The Haven Of Rest (Hymn)

The Haven Of Rest
(Words: Henry L. Gilmour)

My soul in sad exile was out on life's sea,
So burdened with sin and distressed,
Till I heard a sweet voice, saying,
"Make Me your choice";
And I entered the "Haven of Rest"!

Chorus:
I've anchored my soul in the "Haven of Rest,"
I'll sail the wide seas no more;
The tempest may sweep over the wild, stormy, deep,
In Jesus I'm safe evermore.

I yielded myself to His tender embrace,
In faith taking hold of the Word,
My fetters fell off, and I anchored my soul;
The "Haven of Rest" is my Lord.

The song of my soul, since the Lord made me whole,
Has been the old story so blest,
Of Jesus, Who'll save whosoever will have
A home in the "Haven of Rest."

How precious the thought that we all may recline,
Like John, the beloved so blest,
On Jesus' strong arm, where no tempest can harm,
Secure in the "Haven of Rest."

O come to the Savior, He patiently waits
To save by His power divine;
Come, anchor your soul in the "Haven of Rest,"
And say, "My Beloved is mine."

 Psalm 107:23-32 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep. For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof. They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble. They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wits' end. Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven. Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.

My Rest (Poem by Angela Trenholm)

 

My Rest

He's my life, He's my all;
Without Him I would fall.
Every day, every hour;
Jesus keeps me by His power.

Through the assurance of His Word.
I know all His promises are true.
By faith, I stand upon them,
And my God makes all things new.

Though my trials like raging storms blow,
Help to endure is always present from above.
Not a sigh nor a loss in my life here below.
Could ever dim the glory of my Saviour's love.

Though clouds of sorrow seem to hide
His presence in the night,
There's not a moment in my life
When His guiding hand is not in sight.

All for His glory He will perform,
What He has promised in me, to conform.
He who hath begun a good work in me,
Will perform it until my Saviour I shall see.

Then one day I will cross over,
When He opens that final door,
And He transforms this corruptible
To His perfect likeness forever more.

When I stand to give account,
"Will I come forth as gold?" will be my test,
No more will I fight this robe of flesh
As in my Saviour I take my rest.

And with the saints in glory,
I stand with Him for eternal days.
O for a thousand tongues to sing
My Great Redeemer's praise!

June 13th, 2003
Angela Trenholm

1 John 3:1-3 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

1 Corinthians 15:51-54 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Walking on the Water With Jesus (Poem)

Walking on the Water With Jesus

Walking boldly on the water with Jesus,
Knowing the waves are under His full control;
Having sure footing in the midst of the storm,
Oh, the joy and wonder that thrills my soul.

Stepping out in faith is so amazing,
Though this situation seems almost unreal;
I’m the only one brave enough to stand on the waves,
Imagine what all these fishermen must feel.

But looking out upon the deep is very daunting -
The wind is scattering the clouds across the sky;
Slowly, I’m beginning to sink in the water;
Faltering, “Lord, save me” is all I can cry.

Immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand and caught me,
He held me up safely though the storm raged about;
Soon we were in the ship and the waves stopped their roaring;
He said, “O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?”

Whether in the ship or out upon the water,
The Master of the waves controls the windswept sea.
It’s not the storm or calm without the ship that matters -
But the peace within my heart that my Lord gives me.

If all you can do is cry out to your Saviour
When the wind and the waves flood your soul,
Remember the Shepherd shelters you in His arms -
Jesus holds you close and will never let you go.

November 27, 2023
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to a friend who feels she is sinking in the waves)

Matthew 14:22-33 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

A Silent Prayer (Poem)

 

A Silent Prayer

When I lose sight of the goal
And take my eyes off of the prize,
When all I can see are the mountains
That rise before my eyes,
When all I can feel are the waves
That come breaking over my soul,
Precious Jesus, I need Your touch
To heal me and make me whole.

I've fought the good fight, at times it seemed rough,
I've kept the faith, even when it was tough,
I wish I could finish my course with ease,
But sometimes I waver in times like these.

My heart is weighed down and burdened with care,
Lord, I lift up to you this silent prayer.
Don't let me falter - let me be steadfast,
Give me a hope that will be sure to last -
A confident expectation that all will work out for good -
Even when it seems there's no way that it possibly could.

