Your All On The Altar? (Hymn)

 Is Your All On The Altar?
(Lyrics by Elisha A. Hoffman)

You have longed for sweet peace,
And for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest,
Or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.

Chorus:
Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest,
And have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.

Would you walk with the Lord,
In the light of His Word,
And have peace and contentment alway?
You must do His sweet will,
To be free from all ill,
On the altar your all you must lay.

O we never can know
What the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul
He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.

Who can tell all the love
He will send from above,
And how happy our hearts will be made,
Of the fellowship sweet
We shall share at His feet,
When our all on the altar is laid.

Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 

Like A River Glorious (Hymn)

Like A River Glorious
(Lyrics:Frances Havergal)

Like a river glorious, is God s perfect peace,
Over all victorious, in its bright increase;
Perfect, yet it floweth, fuller every day,
Perfect, yet it groweth, deeper all the way.

Chorus:
Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest
Finding, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.

Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand,
Never foe can follow, never traitor stand;
Not a surge of worry, not a shade of care,
Not a blast of hurry, touch the spirit there.

Every joy or trial falleth from above,
Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love;
We may trust Him fully all for us to do.
They who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.

Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:

Philippians 4:6-7 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. 

Open Doors (Poem)

 

Open Doors

In every person’s life, we find so many doors opened or closed;
The True Light shines out amongst us, which the darkness has always opposed.
Jesus is the only Saviour - He is the Way to Heaven’s shore.
For all the lost and scattered sheep, Jesus says, “Behold, I Am the Door.”

All we like sheep have gone astray, but the price has been fully paid;
On the cross of Calvary, all our iniquities on Him were laid.
Today is the day of salvation; oh, sinner, what are you waiting for?
The Saviour still is pleading - behold, He is knocking at your heart’s door.

Open doors and open windows, filled with many blessings from above.
“See how I will pour you out a blessing so there will always be enough.
Test Me now, and try Me, my child, claim all of these promises so true.
As you walk through these doors of ministry, know I will always be with you.”

One day soon, there’ll be a voice like a trumpet, and in the twinkling of an eye,
We will hear, “Come up hither,” and see our Saviour coming in the clouds of the sky;
We will be caught up together with Him and rise through Heaven’s open door -
Hallelujah, what glorious rapture to be forever with the Lord.

Praise the Lord for open doors.

November 3rd, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Faith Baptist Church,
for our 40th Church Anniversary)

Jesus Is The Door Of The Sheep

John 10:7, 9 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep… I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

The Open Door Of Faith

Acts 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

The Open Door To Ministry

1 Corinthians 16:9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

Revelation 3:7-8 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

The Open Door To Preaching

2 Corinthians 2:12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,

Colossians 4:2-4 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

The Open Door To Heaven (The Rapture)

Revelation 4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

The Open Door To Jesus’ Return

James 5:9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Matthew 24:33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

Going Through The Door (Poem)

 

Going Through The Door

I'm dying now, he thought, there's no one here to hold my hand -
No one but my Saviour, though I know He understands.
Times have sure been lonely, and my friends have gone away,
I sit here in my easy chair, waiting for the end of day.

My chest is hurting more now and the pain seems awful strong,
But there's a peace within me and on my lips a whispered song.
I try to reach for the phone now, but it seems too far away.
I want to call out to my wife but all I can do is pray.

There are no words coming forth, but my thoughts are racing fast;
In sweet silent meditation, I look back over my past.
Short of breath, I stop to wonder, "Was my life worth it all?"
Then I think of Jesus, and His loving Gospel call:

How He came to me and saved me, changed my heart from within,
How He purchased my full redemption and took away my sin.
Through many years of service, no, I've no regrets,
Because I have a home in Heaven that still awaits me yet.

A sudden sharp pain pricks me, and I slump down to the floor -
Now I can see all my loved ones that I knew had gone on before.
Look there is my beloved daughter, whom the fever took years ago,
And my precious little brother, who had that awful accident in the snow.

Oh, they look so bright and cheerful, how can this vision be true?
Then I remember that Jesus, my Saviour, was their Saviour too.
I reach out for my daughter and she stretches forth her hand,
And says, "Daddy, let's go see Jesus, and walk through Heaven's land."

I look all around me, but this old world seems mighty dim,
And then I see my Jesus, and my soul is awed by Him.
As I stand up to receive Him, into His arms I flee,
And the pain is gone forever, as my strength returns to me.

Dressed in robes of purest white, through pearly gates I walk along
Into the land of forever, with a joyous heart-felt song,
And see multitudes around me, praising and calling out His name,
With love in their hearts flowing, and their souls kindled flames.

