Introduction
Two articles regarding LOVE appear under poem number 17 which is the end of the section on God's love, and one article appears at the bottom of the page.
DISCOURAGED? See poems from number 18 down (which also relate to God's love).
Poems regarding FORBIDDEN TO HARM begin with poem number 39.
been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because
God is love. This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into
the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He
loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so
loved us, we also ought to love one another" (1 John 4:7-11, NIV).
Yes, to God, you are worth the life of His Son.
1. God's Love
All you know, dear friend, is the love you’ve experienced on Earth, a fallen love,
A love that once was flawless, until a devil appeared, removed from above.
And then, humanity led astray, and our love affected too, sad to say,
It now a poor reflection of God’s love, corruption having got in the way.
All why humans love someone and hate another, unlike God who loves us all,
Despite our corrupted state, and despite our rejection of Him — a sad call.
Oh yes, His love bigger than ours, sounder than ours, it unchanging, pure and true,
And all why He died on our behalf — in other words, that’s how much He loves you.
But let me make it clearer, friend, ’cause He took a risk, a HUGE risk, given He
Could’ve lost everything, ’cause if He had failed, He would’ve ceased to be.
Yes, just like us, but He didn’t fail, and all why we’ve hope now, an escape route,
Should we choose it, that is, and God’s love hoping so, our situation acute.
Oh yes, there’s no love like God’s love, a love He wants found in us — returned, one might say,
Given it largely went elsewhere when humanity fell, chose its own sad way.
But meantime, we’re still in a fallen world, and why the only love we’ll know here
Is a flawed one, and why our eyes should focus on God’s love, and let that love steer.
Yes, it’s that love that’s borne long with us, that’s given us an opportunity,
A window of opportunity, ’cause life here is short, or cut short, sadly.
The thought of losing us is painful to God, who seeks our best for evermore
(Aware of any ill we’re going through), and why He stands knocking at our door.
So respond I would, if you haven’t, and then you’ll know a love beyond this world,
As daily, and more come eternity, greater revelations are unfurled.
Any earthly love bound to disappoint, or at least fall short, but not God’s love,
Permanently etched on His hands and feet, and why He champs at the bit above.
In other words, He can’t wait to return for us, the ache in His heart severe,
His love deeper than deep, higher than high, way beyond what we’ve experienced here.
Yes, world’s apart, but at it its best, a glimpse of Heaven, thus exciting it is,
’Cause there’s no love that’s more thrilling, satisfying, selfless and lasting than His.
By Lance Landall
2. Gracious Love
There’s nothing more amazing than that love and grace manifested at Calvary,
A love and grace that’s still manifested today on behalf of humanity.
A love and grace that’s beyond our comprehension, even our mortal dimension,
A heavenly, intentional and generous sacrificial intervention.
Yes, a love and grace that everyone should embrace with open arms, heart and mind,
'Cause such has always sought both the present and eternal well-being of humankind.
Yes, unfathomable love that’s showered upon undeserving humanity,
And gifted grace, grace that saves, frees, empowers, grace that’s guaranteed and heavenly.
In other words, gracious love, love that provides hope, and lightens and brightens each day,
Love that despite Adam’s fall and our own rebelliousness, has provided a way.
Love that paid a price that cannot be matched, love that beggars belief and description,
And that on the hands and feet of its source — Jesus — bears our personal inscription.
Yes, gracious love, love and grace combined, a heavenly blend with you and I in mind,
'Cause God so loved the world that He sent His only Son in order to save mankind.
A Son whose love but merely reflects the Father’s, a Son whose actions said it all,
Actions that love and grace had in readiness should humanity succumb and fall.
So much could be said, and often is, regarding such love, such grace — yes, such mercy,
But suffice to say, love found a way, the only way, via that cross at Calvary.
'Cause love knew only grace could save, not an ounce of human endeavour (perish the thought),
'Cause we, fallen and sin sick, wouldn’t have a hope, if via our works, we Heaven sought.
Hence why we sing “amazing grace,” 'cause we don’t deserve such, never could, shouldn’t try,
'Cause Christ did it all, and we’re unable, though were we able, in self we’d glorify.
Thus grace it is, and grace alone, that Christ be glorified, and deservedly so,
'Cause there’s only One who’s worthy, truly righteous, and to whom much gratitude we owe.
Oh yes, what love, what grace, that willingly took our place, and suffered on Calvary,
That we, via our response, could receive power from on high, and immortality.
Yes, what love, what grace, that leaves every author, artist or preacher scratching their head,
'Cause such will never be fully grasped regardless of what is penned, painted or said.
By Lance Landall
This poem was tweaked throughout on 20 December 2022.
3. The Mystery Of God's Love
Given how we even turn our back on Him and foolishly go our own way,
And yet, there His love is, it unchanged and sure, it vigilant and unfailing,
But oh, off we go having forgotten those thorns, that cruel flogging and nailing.
Yes, our sleeping bag stashed behind God’s couch, as it were, we coming and going,
Our roving eyes paining our waiting Bridegroom who is all seeing and knowing,
And yet, though He could turn His back and has a right to, He still keeps wooing us,
For no one else’s love is as deep and forgiving as that displayed by Jesus.
Oh, how merciful and longsuffering He is — yes, such love a mystery,
Our one night stands and long term affairs constantly provoking His jealousy,
And yet, there He is, seeking, calling, even pleading, and where on Earth are we,
But seated in Satan’s playpen or coming and going indifferently.
Yes, the mystery of God’s love, we so undeserving of its warmth and grace,
And oh, how oft we take it for granted and our own crazy, selfish things chase,
And yet, God still persevering with us, hoping that we’ll be faithful and true,
For all that He has in store for us outshines those things we’re so prone to pursue.
And this why God is up all night, He pacing back and forth, His lantern glowing,
He peering into the darkness where ill winds are busy chilling and blowing.
Oh, how our Saviour yearns for our eternal company, our greatest well-being,
Which, once at home, and via the mystery of His love, we’ll never stop seeing.
By Lance Landall
4. Take My Hand
Christ says, “Come, take My hand, we’ll walk together, you and I, and I’ll lead you through both thunder
and squalls,
Yes, you and I together, come all of life’s weather, and I'll not forsake you despite what befalls.
And on that journey to the heavenly Canaan above, through valleys where shadows darken the way,
You can share your thoughts and feelings, and we’ll reason together, concrete or heather, come night or day.
Under My wings you can safely abide and find comfort and joy, 'cause you’re the apple of My eye,
And why behind pearly gates, walls of jasper, I’m preparing a mansion for you to occupy.
And one day soon we will stroll the street of gold together, just like we did come concrete or heather,
Midst a pleasing temperature that won't alter, 'cause there in Paradise, there’s no moody weather.
So trust Me, 'cause no one cares for you like Me, such engraved and proven by My death on Calvary,
Hence My robe of righteousness, 'cause without such, you would have no hope of securing eternity.
Oh, how I long for that day when we'll truly be together, you free of all that troubles and pains,
'Cause where I dwell is the heartbeat of love, and thus there, peace and harmony midst heavenly refrains.
Yes, how I long for that day, but meantime, let’s walk together, 'cause My way's sure, and I, trustworthy,
And as we share together, come man-made concrete or divinely made heather, deeper things you'll see.
And midst My everlasting love, I’ll provide you with strength and reassurance, My promises true,
'Cause you’re My child who I made in My own image, and why I say, come, take My hand, 'cause I love you.”
By Lance Landall
This poem was tweaked throughout on 6 November 2022.
5. You're Dearly Loved
In God’s eyes, each one of us is extremely precious, the apple of His eye,
And so much so, that on our behalf (given how we’ve fallen), He chose to die.
Oh, what love, our Creator taking our place — yes, hanging there on Calvary,
In order that we might be saved, and then live with Him for all eternity.
He could’ve left us to it, or wiped us off the map, but that He didn’t do,
His love for us too great, His goodness unfathomable, deep, lasting and true.
All why He’s borne long with us, even delayed His return that more might be saved,
Rather than going to their doom — and meantime, living without hope-cum-enslaved.
Yes, Satan happy to pull our strings, feed our addictions, lusts and desires,
And thus we going nowhere, much like those boy racers with their smoking tyres.
Having fun, we think, but only for a season, because come that sad day will,
When laughter will turn to sorrow, and why the God who loves us is pleading still.
Remember the story of the prodigal son? Well, that’s how things could be for you,
Christ longing for that reunion, waiting with arms open wide, scanning the view.
Oh, how wanted you are, as if the only one on Earth, all why Christ pursues,
Hoping that you’ll heed His anxious cries, because He never forces but woos.
Yes, you’re dearly loved, warts and scars not making any difference, none at all,
Thus your worth unchanged by such, the devil’s cruel insinuations but a gall.
So please, leave the pig pen (if that’s where you are), and make your way back to His arms,
Where you’ll find the depth of His care and that trouble He went to on His palms.
And there too, will truly find your worth as the child of a King, the God of love,
Creator and ruler of the universe (who resides in Heaven above).
No mantle greater, and His amazing grace having supplied — oh, praise His name!
Because you’ll have gone from rages to riches, universal glory and fame.
Yes, dearly loved, the apple of His eye, inestimably precious, oh my,
Hence why all Heaven waits with baited breath until for that gift of grace you cry.
Precious but fallen, needing to return home, where you’ll live for ever more,
Free of guilt, anxiety, wounds and tears, repentance having opened the door.
By Lance Landall
6. The Creative Lover
Yes, the creative lover, that God who loves us so much that He died for us,
All in order that we might be saved and rescued — and that loving God? Jesus.
Yes, there’s no questioning His love, it having paid the ultimate price, and thus
His creative love working creatively in order to attract and woo us.
Yes, He’s not just the God of love, but a creative lover, all because He
Wants us responding willingly, appreciative of that creativity.
Yes, that whispering in one’s ear, that quiet appeal, He not one to force or yell,
But gently seeking, tugging, that with the same love, our heart and mind He might fill.
And so, regarding our eternal hope-cum-that happy life ever after,
A loving heart and a clear conscience is first and foremost what He is after.
All why He'll only save those who’re living as if He’s in their heart and mind,
But meantime wooing all, hoping that in others too, the same thing He’ll soon find.
Truth matters, that will of His conveyed via His Word, but at the end of the day,
It’s that loving heart and clear conscience (as we understand things) that will hold sway.
God winking at a certain ignorance, certain things we may not know, but here
We not resisting nor withholding, our thoughts and acts of a heavenly sphere.
And oh, how He wants to find that same creative love in us, so that we too
Will be creative lovers of others, and the same noble things will pursue,
’Cause this world’s so in need of creative lovers, those who show thought and care too,
Wooing others just like God does, that their best interests too, they might pursue.
By Lance Landall
7. We're Of Infinite Worth
Look how much Christ paid for us, Calvary shouting that we're of infinite worth,
Hence why that very same love that was shown back then we're all guaranteed from birth.
For He who died to save us back than, feels no different about us today,
Which via His Word, providential care and faithful watch, He’s seeking to convey.
All why we've no reason to doubt His love, but to stifle such feelings within,
'Cause that is all they are, just feelings, for God’s love is deep, true and genuine.
Hence why no matter what we do, even think or say, God’s love will never flee,
'Cause despite knowing how sin-sick we are, He still loves us open-heartedly.
Sure He hates sin — and oh, how such pains Him, but nothing removes His love for us,
And this, friend, why we should always be full of gratitude, in love with Jesus.
