How's This?

“But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in
steadfast love and faithfulness” (Ps 86:15).

Because we are God's children, we should always address Him in a certain way,
And that being, we addressing Him as our heavenly Father when we pray.
And there're also right and wrong ways to pray to our heavenly Father, and thus
He not leaving us in ignorance, but has given an example to us,

Such as:

“Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”

Our Father who lives in Heaven. Your name — just like Yourself — is very Holy,
'Cause it stands for Your character. So out of thought, I say it reverently.
Yes, I seeking to honour You, and Your name too, by my words and my deeds, daily,
And by giving You the worship You’re due so that others may be led to Thee.

“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.”
 
May Your will be carried out on this planet as it is in Heaven above,
Because the success of Your Kingdom is all that matters — oh, great God of love.
So may the kingdoms of this world very soon become the Kingdom of Your Son.
And meantime, help me spread Your Word, even unto death, that You may say, “Well done!”

“Give us this day our daily bread.”

Please grant me my daily needs — temporal, spiritual — that all may be well,
'Cause after all, You’re our Provider, Sustainer, we reliant on Your goodwill.
So help me appreciate You more, become more grateful, content, and praise Thee,
'Cause You are a generous, thoughtful God who's full of compassion and mercy.

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

Please forgive me for my wrong thoughts, words and deeds, and help me forgive others too,
Because I’m aware You won’t forgive us if the latter we choose not to do.
And so, should others treat me wrongly, please help me to respond to them like Thee,
I thus treating others rightly, lest I forfeit Paradise, eternity.

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:”

Please protect me from succumbing to temptation, don’t go leaving me alone,
And help me to live righteously, Father, and to steer clear of the devil’s zone.
Yes, help me to do Your will, not my own, unless of course, it’s the same as Yours,
And also help me never to waver, nor some temptation for others cause.

“For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, for ever. Amen.”

To You and You alone belongs the Kingdom, the Power and all the Glory.
All why I long to see Your face, the end of sin, that age old controversy.
So may Your Kingdom reign forever, both now (on this planet) in the hearts of men,
And also when it's literally ushered in after Christ’s return. AMEN.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded on 15 May 2021.

The Shepherds's Psalm,
Paraphrased And Expanded

(Psalm 23, KJV)

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

The Lord is my Shepherd — and that meaning, He watches over me,
Just like any earthly shepherd who tends his flock protectively.
Thus He’s my Provider, my Sustainer, taking care of my needs,
And hence why I’ve put my trust in Him, 'cause this Shepherd wisely leads.

“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters.”

He’s like an oasis amidst trying times, in whom I find rest,
'Cause He renews my strength, heartens with His Word, and sees that I’m blessed.
And He provides times of relief, and sends angels to assist me,
And lets me know that He’s there amidst trials and adversity.

“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in paths of righteousness for his names sake.”

He also leads me down paths of righteousness, and unfailingly,
Down paths (that though they may well seem dark) He knows are better for me.
Oh yes, His faithful and true guidance are a sure testimony
That reveal His good character, wisdom and creativity.

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

During times of persecution, or threats to my life, He is there,
I thus conscious of His presence, and have His word that He’ll be near.
His rod gives me protection, and His staff support on which to lean,
And when Satan shows up, my Shepherd, His rod and staff stand between.

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest
my head with oil; my cup runneth over.”

Though enemies surround me, taunt me, or scheme most evilly,
He keeps them at a distance, and also continues to bless me.
Thus there's joy amidst my trials, peace, and even prosperity,
Hence why my heart’s full of gratitude, I loved unconditionally.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I
well dwell in the house of the Lord for ever”

Oh yes, His goodness, grace and mercy surround and follow me,
And this why I long to be with Him all throughout eternity.
And why I look forward to that day when with my Lord I will dwell,
And with a song in my heart will always be singing, “All is well.”

Oh, how I long to sit around that table that's being prepared,
Communing with my Shepherd who His great love for me has declared.
And all throughout eternity I’ll stay under His watch care,
Living in a Paradise that He is looking forward to share.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded on 15 May 2021.

The Beatitudes,

Paraphrased And Expanded

(Matthew 5:3-10, KJV. Includes verses 11 &12)

“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Yes, blessed — happy — are those who sense their need spiritually,
Those who feel their need of God and trust Him continually,
Those who’re keenly aware of their spiritual poverty,
'Cause such folk have the Kingdom of God within them already.