When my own strength begins to fail,
Anchor my faith within the veil,
Where Jesus is.

October 17th, 2001
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to Lori Tremblay, my sis)

... That we might have a strong consolation,
who have fled for refuge
to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul,
both sure and stedfast,
and which entereth into that within the veil;
Whither the forerunner is for us entered,
even Jesus...
Hebrews 6:18-20

The Tempest Of The Lord - Psalm 107 (Poem)

 

The Tempest Of The Lord

(Psalm 107:23-32)

The tempest rages sudden,
Cruel winds prevail strong,
Though jagged lightning spears the sky,
The night seems dark and long.

The storm crashes down upon them,
Pounding waves overflow,
All thoughts of mercy fade away
To fear, and anguish below.

Mounting high to heaven then
To the depths, plunging down,
Troubled souls melting, at wits end,
No refuge to be found.

But then out from distressed hearts,
Comes a wretched, ragged cry,
The storm calms down, the waves are still,
The Lord of hosts draws nigh.

Chastening, then conviction,
Turning away from sin,
Praying and seeking forgiveness,
Restored to God again.

Peace floods the trembling soul,
The haven is in sight,
A rainbow pierces through the clouds,
And scatters darkest night.

Bless the Lord for His goodness,
Exalt Him for His grace,
Give Him thanks ye children of men,
Oh give Him love and praise.

August 11th, 2000
Jerry Bouey

Matthew 8:23-27 And when He was entered into a ship, His disciples followed Him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but He was asleep. And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And He saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him!

Read also Jonah 1-2

A Reststop Along The Way (Poem)

A Reststop Along The Way

When the valleys of life seem so dreary,
And the way ahead seems so hard,
My soul aches and cries out for a reststop -
Somewhere safe I can let down my guard.

A place of calm within the tempest,
A hiding place from the wintery blast.
A place of refuge for my troubled heart -
Where Shiloh’s waters flow gently past.

A comfort in my time of trouble;
A haven of rest in my darkest day;
A sanctuary where my soul is safe,
A blessed shelter along the way.

When I am dry and my soul is thirsty,
You alone bring soothing to my pain;
You are the only shadow in this weary land -
The refreshing cloud that comes with the rain.

My soul is hid in the cleft of the Rock -
You’re my High Tower in the midst of my strife,
You hold me close in your everlasting arms,
And feed me with Your words of life.

All that I need I find in You, Jesus -
You are the Shepherd that leads me each day;
Your peace prevails in this heart of mine,
In You, I find the rest I need along life’s way.

You are my Reststop along life’s way.

April 11th, 2023
Jerry Bouey

Dedicated to a dear friend who gave me this wonderful quote in the midst of the trial she is currently going through (and where the idea for this poem came from):

"This is God's will, His plan, the roadblocks won't stop Him. I don't know what is to come, but I do know God is paving the road. Somewhere, in His time, there will be a reststop, where the view will be beautiful, and our great God will be there to carry us home on the great wings of love."

Isaiah 32:2 And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

Genesis 49:10 The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be.

Isaiah 8:6 …the waters of Shiloah that go softly…

Psalms 107:28-30 Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

Psalms 32:7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.

Proverbs 16:15 In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

Psalms 23:1-3 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Soaring Aloft On Eagle's Wings (Poem)

Soaring Aloft On Eagle’s Wings

Tossed to and fro in the path of the storm,
Gray clouds lowering and blocking my view;
Growing so weary in this turbulent wind,
How do I rise upwards in faith to You?

My strength needn’t falter or flag in the air,
All I need is to trust and wait on the Lord;
When I look up to You in heartfelt prayer,
In victory, I find my spirit has soared.

Finding courage to face this storm head on;
Claiming Your promises and rising above;
These clouds won’t hold me back from serving my Lord,
I’m soaring aloft on Your wings of love.

I’m flying so high up on eagle’s wings,
Far above the dreary world below;
High over all my worries and my cares -
All those fears that once troubled me so.

I’m soaring above in the clear blue sky,
Higher than those clouds that darkened my day;
Rising towards the Sun of Righteousness,
His Word, like a beacon, illumines my way.

There’s a gentle calmness within my heart,
Held aloft by Jesus’ everlasting arms,
There’s peace within, no foes to alarm me;
Safe in the stillness in the eye of the storm.