For no one will ever love us like Him, and why He wants us saved and home,
Given that it’s Heaven and not this fallen Earth that He’s wanting us to roam.
Yes, look how much Christ paid for us, a figure impossible to estimate,
But never too high to dwell on, and why we should, that our hearts He captivate.
For no one values us so highly, considers us of such infinite worth,
He loving and guarding us jealously from the very moment of our birth.
Yes, look what we all cost Jesus, our Saviour, a price that He willingly paid,
Which forever on His innocent and gracious hands and feet will be displayed.
All why we should never doubt our worth-cum-how much we’re valued by God above,
Whose creating us in His own image, and saving act, shows no greater love,
And that we're of infinite worth.
By Lance Landall
8. An Unfathomable Love
How could I doubt the love of Jesus, the God who died for me on Calvary,
The only begotten son of God Almighty who loves us just as dearly.
Oh, how it must have torn the Father’s heart when His precious son was crucified,
A son who in order to save us, and because of our sins, suffered and died.
What greater love that someone forgo their own life for another, and more so,
If that one they die for isn't deserving of such — yes, you and I below.
Now that’s love, my friend, love that’s as deep as it gets, love without any regrets,
For Jesus willing died that we might live, He wiping the biggest of debts.
Such all why our hearts should be bursting with gratitude, we waxing lyrical,
Jesus the greatest love of our life — yes, a love that nothing on Earth should quell.
For no one deserves a place in our heart like Him, He who left His home above,
And took a risk that could’ve cost Him everything, and this, all because of love.
Yes, an unfathomable love, He the Creator and we the created,
And yet, He laying down His life for us who He could’ve annihilated.
But no, and why He bears long, giving us every chance in the world to respond,
He knowing that as far as this old Earth goes, hope and happiness lies beyond.
By Lance Landall
9. A Love That Loves Regardless
It will take an eternity to understand the greatness of our Saviour’s love,
And why He left a paradise on behalf of those who’re so unlike those above.
Yes, we so undeserving given our sinfulness-cum-mankind’s rebellious fall,
And to boot, He knowing that the majority wouldn’t heed His merciful call.
A love that despite the rejection He received, has Him pleading on our behalf,
He pointing to those nail prints when cries ascend via repentant, prayerful telegraph.
But many never thinking to utter such prayers, as they’ve no idea of such love,
For Jesus Christ hardly interests them, and thus why they, His calls to one side shove.
Oh, how such must hurt Him, He knowing eternal separation will be their lot,
And such He hardly wants, their sad end having more to do with a satanic plot.
Yes, Satan having closed their ears, shut their eyes, though such only with their permission,
Their hearts and minds denying God’s presence, they lost in worldly mirth and ambition.
And thus God’s love will never experience though it be there all the time and deep,
He so desiring that they awaken to their folly, be found amongst the sheep.
For despite their sad rejection of Him, He still loves them as much as He loves us;
All being why I can’t wait for that day when I’ll meet such a loving Saviour, Jesus.
Yes, a day when I’ll bask in His love forevermore, a love that loves regardless;
That meaning, whether we reject Him, or simply let Him down but our sin confess.
Oh, what love, a love that will take an eternity to understand, fully grasp,
And why in the meantime, both that love expressed and my Saviour’s guiding hand I’ll clasp.
By Lance Landall
10. God Is Love
Think it through, dear Christian — GOD IS LOVE — and thus He not only loves but is love,
And therefore, though He’s God Almighty, the great I Am who reigns on high above,
He’s all about everything that’s good, everything righteous and Holy,
And He full of loving concern, all about kindness, compassion and mercy.
And hence His grace, it not given reluctantly so, but more than happily,
And yet, we hardly deserving of it, and that the whole point of Calvary.
For only a God who’s love itself could be so forgiving, so amazing,
And why His goodness and graciousness Holy angels are forever praising.
By Lance Landall
11. At The Foot Of The Cross
No greater love was ever shown than that perfect love that won the greatest victory of all,
And why at the foot of the cross all should daily and willingly fall, and on Jesus Christ call.
For hope lies nowhere else for us, nor a love that’s so personal as well as universal,
Each person as if no other, but all, the joy of the greatest lover, who’s love, nought can quell.
Yes, a love that stormed Calvary, broke Satan’s grip, and this, for wretched, fallen humanity,
We so undeserving, and yet, provided with a way of escape-cum-God’s gracious mercy.
Oh, what love, and why we gladly sing “Amazing grace,” for no other act such could parallel,
And why of such bravery, selflessness and goodness, we should never fail to give thanks and tell.
And why our every being should ache for that same humbleness, righteousness and love of our Saviour,
We seeking nothing but that heavenliness and nobleness behind His thinking and behaviour.
And thus calling on the power of the Holy Spirit, we contrite, eager and receptive,
So that within us, and via our example, Jesus Christ may daily express Himself and live.
Yes, oh for a love like that which Jesus displayed and conveyed on Golgotha-cum-Calvary,
Such so foreign to us, and yet, so irresistible, He bearing our guilt and penalty.
And why at the foot of the cross we should always be found, Christ’s great sacrifice ever in mind,
For nowhere else will we find such love, healing and renewal, and all this, in His spilt blood signed.
Yes, at the foot of the cross, at the foot of the cross, daily, nightly, moment by moment, and
Whilst there, praying that we may better see, His Word in our heart and mind, and always close at hand.
For Jesus died that we might live, He suffering because of our iniquity, and terribly,
His love so great that He couldn’t and wouldn’t do otherwise, and hence that cross at Calvary.
By Lance Landall
12. Don't Doubt God's Love
Sure some things are hard to understand, but God not loving? Now that’s plain silly,
For there is nothing that expresses a deeper love and care than Calvary.
And that longsuffering of His, for despite the ills that have raged through history,
Such time has allowed more folk to be born and saved, and that includes you and me.
Sure God could’ve annihilated Satan, but who’d see Satan’s true intent,
Such needing the time that it would take, and unfortunately, evil’s extent.
And God no happier than you and me, but such is the great controversy,
That battle between good and evil that is nearing its end, grand finale.
Yes, for as in the days of Noah, God-fearing people will be but a few,
And the world under the rule of another power that will persecute too.
For though Satan’s been busy before, this time he intends to ensnare us all,
But such short lived, for round that time that such takes place, we’ll hear Christ’s returning call.
And meantime, suffer we will, this earth in turmoil thanks to man shunning God’s will,
And thus God not the cause of our woes, but a devil aided by men who cause ill.
And midst it all, God attempting to bring good out of bad, saving who He can,
And still providing rain and sunshine, that breath of life that He first gave to man.
By Lance Landall
13. God's Love, Thought And Care
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, so that we
Via such selfless thought, might be saved, come under His care for an eternity.
Oh yes, He's all about love, thought and care, His Son too, dying that we might live,
A love that’s always sought our best interests, and rather than take, seeks to give.
Yes, a love, thought and care beyond comparison, an amazing grace that’s free,
Available to all who repent, and the goodness of this loving God see.
And those who genuinely do, reflecting that very same love, thought and care,
That all may know that the presence of that loving God is always very near.
By Lance Landall
14. Please Help Me To Remember
Thank you so much for that angel, Lord, that protected me today,
And who also has throughout my life, I’ll not hesitate to say.
I’m sure that one day in Heaven, if I ask You, I’ll be shown
The many times that I have been spared, Lord, and haven’t even known.
This guardian angel that was sent, and right from my birth by Thee,
Every moment of each day keeps a very watchful eye on me.
And though I know that the time will come when my life will somehow end,
I’m just so very grateful that I’ve always had this caring friend.
Therefore, please help me to remember much more often than I do
This angel that You have sent to me, who’ll remain my whole life through.
For though each person on this earth has an angel given by Thee,
They so often just get forgotten, though beside us constantly.
I know we mustn't worship these angels, nor images or man,
For nowhere within Your Holy Word have You told us that we can.
In fact, such worship You've forbidden, 'cause honour is only due
To You, Lord, who created not just humans, but these angels too.
We’re told that these Holy spirit beings only pay homage to Thee,
And Your praises vocalize most exuberantly, and endlessly.
For they well know of Your goodness, and Your great love that saw that we
Were provided with an angel who’d aid us continually.
I’m so thankful for this angel who works so tirelessly for me,
Me! Even though I'm a wretched sinner who acts so thoughtlessly.
For my sinful words and behaviour must often pain this angel,
And no doubt more so You, Lord, whose wishes I know so very well.
I so long to see this angel who's charged with looking after me;
This Holy angel who my well-being cares for conscientiously.
And I’ll be quick to thank that angel, but far quicker I will be
To thank and join in all those praises of You, Lord, who died for me.
Yes, your love’s so amazing, Lord, how can I such love comprehend,
For it's a love that sends us angels who remain till our lives end.
And I also understand, Lord, that more angels You will send too,
If more than one is needed midst any troubles that we go through.
Thus I’m not surprised that angels adore and loyally serve Thee,
Gladly doing Your bidding, Lord, and worshiping You joyfully.
And I too, can’t wait to serve Thee, hence why longingly I await
That time when You will arrive, Lord, to wing me back to Your estate.
But meantime, I will serve Thee as best as I can on earth below,
Working in this needy mission field to help others Your love know.
And like those angels sent to help us, I also will help mankind,
In the hope that when You appear, Lord, more to serve Thee You will find.
By Lance Landall
“
‘Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones [children],
for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My
Father who is in heaven [every individual has a personal guardian
angel]’ ” (Matt 18:10, NKJV).
“Are
not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the
sake of those [the righteous] who are to inherit salvation” (Heb 1:14).
“Bless
the Lord, you His angels, Who excel in strength, who do His word
[will], Heeding the voice of His word” (Ps 103:20, NKJV).
“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways” (Ps 91:11, NIV).
“The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him [God], and rescues them” (Ps 34:7, NASB).
“My God hath sent His angel, and [the angel] hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me [Daniel]…”
(Dan 6:22, KJV).
“Whereas angels, who are greater in power and might [than humans are]…” (2 Peter 2:11, NKJV).
“
‘You made them [humans] for a little while lower than the angels…[the
angels are an order of intelligence’s higher than man]’ ” (Heb 2:7,
NASB).
“ ‘Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth’ ”
(Luke 15:10, KJV).
“Then
I [John the Revelator] fell at his feet to worship him [the angel]. And
he said unto me, ‘See thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of
thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God [God only]…’
” (Rev 19:10, KJV).
“And
all the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four
living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne [in
recognition of the greatness of God’s majesty, holiness and power] and
worshiped God [thus giving God the due respect He deserves]” (Rev 7:11,
KJV).
“Then
I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the
living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten
thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, saying
[singing] with a loud voice: ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to
receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honour and glory
and blessing!’ ” (Rev 5:11,12, KJV).
“Be not forgetful to entertain [show hospitality] strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares”
(Heb 13:2, KJV).
“
‘Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds [surrounding
angels]’ with great power and glory. Then He will send out the angels,
and gather His elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to
the ends of heaven’ ”
(Mark 13:26,27).
“And
to give relief to the afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus
is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels [at His Second Coming]”
(2 Thess 1:7).
15. God Is Neither A Monster Nor A Fool
Sometimes, though saying what is right, we convey things in a way that can be misread,
And thus rather than catching on, people can take it to mean something else instead.