I think about my darling wife now, and I know she will be home soon,
When she has finished running her course, for the Lord has prepared her room.
Face to face at last with Jesus, what a beauty our eyes can see,
And I am overwhelmed anew by the love my Saviour has for me.

December 13th, 2002
Jerry Bouey

Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.

(This poem is dedicated to my Dad. I miss you and know we will see each other again in glory.)

This is one of the few fictional poems I have written as a believer. Most are written to share Bible promises, to exhort others to trust the Lord in their trials, to express what I am going through, to put in emotional words what I am learning from God's Word - but this is one of the few that was just written as a "what if?" type of poem, sharing ideas I had read about that some other believers were going through at the end of their lives.

In April 2006, my relatives adapted this poem to be read at my Dad's memorial. They removed the fictional family references, but basically kept the rest. My Dad got saved about a year or two before he passed away. Part of this poem fits him - he passed away in another room by himself, stopped breathing, one second he was here, the next he was in glory. I am sure Jesus took him through the door to Heaven.

God Is So Gracious (Poem)

 

God Is So Gracious

God is so gracious, so good and so true;
Our eternal Father, He loves me and you.
He will bless us and keep us near Him forever -
Nothing on earth from His love can sever.

His praises ring out, joyous and free;
Removes the scales and helps us to see;
Filling us with peace, our minds and our hearts -
Love enters in, and sin soon departs.

Now a new creation through Jesus, the Son;
No more false idols, He's the only one.
A sacrificial Lamb, the Creator of love,
All gifts and true blessings He sends from above.

Jesus is Lord of all, through eternity,
Holy and mighty and righteous is He.
Through Him we live, our sins atoned,
Glory to Him who sits on the throne.

December 22, 1993
Jerry Bouey

Romans 8:35, 37-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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

God Is In Control (Poem)

 

God Is In Control

God is in control;
Sometimes it’s hard to see.
It’s time we faced his reality.
God is supreme
In His sovereignty;
He is in control of eternity.

We reach for Him,
We try to grasp His hand;
He has made a way
Just like He planned.
His Son died for the sins of man;
He is our only sacrificial Lamb.

He paid the price;
He bore all our shame.
He gives life to those who
Believe on His name.
Take the free gift of God,
It’s yours to claim.
He will change your heart;
You will never be the same.

May 2nd, 1994
Jerry Bouey

Isaiah prophesying about the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ:

Isaiah 53:1-6
Who hath believed our report?
and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant,
and as a root out of a dry ground:
he hath no form nor comeliness;
and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
He is despised and rejected of men;
a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief:
and we hid as it were our faces from him;
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
Surely he hath borne our griefs,
and carried our sorrows:
yet we did esteem him stricken,
smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions,
he was bruised for our iniquities:
the chastisement of our peace was upon him;
and with his stripes we are healed.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned every one to his own way;
and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Acts 17:26-28a And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being…

Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

Freely Forgiven (Poem)

 

Freely Forgiven

Freely forgiven - Jesus counted the cost.
He loves you so much, even though you are lost.
Freely forgiven - Jesus paid the price,
Suffered in your place, He is your sacrifice.

Freely forgiven - But the price was so high.
Freely forgiven - The Son of God came to die.
Freely forgiven - Forgiveness won't cost you a thing.
Freely forgiven - Because, for you, Jesus gave everything.

Freely forgiven - Jesus gave His life for you.
He suffered for your sins - What will you do?
Freely forgiven - But it cost Jesus all.
He died to redeem you - Will you answer His call?

August 18th, 2002
Jerry Bouey

Luke 14:28-30 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

John 19:30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, He said, It is finished: and He bowed His head, and gave up the ghost. 

Contend For The Faith (Poem)

 

Contend For The Faith

When this lost world wants to bring you down,
When the error of the wicked everywhere abounds,
Hold fast what you have, that no man take your crown.
Contend for the faith - you're standing on holy ground.

For the unsaved that God places in your path each day -
For the prodigal sons that have wandered astray -
Put on your Gospel Armour and enter the fray.
Contend for the faith - and fervently pray.

For the lost in a world that is reaching its end - contend!
For the precious souls of your loved ones and friends - contend!
Against a society that doesn't dare to "offend" - contend!
For the Truths on which eternal life depends - contend!

June 19th, 2002
Jerry Bouey

Jude 3-4 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. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Jude 17-19 But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.

2 Peter 3:3-4 Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

2 Timothy 4:1-5 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

Jerusalem - The City Of The Great King (Poem)

 

Jerusalem - The City Of The Great King

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.
It’s the city of our Lord, where one day He will reign in majesty.
Though we do not see it now, this future will soon come to be -
So pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

When all things will be fulfilled, what glorious beauty will we behold;
Let us go to the city of our God, which He has chosen from of old.
We long to see your walls called salvation, and your gates called praise -
Where the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour, will rule and reign always.