You calm the winds and still all their waves,
You control the course of the water ways;
You lift me up above all the noise of strife,
Unfettered, my soul soars to You in praise.

Flying aloft on these eagle’s wings,
No earthly troubles to hinder my view;
Heaven’s expanse opened before my eyes,
Content and at home, soaring straight towards You.

October 18th, 2021
Jerry Bouey

Psalms 93 The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved. Thy throne is established of old: thou art from everlasting. The floods have lifted up, O LORD, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves. The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.

Psalms 84:1-3 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.

1 Samuel 15:29 And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.

Interesting that the word Strength in the verse above has this meaning:

“from 5329; properly, a goal, i.e. the bright object at a distance travelled towards… usually (adverbially), continually (i.e. to the most distant point of view).” 24 times this word is translated as "ever", usually in the phrase "for ever" - which makes me think of a distant point that you are continuing towards on and on, ongoing, not quite reaching the end in this life, but striving towards it nonetheless.

Strong’s # 5329 has this definition:

“properly, to glitter from afar, i.e. to be eminent… to excel, be bright, be preeminent, be perpetual, be overseer, be enduring.”

The picture that comes to my mind is that of travelling towards a city and seeing the bright lights off in the distance, knowing that those lights bring you closer and closer to your destination, your home. The Lord Jesus Christ is the Strength of Israel - He’s the bright object in the distance, dwelling with Him forever in Heaven is the goal we are travelling towards. Our eternal home is in Him.

Hebrews 11:10, 13-16 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God... These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

If you are interested, please visit the link below to hear this poem presented in church:
(The audio recording is at the top of the page)

Soaring Aloft On Eagle's Wings

Love Broke Through (Song)

Love Broke Through

I left my shelter, wandered out into harm;
My faith grew so weak in the path of the storm.
A trial of my choosing; no one else to blame;
But His love broke through when I called on His name.

Chorus:
Love broke through the clouds, Love scattered the rain;
God’s love brought healing in the midst of my pain.
When the wind and the waves were all I could view,
Jesus calmed the storm, and His love broke through.

The wind rose so sudden, the thunder now roared;
I was all but sinking; my faith came unmoored.
A trial to test me – how could I survive?
Love broke through and showed me, “My Saviour’s alive!”

When loved ones were drowning; all seemed nearly lost,
I wanted to save them, whatever the cost;
But my strength was useless – oh, what could I do?
I called on the Saviour, and His love broke through.

When the wind and the waves were all I could view,
Jesus calmed my storm, and His love broke through.

December 24th, 2010
Jerry Bouey

Matthew 8:23-27 And when he (Jesus) was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye so fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?

Matthew 14:24-33 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth, thou art the Son of God.

P.S. Poem edited slightly on January 2nd, 2011, due to the input of two friends. Thanks for helping me make this song even better! ;)

I Shall Come Forth As Gold (Song)

I Shall Come Forth As Gold

No longer on the mountaintop,
The tempests wax fierce and hot;
Though the way ahead may seem rough,
His grace will always be enough -
For when He has tried me,
I shall come forth as gold.

Chorus:
As gold, as gold, I shall come forth as gold;
As gold, as gold, I shall come forth as gold.

As I walk through the shadow of death,
This valley seems to steal my breath;
Though I cannot yet see my way,
I will trust in Jesus come what may -
For when He has tried me,
I shall come forth as gold.

When storm clouds carry doubt and fear,
I will not fret for God is near.
Though I walk through the darkest day,
Through faith, my Lord will light my way -
For when He has tried me,
I shall come forth as gold.

Someday my skies will clear again,
The clouds will part - I shall see Him!
Now by faith, but then by sight,
I'll behold my King in all His might -
For when He has tried me,
I shall come forth as gold.

June 22nd, 2003
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to my friend, Kat Aulin, who put this song to music.

I look forward to the day I will hear you play your beautiful music again.)

Behold, I go forward, but He is not there;
and backward, but I cannot perceive Him:
On the left hand, where He doth work,
but I cannot behold Him:
He hideth Himself on the right hand,
that I cannot see Him:
But He knoweth the way that I take:
when He hath tried me,
I shall come forth as gold.
Job 23:8-10

God's Love Through The Storm (Poem)

On Wednesday (January 20th), I preached through Jonah chapter one, and emphasized that it was the Lord that brought the storm to bring Jonah back to Him. This storm also caused the unsaved mariners to realize their gods were false and the God of the Hebrews (the God of the Bible) was the true God, and they turned to Him in repentance and faith. I believe God showed His love in that storm - the storm that He caused and He stilled all by His power and wisdom. What storms are you going through? Can you see God's love through your storm?