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”

Blessed — happy — are those who grieve when they sin, and confess their sin,
Those who long to be like God, mourning their wretchedness within,
Those who desire change, see their imperfection, how short they fall,
'Cause such receive God’s grace, and His peace, given on Him they call.

“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.”

Blessed — happy — are those who are teachable, those who are humble,
Those who submit to God in all things, and who do not grumble,
Those who’ve self under control, and who have the right attitude,
'Cause such will enter God’s Kingdom; they’re the faithful multitude.

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled”

Blessed — happy — are those who long for righteousness, love doing right,
'Cause such show God's already begun His work, are thus a light.
And with an inner satisfaction that nothing else can give.
Why? 'Cause deep within their heart they’ve let the Holy Spirit live.

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

Blessed — happy — are those who are kind and just, and who show mercy,
'Cause such, those forgiven won’t forget, and to them, will show mercy.
And come God's judgment, the merciful will receive God's mercy,
'Cause what goes 'round comes 'round, and all why it’s wise to show mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”

Blessed — happy — are those who have desirable character traits,
Pure thoughts and motives, a heart and mind the Spirit activates,
Those who’ve forsaken sin as a ruling principle in their lives,
'Cause such will enter God’s Kingdom, see His face when He arrives.

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”

Blessed — happy — are those who’re peacemakers, and live in harmony,
Those who preach peace, pray for peace, and who pursue peace actively.
'Cause such are at peace with God, and lead others to be also,
And thus are truly His children, 'cause His character they show.

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for their’s is
the kingdom of heaven.”

Blessed — happy — are those who suffer persecution doing right,
Those who make a stand, forsake the world, Satan’s interest invite.
'Cause they’re assured of a place in God’s Kingdom, their future bright.
Yes, they worthy of citizenship, 'cause they’ve “fought the good fight.”

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all
manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake.”

Yes, people may insult you, persecute you, lie about you,
But on your behalf — all that and far more — your Saviour went through.
So count it a privilege to suffer like Him, and for Him,
'Cause one day you will sing “The Song of The Lamb,” the saved saints hymn.

“Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted
they the prophets which were before you.”

Trials develop character, such we're to anticipate,
But rejoice! 'Cause God works all things for our good. It's hardly fate!
Sure the sacrifice may be great, but the reward’s also great,
'Cause living in Paradise with God will more than compensate.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded on 15 May 2021.






The original Bible texts appear under this poem.

And for clarification sake:
The Ten Commandments — God's Moral Law 
This law sat separate, and all why it was written by God and placed inside the Ark of the Covenant, unlike the Jewish ceremonial law which was written by Moses and placed outside the Ark of the Covenant. This law is for everyone and was hardly done away with at the cross (1 Cor 7:19; Eccl 12:13; Luke 16:17; Rom 3:31; Rev 14:12).

"Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God is what matters"
(1 Cor 7:19, NKJV).
Here we see a clear distinction between God's moral Law and the Jewish ceremonial law.

The Jewish Ceremonial Law
This was the sanctuary [temple] laws which governed the religious services of Israel and which pointed forward to the coming Messiah. Hence the types and anti-types. This law was done away with at the cross.
The Jewish Civil Law
This law, like the Jewish Ceremonial Law, passed away when the Old Testament nation of Israel was disowned by God. This civil law regulated a multitude of things which had to do with the general operating of Israel. It covered things to do with health, sanitation, disease, crime, court procedures, etc. These are clearly not binding today as civil obligations, but many of the basic principles still apply.


"Faith, as Paul saw it, was a living, flaming thing leading to surrender
and obedience to the commandments of Christ."
A.W.Tozer

God's Ten Commandments,

Paraphrased And Expanded

(Ex 20:3-17)

ONE

I'm the only God that there is. I'm a true God, and I'm also a holy God too,
Therefore, you're only to worship Me — just Me — and not various other gods pursue.
For example: You're not to go putting anything or anyone ahead of Me,
Nor in place of Me, or in addition to Me — NO — 'cause you must display loyalty.