And so it is with that “eternal fire” found in the Bible, and why so many
Hold a sad view that God never intended, ’cause no one will burn eternally.
And so it is that some think they’ll be saved whilst going contrary to God’s will,
But such not what God intended either, rebellion a sure sign all’s not well.
The truth is that God is neither a monster nor a fool, love both balanced and wise,
And our fate OUR choice, we accepting or rejecting God, holding to truth or lies.
No, God not burning people forever, nor saving the rebellious, which makes sense,
The latter hardly worthy of Paradise, and the former a heinous offence.
Nor do good deeds guarantee one a place in Heaven, it all to do with one’s HEART,
And Pharisees coming to mind, their horse behind, rather than in front of the cart.
And thus why it’s less about works and more about love, less about success too, and
More about faithfulness — and above all, God’s saving GRACE, we need to understand.
We unable to save ourselves, nor contribute squat to our salvation, and thus
It all about love, loyalty and surrender; the Spirit, merits of Jesus.
Oh yes, Jesus having done it all, but He our example to follow, and so
We getting in behind, contrite and committed, and thus how Christ we truly know.
And those who truly know Him know He wouldn’t burn someone forever, such not love,
But an easy to prove misinterpretation, not the way of Heaven above.
By Lance Landall
See notes in the blue box near the top of this page and to the right.
16. Jesus Weeps Too
Yes,
Jesus has feelings too, but His tears are saved for others — oh, such great concern,
'Cause within that big heart of His, there’s a wondrous deep love that is seen to burn.
He thus weeping more than we over our loved ones, should they pass away or stray,
'Cause He has a love that’s unsurpassable, for who fashioned us out of clay?
Yes,
We’re His little children, so prone to bringing tears to His eyes, then there’s our cries,
And He responding immediately, any seeming lag because He’s wise.
Meantime He oft hurting too, He closely watching what we may be going through,
And why we can rest assured that there’s tears in Heaven — God himself, kinda blue.
By Lance Landall
Alternative poem.
17. Praise His Name
Honour and glory belong to Jesus Christ the Son, for nothing greater than what He did, has anyone done — yes, no greater victory was so soundly won, and are there any who could've come close? No, not even one.
Oh,
how Heaven gasped at such outrageous love, such pure, selfless,
unconditional love, love that was displayed on Earth, love of such
width, length, depth and girth, thanks to our Lord who now reigns
above, still exercising that incredible love — yes, what staggering love, what boundless love, what unfathomable love,
love that bled for us intentionally and mercifully, love that
successfully stormed the stronghold of our adversary, love that
dispensed with the devil’s accusations so thoroughly, love that broke
death’s hopelessness and shackles so decisively, love that expressed
its true intent upon that cross at Calvary, love that’s source could
only be but from somewhere heavenly, love that wove such an
unforgettable rich and warm tapestry, love that spoke so eloquently and
so persuasively, love that longingly sought the restoration of
humanity, love that beautified a cross only known for its savagery,
love that suffered terrible agony undeservedly, love that sought
forgiveness for such callous insanity, love that so humbly and nobly
bore such insult and injury, love that under trial and pressure
retained its dignity, love that’s depths will be studied all throughout
eternity, love that’s hands and feet are marked personally and
permanently, love that revealed our Saviour’s character so strikingly —
yes, love that acted so exceptionally, so heroically, so generously, so
lavishly, so graciously — oh yes, what grace, what amazing grace, all
of which no pen or brush can capture adequately, and at their very
best, no matter how skilled or blessed, only but barely.
By Lance Landall
The state of our heart not only dictates what we think say and do, but also dictates our destiny, because God will judge each heart.
God is the God of love — in fact, He's love itself, and He love's everyone.
Hence why He has told us that we're to love everyone too, and in the very same way that He does, even loving our enemies, because the heart is where it's at. It showing our true state.
And so, we're either like God or we're not, we either do have His love in our heart or we don't.
If we do have His love in our heart, we won't knowingly and deliberately mistreat people in some way. If we don't have God's love in our heart, we will knowingly and deliberately mistreat people in some way.
Those who don't have God's love in their heart, will not receive eternal life, because that's not a heart that God wants in His pure and loving kingdom, nor a divided heart, because no one can serve two masters, have a foot in both camps.
So, no matter how zealous we are for God, no matter how strongly we believe in Him, no matter how much we uphold His Word (biblical truth), no matter how much we preach or teach on His behalf, no matter how often we go to church, and no matter how generous we are regarding both His cause and any charities, if we don't have His love in our heart, we're lost should we die today.
Love and hate cannot abide together.
Though other things are important to God as well, like truth and general Christian practice, love must be the basis of all we think, say and do — in other words, first and foremost.
So, despite someone believing in what they might be doing (perhaps having been brought up that way), if what they're doing isn't born of love, given that love hates not, and that love harms not (such being the opposite of love), their heart is ill, unfit for Heaven, and therefore, no excuse covering such a heart.
Hence that urgent reality check, and where needed, that urgent need of genuine repentance and change. Such repentance being the beginning of that change of heart, and the Holy Spirit building on that change.
Though saved by grace alone, love is the evidence that God's spirit abides within, and thus its absence being the evidence that God's spirit isn't abiding within.
"Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart" (Proverbs 21:2, ESV)
"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account"
(Heb 4:12,13, NIV).
FIRST CORINTHIANS CHAPTER THIRTEEN, VERSES FOUR TO SEVEN
“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave
rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor 13:4-7, NKJV).
LOVE SUFFERS LONG
Bears long with the faults, failings and weaknesses of others. Is patiently quiet, suppressing irritability.
Bears long when oppressed, wrongfully accused and persecuted.
LOVE IS KIND
Displays an understanding sympathy for, and appreciation of, the struggles and difficulties of others.
Is gentle, courteous, gracious and anxious to do good.
LOVE DOES NOT ENVY
Doesn’t display wrong or unpleasant feelings toward someone because of advantages that that person possesses.
LOVE DOES NOT PARADE ITSELF
Does not seek self-glorification, nor sings its own praises, but is humble.
LOVE IS NOT PUFFED UP
Doesn’t indulge in self-importance, nor seeks flattery.
LOVE DOES NOT BEHAVE RUDELY
Doesn’t behave uncivilly, rudely or unmannerly, but rather, does what’s right and proper.
Is courteous and mindful of the feelings of others, and thus doesn’t offend their sensibilities.
LOVE DOES NOT SEEK HER OWN
Forgets self. Puts others first. One willingly using their life in loving ministry for others, thus sacrificing their own comfort, time, ease wealth and talents to advance the welfare of mankind in general. Are also completely absorbed in doing the will of God.
IS NOT PROVOKED
Is calm and controlled under provocation and leaves things in God’s hand.
LOVE THINKS NO EVIL
Puts the best possible construction on the behaviour of others.
Is not fault finding, nor evilly surmises.
Holds nothing against anyone.
LOVE DOES NOT REJOICE IN INIQUITY (SIN)
Finds no pleasure in any kind of unrighteousness.
Does not gloat nor get pleasure from others erring or getting caught or punished, but seeks to redeem and rehabilitate people.
LOVE REJOICES IN TRUTH
Is interested in the advancement of truth and the happiness of man, and rejoices when the cause of truth is sustained and when others embrace it.
Rejoices in virtue, righteousness and goodness.
LOVE BEARS ALL THINGS
Keeps quiet about the faults of others
LOVE BELIEVES ALL THINGS
Has no doubts regarding God’s Word and instructions which it gratefully accepts and obeys.
LOVE HOPES ALL THINGS
Despite how dark appearances may be, and whatever grounds there may be for questioning the sincerity of others, love still hopes that everything will be well in the end.
Is prepared to face ridicule, strife and contempt in defence of others, hoping that in due time truth will be vindicated.
LOVE ENDURES ALL THINGS
Suffers quietly all difficulties, trials, persecutions and injuries inflicted by man or Satan.
Puts up with the strange behaviour of others that’s possibly even designed to hurt or annoy, bearing long, realising that Christ died for them too, and that they should be pitied rather than condemned.
DISCOURAGED?
Note:
For poems about hurting, see my secular page that's titled Hurting? (where other pages are mentioned),
and my Christian page Suffering, the latter accessed via my page With God In Mind.
REMEMBER THIS:
Sorrow looks back,
Discouragement looks down,
Worry looks around,
Faith looks up,
Hope looks forward,
And trust waits patiently.
18. He Who Won't Dismay
When all hope has faded, when your dreams lie shattered, and you, Friend, badly battered,
Or when languishing in prison, some modern dungeon, and your friends have scattered,
Or cruelly betrayed you, let go of the present and trust in the future, when
Our Lord will return in great power and glory, and one day live amongst men.
Yes, when words are still ringing and blows are still stinging, or deep wounds are gapping,
And when from such pain, hurt and loneliness you know there’s clearly no escaping,
Or at least for some time, let go of the present and trust in the future, when
Christ will usher you into a Paradise that cannot be captured by pen.
Yes, when death looks a certainty or the loss of someone most precious and dear,
Or when no matter how hard you plead it looks like there’s no response to your prayer,
Or Heaven has said "No," let go of the present and trust in the future, when
Indescribable joy, peace and happiness will grace this old planet again.
And then, all you missed out on or never achieved will cease to upset or gnaw,
For no earthly dream or desire could ever compare with what God has in store.
And then all that you went through will melt away in the healing warmth of the Son,
Who’ll explain His responses to every prayer when you felt they were few or none.
So hard as it may be midst disappointment, woe or loneliness, hurt or pain,
Let go of the present and trust in the future, and not yours nor God’s name stain.
But rather, hold your head up high, and bear your cross with patience and dignity,
For what’s a mere three score years and ten compared with a wondrous eternity?
No, I’m not unmindful of that gut wrenching suffering, that life robbing pain,
Those dark clouds that engulf and threaten to choke, those periods of acid rain.
But Satan’s behind it all, not our Lord who oft hears our rants and cops the blame,
All of which pleases our adversary and brings shame on He who overcame.
Yes, trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding,
And realising that midst our lot our Creator is still chiselling and sanding;
And suffering too, having never intended that misery come our way,
And why He wants you to hang in there, healing and a crown but moments away.
So let go of the present and trust in the future — yes, He who won’t dismay.
By Lance Landall
19. "On Yer Bike!"
When the devil grabs a hold of your ear, and says, “Looky here, I’ve something really good for you,”
Just tell him to take a hike, or holler, “On yer bike!” and the opposite to what he said do.
Yes, I wouldn’t listen to his lies, for oh, how he tries, and why you’ve got to tell him clearly,
For should you give him half a mo, some trouble you’re bound to know, and chances are, you’ll pay dearly.
So, I wouldn’t give him the time of day, for should he get his way, he’ll gloat over his success,
While you’re left to carry the cost, having let yourself be bossed, and he ain’t cleaning up the mess.
But rather, and this, midst your lather, will be rubbing your nose in it, he chortling to his mates,
And hence why you shouldn’t succumb, nor even give him a crumb, but just ignore him, which he hates.
Tell him you’ve a powerful Friend, and by the way, that you know his sorry end, it coming soon,
And that you’ve chosen a happier end, eternity with your Friend, with whom you’ve more in tune.
And though he won’t give up, and will still pass his poisoned cup, just tell him to take his brew away,
For anything of his, no matter its pop and fizz, will have you out for the rest of the day.