This poem is part of a poetry book the Lord enabled me to put together in 2005, entitled The Seasons Of Your Pilgrimage, containing some poems and songs by myself and several friends, as well as some poems in the Public Domain. Lord willing, I would like to start posting some more of those poems here, and indicate which ones they are by the tag "seasonsbook". If we (my webpartner or I) have a graphics page put up for the poem, I will also place the link of that page within the title itself, so you simply have to click on it to view that page on Home Of The Real McCoy or Earnestly Contending. Unfortunately, I am no longer putting up new pages on my original poetry site, but any new poems and songs that I write or that others have written that have been a real blessing to me, I will put on this blog. I hope these poems and pages are a blessing to you.

God's Love Through The Storm

I did not know His love before, the way I know it now;
I could not see my need for Him, my pride would not allow.
I had it all, without a care, the "self-sufficient" lie;
My path was smooth, my sea was still, not a cloud was in my sky.

I thought I knew His love for me, I thought I'd seen His grace;
I thought I did not need to grow, I thought I'd found my place.
But then the way grew rough and dark, the storm clouds quickly rolled;
The waves began to rock my ship, my anchor would not hold.

The ship that I had built myself was made of foolish pride;
It fell apart and left me bare, with nowhere else to hide.
I had no strength or faith to face the trials that lay ahead;
And so I simply prayed to Him and bowed my weary head.

His loving arms enveloped me, and then He helped me stand;
He said, "You still must face this storm, but I will hold your hand."
So through the dark and lonely night He guided me through pain;
I could not see the light of day or when the storm might wane.

Yet through the aches and endless tears, my faith began to grow;
I could not see it at the time, but my light began to glow.
I saw God's love in brand new light, His grace and mercy, too;
For only when all self was gone, could Jesus' love shine through.

It was not easy in the storm, I sometimes wondered, "Why?"
At times I thought, "I can't go on." I'd hurt, and doubt, and cry.
But Jesus never left my side, He guided me each day;
Through pain and strife, through fire and flood, He helped me all the way.

And now I see as never before how great His love can be;
How in my weakness He is strong, how Jesus cares for me!
He worked it all out for my good, although the way was rough;
He only sent what I could bear, and then He cried, "Enough!"

He raised His hand and said, "Be still!" He made the storm clouds cease;
He opened up the gates of joy and flooded me with peace.
I saw His face now clearer still, I felt His presence strong;
I found anew His faithfulness, He never steered me wrong.

Now I know more storms will come, but only for my good;
For pain and tears have helped me grow as naught else ever could.
I still have so much more to learn as Jesus works in me;
If in the storm I'll love Him more, that's where I want to be!

~Author Unknown~

Why Trouble The Master? (Song)

Why Trouble The Master?

Jairus' daughter lay dying, but Jesus was near;
He sought the Saviour for his loved one so dear.
Before the journey ended, his daughter had died;
The crowd now grew restless and someone soon cried,
"Why trouble the Master? Your daughter is gone.
There is no more hope here, for she has passed on."

Why trouble the Master, the Saviour of men?
When it seems all is lost, marred and scarred by sin,
He offers new beginnings, forgiveness, and grace;
Jesus loves you so much, He died in your place.
A fountain for cleansing, power from on high,
A reason for living – hear the Master’s cry.

Why trouble the Master, the Healer of men?
He alone can heal and bring to life again.
Just reach out in faith, and Jesus can make you whole,
The Master will quench that aching thirst in your soul.
He can mend broken hearts, restore broken homes.
With Jesus nearby, you are never alone.

Why trouble the Master, the Creator of all?
Because He loves you – oh, listen to His call.
He knows all things and He is still in control;
He is always at work, guarding your soul.
He sets captives free, removes darkness and strife,
Jesus can calm storms and bring peace in your life.

Why trouble the Master? The Lord alone heals!
He brings comfort and purpose, strength and new zeal.
He offers wisdom, hope, by His unfailing love,
Transformation within, and peace from above.
Watching and waiting, the whole world stops and stares:
Why trouble the Master? Because Jesus cares!