Therefore, always make sure that you put Me first in your life, loving Me with all of your heart,
'Cause I want your complete devotion. I want you to stay with Me, and never depart.
So don’t go believing in any other gods, 'cause there is only the one God, Me,
And it was I who created the Earth, humankind, so only I can save, set free.

TWO

You're not to go bowing down to images — e.g. statues, effigies, or portraits,
So don't go making any idols, 'cause I'm a God who any kind of idol hates.
And this why you're not to give honour to images, nor to revere or adore them,
Thereby never treating them as if they are real, 'cause such worship I strongly condemn.

Yes, I'm a very jealous God indeed, and therefore, you must only bow down to Me,
And never to images of any thing in Heaven, on the earth, or in the sea,
And lest the succeeding generations harvest the harm of such very foolish seeds,
Knowingly and rebelliously sown by their parents idolatrous words and deeds.

And hence why I say again, don't let anything or anyone become your idol,
'Cause spiritually wise, and salvation wise, such is very suicidal.
And all why you're not to let any idol of some kind wrongly take the place of Me,
Even indirectly so, or unconsciously encroach upon My territory.

THREE

Under no circumstances at all are you to use My holy name irreverently,
'Cause I am the great I AM, God Almighty, your Lord, King of Kings — yes, your Majesty.
Therefore, always use My name very respectfully, not flippantly, casually,
'Cause wrongly using My holy name will thereby greatly dishonour and anger Me.

And hypocrisy too, I must say, will greatly dishonour Me and blacken My name,
Which is why when I judge humankind, I will rule against all those who have brought Me shame.
They being, any who dishonour Me via their mouth, even thoughts, or via wrongful deeds,
And who as a consequence, aren’t true ambassadors for He who died, rose and now pleads.

FOUR

You're never to forget My Sabbath day — and that day is, the seventh day, Saturday, *
Such being the very day I rested on as an example, 'cause such is My way.
This day's the last day of the week, a day I've made a holy day, and thus a rest day,
A day that I've set apart, and therefore, a day that I want free of all work and play.

This day's also a memorial (like a birthday), 'cause it commemorates creation,
Thus reminding that I’m the Creator — and therefore, it has My authorization.
I have hallowed and blessed this particular day. It's a day that I installed pre-Fall,
Hence why I'm referred to as the Lord of the Sabbath, a day of worship that's for all.

Therefore, don’t let any of your employees work for you on My holy Sabbath day,
And nor let your housemaid, gardener, or any tradesmen either, with or without pay,
You also mustn't let any work be done by visitors, your family or you,
And nor must you go using your machinery, like tractors, mowers, even cattle too.

You mustn't go seeking your own pleasure, like sports, parties, or any of your hobbies,
And you mustn't use My day for business, shopping, for just doing anything you please.
But rather, you're to join with your fellow Christians to worship Me, to study and pray,
And later on in the day, you could visit the ill, doing good on My Sabbath day.

I want you to note that only this Commandment shows who's the author of the whole Ten,
Which is another reason for keeping it, 'cause upon it, the other nine depend.
And hence why no other day I’ve sanctioned, nor blessed, 'cause this day's My flag, My seal, My crest,
Thus six days I've given you, keeping the seventh as Mine — it's a tithe and holy rest.

FIVE

Via this Command, I’m addressing children, instructing and warning them specifically:
You must always honour your parents — in other words, you're to treat them respectfully.
'Cause I, your God, have authorized your parents to rightly guide and rightly care for you,
Thus you're to humbly obey their instructions, so don’t rebel, thus blotting their name too.

This way you'll also learn respect for others who're in positions of authority,
And I will greatly bless you as a result — yes, far happier you will therefore be.
So help them (when you are under their care) via those duties that you should willingly do,
And also care for them when they’re elderly, 'cause after all, haven't they cared for you?

SIX

You're not to commit murder, but rather, you're to respect everyone’s right to life,
And nor are you to torture, act violently, deprive, rage, hate, or somehow ignite strife.
No, you must not violate anyone's rights, nor anyone try to manipulate;
In other words, you're not to play with someone's life, nor try to control, intimidate.

Now, regarding both humanity and creatures, I want to make one thing very clear,
And that is, that in My eyes, the way either are treated, is far from a minor affair.
Therefore, don't go treating either wrongly, badly, and nor for your own hurts seek revenge,
'Cause any wrong done to either creature or person, I will most certainly avenge.