Better you call on your Friend, with whom eternity you’ll spend, He able to help with your foe,
For despite your best intentions, you’re up against devilish inventions, and Satan a pro.
But with your trust in the Lord, having taken His promises on board, victory can be yours,
So long as you don’t forget, that while Satan’s a threat, you must close any open windows or doors.
By Lance Landall
“Discipline yourselves, keep alert [due appreciation of the seriousness of the times and difficulties]. Like a
roaring lion your adversary the devil [Satan] prowls around, looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
20. Just Rest In His Love
Dear child of God, suffering under the depression of ill health, don't forget that your Saviour deeply cares,
That He feels every pang of anguish that His loved ones feel, hears every cry they utter midst their tears.
Oh, how Christ sympathises having suffered Himself, His love still as deep as that shown on Calvary,
Hence why He’ll never leave or forsake you, 'cause He who died for you, also watches over you faithfully.
So please don’t fret, but just rest in His love, even if clinging to a grain of mustard seed, for that will do,
'Cause just as a loving father holds his child in his arms, so will Christ hold you when you’re weak and anxious too.
He knows you love Him — and oh, how even deeper He loves you, a friend you can trust, one who always proves true,
A God who cares for each wee sparrow, a God who knows your plight — yes, a God who will always be there for you.
So just rest in His outstretched arms, 'cause that’s all He expects you to do, aware of your weakness, misery,
And if you’re faithful, trusting in His loving care and promises, He'll soon reward you with eternity.
And then, along with others so blessed, you’ll praise Him with a voice of triumph, ever remain in His care,
Daily enjoying His presence, free from burdens that once plagued, courtesy of love and mercy true and clear.
But meantime, midst those shadows that mar your life, don't forget that your loving Saviour is always very near,
That nothing escapes His attention, nor escapes His tender compassion, each moment, day, week, month and year,
'Cause He’s the God of love, a God who cares so much that He gave His life for you, and that with Him you’ll soon be,
Free from that which chokes joy and happiness, free from the depression of ill health, alias infirmity.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded 18 February 2020.
21. Lift Me Higher
When I’m feeling low, and very so, please lift me from that pit, dear Lord,
Cheer me with Your comfort, bear my burdens on Your shoulders strong and broad.
Carry me in Your arms, safe from that which harms, and there, reassure me,
And heal my tortured mind with a sweet heavenly musical medley.
Too often waves of fretfulness, and everyday concerns, fill my mind,
Yes, things that I regret, can’t forget, and just can’t seem to leave behind.
'Cause though I’ve changed, dear Lord, the consequences of my past I still see,
Yes, all the hurt and pain, that still remain, both within others and me.
Though I wish to move on, seems I’m set upon, by haunting memories,
Snapshots and flashbacks, panoramic taunts, that distractions fail to ease.
Though I’m sorry, and deeply so, I feel I’m caught in an undertow,
One that’s threatening to take me down, and lest I drown, please help me so.
Send me power from on high, draw nigh, surround me with the heavenly,
And angels who’ll minister to my needs; my pleas directed to Thee.
Rebuke the rants of Satan, dismiss each accusation with Your grace,
And confidence in You, the One who’s sure and true, help me to embrace.
Oh yes, cover me with that innocent blood flowing from Calvary,
That robe of righteousness, undeserved, yet reserved, for wretches just like me.
Tear down every stronghold, and pull out every root rebelliously installed,
That I may shout with joy, free at last, from the past, in awe of Thee, enthralled.
Yes, Lord, daily lift my thoughts heavenward, reassure me constantly,
Fill my heart with joy and peace, so fears will cease, and bad memories flee.
Whisper midst my daily toil, speak providentially, creatively,
That I may know how much You love me, and how You’re always there for me.
Yes, lift me high above my cares, Lord, those wrong things done, those wrong things said,
And fill my mind and troubled days with heavenly thoughts and ways instead.
Encourage me via spiritual company, divinely dispatched,
Help me experience Heaven on Earth, rebirth, a life that’s unmatched.
By Lance Landall
22. That's How Much!
You’re saying that God doesn’t love you, and perhaps you think that He couldn’t,
And I guess it’s just so easy for some people to say that you shouldn’t.
However, in your mind, friend, such thoughts and feelings are indeed very real,
And hence why what we need to try and do here is, God’s love for you reveal.
Consider how Jesus (who is the Father’s treasured one and only Son),
Left His Father’s loving presence to be with those who this Saviour would shun.
Yes, think of how this Prince of Peace left His heavenly paradise behind,
And for thirty odd years here on Earth, joined in humanity’s daily grind.
Consider how our Creator came to serve those whom He had created,
And how whilst here on Earth, He had to face that cruelty which Him awaited.
Yes, think of how Christ was betrayed, even deserted by His very own,
And how one denied that he knew Him, and how Jesus faced His trial alone.
Think of all that our Saviour endured while here, the cruel jeering and mocking,
And those assaults upon His body — and yes, that death so cruel and shocking.
And how He even thought that His own Father had forsaken Him as well,
And how some who He had come to save, wickedly conspired to do Him ill.
Now consider such an amazing love that willingly this dreadful price paid,
And how this One who's so deserving of homage, such sacrifice displayed.
Yes, how Earth’s Creator died for everyone that He had lovingly made,
And how this merciful but cross-bound Saviour even for His killers prayed.
Well, that's how much Jesus loves us all, and of course, His caring Father too,
'Cause both of them were in total agreement that Christ needed this to do.
Their great love had made provision for the salvation of our fallen race,
Clearly knowing that only Calvary could provide us with saving grace.
Now think of how the Father must have felt as this sad scene on Earth took place,
And the restraint that He clearly exercised when they spat on His Son’s face.
Think of His righteous indignation on seeing His Holy Son profaned,
And how the slaughter of such Innocence would have very deeply pained.
Yes, the Father witnessed all these insults, and accusations most unfair,
And also His Son's loneliness and heartache, His Son's pain and deep despair.
But all this for sinners — you and I — the Father and His Son chose to share,
'Cause that is how much they truly love us, that is how much they truly care.
Can you see it now, my friend — that is, how much love God really has for you?
Is there anybody that you know whose love could ever such love outdo?
No, we all know that there couldn’t be, 'cause such a love like that is Divine,
A love that's well and truly way beyond that fallen love of yours and mine.
Such an amazing love is unchangeable, and it'll never cease to be;
Therefore, no matter what we think or feel, it’s always there for you and me.
Yes, regardless of our wrong behaviour, such love will never from us flee,
'Cause this love also includes sinners, as Jesus Christ proved on Calvary.
Yes, the Father up above, so loved the world too (which of course means you and I),
That He despatched (with His approval) His loving Son, who for us would die.
This Saviour never came to condemn us, but to offer His grace to all,
Which covers any contrite sinner who upon the Father is seen to call.
Therefore, if the devil ever tempts you with the thought that God doesn’t love you,
Or with the terrible thought that God couldn’t, which is equally untrue,
And if gloomy discouragement and darkness has you wrongly thinking such,
Just look at what God has done for you, and always remember, THAT’S HOW MUCH!
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded on 20 December 2022.
“He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him” (John 1:11, ESV).
“But
He was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon
Him was the punishment that made us whole, and by His bruises we are
healed” (Isa 53:5).
“They stripped Him and put a scarlet
robe on Him, and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it
on His head. They put a reed in His right hand and knelt before Him and
mocked Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They spat on Him, and
took the reed and struck Him on the head. After mocking Him, they
stripped Him of the robe and put His own clothes on Him. Then they led
Him away to crucify Him” (Matt 27:28-31).
“...Jesus cried out with a loud voice...‘My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?’ ” (Matt 27:46, ESV).
“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do’ ” (Luke 23:34, ESV).
“And plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him” (Matt 26:4, NKJV).
“...Then all the disciples left Him [Christ] and fled” (Matt 26:56, ESV).
“And again he [Peter] denied it with an oath: ‘I do not know the Man’ ” (Matt 26:72, ESV).
“And from that moment on he [Judas] sought an opportunity to betray Him [Christ]” (Matt 26:16, ESV).
“Then He [Christ] said to them, ‘My soul is very sorrowful, even to death...’ ” (Matt 26:38, ESV).
23. Take Heart
We see so many things around us that remind us of Adam’s fall, and that Satan’s tinkerings display.
Yes, those Autumn leaves that silently flutter to the ground, their weakened grip oft succumbing to wayward wind,
Which, along with cold, rain, hail and gloomy clouds, so often has us wishing that Adam and Eve hadn’t sinned.
And then there’re those damaged butterflies, a tyre or heel ending their life, or a cat those baby birds that fall,
And oh, how cats love to play with mice — Satan grinning, no doubt — he like a roaring lion who likewise seeks to maul.
And who no doubt had a hand in those discouraging weeds and unkind prickly thistles that can pain one’s feet,
They flourishing with threatening torrents, or drying and sharpening with over exuberant waves of heat.
And yes, there’re those lines-cum-wrinkles that come with age, and that mars those created in God’s image, you and I,
Or that pain that attacks and disfigures failing joints, hence those sudden cries, or that heavy and weary sigh.
And we not alone, for such cruel ravages are seen in the animal kingdom too, even creation,
The Earth itself cracking, shaking and groaning — yes, groaning under the abuses of its population.
Yes, it’s terribly sad, and why our Creator longs to restore His creation to its former glory,
Not just Earth, but humanity — indeed all living creatures, they once again living in peace and harmony.
So let’s take heart despite all those distortions and mutations we see, and that present reign of tooth and claw,
For Christ will soon appear, reward the saints with immortality, and return things to how they were before.
Meantime, remember those roses amidst the thorns.
By Lance Landall
24. Clear As Daylight
I’ve seen the love of God, have heard His voice, and the testimonies of others,
Those supernatural experiences of fellow sisters and brothers.
It’s as clear as daylight that there’s a God, one who responds to every prayer,
Be it “Yes” or be it “No,” and silence never meaning that He isn’t there.
And there’s those signs of the times that are proving true, that wisdom of God’s Word too,
Society less for dismissing them today, and many such folly rue.
No one having bettered what’s in the Bible, nothing having offered more hope
And God still the Rock, this world nothing more than sinking sand, a slippery slope.
And so, when days are dark, and encouragement is needed, know that God is real,
And that it’s all about faith, trust and hope, not about how you might otherwise feel.
God revealing himself more and more to those who are faithful, come sun or rain,
And to whom all things will soon be made plain, when together with Jesus they reign.
By Lance Landall
25. Oh, How God Loves You!
One thing's as solid as a rock: You’re priceless in God’s eyes, such more than proven by His crucifixion.
Oh, how Christ loves you, yearns for you, and desires your best, He watching with the greatest intensity,
'Cause every detail of your life absorbs Him, and grace ensuring such all throughout eternity.
And let me tell you this:
When you’re hurting, it pains Him too, 'cause pain and sadness in your life are things that He doesn't like to see,
Despite Him knowing that trials are for our good, 'cause sterling sailors aren’t the result of a calm sea.
But having said that, those who hurt you, or cause suffering in your life, can kindle His anger, clearly,
'Cause all are His precious children (creation), who He doesn’t want someone hurting or treating wrongly.
Oh, how Christ loves you, angels at His ready should you call on Him, let alone your guardian angel,
Who, never leaves your side, having been sent to protect and guide, be that on your journeys or where you dwell.
