Poetry With A Mission

...a thought provoking poetical exercise.

(On behalf of those who’re hurting)

You’re discouraged, struggling, hurting, wanting help, are in need of serious prayer,
And desire evidence that God is real, and that other Christians really care.
I mean, really care, not the usual platitudes, that pie in the sky stuff,
Which what little faith and hope that you’ve managed to muster is destined to snuff.

Yes, “I’ll pray for you,” they say, that’s if they remember, being busy and all that,
And as they bid their leave, it’s, “Chin up, we’re all struggling,” and the proverbial pat.
Come their prayer by rote time, you may get mentioned, but not for long, nor fervently,
And there you remain, racking your brain, and thinking “Where’s true Christianity?”

You hear them talking about faith, hope, love and care, even the power of prayer,
But oh dear, amidst it all, it seems that they have forgotten that you’re still there.
They seldom, if ever, get back to you, nor really wrestle on your behalf,
Which leaves you feeling much worse, and thinking that the whole thing’s just a joke, a laugh.

“Stop the charade!” you’d love to scream, or perhaps you lose it, and do let such fly,
Which well and truly sees them back off, and the next minute, even “Don’t judge me!” cry.
Anything but admit that they should’ve done more (and they should’ve, in your case),
But isn’t that the way, for how many people such truth are willing to face?

And so you crawl back into your little hole, feeling like throwing it all in,
Wondering where God has got to, and those Christians who are in fact genuine —
You know, those who truly make the effort, willingly, ceaselessly, gut wrenchingly,
And who keep in contact like they should, talking and acting encouragingly.

Yes,

Some Christians seem far too busy playing church, they’re too involved in this or that,
Or too caught up in their own pursuits, thus haven’t time to visit, nor to chat.
So you have to make it on your own, if you can, and many can’t, and fall away,
Having been left alone and unattended for too long, or fed scraps like a stray.

Yes, you’re tired of it all, have been there a number of times, unfortunately,
Trying to stand on your own spiritual feet, but not finding it easy.
If not slugged by the devil, slugged by fellow Christians who neglect and pat the head,
Too busy, distracted, engrossed, or — no, perhaps some things are best left unsaid.

By Lance Landall

2.  Dear Sandra

It pained me to hear of your unfortunate experience and departure from Christianity,
'Cause such not only tears my heart, but more so the heart of He who suffered horribly on Calvary.
Christ knew your new found walk-cum-daily cross wouldn’t be easy, 'cause Satan's not our only enemy,
But oft those who're simply Christian in name, be they deluded or hiding behind Christianity.

The biggest tests-cum-trials oft come from our own — in this case, fellow Christians, even those ones who're true,
'Cause sanctification's the work of a lifetime, hence those meantime things our brothers and sisters oft do.
We don’t magically become like Christ the moment we surrender our all to Him, hence His saving grace,
And to be honest, we’ll always err, 'cause we’re fallen creatures, and this sad reality need to face.

Sometimes we err big time, still struggling with our old self, not to mention background, circumstances and trials,
And we most regretful of our wrongdoings, our succumbing to any of Satan's beguiling spells.
 And they being, Satan's temptations, all of which can or does impact on others, unfortunately,
And also damages our Christian witness, or even worse, puts others right off Christianity.

But having said that, Satan has also and always operated very cunningly from within,
'Cause that's often the best way to destroy something, thus using hypocrites to thwart the genuine.
Or if not hypocrites, those who've no place there at all, agents of the devil who work destructively,
Within each congregation, that is — both personally and officially, and within Christianity.

Hence why we must keep our eyes on Christ alone, and not put our faith in others, or denominations,
'Cause both people and organisations will always be flawed, hence those common complaints, accusations.
We live in an imperfect world, a world full of broken vessels to whom sinning comes naturally,
All of which is why we’ll always be disappointed by what we experience, unfortunately.

Well, Sandra, rather than run the risk of repeating myself, there's one final thing I would like to say,
Please return to the safety of the Ark, those loving arms of Christ, He who'll never ever dismay,
'Cause the Christian who lets anyone or anything come between them and their salvation is a fool,
'Cause over their folly, eternal loss and destruction, Satan and his evil cohorts no doubt drool.