You're also to remember that you mustn't take your own life, 'cause that's murder also,
And such an action is hardly your prerogative, 'cause only I have such say-so.
And take due care, lest it be that through your own recklessness, thoughtlessness, or carelessness
You thereby cause somebody else to die, or to suffer, 'cause you'll hardly be guiltless.

 SEVEN

You're never to commit adultery — yes, be that mentally or physically,
And nor via wrongful affection, like those little flirty touches that there shouldn’t be,
And by that I mean, that take place outside of your marriage, perhaps at work, or socially.
And never dress revealingly publicly, 'cause that’s adultery indirectly.

You're never to defile the marital bedroom, thinking that anything is okay,
And nor via any lustful obsession, pornography, or via forcing your own way.
And you're also to respect those times of abstinence that each month can come in to play,
And you're also not to let any intimate secrets from your home or bedroom stray.

Your sacred life-long marital covenant must never be broken, and thus abused,
'Cause such an action is treachery, even rebellion, and for such, you'll stand accused.
After all, marriage is a haven and a fortress for both partner and family,
An institution that has been ordained and blessed by Me, and also witnessed by Me.

Premarital sex — in other words, fornication — is something else that I forbid,
'Cause such works against marriage, spoils, threatens and undermines, hence why it's prohibited.
Yes, such seriously attacks the one-flesh principle, and shows lack of control too,
Thus strongly suggesting that in your marriage self-control will hardly be shown there too.

EIGHT

You're not to go stealing from anyone — and, let me add, you must never steal from Me,
Remembering that stealing goes far beyond taking possessions, quite obviously.
Such as using your employer’s time to pursue something that's desirable to you,
Or by not giving Me the time that you should, or others, including family too.

You mustn't go stealing someone's health or well-being by making them miserable,
And you mustn't go stealing someone else's happiness by not remaining faithful.
You're not to go robbing someone of joy or faith either, via criticism or doubt,
And nor to deprive someone of something by withholding from them a needed handout.

You're not to steal opportunities from anyone, who of such, is more deserving,
And you're not to go stealing anyone’s peace and quiet via something that is self-serving.
You're also not to go using anyone's things without their clear authorization,
And you're not to go fiddling with your tax returns, nor to hijack a conversation.

NINE

You must never harm anyone's reputation via some rumour, slander or gossip,
And you mustn't mislead others in general, and particularly via leadership.
You're not to be silent when you should be speaking out, and you're never to lie in court,
And nor are you to lie in general, tamper with truth, or truth in any way thwart.

And when you're guilty of something, but aren't questioned, you mustn't withhold your admission,
And likewise, when you're selling something, you must never go hiding its true condition.
You're also not to promise and then not deliver on whatever you said you would do,
Nor are you to deceive via pretence, or to fudge, slant, misrepresent, or misconstrue.

TEN

You're not to jealously desire someone’s partner, their possessions, or position too,
But to be content, thus not coveting. And aren’t there others who are worse off than you?
And remember also, that I know everyone's heart, all those thoughts that they entertain,
And bear in mind too, that coveting just leads to theft — yes, it’s a trap, a ball and chain.

And lest you are not aware of such, coveting's also a form of idolatry,
Something that eventually led to Satan's own downfall, and the great controversy.
Therefore, just seek to make other people happy, seeking to give rather than to get,
Thus lovingly putting others before yourself — yes, first see that others’ needs are met.

By Lance Landall


* Regarding Saturday:
As in the creation order, last day of the week.
Collier's Encyclopedia: Saturday, seventh day of the week.
Modern calendars have been confusing things.

“…we have had occasion to investigate the results of the works of specialists in chronology and we have never found one of them that has ever had the slightest doubt about the continuity of the weekly cycle since long before the Christian era.”

" There has been no change in our calendar in past centuries that has affected in any way the cycle of the week."
James Robertson, DAE, Letter, March 12,1932, U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington, DC

“It can be said with assurance that not one day has been lost since creation, and all the calendar changes notwithstanding there has been no break to the weekly cycle.”
Dr. Frank Jeffries, Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and Research Director of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, England

This same poem (with two extra verses) can be seen elsewhere
in my Christian section with related poems and content.

This poem was upgraded 15 May 2021.