March 20th/09
Jerry Bouey

Mark 5:22-24 And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

Mark 5:35-42 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe. And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly. And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying. And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise. And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.

You can view the sheet music for this song here: Why Trouble The Master?

I Wonder... (Poem)

I Wonder

If my life were full of sunshine,
with never a rainy day,
I wonder how I'd treat my Lord
And just how much I'd pray.
If all were peace and happiness
With never a stormy sea,
I wonder if I'd live as close,
And could He speak to me?

If my heart were never broken
And never a tear I shed,
Would I search His Word for comfort
And let my soul be fed?
If through life I knew no sorrow
Or my body felt no pain,
Would I long for Heaven's glory
And Christ's return to reign?

But my Father knows the answer,
He all my weakness sees;
And perhaps He sends the storm clouds
To drive me to my knees.
So that I may learn to trust Him,
Feel secure from all that harms,
And that I may feel beneath me
His everlasting arms.

~Author Unknown~

My Hiding Place (Song)

My Hiding Place

Lord, You are my hiding place
through life's stormy gale;
You are my fount of grace
when my strength begins to fail.

Chorus:
Lord, You are my hiding place,
Standing strong and sure,
My refuge in the storms of life,
A fortress that will endure.

You are my hiding place
though enemies surround;
You fill my heart with Your peace -
peace that always abounds.

When my sins come back to haunt me
and I need a hiding place,
You shelter me under Your wings,
and remove all of sin's trace.

Lord, You are my hiding place –
Whom shall I fear?
Why should my soul be cast down
When You are always near?

You are my hiding place -
You took in this lonely waif -
In Jesus, I know I am secure,
I know I'm forever safe.

When the tempests come -
their winds and waves crash over me,
You are my hiding place -
the only place I long to be.

December 25th/02
Jerry Bouey

Thou art my hiding place;
Thou shalt preserve me from trouble;
Thou shalt compass me about
with songs of deliverance. Selah.
Psalm 32:7

Call Back (Poem)

Call Back

If you have gone a little way ahead of me, call back­;
'Twill cheer my heart and help my feet along the stony track;
And if, perchance, Faith's light is dim, because the oil is low,
Your call will guide my lagging course as wearily I go.

Call back, and tell me that He went with you into the storm;
Call back, and say He kept you when the forest's roots were torn;
That when the heavens thundered and the earthquake shook the hill,
He bore you up and held you where the very air was still.

O friend, call back and tell me, for I cannot see your face;
They say it glows with triumph, and your feet bound in the race;
But there are mists between us, and my spirit eyes are dim,
And I cannot see the glory, though I long for word of Him.

But if you'll say He heard you when your prayer was but a cry,
And if you'll say He saw you through the night's sin-darkened sky,­
If you have gone a little way ahead, O friend, call back,­
'Twill cheer my heart and help my feet along the stony track.

- Selected
(Quoted in Streams In The Desert devotional)

In Jesus by Annie Johnson Flint (Poem)

In Jesus

In the world, tribulation; but in Jesus - peace;
The heart of the whirlwind where its roarings cease,
A little home waiting, still and light and warm,
A safe sanctuary from the night and storm.

In the world, tribulation; but in Jesus - rest;
A sure place of refuge for the sore-opprest,
A guarded pavilion no device can take,
A strong-walled fortress no assault can shake.

In the world, tribulation; but in Jesus - joy;
A full cup of gladness that can never cloy,
A sweet fountain rising out of Marah's tide,
A spring of rejoicing that is never dried.

In the world, tribulation; but in Jesus - peace;
A deep, quiet harbor where the high waves cease,
A long-desired haven on a friendly shore,
Where the wild winds of oceans sweep the soul no more.

In the world, tribulation, trials all around,
For on earth no resting and no joys are found;
Let us flee to Jesus where all sorrows cease;
Here alone is gladness, here alone is peace.

~Annie Johnson Flint~

John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

"God Meant It Unto Good" (Poem)

Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

"GOD MEANT IT UNTO GOOD"

"God meant it unto good"--O blest assurance,
Falling like sunshine all across life's way,
Touching with Heaven's gold earth's darkest storm clouds,
Bringing fresh peace and comfort day by day.