You may feel those words are a little harsh, Sandra, but your salvation’s no small matter, and nor that cost,
Yes, all that suffering that Christ went through on your behalf in order to ensure that you wouldn’t be lost,
If you remain faithful to Him, that is, despite those things you experience within Christianity
From fellow Christians, who, by the way, given that Christ is also our judge, may not receive eternity.

Your concerned friend,

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?’ And then will I profess unto them, ‘I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity’ ” (Matt 7:22,23, KJV).

3.  Regarding New Christians

Please take care when it comes to newcomers to the Christian Faith, lest they're forced to walk before they can crawl,
And by that I mean, not burdening them too soon with this or that, 'cause such is likely to see them sprawl,
'Cause growth takes time, as old ways must give way to new, and letting go isn’t an instant thing, nor easy,
And many still have issues they’re dealing with, they vulnerable and fragile, hence why some  leave, sadly.

And dare we be the cause via neglect or thoughtlessness, expectations that are too high initially,
They exiting as quick as they came, another wound now, and they perhaps anti Christianity.
Oh, those platitudes, that too heavenly minded to be any earthly good, thing, or hypocrisy,
They upset at finding what they’d hoped they'd left behind, that lack of difference-cum-just as worldly.

Satan's on the tail of us all, he and his mates acting like a pack of wolves, hungry, mean and angry,
And well aware of those who're easy prey, the newest and weakest, thus snapping at their heels viciously.
And as for those ones who’re besieged by troubles — well, that’s oft thanks to Satan and his nasty comrades too,
Who've a habit of using other members to do their dirty work for them, a sure to work avenue.

Hence why newcomers, weak Christians, or Christians besieged with troubles, should be surrounded with love and care,
Conscientiously watched over by the rest of the flock who’re more battle savvy and experience share.
'Cause when the vulnerable and fragile are left alone, they’re easily savaged by evil marauders,
Hence why many soon fall by the way, thanks to internal, external, earthly, demonic saboteurs.

The Christian walk is far from easy — if one’s walking truly, that is — 'cause Satan hates the committed,
And trials are necessary for building character, inner strength, which is why trials are permitted.
But be it newcomers or seasoned Christians, all should get due attention, such plain  Christianity,
Ordered by Christ, 'cause those who don’t love and treat others like our Saviour does, don’t deserve eternity.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

4.  Don't Drop The Ball Too

Woe to those pastors who only seem to be into numbers and hardly souls,
Just a few studies beforehand and then into the font and on the church rolls.
Yes, it’s rush, rush, and once baptised, those new converts without ongoing studies,
And hence why the back door swings, its hinges oiled by the neglected such as these.

But dear Christian whose spouse is a new convert too, dare you as well, upset God’s Son,
By just lamenting the fact and not jumping up and down when little is done.
Christ wanting as many souls saved as possible, and He even more upset
If there they were in church, and you just relied on the pastor, enter regret.

Yes, woe betide such pastors, but that doesn’t let you off the hook, believe me,
Time critical, Satan making the most of any lost opportunity.
And then it often too late, pastors only one port of call, and hence why all
Need to look after new converts as well, it not just pastors who drop the ball.

By Lance Landall

5.  Dear New Convert

When we find the Lord and surrender our whole life to Him, He has to test us,
And you know, no one was tested as severely as the Son of Man, Jesus.
And that test can come in many forms, as it did with Job of old, who stayed true,
And our faithful, obedient Saviour is hoping the same proves true of you.

And so, along will come Satan, or sadly, tests may come in the form of me,
I acting wrongly, the devil having got at me too, or I tired, you see.
Yes, we all having our cranky days, and sadly, sometimes acting selfishly,
And therefore why all too often we need to fall at the foot of Calvary.

So please don’t get discouraged, for after study comes the testing, like at school,
That proof of our genuineness, and whether we’ll last the distance; God no fool.
Though sometimes we cause our own trials, even deny ourselves a blessing too,
We not fully in harmony with God’s will, and Satan coming in on cue.

But God is gracious, He bearing long, and He our strength in times of need, or pain,
He sending angels who surround, because God is loving, tender and humane.
And so, despite those trials, that testing all must face, our God is always near,
He rooting for us, and He our advocate, all why we’ve no reason for fear.

So lean not to thine own understanding, but trust Him with all your heart and soul,
For God has your best interests at heart, has everything under control.
Your sanctification the work of a lifetime, but hey, still mind how you go,
Because God’s Word is there to instruct us, and why we should uphold what we know.