“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and
may enter through the gates into the city” (Rev 22:14, NKJV). Note James 2:24,26; Rom 8:6-8.

You might like to read my mother's dramatic testimony regarding God's Law:

When Heaven Spoke




BIBLE RENDERING:

1
You shall have no other gods before me.
2
You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep My commandments.
3
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
4
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your  female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
5
Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.
6
You shall not murder.
7
You shall not commit adultery.
8
You shall not steal.
9
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
10
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's.

Exodus 20:3-17, ESV

POEMS

There’s one thing that’s as true as it gets: God is real, He full of goodness and love,
His ways far better than ours, He pure, holy and true, and in control above.
Hence why we can rest assured that what He has promised He will shortly fulfil,
And that there is indeed a Heaven, and no such place as an eternal Hell.

Yes, justice will have its day, for God’s a God of law and order, truth and right,
But though that’s so, He’s compassionate and longsuffering, a heavenly knight.
For should we surrender our all to Him, He’ll rescue us from the devil’s grip,
And regarding His kingdom above, will grant us permanent citizenship.

So embrace Him today, for who knows what tomorrow may bring, and sad it’ll be
If you haven’t chosen that hope filled path provided by His loving mercy.
For He’s a God of wisdom who has your best interest at heart, and why He
Offers you what only He can offer, peace joy, and coming security.

Oh, how God loves you dearly, and like no one else does, for earthly love is flawed,
And why He wants to help us become like Him, take the narrow road, not the broad.
For the broad path leads to what eventually ensnares, robs and sees us bleed,
And why the gentle but knowing voice of Jesus it’s best we willingly heed.

Yes, there’s one thing that’s as true as it gets: God is real, full of goodness and love,
He having created us in His image, thus we like Him who reigns above.
But sin having marred that likeness, and why He wants to live in our heart today,
For there, and only there, can He bring about that change that’s a dead giveaway.

But imagine the thrill of seeing Jesus return, and we raised to meet Him,
Oh, what excitement, though we having experienced Him in the interim.
For God is good, His blessings many, and reminders of His love always there,
He being the One who died to save us, the One who forgives and hears every prayer.

Hence why folk sing “amazing grace,” no one so generous and caring as He,
And His love boundless and everlasting, His hands and feet pierced at Calvary.
Yes, despite our fallen condition, He gifting His grace to all who repent,
And who accept Him as their Saviour; a God we can trust one hundred percent!

By Lance Landall

Yes, Jesus is our sure lighthouse, His heavenly brightness helping us to see
Those rocks that lie in waiting midst life’s swirling, buffeting and oft angry sea.
And oh, how we need His constant beam that’s always searching lest any be lost,
And in order to aid those who are nearing Heaven’s harbour, but sorely tossed.

All why we need to keep our eyes on Christ, for should they be diverted somehow,
Satanic waves could catch us off guard and swamp our unprotected diving bow.
Such also why our ship needs to be seaworthy, it thus strengthened by God's Word,
Not put at risk by inferior timber, nor weak sails that are more preferred.

Yes, for no matter the beam of that Lighthouse, what good’s a vessel that’s leaky?
It sinking as surely as the Titanic (one’s confidence misplaced, sadly).
Or it bound to be shipwrecked come those storms that randomly burst out of nowhere,
And where there’s no security in Christ, chill one with anxiety and fear.

Well, despite the vessel, be it sound or flawed, that Lighthouse will always be there,
It probing the darkness in order to save lives, or reliant vessels steer.
For that Lighthouse runs on love, a love that never suffers from loss of power,
And why come the blackest night or foggiest day, it’s lovingly seen to scour.

Oh, how I’m grateful for that lighthouse — Jesus Christ — for without Him I’d be lost,
His warm and caring light beckoning that I may be spared from some dreadful cost.
And such I will be, so long as I keep my eyes on Him, not some distraction,
Nor some fake lighthouse that’s glowing deceptively-cum-some fatal attraction.

Yes, Satan always has his substitutes, but any lighthouse of his making
Soon sees any unprepared and distracted seafarer some wrong route taking.
Hence those shipwrecks that line many a beguiling coast, or those vessels we see
Heading in the direction of jagged rocks, Satan clapping his hands with glee.