A beautiful city not forsaken, where righteousness and truth abides;
A city filled forever with God’s presence, where His glory continually resides.
Jerusalem - peace flows like a river in this city of rejoicing;
All my springs are in you, oh Zion, the city of the Great King!

October 20, 2024
Jerry Bouey

There are so many promises in the Scriptures about Jerusalem, the city of God, and how it will be transformed during the Lord Jesus Christ's Millennial kingdom, when He is ruling from the throne of Israel, and when righteousness, truth and peace dwell within its walls. I can't wait to see the city of Jerusalem in that day!

Isaiah 2:1-5 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.

Micah 4:1-4 But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it. And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree; and none shall make them afraid: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken it.

Psalms 48:1-2 A SONG AND PSALM FOR THE SONS OF KORAH. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

Psalms 78:68 But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved.

Psalms 87:1-3 A PSALM OR SONG FOR THE SONS OF KORAH. His foundation is in the holy mountains. The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.

Psalms 87:5-7 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her. The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah. As well the singers as the players on instruments shall be there: all my springs are in thee.

Psalms 122:6-7 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.

Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

Isaiah 60:18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.

Isaiah 62:6-7 I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence, And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.

Isaiah 62:11-12 Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed unto the end of the world, Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. And they shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the LORD: and thou shalt be called, Sought out, A city not forsaken.

Isaiah 65:17-25 For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying. There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed. And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them. They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them. And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 31:23 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As yet they shall use this speech in the land of Judah and in the cities thereof, when I shall bring again their captivity; The LORD bless thee, O habitation of justice, and mountain of holiness.

Ezekiel 5:5 Thus saith the Lord GOD; This is Jerusalem: I have set it in the midst of the nations and countries that are round about her.

Zechariah 8:3 Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.

My Beloved Child (Poem)

 

My Beloved Child

Comfortless? Abandoned? No, I would never leave you that way.
You’re My child, and I love you. I’m watching over you each day.
Forsaken? Defenseless? Impossible - that could never be.
I’m with you every moment; oh, My dear child, can’t you see?

I will never leave you, nor forsake you - you have that promise from My heart.
You are walking close beside me, from you I will never, ever depart.
I will carry you safely in my arms, and beside you I will stand;
I could never leave you; oh, My child - you are graven upon my hands!

Though you struggle in the darkness, troubled at the trials you see,
I could never leave you comfortless; oh, My child, you matter to Me.
You are precious in My sight - I will never leave you alone;
I saved you by My might, and I will bring you safely home.

You are My child - that’s a promise, from that instant you knelt to pray;
When you received My Son as your Saviour, I adopted you that day.
Comfortless? Abandoned? No - from that moment on you were with Me.
I’m your Father - when you became My child, I adopted you for eternity!

October 17th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Christmas Project 2024,
Dedicated to Jen)

John 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

Comfortless here is the Greek word orphanos. God will never leave you comfortless like a parent without a child.

Isaiah 49:15-16 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.

Ephesians 1:4-6 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

Romans 8:15-16 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

Abba means “Daddy.” When you trust the Lord Jesus Christ alone for salvation, believing that He shed His blood for you on the cross, that He died and rose again, God becomes your heavenly Father and adopts you as His child. Then He becomes your Abba, Father.

Galatians 4:4-6 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

God Is Still Upon His Throne (Poem)

 

God Is Still Upon His Throne

I know that there's a reason for the brokenness in me:
There's a purpose, there's a plan for all the things I see.
When I'm ready to give up and feel abandoned on the shelf,
Sometimes it's only just a matter of getting past myself.

Even through my trials, there’s a purpose in God’s plan:
There’s a higher will at work that does not depend on man.
When I bow to Your will, Father, all things fall into place.
One day at a time, running with patient hope in this race.

Putting my eyes back on the Lord, looking to Jesus alone.
Trusting fully in my Saviour; He’s made all my cares His own.
There’s a peace within my soul, for God is still upon His throne,
And I am secure in Him forever; my heart is safely home.

October 15th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Christmas Project 2024,
Dedicated to Craig Watson)

Romans 8:28-29 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

Jeremiah 29:11  For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

Matthew 6:31-34 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

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.

(Part of this poem was originally written on January 29th, 2010, but I found it saved in a folder on October 15th, 2024, and decided to use and adapt it as the first poem for this year's Christmas Project. May the finished poem be a blessing to you.)

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.