By Lance Landall

6.  On Either Side, The Devil's In Control

It’s wonderful to see young people seeking truth no matter what the cost, and,
Walking in the ways of right, reaching higher, just as their Lord And Saviour planned.
And it’s a tough path, a straight and narrow one, mocked by those on the broad path, who,
Aren’t destined for Heaven, and thus their rebellious folly are about to rue.

BUT having said that,

Some turn the straight and narrow into a fanatical path (where it’s not at),
A path that’s just as destructive as that broad one, hence those molehills, or that gnat.
And when they see the folly of that errant path, some swinging the other way,
Not back to the apostolic blueprint — and where once again, Satan’s seen to play.

Yes, there they are midst their so-called newfound freedom, having become more worldly,
Despite God’s Word saying to come out of the world; Christians not there to copy.
No, God having drawn a demarcation line, and His Word our balancing pole,
Lest left or right we topple, because on either side, the devil’s in control.

And it’s he who has some thinking that the straight and narrow is fanatical,
And hence the increasing numbers joining the ranks of those who’re more liberal.
And Satan laughing all the way to the bank, more deposits in his account,
Hence why an open mind and sound knowledge of God's will and ways is paramount.

By Lance Landall

7.  On Their Behalf

Dear heavenly Father, so longsuffering, full of compassion and mercy,
There are many poor souls who sincerely wish to surrender their all to Thee.
But oh, how they struggle to do so, Father, and there are many reasons why,
And the devil fills their minds with discouraging thoughts that none of us should buy.

They wish they could wake up one day and not lose it again, nor do the same things,
But surprises, troubles, wounds and thoughtless people are oft waiting in the wings.
And they like barnacle encrusted vessels, their masts bent, their sails badly torn,
And they oft feeling destined to drift without a port as if they’re orphan born.

And beneath their bow and stern a perilous sea full of wrecks preceding them,
Jagged reefs to the left and right that lie in wait and oft ready to condemn.
And waves aplenty that threaten to capsize their already leaking vessel,
And why they struggle to reach that Divine harbour where one can safely nestle.

So please, dear heavenly Father, grant them a strength that they’ve not hitherto known,
And this, dear Father, despite their abject failings, those seeds they’ve wrongly sown.
For they’re not happy with such too, and long for that righteousness that comes from You,
And why I call on your compassion, Father, that in time they may walk anew.

By Lance Landall

8.  Burdened, Wounded, And Anxious

For many poor struggling souls who’re beset with this or that, the upward path can oft seem  overwhelming,
Hence why within their sighing heart, the joy of Heaven’s promises fail to fully register or ring.
Oh, how they need encouragement, they so alone and vulnerable, just like stragglers behind some herd,
So in need of some compassionate passerby, one with a comforting arm and some uplifting word.

The upward path is oft strewn with trials, which are harder to meet if one’s already bruised and weary,
And many are burdened with unfair weights before they've even begun, weights that seem too large to carry.
And on the way (bearing their hampering load), they see many others who're seemingly hurrying past,
And who, midst their spiritual busyness, personal pursuits, haven't stopped nor caring questions asked,

Perhaps smugly but erroneously assured, cheerfully oblivious to their lack of Christ-like love,
Thus not so much heading upwards, but appearing so, watched by He who knows the heart and takes notes above,
He who also sees those stragglers, perhaps more in sync with His Word, but not as confident that they’re saved,
Though still trying to put their faith and trust in the One whose deep love for them is  permanently engraved.

Oh, how these souls feel their need, know their wretchedness, and so want to be free of those burdens that slow their pace,
Daring to hope that one soon coming day they’ll see their Saviour’s welcoming face, feel His loving embrace.
Yes, sensitive souls who’re wrestling with inner demons, nursing heartache and bearing scars, and so in need,
And who, on their bended knee (and too oft overlooked and passed by), so often for heavenly help plead.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

9.  The Saddest Thing

The saddest thing, and a lesson that many soon learn is, that in times of need, people oft aren’t there,
And here I’m including Christians, 'cause as we’ve been told, the love of many will wax cold, Earth’s end near.
Thus pain afflicting many will be all the deeper, and their burden heavier, they more alone,
Given they’re the sad victims of any and every excuse, they having to cope on their own.