'Twas not by chance the hands of faithless brethren
Sold Joseph captive to a foreign land;
Nor was it chance which, after years of suffering,
Brought him before the monarch's throne to stand.

One Eye all-seeing saw the need of thousands,
And planned to meet it through that one lone soul;
And through the weary days of prison bondage
Was working towards the great and glorious goal.

As yet the end was hidden from the captive,
The iron entered even to his soul;
His eye could scan the present path of sorrow,
Not yet his gaze might rest upon the whole.

Faith failed not through those long, dark days of waiting,
His trust in God was recompensed at last,
The moment came when God led forth His servant
To succour many, all his sufferings past.

"It was not you but God, that sent me hither,"
Witnessed triumphant faith in after days;
"God meant it unto good," no "second causes"
Mingled their discord with his song of praise.

"God means it unto good" for thee, beloved,
The God of Joseph is the same today;
His love permits afflictions strange and bitter,
His hand is guiding through the unknown way.

Thy Lord, who sees the end from the beginning,
Hath purposes for thee of love untold.
Then place thy hand in His and follow fearless,
Till thou the riches of His grace behold.

There, when thou standest in the Home of Glory,
And all life's path lies open to thy gaze,
Thine eyes shall see the hand which now thou trustest,
And magnify His love through endless days.

--Freda Hanbury Allen

(Taken from Streams In The Desert devotional)

Romans 8:28 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.

If God Himself Be for Me (Hymn)

If God Himself Be for Me

1. If God Himself be for me,
I may a host defy;
For when I pray, before me
My foes, confounded, fly.
If Christ, my Head and Master,
Befriend me from above,
What foe or what disaster
Can drive me from His love?

2. This I believe, yea, rather,
Of this I make my boast,
That God is my dear Father,
The Friend who loves me most,
And that, whate'er betide me,
My Savior is at hand
Through stormy seas to guide me
And bring me safe to land.

3. I build on this foundation,
That Jesus and His blood
Alone are my salvation,
The true, eternal good.
Without Him all that pleases
Is valueless on earth;
The gifts I owe to Jesus
Alone my love are worth.

4. My Jesus is my Splendor,
My Sun, my Light, alone;
Were He not my Defender
Before God's awe-full throne,
I never should find favor
And mercy in His sight,
But be destroyed forever
As darkness by the light.

5. He canceled my offenses,
Delivered me from death;
He is the Lord who cleanses
My soul from sin through faith.
In Him I can be cheerful,
Bold, and undaunted aye;
In Him I am not fearful
Of God's great Judgment Day.

6. Naught, naught, can now condemn me
Nor set my hope aside;
Now hell no more can claim me,
Its fury I deride.
No sentence e'er reproves me,
No ill destroys my peace;
For Christ, my Savior, loves me
And shields me with His grace.

7. His Spirit in me dwelleth,
And o'er my mind He reigns.
All sorrow He dispelleth
And soothes away all pains.
He crowns His work with blessing
And helpeth me to cry,
"My Father!" without ceasing,
To Him who dwells on high.

8. And when my soul is lying
Weak, trembling, and opprest,
He pleads with groans and sighing
That cannot be exprest;
But God's quick eye discerns them,
Although they give no sound,
And into language turns them
E'en in the heart's deep ground.

9. To mine His Spirit speaketh
Sweet word of holy cheer,
How God to him that seeketh
For rest is always near
And how He hath erected
A city fair and new,
Where what our faith expected
We evermore shall view.

10. In yonder home doth flourish
My heritage, my lot;
Though here I die and perish,
My heaven shall fail me not.
Though care my life oft saddens
And causeth tears to flow,
The light of Jesus gladdens
And sweetens every woe.

11. Who clings with resolution
To Him whom Satan hates
Must look for persecution;
For him the burden waits
Of mockery, shame, and losses,
Heaped on his blameless head;
A thousand plagues and crosses
Will be his daily bread.

12. From me this is not hidden,
Yet I am not afraid;
I leave my cares, as bidden,
To whom my vows were paid.
Though life and limb it cost me
And everything I won,
Unshaken shall I trust Thee
And cleave to Thee alone.

13. Though earth be rent asunder,
Thou'rt mine eternally;
Not fire nor sword nor thunder
Shall sever me from Thee;
Not hunger, thirst, nor danger,
Not pain nor poverty
Nor mighty princes' anger
Shall ever hinder me.