Well, such a scenario needn’t be, for there’s that Lighthouse that never fails,
And we, able to make a vessel that’s seaworthy, able to withstand gales.
All why my trust is in my Saviour and His Word, that Lighthouse that’s always seen,
But only if we’re looking, and surely so, given Earth’s closing End-time scene.

By Lance Landall

There once was a Creator (still is, actually), who believe it or not,
Allowed Himself to be crucified by those that He had created — whoa, stop!
Madness, you say — well, certainly looking at it from a human point of view,
But that He did allow such, (leaving Heaven behind), is absolutely true.

Yes, it might be hard to comprehend, a seemingly ridiculous story,
And more so given how He let them treat Him prior to His death on Calvary.
But like I said, it absolutely true, as crazy as it may seem to us,
For I’m talking about Someone completely different, a Saviour, Jesus.

In other words, a God who loves us so much that He suffered our penalty,
Otherwise we would’ve been utterly doomed-cum-lost for all eternity.
And that He didn’t want, He risking His own life in order to save us all,
But thankfully He rose from His deathbed fulfilling the answer to man’s fall.

Yes, it is hard to grasp, a Creator killed by His own, He allowing such,
He so determined to rescue us from the doom and evils of Satan’s clutch.
And this, a story that could only be but Divine — yes, a heavenly act,
An amazing, incredible and historically documented fact…

Crazy as it sounds.

By Lance Landall

4.  The Good News Gospel

Spread the word, dear Christian — Jesus is coming soon! — for such is your duty and should be your joy,
As there’s no better news than the return of our Lord, that hope that repentant sinners will buoy.
Yes, it’s the Good News Gospel, for Christ is the God of love, He never wanting anyone lost,
But delaying His coming that many more might be saved, hence why He paid the ultimate cost.

And this being why we should be busy filling hearts with such hope and joy, working creatively,
Every street in suburbs and cities hearing our cry, that to God may be given the glory.
And thus we by our example, and that open-hearted heavenly love, sowing kindly seeds,
For such mingled with the Good News Gospel of salvation, prayer and faith, success waters and feeds.

So quickly, throw out our Saviour’s gracious lifeline, lest any perish in their sin and folly,
And given how the concerns, heartaches and woes of this life can distract so very easily.
Yes, share the Good News Gospel at every opportunity, reaching out with loving concern,
That more praise may ascend Heavenward, and that more joyous faces may observe Christ’s soon return.

Oh, what a blessed day that will be, when we and those germinating seeds we’ve sown, see Christ’s face,
And as we all rise, (immortal and triumphant), our wonderful, loving Saviour then embrace.
Yes, such why we should be passionately seeking the lost, busy spreading the Good News Gospel,
And busy lightening burdens; our deep love for Christ and others energising every cell.

By Lance Landall

5.  Which One?

The question could be asked, “Are you a Christian or disciple,”
Or could it be that you are both, and would this your actions tell?
Some Christians being only so in name, but not so a disciple,
'Cause disciples are committed and faithfully do God’s will.

Yes, the disciple's heart and mind is like that of God’s above,
Their every thought and action expressing their Saviour’s great love.
'Cause their lives are lived in harmony with their Lord’s will and ways,
They knowing that this example more correctly Christ portrays.

By Lance Landall

6.  Tighter

Dear Lord, please tighten Your grip,
Lest I stray, stumble or slip,
’Cause that I wouldn’t want, and
Know the evil Satan’s planned.

So please, Lord, tighten Your grip,
Lest I stray, stumble or slip,
’Cause Your way is the right way,
And why near I want to stay.

By Lance Landall





The following poem is a secular one that I have altered slightly in order to turn it into a Christian one (that alteration being the last line of the first and last verse). The other appears on my page Inspired, Home page garden.

7.  "Love You, Man"

I received an email conveying thought and kindness — and signing off, he said,
“Love you, man,” such so unexpected, and thus those words repeating in my head.
I unable to recall when last I heard such words, and isn’t that a shame,
Especially where one’s moving in a circle where people speak in God’s name.

Oh, how such was needed, and greatly appreciated, we having our times,
Low in spirit, short on vitality, and where things in life, one simply mimes.
Regret, loss, cruel burdens, loneliness — yes, the overwhelming weight of it all
(Or whatever else), and that “Love you, man” descending like a wraparound shawl.