Oh, what love (concern), and don’t forget those marks on Christ's hands, love and grace forever etched on His body,
And oh, how He suffered so, and thereby feels all you’re going through, hence His sympathy and empathy.
Yes, if there is one thing that’s more than clear, it’s that no one will ever love and care for you more than He,
'Cause He’s love itself, a God of truth who’s just, and whom you can trust, one with whom you can spend eternity.
And how He longs for such, 'cause you’ve been separated from Him — yes, viciously torn from His side by sin,
Something He’ll soon bring an end to, 'cause Earth itself is groaning, awaiting that victory that He'll win.
But meantime, midst all the darkness and pain, rest assured that God’s love is great indeed, and personal,
And by that I mean, in the sense that all are loved as if no other were on Earth — and He, accessible,
Only a prayer away — and at our request, He able to do the impossible (His specialty),
'Cause He’s also the God of miracles, using His mighty power on our behalf so graciously.
By Lance Landall
26. God's Not Like That
So now you think that you’ve blown it, and well and truly this time,
Convinced that once too often is an unpardonable crime.
And you think that God’s called your angel home, taken back His grace,
Wiped you from the Book of Life, and cancelled your heavenly place.
Hey, I really understand, 'cause I have felt the same way too,
So sure that God had left me, and feeling written off like you.
But guess who has you thinking that, and then builds on your despair,
Yes, it’s just that crafty devil using falsehood to ensnare.
You’re really sorry, aren’t you, and have always tried to do your best.
And if God would just forgive you, you’d return to Him with zest.
Well, friend, let me tell you clearly, you don’t have a thing to fear.
Just contritely bow before Him, and, “I love you,” you’ll soon hear.
So don’t let the devil fool you, 'cause God truly understands.
His sympathy and caring having left marks upon His hands.
Your weakness overwhelmed you, 'cause by nature you’re a sinner,
And that’s why only grace can save, both seasoned and beginner.
Oh yes, God is most forgiving, 'cause He knows our weakened frame,
And hence why He came and died for us that His grace we might claim.
He knowing that only mercy could release us from our plight,
And that only His enabling would then see us win the fight.
Yes, sometimes when we're struggling, we can feel that God isn't there,
But hey, that's when He’s more so, 'cause your burden He wants to bear.
Your plight affects Him greatly, even where it might be self-caused,
And yes, right throughout your lifetime, His care’s never stopped or paused.
We may also feel unable to re-approach our Saviour,
Feeling terribly ashamed because of more wrong behaviour.
But could we behold His face, we would have no hesitation,
'Cause we’d only see that love that had Him die for His creation.
God’s not out to point the finger, nor to us accuse or blame,
And though He has His standards, He’s made allowance for our frame.
He sees our daily struggles, and tender pity fills His heart,
And thus help amidst our trials He has promised to impart.
So hey, don’t despair if struggling, 'cause God’s grace will see you through,
So long as you're still genuinely seeking His will to do.
Perseverance is the key, allowing God to rule your heart,
Trusting in His promises, and that from Him you don’t depart.
However, should you leave Him (though such a sad thing that would be),
Lovingly He will wait for you, hoping your return to see.
No, nothing stops God loving you; it’s only sin that He hates,
'Cause He knows that its sad practice could keep you from Heaven’s gates.
So when the devil whispers things about God that are not true,
Remember God’s not like that, and that it’s Satan fooling you.
Remember how Christ suffered, and think of all that He went through,
And how He would've done it if the only sinner had been you.
Would such a God condemn you should you stumble with your tough load,
Or because you have repeatedly trodden that same old road?
Would such a God discard you should you still cry out, “Please help me!"
No, NEVER! NEVER! NEVER! Such a love wouldn't let that be.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded on 20 December 2022.
The idea for this poem was drawn from the song Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Old Oak Tree
sung by Tony Orlando and Dawn and penned by Irwin Levine and L Russell Brown.
27. Heavenly Ribbons
If anyone has an oak tree with the biggest of ribbons, it’s Jesus Christ,
Who, on our behalf, the comforts of Heaven for an evil cross sacrificed.
Yes, and this while we were yet sinners, for Christ so wanted to see us set free,
Which is why there’s surely the biggest of ribbons tied to a heavenly tree,
Many ribbons, undoubtedly.
Yes, that Tree of Life, perhaps, and Jesus watching and waiting for our return,
There no question that He still loves us, that old rugged cross showing His concern.
A cross no doubt hewn from a tree, one that’s metamorphosed into an oak tree,
And round its strong boughs those yellow ribbons conveying deep love for you and me.
Oh, how Christ desires that shackles of sin be broken, we released to come home,
And why for each one of us, the length and breadth of Earth our Saviour’s seen to comb;
In other words, why He’s watching from His window in Paradise, ears alert,
Hoping all aboard His grace train will spot those ribbons that His acceptance blurt.
Well,
I’m sure that He’ll see that grace train long before its whistle blows, His heart thumping,
Lest we miss those ribbons due to piles of diversions that the devil’s dumping.
And hopefully, our hearts thumping too, we longing to see some heavenly tree,
One with the biggest of ribbons — and we well! — Christ’s love still burning as brightly.
Oh, how I long for that day, Christ meantime sending me letters that give me hope,
Messages that midst those moments of any doubt or despair help me to cope.
'Cause Heaven is still in the future, and thus the grace train still winding its way,
I longing for that ribbon bound tree that, “You’re home and still wanted,” will convey.
Yes, yellow ribbons, crowns and white robes too, and then there’s that wedding feast as well,
Both Bridegroom and bride dining together — and forever, together will dwell.
'Cause never again will there be a parting, and hence we enjoying that tree,
Which will always remind us that despite our fall, Christ still waited longingly.
Oh yes, if anyone has an oak tree with the biggest of ribbons, it’s Christ,
Who died on our behalf, and thereby, with His very own eternity diced.
Hence why He’d hardly not have the biggest of ribbons tied to an old oak tree,
'Cause there’s no love like His, and why I’m so certain that such ribbons we will see.
By Lance Landall
28. Dear Precious One
'Cause when we don’t, dear precious one, and wander or succumb, it’s a rockier ride.
And remember that seasons in the sun, or those nights of fun, are fleeting, soon lost,
And that where there’s foolishness and waywardness, there’s always some cost, a morning frost.
So stay by God’s side, He trustworthy, true and tried, someone who deeply cares for you,
And who wants the best for you, and watches out for you, be skies cloudy, moist or blue.
And if you’re struggling, and feeling unable to cling to Him, He’ll take hold of you,
And best you let Him draw you back, aid you with what you lack, and that you ask Him to.
In fact, He’s longing for your call, has strong arms that’ll catch your fall, steady your slips,
And has the answers to your whys, those heartfelt cries, dreams that slip through your fingertips.
And why He says to hang in there, and certain burdens bear, for in time you’ll see
That His promises come true, that what’s best He always knew, and acted lovingly.
Yes, dear precious one, so loved by the Father and Son — oh, how I encourage you,
'Cause somehow straying off track, that turning of one’s back, or giving up, as some do,
Could see you wrenched from doting arms, looking back at nail pierced palms, and pitying eyes,
And over such loss, such tragic loss, having good reason to weep and agonize.
By Lance Landall
29. Deep, High And Wide
His feelings as acute as any human’s, and why that cross tore it apart.
Yes, His own having rejected Him, turned on Him, and oh, how that must have stung,
And yet, there on that devilishly inspired manmade cross, Christ willingly hung.
But He arose, not Satan or men victorious, but Jesus Christ our Lord,
Who had every right to retaliate when, “Crucify Him!”, they all roared.
But no, His love and grace incomparable, and so, there on Calvary He died,
No one's heart more badly broken, no heart more full of love, so deep, high and wide.
By Lance Landall
30. Unlimited Love
Sometimes we may rage and question, “Why?” when things overwhelm,
But there’s a God who is good, and who’s clearly at the helm.
He understands our heartache, feels our pain, hears each request,
Yet, midst it all, this God who’s real, will only do what’s best.
How can mortals understand the ways of God, Jehovah,
Or those things that He allows that cause us pain, moreover?
The window humans see through is but misty at its best,
Hence we’ll never understand all, or fully, and that’s best.
Yes, some things are best not known, we’ve pain enough for today,
And were we told, would we understand, given that we’re clay?
Not until we reach that home where our Saviour sits enthroned,
Will we truly comprehend, have our insight finely honed.
Meantime, God won’t cut us off, turn His back, nor walk away,
Just because we let Him down, show lack of faith, or from Him stray.
No, He’s a God who’s faithful, a friend indeed, who woos, persuades,
Despite our childish murmurs, sulks and threats, petty tirades.
Should any become downcast, resentful, He’ll still show His love,
By sending midst the shadows Divine blessings from above.
Yes, He’ll still love and help them, for He knows such wins the day,
As only love, unlimited love, can heal or gain sway.
Only love, unlimited love, can melt a heart or heal,
Yes, only love that’s heavenly, love that’s lasting and real.
That’s the kind God has for us, He who sees each sparrow fall,
He who watches tenderly, He who hears each anxious call.
Though we may not understand, we can rest assured God cares,
And that He notices not just sparrows, but falling tears.
He knows we’re clay, broken vessels too, and it breaks His heart,
Because love, unlimited love, never wanted us apart.
By Lance Landall
Inspired by a story I heard.
31. Homeward Bound
They had come to board a vessel, their tickets tightly held in hand,
For they'd spent twenty years as missionaries in a foreign land.
Feeling very drained and weary, they then boarded the waiting ship,
Struggling with the suitcases that they had often held in their grip.
And upon that ship’s stained wooden deck, they stood waiting to depart,
Both grappling with mixed emotions, and deeply burdened in their heart.
And there, unnoticed and unknown, they stared down at the dock below,
Whereupon a shiny car appeared, midst cheers that began to grow.
A person who was rather famous, judging by the crowd that grew,
Quickly boarded that very same ship, safely ushered by its crew.
And soon he disappeared from sight, deep into the bowels of the ship,
Where throbbing motors signalled that it had begun its homeward trip.
The couple who had been watching such, now turned to face each other,
But emotion deeply felt, the husband could no longer smother.
Thus, a tear trickled down his sad face, and she heard her husband say,
“Twenty years of sacrifice, and not one person cheered us today.”
The rather famous person who had boarded the same home-bound ship
Oft strolled about the upper deck, with drinks held firmly in his grip.
One couldn’t help but notice the special treatment that this man got,
And all the admirers of this man were not difficult to spot.
After a number of weeks at sea, the ship sailed into port,
And just as soon as it had docked, many reporters this man sought.
And midst another growing crowd, and more cheers that soon rent the air,
He slid into a plush limousine that departed who knows where.
Well, soon the couple had embarked, and now homeward made their own way,
Thinking about their humble home where they had often knelt to pray.
And once there, they paid the driver, who had driven them to their door,
Where they made their way inside, dropping their suitcases on the floor.
Exhausted from their journey, they soon slumped into their comfy chairs,
Where once again, she noticed her dear husband’s softly trickling tears.
And taking hold of his hands in hers, she asked midst tears trickling too,
“Does it still upset you, my Love, that not one cheer rang out for you?”
With lowered head he slowly nodded, and then heard his sweet wife say,
“Well, tell God just how you’re feeling, Love, He’s waiting for you to pray.
And I will linger here in this room, and later, when you come back,
You can tell me what He said, while our clothing I quietly unpack.”