And this, they shouldn't have to, 'cause God's said otherwise, a command many aren’t taking  seriously,
Thus neglecting their Christian duty, doing naught or too little, upsetting Jesus terribly.
And meantime, they foolishly thinking they’re saved (having failed the test, their fitness for Heaven lacking),
'Cause Heaven isn’t for those who act indifferently, or selectively — no, Christ hardly their king.

When encouragement's needed, and someone's beset by gnawing distress, say, others should be there,
A roster ensuring support as long as it's needed, such ones surrounded by loving care, prayer.
'Cause some things seem unbearable, be such physical or emotional, and they, struggling badly,
Or battling the attacks of Satan that threaten to shipwreck their faith, they weakened by injury.

Oh, how they suffer so, or fall by the wayside, many having festered within, gotten angry,
'Cause though it doesn't pay to expect, they know help should be there, such being the crux of Christianity.
All why the saddest thing many soon learn is, that others oft aren’t there when needed, though they should be,
And therefore, for the hurt and struggling Christian, it’s often just God who takes their plight seriously.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

10.  Don't Give Up

When folk aren’t there for you, and your cry for help or healing remains hanging in the air,
Don’t give up, don’t lose heart, but continue to persist and wrestle with God in prayer.
'Cause God can do anything, nothing’s impossible for Him — that is, if it’s His will,
And why wouldn’t it be? Unless you’re asking for something that’s wrong, or that’d bring ill.

Therefore, you’ve more reason to be hopeful than not so, so don’t give in to despair,
But rather, continue in faith and hope, confident that there is power in prayer.
Though God allows suffering, that doesn’t mean He won’t remove it (when He’s ready),
'Cause trials are often for a season — that is, until they’ve achieved what’s heavenly.

Just as being positive can attract a better outcome, so it is when we pray,
'Cause our loving God is touched by child-like faith, and “Yes” rather than “No” may well say.
And should He say “No,” then “No” it is, but there’s hardly victory where there’s no fight,
So continue to press your case, speaking your mind and baring your soul with all your might.

Yes, make sure you go down fighting, don’t succumb to the comments of the faithless, who,
Given time, are less encouraging, and their initial belief and hope review.
Though they may drop off (one by one), make sure that you’re the last one standing, expectantly,
'Cause God often waits until the last moment, rewarding those who wait patiently.

And don’t be discouraged by reminders of those who weren’t healed, nor had their lot eased,
'Cause though true, such folk have become a handy reply, which no doubt sees Satan pleased.
What Christian doesn’t know of such? And there’s a time and place, at the end of the day,
It better to dwell on brighter outcomes, lest you become discouraged and weakly pray.

And what a difference it makes when others are there throughout it all, as they should be,
Constantly upholding folk in prayer, making regular contact personally.
But sadly, such is often not the case, and the journey harder and more lonely,
All why many give up who otherwise wouldn’t have, forfeiting eternity.

And hence why I say, don’t give up, don’t lose heart, but persist in prayer, confidently,
'Cause God has promised that He will answer, and answer He will, eventually.
And why wouldn’t He? 'Cause just as earthly fathers are touched and respond, more so He,
Which gives us more reason to be hopeful than not so — so pray on, expectantly!

And should you receive the result you’re wanting, don’t be surprised, 'cause didn’t you expect?
Yes, so rejoice and give God the glory, 'cause His love, way and timing is perfect.
Thus He'd hardly say “No” except where “Yes” wouldn’t be for the better, 'cause He knows best,
But whether He says “Yes” or “No,” either show He’s working in your best interest.

By Lance Landall


“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,
who have been called according to His purpose"  (Rom 8:28, NIV).


This poem was tweaked on 20 February 2021.

11.  Don't Neglect Each Other

Have you any idea just how much it means when a member who's anxious gets a visit or a phone call,
Or when they're feeling unwell, lonely, discouraged, depressed, hurt or afraid, when their back’s against the wall,
And when God seems far away, their prayer unanswered, despite Him being there, and that all prayers are heard,
Which sometimes doesn’t register midst the fog of some emotions, and more so, when there’s no call or word.

Well, that visit or phone call makes all the difference in the world, and yet, far too oft doesn’t take place,
Leaving the needy one still in need, and their plight oft compounded, which leaves streaks upon our Saviour’s face.
Oh, how oft those tears fall, given the way that His children are neglected, and this, when they shouldn’t be,
'Cause Christians have been instructed to look out for their fellow brethren, and more so, those who are needy.