14. No angel and no gladness,
No throne, no pomp, no show,
No love, no hate, no sadness,
No pain, no depth of woe,
No scheme of man's contrivance,
However small or great,
Shall draw me from Thy guidance
Nor from Thee separate.

15. My heart for joy is springing
And can no more be sad,
'Tis full of mirth and singing,
Sees naught but sunshine glad.
The Sun that cheers my spirit
Is Jesus Christ, my King;
That which I shall inherit
Makes me rejoice and sing.

by Paul Gerhardt, 1607-1676

Immanuel (Hymn by Charles Spurgeon)

Catch up time!

Hymn for Tuesday.

Immanuel

When once I mourned a load of sin;
When conscience felt a wound within;
When all my works were thrown away;
When on my knees I knelt to pray,
Then, blissful hour, remembered well,
I learned Thy love, Immanuel.

When storms of sorrow toss my soul;
When waves of care around me roll;
When comforts sink, when joys shall flee;
When hopeless griefs shall gape for me,
One word the tempest's rage shall quell -
That word, Thy name, Immanuel.

When for the truth I suffer shame;
When foes pour scandal on my name;
When cruel taunts and jeers abound;
When "Bulls of Bashan" gird me round,
Secure within Thy tower I'll dwell -
That tower, Thy grace, Immanuel.

When hell enraged lifts up her roar;
When Satan stops my path before;
When fiends rejoice and wait my end;
When legioned hosts their arrows send,
Fear not, my soul, but hurl at hell
Thy battle-cry, Immanuel.

When down the hill of life I go;
When o'er my feet death's waters flow;
When in the deep'ning flood I sink;
When friends stand weeping on the brink,
I'll mingle with my last farewell
Thy lovely name, Immanuel.

When tears are banished from mine eye;
When fairer worlds than these are nigh;
When heaven shall fill my ravished sight;
When I shall bathe in sweet delight,
One joy all joys shall far excel,
To see Thy face, Immanuel.

~Charles Spurgeon~

This is one of my favourite poems - by my all-time favourite preacher.

If you are interested, please visit the link below to hear this poem presented in church:
(The audio recording is at the top of the page)

Immanuel

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Matthew 1:21-23 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Matthew 28:19-20 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.

Isaiah 43:1-2 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.

Psalm 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Stand By Me (Hymn)

Hymn for Sunday

Here is a song I haven't heard for a while! I think I am going to suggest it to our song leader at our next service. It is a fitting end to a week with the theme of Valleys.

Stand By Me
(Charles A. Tindley)

When the storms of life are raging,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the storms of life are raging,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the world is tossing me
Like a ship upon the sea
Thou Who rulest wind and water,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of tribulation,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of tribulation,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the hosts of hell assail,
And my strength begins to fail,
Thou Who never lost a battle,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of faults and failures,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of faults and failures,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When I do the best I can,
And my friends misunderstand,
Thou Who knowest all about me,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of persecution,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of persecution,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When my foes in battle array
Undertake to stop my way,
Thou Who saved Paul and Silas,
Stand by me (stand by me).

When I’m growing old and feeble,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When I’m growing old and feeble,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When my life becomes a burden,
And I’m nearing chilly Jordan,
O Thou “Lily of the Valley,”
Stand by me (stand by me).

Hope On (Poem)

I had this saved in an old email, though I am uncertain of the source or author - if anyone know, please pass it on to me, and I will update this page. Thank you.

Hope On

"Hope on, hope on, O troubled heart,
If doubts and fears o'ertake thee,
Remember this - the Lord hath said,
He never will forsake thee;
Then murmur not, still bear thy lot,
Nor yield to care or sorrow;
Be sure the clouds that frown today
Will break in smiles tomorrow.

"Hope on, hope on, through dark and deep
The shadows gather o'er thee;
Be not dismayed; thy Saviour holds
The lamp of life before thee;
And if He will that thou to-day
Shouldst tread the vale of sorrow;
Be not afraid, but trust and wait;
The sun, will shine tomorrow.

"Hope on, hope on, go bravely forth
Through trial and temptation,
Directed by the worth of truth,
So full of consolation;
There is a calm for every storm,
A joy for every sorrow,
A night from which the soul shall wake
To hail an endless morrow."