And in the background, or not so background, there’s Myanmar, Taiwan and Ukraine,
Fuelling the sadness, the madness, things continuing in the usual vein.
There no “Love you, man” there, but “Hate you, man,” followed by wickedness and cruelty,
Yes, a world of difference, or should I say, indifference, barbarity.

Thus I thankful for that “Love you, man,” as if God had touched me, it clearly meant,
And why in renewed hope my gaze lifted, and why in gratitude my head bent.
This world a mess, and many hearts callous, but not the heart that says, “Love you, man,”
Encountered too seldom, or not at all, via emails, say, or faces we scan.

Yes, such sorely needed, commonly desired, and far more so as time’s gone by,
Troubles increasing, heartache and suffering, hence that often asked question, “Why?”
We surely needing each other more so, that “Love you, man,” but there goes that sigh,
“Love you, man” not heard as often or loudly as that “Love you, man” heard on high.

By Lance Landall

8.  Jesus Christ, Trailblazer

Into this fallen, vain, selfish, immoral, lawless world of ours, planet Earth,
Came Jesus Christ, trailblazer, but via the miracle of a virgin birth.
He first a babe in a manger, then a man on a cross, One who died to save,
One who changed the world, a merciful, grace gifting Saviour who rose from the grave.

Yes,

 Jesus Christ, trailblazer, who dramatically changed the course of things, and,
Showed the world a better way, sent us a Helper, pointed to a promised land.
A God, unbelievably, whose noble, humble, selfless life stands in contrast,
A Holy, righteous, faithful God whose love, goodness and benevolence is vast.

Oh, how He cut through the darkness with His light of truth, heavenly example,
Declaring Satan a liar and deceiver, warning of his cunning ill.
Oh, how Jesus made the way clear and hopeful, assuring us of victory,
The latter the outcome of full surrender, that saving cross on Calvary.

And the undeniable evidence beheld in transformed lives, praise His name!
A trailblazer whose path leads to newness of life, freedom from sin and shame.
Yes, Jesus Christ, trailblazer, we lost and yet found, love showing us the way,
We indebted to a twice giving Life Giver, but it a debt we can’t repay,

And this being why He wiped the slate clean via His innocent blood — oh, happy day!

By Lance Landall

9.  That's LOVE

She’d been burnt, was terribly disfigured, not a pretty sight, yet even so,
Her fiancée married her, and when he could’ve married someone else, you know.
Someone nice to look at, not that nightmare he chose to see each day, and that’s LOVE,
True love, real love, far from evolutionary, in tune with a God above.

Yes, such an amazing act hardly of that dog eat dog theory, believe me,
Something far greater and higher motivating, not earthly but heavenly.
No ape metamorphosing into a human able to become this way,
But rather, someone created in the form of Someone, I confidently say.

By Lance Landall

10.  Did God Lose The Plot?

I guess that title got you going, but there is a ring of truth to it, you know,
Christ dying on behalf of repeat offenders who to Heaven should hardly go.
Yes, it all seems kind of crazy, an act that defies belief, mind-boggling mercy,
A love that’s too hard to get one’s head around, it seemingly an insanity.

Well, I mean to say, when one looks at it from a human point of view, it appears mad,
Though on the other hand, the fact that I feel the need to say this, is rather sad,
Because where would we be without such crazy love, and there is something else it says,
But something about us: That we are far from being as forgiving as Jesus.

Man, what an incredible act, He allowing those nails, those sharp thorns on His head
And hey, don’t forget that flogging, and yet, not a word of condemnation was said.
He literally hanging there, He in excruciating pain, and black and blue,
And to think that Jesus did it all for such a pitiful, erring wretch like you,

And oh yes, for an every bit as pitiful, erring, sinful wretch like me.

And that’s surely where God lost the plot, one might say, ’cause He could’ve stopped it, you know,
And He had every right to, because pure and innocent blood was made to flow,
And thus Satan rejoicing in a madness far greater, man guilty as sin,
Though saved by that blood of that sacrificed Lamb where there’s true repentance within.

And yet, we so undeserving having done the devil proud, and though he hates us,
Calvary disappointing him, he hoping that we would all be doomed like Jesus,
Well, if Jesus hadn’t risen that is, thus the victory snatched from Satan, who,
We should have dispensed with long ago, it we who have lost the plot and gone askew.