Hence why we shouldn’t wait 'till someone shouts, but rather, should go seeking, willingly and attentively,
Thus putting our brother or sister’s best interests before our own, somewhat like a missionary. 
One who's died to self, one who’s full of loving concern like Jesus, who, even notices sparrows fall,
A Saviour who goes seeking, himself, and who oft provides an answer to prayers before we even call.

That visit or phone call means so much, and there are many who're in need of such, and even urgently,
Given that some have almost lost heart, brethren whom Jesus is carrying whilst waiting expectantly
For you or me to make that visit or call, thus showing the same love as that shown on Calvary,
'Cause those who don’t show the same love as Christ, are hardly worthy of Heaven, and thus Heaven will not see.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

12.  Love One Another

13.  Some Of The Nicest Folk Aren't Christians

And I’ll tell you why:

Christianity is an ideal cover for many folk who’ve ill intent,
Those who have some far from godly agenda and who Heaven has hardly sent.
And thus this being one burden that Christianity has always had to bear,
And not just Christianity, for conmen are known to pop up anywhere.

And this being why the Christian Bible warns of false Christs, prophets and teachers, and,
Says to put them to the test, check them out, wisdom and that Bible close at hand.
For charlatans are successful because of their ability to deceive,
Folk not guessing they’re actually fraudsters, and whistle blowers oft disbelieve,

Who’ve seen through the sham, spotted the heresy, that which in time gives cause to grieve.

Then there’re those Christians who’ve acknowledged God and His Word intellectually,
But that's about it, and why many are rather Pharisaical, sadly.
In other words, they’re hardly in a relationship with God, if you catch my drift,
Only their head having been reached, not their heart, though I pray that there’ll be a shift.

Another truth is that Christians are human too, casualties of same ill winds,
Many with issues up to their neck, for life oft bruises, stabs, cuts, scars and skins.
Hence why they can lose it at times, act poorly and succumb to temptations too,
For they’re hardly made perfect at their conversion, it their direction that’s new.

And this being why churches will always be full of imperfections, erring souls,
Many of them good, upstanding folk who simply fall short of their godly goals.
And yes, there’ll always be outright hypocrites, but such folk we’ll find everywhere,
For the world’s no better, and reasons for sitting up and taking notice near,

In fact, already here.

Yes,

Some of the nicest folk aren’t Christians, but how many baddies aren’t Christians too?
And this why expectations should sometimes be modified and fairness shown too.
It’s one thing to change direction, another to be a perfect example,
Though such not meant to hand anyone an excuse, for there’s no excuse for ill.

And all this why the Christian Bible tells Christians to keep their eyes on their Lord,
And not on other folk, because humans always disappoint, hurt and defraud.
And that, my friend, is the sad reality of this world that we’re living in,
And why its so that there’re folk out there who’re far more Christian than many a Christian,

Sad to say.

Yes, the Christian Church doesn’t have the monopoly on pride, ego trips and
personal agendas (even folk one can’t stand),
For wherever there’s the human element there will always be offenders.
And though such shouldn’t really be found within Christianity, it’s clear it will be,
And hence why onlookers oft throw the baby out with the bathwater, sadly.

By Lance Landall


I would recommend that you visit my page I Saw Beyond It All which I wrote with both Christians and non-Christians in mind. It can be found in a purple box on my Home page that's titled: With God In Mind.

14.  Why Of Our God They Don't Enquire

Many of us bring shame on God and His cause by our fears, tears and complaining,
For where is that peace, hope and trust that is found in Him to which and whom we cling?
Where’s that witness that testifies of the Spirit’s indwelling and empowering,
And that draws and points the non-believer to that God of whom we speak and sing?

Ops!

Is that you and I of whom I speak? — though having taken the name of Christian,
And we wonder why great things don’t happen — yes, so little trust and faith within.
Oh, the sadness of it, the feebleness of it, even the hypocrisy,
For there’s nothing God can’t do, we preach, thus fear and doubt making us look silly.

And hence why non-believers chuckle, even scoff, for there’s little to admire,
We groaning, quivering and buckling, and why of our God they don’t enquire.
Yes, we bearing our cross as if it’s a chore rather than a privilege, and,
So oft showing in our trials and woes that our hand’s not firmly in His hand.