Soon her husband had returned from the other room where he had prayed,
And her breast heaved with a sigh, for now a beaming smile was displayed.
“Oh, please tell me what He said, Love, for I know our God truly cares,
And that He always answers without fail, His children’s heartfelt prayers.”
“Well, I told Him how we’re so weary, how we’ve sacrificed for years,
So unnoticed and unknown, and how I had envied all those cheers.
I told Him that I love Him greatly, but had envied all that fuss,
And how secretly I had wished that the receiver had been us.
Then I listened for an answer hoping that something I might hear,
So concerned that my poor behaviour may have turned away His ear.
But kneeling beside the bed feeling very anxious and upset,
I clearly heard a voice say, 'Patience, my son, for you’re not home yet.' ”
By Lance Landall
32. How I Need Thee
Wrap me in Your arms of love, please keep me safe and secure,
Draw me closer to your heart, and regularly reassure.
Let me bask in Divine warmth, hug me, hold me tighter,
Tell me all about Your love, help faith and hope burn brighter.
Tell me why You love me, Lord, why You died for such as me,
Why You’ve such love for sinners who don’t have such love for Thee.
Tell me all about Heaven, where one day I hope to be,
And help me remain faithful, so that soon, Lord, Thee I’ll see.
Every day I need You, Lord, 'cause I’m weak and full of sin,
Succumbing so easily to that self that lies within.
I know I’ll never make it, unless You, Lord, grasp my hand,
And guide me down that pathway that leads to the Promised Land.
I need Your encouragement, 'cause I falter, slip and fall,
And sometimes I try to walk before You’ve taught me to crawl.
There’re times when I’m discouraged, or my back’s against the wall,
And, sadly, there are times when my confidence seems to stall.
Heaven seems so far away, and sometimes, Lord, You do too,
Midst moments of depression, or those times when skies aren’t blue.
And sometimes I feel frightened by the shadows that are cast
By Satan’s evil angels, or I’m haunted by my past.
I need to know You care, Lord, that You hear my every cry,
That whenever I’m hurting, or am struggling, You’re nearby.
And that despite my failings, there’s abounding love and grace,
Reserving up in Heaven, Lord, a crown, a home, a space.
Yes, I’m longing for that time when free of troubles I’ll be,
When suffering and heartache I’ll no longer feel and see.
But while I’m here on earth, Lord, may I be granted every day,
A little something special that, “I love You,” will convey.
By Lance Landall
33. I'm So Glad
I’m so glad that Jesus understands me when others don’t and cast me aside,
And that Jesus never forsakes me, 'cause should He do so, who would be my guide?
No, for though I let Him down too, His love never varies, nor His gracious mood,
'Cause He sees my failings as opportunities, and ignores their magnitude.
Yes, I’m so glad that Christ understands me when others don’t and think ill of me,
Their vision less like that of my Saviour who so much more is able to see.
And why He stays the distance, unlike others who groan and tire so easily,
Their help but for a short-sighted season, and then they just giving up on me.
And how it pains, their professions of love and concern oft shallow and hollow,
Time soon giving evidence of such, and thus why Christ and not man I follow.
'Cause people inevitably let one down, sincere intentions soon waning,
And thus over one’s slow progress, or unintended lapses, they complaining.
Oh, how others so often misunderstand, their expectations quite unfair,
Unlike my Lord’s, 'cause He’s a realist, and why so long with me He’s seen to bear.
And why I know that I can always turn to Him, night and day, and He’ll be there,
'Cause though oft disappointed, He knows that in time and with His help, I’ll get there.
And such I pray will be the case, 'cause with my Saviour I truly want to be,
And thus why I curse my weakness, those things that keep on bloodying Calvary.
Or that make life harder for others, even hurts them, or causes them dismay,
They unable to see what Christ sees, and why they oft depart or wrongly weigh.
Hence why I’m so glad that Christ has broad shoulders, they carrying a cross for me,
'cause He knows how fallen I am, and of the damage behind some things folk see.
Yes, they harder on me than Christ would ever think to be, 'cause my heart He knows,
And why despite all my shameful regrets, His love for me unfailingly glows.
Oh, how I desire to be free from this wretchedness that sees others shun me,
Or give up on me, 'cause though they shouldn’t, more like my Saviour I need to be.
And why I’m so glad that He bears long, and why I pray that He’ll help others see
That their response shouldn’t be any different to His; and the same for me.
By Lance Landall
34. There's One Who'll Help You Through
Have you made a big mistake and are paying a high price?
Could it be that you've acted contrary to sound advice?
Have you committed a crime? Are you facing time in jail?
Could it be that you knew better, yet let folly prevail?
Have your friends forsaken you and left you feeling lonely?
Are you struggling with your plight — replaying, “Oh, if only?"
Are there loved ones that you’ve hurt? Are you feeling all is lost?
Or has a loved one left you, thinking you’re not worth the cost?
If such is so, I feel for you, offer my sympathy,
And 'cause I’ve blundered too, you've also my empathy.
But there is Someone whose empathy even mine exceeds,
Someone who knows far more so what it’s like when one’s heart bleeds.
Oh, that turmoil in your mind, and that knotty stomach pain;
“Will it ever ease?” you ask, “For it’s driving me insane.”
I know it well, friend, but listen, there’s One who’ll help you through,
One who’ll always be around, though I guess you’re thinking “Who?”
Well, let me introduce you to the greatest Friend I’ve had,
'Cause He has always helped me through the good times and the bad.
If it weren’t for His great love, I would not have made it through,
And I know He'll help you too, if the following you’ll do:
Quickly fall upon your knees, let Him hear your heartfelt cry,
'Cause this God who answers prayer has the answer to each “Why?”
Tell Him that you need His help, that upon Him you’ll rely,
And on seeing your remorse He’ll assuredly reply.
Christ will help you through it all, and on tough days He’s there more,
So when you find things harder, kneel again upon the floor.
Yes, often you’ll be kneeling 'till those darker days decrease,
However, when they do, I wouldn’t let your praying cease.
No, be mindful of the danger when you’re back on your feet
Of feeling less dependant on this One you’re blest to meet,
'Cause every day you’ll need Him lest the past you repeat,
'Cause only Christ alone, one's inner demons can defeat.
I misguidedly tried to do without Him in my youth,
And discovered that misguidedly proved to be the truth.
But the biggest thing I’ve learnt is, that all Christ badly need,
'Cause any path without Him, to loss will certainly lead.
It’s worth it, believe me, 'cause though I sympathize and care,
He’s the best to lean upon, He’s the best with whom to share.
Christ will never let you down, all His promises He’ll keep,
And when you learn to trust Him, so much better you will sleep.
But remember, I care too, hence why such I've sought to share,
And God desires this, that your load be easier to bear.
We’re His human instruments which He uses to reach out,
And that He loves you dearly, I don’t have a single doubt.
So please give God a try, dear friend, 'cause no one cares like He.
Yes, surrender your all to Him while you’ve opportunity.
'Cause the latter will ensure that you'll spend eternity
With this One who’ll see you through, He who hears each heartfelt plea.
By Lance Landall
This poem was tweaked right through on 23 December 2022.
35. What A Fool I'd Be
Amidst troubles in my life, I’ve a God who’s there for me,
One who’ll never let me down, One I trust implicitly.
Though storms may round me rage, and threaten to overwhelm,
I have His precious promise He’ll be standing at the helm.
He’s a God who’s promised much, 'cause much He can deliver,
Given He's our Creator, sustainer and life-giver.
All His promises He keeps, 'cause the God of truth is He,
Thus I know He’ll see me through all that lies ahead of me.
He is powerful and strong, He commands and things are done,
He controls every movement of the Earth, the moon and sun.
The stars and all the planets are securely held in place
By this same God who breathed life into the human race.
Though He’s the God Almighty who reigns majestically on high,
His love all this surpasses, hence why for me He came to die.
The cross that bore His body symbolizes the degree
That He was prepared to go to for a wretched one like me.
Now that’s a God worth trusting when I’ve problems in my life,
When my very life is threatened, or when in the midst of strife.
Despite what may befall me, He will make it fit His plans,
'Cause my God, my best interests very clearly understands.
Every day I'm reminded that He deeply loves and cares,
'Cause when I daily study, such via His Word He shares.
But also through life’s journey so much evidence I see
That proves these things He shares can be taken seriously.
Oh yes, what a fool I’d be, not to follow faithfully
This great God who’ll let me spend life with Him eternally.
How could I let tribulation, or even threat of death stop me
From remaining faithful to this One who's always there for me.
By Lance Landall
36. Struggle On
Jesus never told us that the Christian walk would be easy,
Rather, “Take up your cross and follow Me,” He says, knowingly.
Thus many struggle, become discouraged, and give up, sadly,
Viewing struggling as negative, when it’s not, actually.
Our struggling shows that we haven’t succumbed to the enemy,
Plus, it’s far better to be struggling than not struggling, you see.
Such shows that we haven’t given up, but are battling still,
And are doing our best to serve Christ and carry out His will.
In fact, should we not be battling, dear friend, what might that convey,
'Cause Satan only hassles those who Christ’s will truly obey.
After all, why would he waste time on Laodicean sheep,
They being, worldly Christians who’re lukewarm and foolishly asleep.
You see, if we’re struggling, then chances are we’re under attack,
That Satan is trying to weaken us, or take us off track.
He doesn’t want us growing in Christ, witnessing correctly,
'Cause such Christians pose a greater threat to him, obviously.
Satan knows very well that the Christian walk isn’t easy;
That is, when a Christian is truly walking biblically.
So he tries his best to make things harder so they’ll give up, fall,
Hence why Christians need to be committed, and give Christ their all.
So don’t get discouraged if struggling — rather, rejoice you are,
Because such will ensure that the devil won’t get as far.
Yes, he may have some success, but don’t let him win, take you down,
And let praises to your Saviour Satan’s evil whispers drown.
Remember that failure's not falling down, but staying down, so
Learn to roll with Satan’s punches, and when he tempts you, say “No!”
And remember, if you’re not in the battle, how can you win?
Though it’s not you that actually does, but the Spirit within.
By Lance Landall
Yes, it's better to struggle than to give up — that’s the context.
“For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the
authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil
in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12).
37. More Than True
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus really cares,
Knows of all your struggles, trials, and notices all your tears.
And when He’s sought in prayer, there’s not a word that He doesn’t hear,
Nor a burden that He won’t bear, if you’ll only with Him share.
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus understands,
Because they mocked Him, spat on Him, drove nails through His feet and hands.
Yes, they hung Him on a cruel cross, and then left Him there to die,
And yet despite that, “Forgive them, Father,” He was heard to cry.
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus’ love is vast,
And His interest in you, and loving watch care, unsurpassed.
Oh yes, not a day goes by where He is unaware of you,
And what’s in your best interest, doesn’t forget to pursue.
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus never fails,
Thus He’s always at the helm, always in control, midst life’s gales.
All why He’ll get you through each storm, and across each angry sea,
Supplying you with His power so you’ll gain the victory.
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus is for real,
Something that you’ll discover if you humble your heart and kneel,
And if you surrender to His will, seeking Him earnestly,
Thus remorseful and no longer desiring to sin, praise be!
If there’s one thing that you should know, it’s that Jesus offers grace,
And hence why up in Heaven He’s been reserving you a place.
He dearly wants you there with Him, He’s missing you so much,
And knows it’s only His grace that’ll free you from Satan’s clutch.