You see, handling things well under fire is where it’s at, such testing us too,
Proving the depth of our relationship, whether we’re cads or faithful and true.
’Cause any of us can shout of Christ and sing His praises when all’s going well,
But it quite another matter when we’re faced with disappointment and some ill.

All why Christ must be our everything, nothing coming between Him and us,
Yes, nothing as highly valued, nothing that we can’t leave behind for Jesus;
A career, a home, and even a spouse, for nothing must stand in the way,
’Cause look at Adam, who, partook of what Eve shouldn’t have, and “No” didn’t say,

And since, all have gone astray.

No, we can’t afford to look back like Lot’s wife, let anything on Earth hold sway,
But rather, give our all to Christ, accepting and living with whatever comes our way.
Not in our strength though, but in His, that He in us may be seen, given glory,
For there’s no more powerful witness; those past martyrs bearing testimony.

So let us seek that “peace that passeth all understanding,” same faith and trust too,
Not seeking some way out, clinging to this or that, even him or her, like glue.
’Cause nothing must matter more than Jesus, and those eternal realities,
For therein lies true happiness, but first that path that knows not pleasure or ease,

And that come-what-may witness that the stubborn hearts of non-believers will seize.

By Lance Landall

15.  Anger's Place

There’re those who consider all anger to be a sin, but given anger’s not foreign to God, we
Must surely question such, and I do, submitting righteous anger, going by what I see biblically.
You see, righteous anger — indignation — is directed solely at the evil itself, the wrong done
That act that dishonours God, that act that injures an innocent one, 'cause of such acts, there shouldn’t be one.

So what might such acts be? Well, starting with God

(He being our first port of call): Those wrongful attacks on His Word-cum-incremental chipping away,
Oft courtesy of Christians themselves, who should know better, but who with the Word of God can’t help but play.
They twisting Scripture in order to woo and convince others of what they shouldn’t, and what oft appeals,
Given that nowadays the Church is full of itchy ears, beat and claps, rather than prayerful quiet that heals.

Another example?

Despite all the talk about love, there’re still those within the Church who’re neglected and mistreated, sadly,
Many badly struggling, hurting, even angry — yes, angry enough to strike back injuriously.
Such being a risk that we should not invite, but one that we too oft do invite, unfortunately,
Hence their anger, which though justified, is oft directed at the wrongdoer, not the wrong, as should be,

 Thus, they sinning too, sadly.

Acts that dishonour God, or that injure the innocent, are cause for righteous anger — indignation —
We rightly condemning such, but not taking it out on those at fault, despite the association.
Thus we not sinning in our anger, which, though easier said than done, is how God intended it be,
'Cause Christians who feel no anger at such, hardly know God, whose cup of wrath will be delivered shortly.

And dare such fall upon us, hence why revenge should not be an option we take, nor holding grudges too,
Or striking back at others angrily, 'cause such is most un-Christ-like, and thus what we’re told not to do.
But as I said, easier said than done when struggling or hurting too, hence why tolerant all should be,
Whilst busy doing all we can to ease those burdens of others-cum-taking care of humanity.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 8 February 2020.

"Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger" (Eph 4:26, ESV).

"But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, 'Racca!' shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, 'You fool! shall be in danger of hell fire" (Matt 5:22, NKJV).

16.  Why Aren't You Angry?

When I see the wrongs within the Church, I can understand Moses breaking the tablets of stone,
His response having everything to do with righteous anger, not uncontrolled testosterone.
An anger akin to Christ’s when He threw the moneychangers out of the temple, and rightly,
Yet what do we see today? Modern moneychangers, modern golden calves, unbelievably.

Yes, I can understand how Moses felt, and Christ, so why aren’t most Christians feeling the same way?
The Church awash with every conceivable abomination, Christians having gone astray.
What once was dedicated solely to our jealous God has been steadily stripped of meaning,
The devil having got a hold of so many Christian churches, and he, busy spring-cleaning.

And in place of what He’s thrown out, that which suits itchy ears, fallen tastes, worldly hearts and seared minds,
Hence why within the Church today, that same rebellious evidence as was seen before, one finds.
Thus had Christ come to Earth today — not prior — in order to minister and die on Calvary,
That same righteous anger would see many Christians being chased out of many a sanctuary.