If there’s one thing that you should know, it is all of the above,
Because this God who reigns on high is a God of truth and love.
Oh yes, you can rest assured that all I’m saying here is true,
Because love and truth met on Calvary where Christ bled for you.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded on 3 September 2022.
38. Only A Loving Heart
I know it’s hard, I’ve suffered too, had my share of hurt and pain,
But still, let’s cling to Jesus, who one day on Earth will reign.
Then this suffering we share we’ll no longer have to bear,
'Cause Jesus will bring an end to heartache experienced here.
Yes, I sympathize and care, know how life can be unfair,
And know it’s even harder when one has no friend to care.
Sometimes it feels so lonely midst our problems or our pain,
And we can feel abandoned, feel our strength begin to wane.
Despite it all, let’s praise the Lord, for problems that we’ve had,
The pain we’ve suffered also, and those times when we’ve felt sad.
'Cause now, another’s suffering we can better understand,
And more caringly respond, appropriately give a hand.
Like the rainbow midst the rain, so there’s hope amidst the pain,
'Cause the cross that bore our Saviour has brought grace for all to claim.
Thus, those who’ve Christ accepted, know that soon all pain will end,
'Cause Christ is the Great Healer, who broken heart’s and lives will mend.
Then throughout eternity, joy and happiness we’ll share,
Living in a paradise free of misery and despair.
No longer will the shadows of a fallen world surround,
'Cause the Son of light and beauty all this darkness will have bound.
But meantime, hurt we’ll suffer, 'cause on earth we still remain,
So let us help each other through the misery and pain.
Let’s reach out with compassion, help others their burdens bear,
Let’s show more love and kindness, help ease heartache, pain and fear.
Soon our Saviour will return and His home in Heaven share,
But He will only share it with the ones who love and care.
'Cause the God of love who saves, knows His love our hearts must fill,
'Cause only a loving heart responds to others, and fulfills His will.
By Lance Landall
FORBIDDEN TO HARM
"The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence,
he hates with a passion" (Ps 11:5, NIV).
"Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have
whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops" (Luke 12:3, NASB).
Also see the section Revenge And Grudges which ties in with this section,
and which is found on my page Hurting.
39. Heaven Yes, Or, Heaven No
Yes, you may not like what I say, and you may not like what I do,
But the way that you choose to treat me could prove pivotal for you,
'Cause God himself, loves me dearly, though chief of sinners I may be,
And He is watching intently how you are responding to me.
Treating me incorrectly is sin, 'cause I’m a ward of the King,
Who loves me as His own child, even though I'm of earthly offspring.
Therefore, those who hurt or mistreat me, will pain and offend my Lord,
'Cause He considers all as precious, and such wounding has outlawed.
My Lord bore the brunt of my sins when He suffered on Calvary,
Knowing that I’d still let Him down, wilfully or unconsciously.
Thus He’s given an example of the love that you too should show
Not just me, but all He died for and cares for, exceedingly so.
Yes, I am a child of the King, who an angel has granted me,
One who each and every day, my welfare must wisely oversee.
This angel keeps a record of all that is said and done to me,
'Cause such concerns my Saviour greatly, who watches protectively.
Should it be that you don’t like me, you’re still to love me, Christ has said,
'Cause if such love is absent, it is clear that you're not Spirit led,
'Cause God even loves His enemies, and says that we’re to act the same;
That is, if eternal life we want, and the right to claim His name.
Whenever my Saviour looks at me, tender pity fills His heart,
'Cause He knows how I stagger so, each time the devil hurls a dart.
But should you aid this devil whenever he seeks to injure me,
You’ll pierce the heart of Christ, and have Satan claiming victory.
Yes, I am the King’s creation, thus those who wound me, wound my Lord,
And therefore, how you choose to treat me, will determine your reward,
'Cause how we have treated each other, Heaven’s record books will show,
And Christ, by our name will one day stamp, Heaven yes, or, Heaven no.
By Lance Landall
“ ‘And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of
these my brethren, you did it to me.’ ‘Then He will say to those on the left hand ,‘Depart from me, you cursed, into
the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels’ ” (Matt 25:40,41, NKJV).
"There are six things the Lord hates — no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands
that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out
lies, a person who sows discord in a family" (Prov 6:16-19, NLT).
"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do
what is right is not God's child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister" (1 John 3:10, NIV).
“See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone”
(1 Thess 5:15, ESV).
If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20, ESV).
40. Provoking God's Wrath
Lay a hand on any child of God’s — all of us His — and anger Him you will,
That kickback coming sooner or later; karma, judgment, or both visiting ill.
And fair enough too, for wrong is wrong, and injuring others an evil thing,
And hence why we can expect the worst unless we fall contrite before our King.
However, as I mentioned, and though God forgives, what goes around comes around,
And why hurting others ends up hurting us come some ricochet or rebound.
And to be honest, such deserved, we surely having known better, and more so
As a Christian, for when it comes to injuring, Christ has loudly hollered, “No!”
All with good reason, because no one should think to harm others, their fellowman,
And hence why God’s wrath is harder on those who wrongly state that He’s said they can,
For such is not only a lie, but wrongly paints this God of love who died to save,
And who only those whose heart is just like His will resurrect from the grave.
Yes, for though He’s a God who shows amazing grace, He’s a God of justice too,
And He knowing how you would feel if someone hurt a child deeply loved by you.
And oh, how hot you’d feel, but no, “For vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord,”
Who soon will not only descend, but wield His rightful and necessary sword.
By Lance Landall
“ ‘Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God; for it is written,
"Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord’ ” (Rom 12:19, RSV).
41. Don't!
Christ doesn’t hate or mistreat us even when we are acting very badly,
So why aren’t you emulating Him? Come on, look at the way you’re treating me.
And you say that you’re a Christian, a follower of He who loves everyone,
And why I’m asking, for when you mistreat me (or I you), it upsets the Son.
After all, I’m His dear child whom He loves and doesn’t want treated unkindly,
So doesn’t that bother, pull you up, have you dropping to your knees contritely,
And have you asking me for forgiveness? As I must you, if I’ve mistreated you,
And why I’m concerned lest you think that God’s grace means that such we don’t have to do;
For should you think so, you’d certainly have that one wrong, hardly know your God’s Word,
And thus be walking ignorantly, for surely that wrong way isn’t preferred.
After all, Christian or not, what kind of person happily mistreats others?
And thus as far as Christians go, a shining light-cum-godly witness smothers.
So don’t!
By Lance Landall
42. Treat Every Person Well
Oh, how we so want God to treat us well (and He does), but how well do we treat others we know,
Especially those who hold different views, or whom we dislike? Well, it’s simply bound to show.
For either we treat them as Christ treats us, and as He commands, or we don’t, or half-heartedly,
The latter two revealing our true condition, and how sad, given what Christ did on Calvary.
Yes, He dying because of our fallen wretchedness, so who are we to act so selectively?
For we’re no better than anyone else, and thus have no reason to treat folk differently.
In other words, all should receive from us that same response that Christ displays to us, for such, friend,
Determines our future more than anything else, for un-Christ-like behaviour He can’t defend.
And nor should He, for love is what He is all about, and the same love among us wants to see,
Such being the hallmark of His true followers, they thus kind, thoughtful and fair to everybody.
And why He’s carefully observing, for what parent likes their children abused by anyone?
And why we should remember that all — both Christian and non-Christian — belong to the Father’s Son.
Sure some folk don’t make such easy, their attitude and ways like sandpaper, but Christ died for all,
And hence His displeasure at anyone’s mistreatment, such wrongfulness the product of the Fall.
And why He’s calling us all back to the pre-Fall condition, away from that which His life cost,
Lest via our un-Christ-like behaviour, we soon discover that we, and not someone else, are lost.
By Lance Landall
43. Christ's Telling Words
“As you did it to one of the least of these…you did it to Me,”
And therefore, Christians should speak and act far more carefully.
In God’s eyes, it’s no small thing how we treat another soul;
That is, one of His children, humanity as a whole.
Yes, the God of love and justice takes very seriously
Any unkind word, thoughtless deed, harshness, act of cruelty.
And He doesn’t have time for lies, deceit, forms of treachery,
For these are all grievous sins, and He’ll act accordingly.
We’re the property of God, and that means each child also,
Who we are simply to mind while living on earth below.
Thus, how we treat another soul, could seal our destiny,
For how would you feel, if someone abused your family?
Our God is a God of justice, He’s merciful and tender,
And He doesn’t want Christians emulating The Offender.
It’s Satan who’s behind wrong, not the God of love on high,
Who we, via unchristian behaviour, effectively deny.
Any time we cause some pain via an unkind word or deed,
We tear the heart of Jesus, cause those wounds of His to bleed.
We re-nail Him to that cross where He showed us how to act,
That being, lovingly, unselfishly — heavenly, in fact.
We’re all to treat each other with the same regard that He
Showed that He had for us, via His blood shed on Calvary.
We’re to see that self comes last, and that we put others first,
Which we will do if willing, and in the Scriptures well versed.
Yes, God loves humanity, as a whole, individually,
And He wants this love He has to burn in us, continually.
Therefore, He’s watching intently everything we do and say,
'Cause love’s wedded to justice, which rightfully so, must weigh.
By Lance Landall
This poem also appears elsewhere.
44. "In The Name Of Allah, They Say
“In the name of Allah,” they say, beheading some poor soul that they call their foe,
And hence I have to ask, “Who is Allah?”, he not sounding like the God I know.
'Cause the God that I know — Jesus Christ — was a saviour who died on Calvary,
One who sought to spare and not destroy, and who said, “Thou shalt not kill,” you see.
And that’s not all that He said, but to turn the other cheek, love your enemies,
Do violence to no man, put others first, and He made more statements like these.
Oh yes, He hating the lover of violence (according to His Word), and
On His soon return (it literal, audible, earthshaking, bright and grand),
Will deliver Divine retribution, so look out those who’ve blood on their hand,
And this what He calls His strange work, 'cause slaying isn’t His way, let’s understand.
So folk shouldn’t point to the Bible in order to sanction killing, for come Calvary,
A new order took place, Christ thus turning His back on that old theocracy,
And that being, ancient Israel, a nation that He personally directed,
He taking men where He found them then, but now a different path expected.
Yes, He stopping the ISIS-like Saul in his tracks, He reproving Peter too,
Telling him to put his dagger away, Christ not interested in some coup.
No, “My kingdom’s not of this world,” He said, shunning political agendas,
And as far as any wrong goes, He said that Christians shouldn’t be offenders.
Yes,
Christ condemning revenge, retaliation, that warrior mentality,
That love affair with weaponry, torture and any form of brutality.
Thus no one to respond in like manner, for that sad path belongs in the past,
It the result of sin’s entrance, a devil’s presence who’ll soon feel Christ’s fiery blast.
Not that God is a hypocrite, but that every government must have its laws,
Even His, love hardly stupid or irresponsible, for that would show flaws.
And God is faultless, holy and righteous, we’re told, though often misunderstood,
His dealings with this fallen creation not always how He normally would.
In other words, the God I know is all about love, not punishment or fear,
He tender in nature, merciful and longsuffering, not cruel or severe.
But as with parents, there are times when He must act, and soon He will, and rightly,
His kingdom a heavenly one, only for those who reflect the heavenly,
For Heaven is all about goodness, virtue, fairness, love, peace and harmony.
By Lance Landall
"...and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God"
(John 16:2, NLT).
45. Don't Worry Little Boy
Don’t worry little boy, or little girl, because the time’s very, very near
When Jesus, who loves you dearly, and who knows what is going on, will appear.
And He will deal with those whose savage deeds still remain hidden, though not for long,
Because God is a God of justice, who, once and for all, will end such vile wrong.
Yes, He knows the trauma, the hurt and pain, the fear that’s caused your silence, and why
He longs to take you in His loving arms having seen the tears and heard your cry.
And though your suffering seems an eternity, it will soon seem very short,
Because when He appears to reclaim His own, you’ll find eternity He’s brought,
If faithful and true, like Scripture's taught.
So don’t worry little boy, or little girl (perhaps a man or woman now,
Who longs for justice and healing), because soon you’ll experience both, and how!
Christ punching through those clouds of darkness, angels surrounding Him, and then that blast,
And everything will be behind you, it all well and truly in the past.
By Lance Landall
46. One Things For Sure
One thing’s for sure: God will take no one to Heaven who has evil hidden in their heart (evil they've done),
Evil they’ve not admitted to, repented of, nor sought to put right, and thus possibly lies have spun.
And be that murder, torture, rape, extortion, betrayal, or whatever, as justice must have its day,
'Cause why should those who get away with evil enjoy Heaven, hence the folly of them thinking they may.
The only hearts that will get there, will be those hearts devoid of malice, jealousy, lust, pride, cherished sin,
And secrets that should be made known — such being, evil doings that wrongly remain hidden within.
Yes, Heaven for those who’re prepared to pay the earthly price, given they should, and whose conscience is sharp, clear,
Unlike those who though they may be sorry, still avoid the earthly price, and thus have good reason for fear.
At the end of the day, its all about the heart and conscience, as it should be, both sound and heavenly,
Both daily becoming more Christ-like, their contents and the will of God becoming more in harmony.
And thus selfishness and self-preservation giving way to that which benefits others and the Lord,
And how genuineness is proven, and why our heart and conscience determine punishment or reward.
And God knows what’s within our heart, 'cause nothing can be hidden from Him, and its right that such cannot be,
'Cause those who’ve evil hidden in their heart, and a faulty conscience, should hardly receive eternity.
And they won’t, unless they admit to such, repent of such, seek to right such wrong (as far as one’s able too),
'Cause there’s no excuse for evil, no pardon for hidden evil, nor Heaven for those who such pursue.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded on 22 October 2022.
“For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing...”
(Eccl 12:14, NKJV).
"Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the
inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops" (Luke 12:3, NASB).
“ ‘Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the
will of My Father in heaven ’ ” (Matt 7:21, NKJV).
47. You Won't Get Away With It
She said she’d been gang raped, but the police didn’t believe her, a travesty,
The consequent child adopted, the trauma leaving permanent misery.
She was young at the time, and as a result, never dating, nor marrying,
The experience and flashbacks absolutely ruining everything.
The rapers never confessing, nor were they held to account, though still out there,
But God knows the truth and their whereabouts, and why eternity they won’t share.
One of them might be truly sorry now, but repentance wouldn’t mean a thing,
Unless he owned up and paid the earthly price, from which God’s grace would duly spring.
Yes, God sees the shattered lives, the broken hearts, shredded dreams, caused by evil men,
So nothing wil remain hidden, nor go undealt with, to which lets say, “Amen!”
God’s grace not a cloak for hidden criminal acts, and hence those authorities,
Those God appointed agencies on Earth who’re in charge of rightful locks and keys.
By Lance Landall
Note Romans 13:1,2 found under the next poem.
48. Put Things Right
Picture this conversation, using your imagination:
“I’ve stolen something, Lord, will you forgive me?” “Of course, son,
That is, if you’re truly sorry, and further stealing shun.”
“Yes, Lord. Thank you so much. Can I go now?” “No, not yet, son.”
“Oh...and why is that, Lord?” “Because there’s still something to be done.”
“But haven’t You forgiven me?” “Yes, because you broke My law.
The problem is: You broke another law, one I can’t ignore.”
“Which law is that, Lord?” “The civil law, the law of your land.
Only earthly judges deal with such. Do you understand?”
“Not quite, Lord.” “Well, My law is a moral law, it’s Divine.
You’re living on Earth, son. There, all those civil laws aren’t mine.
You answer to them too, and should. Besides, My Word says to.
Therefore, own up. And where required, take the punishment that’s due.
Think of what folk could get away with if they just came to Me,
At least in the now, on Earth, certainly not ultimately.
You see, they could ask My forgiveness and get away with it,
Which justice wise, and morally also, just doesn’t fit.
When you wrong someone, break any law, you must put things right.
You’re a Christian remember, you’re supposed to be a light.
You reflect Me. I’m no law-breaker. And nor should you be,
Regardless of whose law it is — that is, where it doesn’t clash with Me.
And don’t forget the victim, not just the law you broke. Seek them,
And then put things right with them. Not doing so, I condemn.
You must give back what you took. It’s only fair, for it’s theirs,
And this you should do before pleading with Me via your prayers.”
“What if it’s too late, Lord?” “Too Late?” “Yes, if they’ve passed away”
“Well, if you’ve done all you can, you’ve done your best, and that’s okay.
But you must do all you can, as genuineness that’ll convey,
And you can rest assured that, 'You’re forgiven,' I will say.”
By Lance Landall
“But Zacchaus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor,
and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.’ Jesus said to him,
‘Today salvation has come to this house...’ ”
(Luke 19:8,9, NIV).
“ ‘So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you,
leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer
your gift [Christ insists that men must make things right with their fellow men before they can be
reconciled to God (1 John 4:20)]’ ” (Matt 5:23,24).
"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those
that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has
appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment" (Rom 13:1,2, ESV).
“Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God
the things that are God’s” (Matt 22:21, KJV).
49. "Excuse Me?"
I’d like you to imagine the following conversation
Between a fellow Christian and God who rules creation.
Consider what’s portrayed here when you next kneel down to pray,
And ask yourself the question, “Could my prayer end up this way?”
Now, the conversation:
“Gracious Heavenly Father, I pray that You’ll forgive me,
Because during this day, Lord, I treated others wrongfully”.
“Excuse Me? Did you say…‘forgive me?’ ” “Yes, Lord, isn’t that okay?”
“Yes, but haven’t you forgotten something?” “Have I? It’s usually how I pray.”
“Have you asked their forgiveness?” “You mean, those I was unkind to?”
“Yes.” “Ahh…well...ahh...no, Father.” “Yet you want Me to forgive you?”
“Well...ahh...yes, Father, that’s what I was hoping.” “Excuse Me?”
“Isn’t that somewhat premature?” “Premature?” “Yes, don’t you see?
You’ve come asking My forgiveness, but you’ve wronged others too.
You should apologize to them first, and then My forgiveness pursue.
If you haven’t put things right with the ones you wronged today,
It’s somewhat premature to be proceeding My way.
I’m sure you’re sincere, and sincerity I like to see,
But it’s somewhat back to front to be first approaching Me.
Now, please don’t get Me wrong, as, ‘I’m sorry, Lord’, I like to hear,
But though I like your keenness, order does have its place here.
Of course I’ll forgive you if you’re sincere; and right away,
As long as I know you intend to, and will be, heading their way.
Just don’t forget the order that has its rightful part to play
When seeking My forgiveness for wrong done throughout the day.
Putting things right with others, and asking forgiveness of Me,
Should always go together where you’ve treated others wrongfully.
And where you can’t right a wrong that you perhaps gave rise to,
Rest assured I’ll forgive if you’ve done all that you can do.”
“Thank you, Father.”
By Lance Landall
“ ‘But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions’ ” (Matt 6:15, NASB).
“ ‘Therefore, if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering’ ” (Matt 5:23,24, NASB).
Christ insists that men must make things right with their fellow men before they can be reconciled to God (1 John 4:20).
50. Souls Under The Altar
Oh, you can bet God’s unhappy alright, even full of righteous anger, and,
The day is coming when those responsible will be smitten by His right hand.
And who are they? Those who’ve hurt His children, maimed, killed or persecuted them, and,
Carried out their evil plans on Earth, either blatantly or via sleight of hand.
Oh yes, the blood of martyrs crying out, and why “Vengeance is Mine" says the Lord,
Many of His followers maligned and accused, and why such, angels record.
Yes, Christ wanting a record kept, because He is a God of justice, a judge,
And though it’s not in His nature, He having every right to hold a grudge.
And that day is near, almost here, those wicked persecutors about to find
That via their evil acts and lying words, their eternal loss have duly signed.
And a fear like no other will come upon them, both plagues and consuming fire,
And in the midst of them will be found the dragon, that serpent who’s a liar.
Yes, they can hide behind this or that, just like the devil, but God is watching,
And though they’re currently getting away with all and sundry, in time they’ll swing.
So they’ve little to smile about, nothing to smirk over, for their time will come,
And there’ll be weeping and gnashing of teeth, for they’ll receive the maximum.
By Lance Landall
"When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar [figurative speech is being used here] the souls of
those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne" (Rev 6:9, ESV).
"...and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God"
(John 16:2, NLT).
51. One Thing's For Sure
One thing’s for sure: God will take no one to Heaven who has evil hidden in their heart (evil they've done),
Evil they’ve not admitted to, repented of, nor sought to put right, and thus possibly lies have spun.
And be that murder, torture, rape, extortion, betrayal, or whatever, as justice must have its day,
'Cause why should those who get away with evil enjoy Heaven, hence the folly of them thinking they may.
The only hearts that will get there, will be those hearts devoid of malice, jealousy, lust, pride, cherished sin,
And secrets that should be made known — such being, evil doings that wrongly remain hidden within.
Yes, Heaven for those who’re prepared to pay the earthly price, given they should, and whose conscience is sharp, clear,
Unlike those who though they may be sorry, still avoid the earthly price, and thus have good reason for fear.
At the end of the day, its all about the heart and conscience, as it should be, both sound and heavenly,
Both daily becoming more Christ-like, their contents and the will of God becoming more in harmony.
And thus selfishness and self-preservation giving way to that which benefits others and the Lord,
And how genuineness is proven, and why our heart and conscience determine punishment or reward.
And God knows what’s within our heart, 'cause nothing can be hidden from Him, and its right that such cannot be,
'Cause those who’ve evil hidden in their heart, and a faulty conscience, should hardly receive eternity.
And they won’t, unless they admit to such, repent of such, seek to right such wrong (as far as one’s able too),
'Cause there’s no excuse for evil, no pardon for hidden evil, nor Heaven for those who such pursue.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded on 22 October 2022.
“For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing...”
(Eccl 12:14, NKJV).
“ ‘Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven,
but he who does the will of My Father in heaven ’ ” (Matt 7:21, NKJV).
WHERE IT'S AT
Matthew 25:31-46, NKJV
“ ‘When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.
All
the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one
from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.
And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
Then
the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My
Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the
world:
for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;
I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’
Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?
When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?
Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’
And
the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you,
inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you
did it to Me.’
Then He will also say to those on the left hand,
‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into everlasting fire prepared for the
devil and his angels:
‘for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink;
I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’
Then
they also will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or
thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not
minister to You?’
Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I
say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these,
you did not do it to Me.’
And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life’ ”
Or might God say, "Why were you partial in your kindness?"