Oh, how history’s repeating itself, the holy and unholy side by side, blasphemously,
An evil cloud engulfing Christendom, and thus anything going down-cum-apostasy.
And those responsible thinking they’re enlightened when they’ve actually been duped, and cant see
That rather than pleasing Christ, they’re filling up His cup of wrath that'll be delivered shortly.

By Lance Landall


“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?’ And then will I profess unto them, ‘I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity’ ” (Matt 7:22,23, KJV).

"Then I heard another voice from heaven say: "Come out of her [Babylon], my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues" (Rev 18:4, NIV).

17.  Where Busy Turns Sinful

Many Christians are very busy (even doing good), hence why one oft hears, “I’m sorry, but I forgot,”
Or, “I’m sorry, but I didn’t have time,” or, “I’m sorry I didn’t get back to you,” and then off they trot.
Yes, busy, busy, far too busy, and hence those broken promises, those excuses that amount to sin,
Or those thoughtless, careless, forgetful ways (that aside from being un-Christ-like), get under someone’s skin.

No matter how busy we are, and as understandable as such may be, it's still unacceptable,
We letting others down when we could’ve avoided such, which inevitably upsets, oft leads to ill.
Yes, we too caught up, far too busy, our priorities possibly askew, a state that won't please our Lord,
'Cause going by His Holy Word, such behaviour's not the kind of behaviour that He's seeking to reward.

Such behaviour's oft seen as being of a small nature, ignoring that if not faithful in little things,
The God of order, who keeps all His promises, won’t trust us with bigger and more responsible things.
Men might, and grant us such, but not God, 'cause it’s those little things that show that within us there’s a flaw,
One that could prove injurious or fatal to some cause, or distrust and some assumptions from others draw.

And God can’t afford that, and nor can we, not if we want to be true witnesses, which all should want to be,
'Cause such is what the Christian walk is all about, keeping our word, acting in ways that show integrity.
Hence why we should keep contact, give people time frames, and if we’re genuinely too busy, should say so,
Rather than say we will and not, or have them chasing us due to silence and time, from which upset can grow.

Yes, justified annoyance.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 15 February 2020.

18.  What On Earth Is Wrong With Us?

Yes,

When will we learn to stop behaving like children, resigning from this or that,
We even pointlessly church hopping because of some disagreement-cum-spat?
So please remember this: We go to church for Christ’s sake! — take on some office too —
For Christ is the head of the Church despite members acting like chimps at the zoo.

All must realise that those within will have their hang ups, for sense clearly tells us
That no one who gets baptised will instantly become like the flawless Jesus.
So problems will simply continue given that we’re fallen humanity,
And sin not magically whisked away from those within Christianity.

Look,

It can take years for folk to get past their issues, hence why we’re told to bare long,
Such building spiritual muscles — otherwise, how on earth do we get strong?
And this why we must learn to put up with things no matter how irritating,
No matter how discouraging they be, and not “somebody did me wrong” sing.

“Take up your cross,” Christ said, adversaries both within and without — yes, errant souls,
We to turn the other cheek; and regarding our enemies, Paul mentions coals.
So running off elsewhere or resigning from some role isn’t the way to go,
And if you think that it’s Jesus who told you so — well, far better you should know.

Though the world is in serious trouble and monumental issues face us,
We’re still getting hung up on the petty rather than focussing on Jesus.
Yes, so and so won’t speak to me, just ignored me, or never invited me,
And so it goes on and on ad nauseam, we thinking of us and not He.

So please go to church for Christ’s sake, and don’t childishly resign from this or that,
Unless there’s a reason that Heaven would condone, and thus you no copycat.
For there’s enough folk spinning this tired old merry-go-round that dismays our Lord,
Who wants us to hang in there, to persevere — and this, with or without reward.

If you’re right and they’re wrong, you’ve more reason to stay, as the Church needs folk like you,
Your resigning or running off leaving it to those who’re sinful or askew.
And this bringing you under condemnation, for your duty’s to God and not man,
And thus your beef immaterial, and discontent how evil first began.

By Lance Landall

19.  Stand Firm And Remain

Home - Poems - Quotes - Purpose - Author - Contact

Site best viewed at a screen resolution of 1024x768
Tested with Opera 9, Safari 3.1, Internet Explorer 6 and 7