Well, as crazy as Christ’s act may appear, and given all that He could have lost too,
I’m so glad that He did what He did, and craziness simply this man’s point of view.
Yes, He may have lost the plot, so to speak, but hey, He foiled a plot, praise His name!
A plot that nearly cost us eternity, and yet, how often Jesus we shame.

But surely not anymore though, for let us turn from what brought about Calvary,
We no willing partner in crime, but we responding gratefully to God’s mercy.
Yes, that madness, that craziness, that thought, love and grace that we cannot comprehend,
And that our daily trials, heartbreak, suffering and misery has sought to end.

Oh, worthy is the Lamb!

But you know, and just thinking, we do get an inkling of such thought even down here,
Some losing their lives in order to save another; or a better kidney share,
And thus someone continuing to live who otherwise wouldn’t, and there is love,
Which, as we know, comes from the Father who selflessly sent His dear Son from above.

Yes, despite our fallen state, we still retaining some of that same craziness too,
Though it paling into insignificance compared to what Jesus chose to do.
And such beyond us, because it required a pure, innocent, perfect Lamb, who,
Something so unbelievable that would even have the universe gasp, would do.

And Christ deeming us as worth it even though our righteousness is as filthy rags,
And despite those issues and grievances we carry around in prized little bags.
Oh, the wonder of it all, because if we were in His place, would we act the same?
And I’m sure that the answer is “No,” and hence Calvary’s magnitude and Christ’s fame,

And why once again, it’s praise His name!

By Lance Landall


"For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being
saved it is the power of God" (1 Cor 1:18, NASB).

11.  Mind Those Affections

God’s Word indicates that Eve was deceived first, so Adam could have refrained, and
God would have no doubt worked something out, but Adam took things into his own hand.
Yes, he joining Eve in sin; being parted from her seeming too much to bear,
And here we all are, and why given all this, there’s something that I wish to share.

Nothing, and I mean NOTHING, should ever come between God and us, and I mean,
That our feelings for someone shouldn’t endanger our future, repeat that scene.
Thus Adam’s lack of trust and strength a warning, nothing costing eternity,
We putting right before wrong, Christ before others — yes, as tough as it may be.

But oh, how those strong feelings for someone oft get in the way, Christ coming last,
So many Christians copying Samson too, rather than learning from the past.
But whether it be a wrongful match, or Christ less loved than someone else, one thing’s clear:
We endanger our walk and salvation, and that same forbidden apple share.

If Satan had his way, he’d ruin and kill us, and that’s why I’m for Jesus,
And you know what? When we do what Satan says to, Satan points the finger at us!
Yes, “I dare you to do this,” he tempts, and when Jesus shows up, we cop the blame,
Not that we’re innocent either, and we have been told there’s power in God’s name.

So please, mind those affections for someone else, indeed anything, lest you fall,
Even missing out on the One who loves you most, sin dulling your Saviour’s call.
That old serpent appearing in many trees, and Adam and Eves many too,
Hence why I would mind those earthly affections lest an Adam or Eve be you.

By Lance Landall

12.  Rock Solid

It concerns me that some refer to the apostle Peter as the rock on which Jesus built His Church,
Such being a faulty interpretation, 'cause not all is as it seems, and why deeply we should search.
And here I’m referring to God's Word, it oft speaking of Christ being the Rock, and why in Him we trust,
'Cause Christ is not only the Rock, our security, but rock solid, dependable, loving and just.

Christ's not only rock solid, but most assuredly so, and why on Him we build our foundation, He
The same foundation on which the Christian Church is built, and from whom each Christian takes their authority;
And such including tearing down satanic strongholds via the power of prayer, unlocking chains that bind,
Be those strongholds and chains the evil that's ensnared, or, God forbid, that’s found in our own heart and mind.

Hence why my trust is in Christ, 'cause I won’t put my trust in anything that’s not rock solid, like some man,
'Cause other than Satan who rebelled in Heaven, the human equation is where trouble then began.
There’s nothing rock solid about men, as Scripture attests to, hence why three times Peter denied his Lord,
And so many others have let God down too, 'cause we, despite our best, are hopelessly sin-sick and flawed.

Now don’t get me wrong, 'cause it’s amazing what God can do, hence those miraculous changes that we see,
But no matter how Christ-like someone may become, one thing’s clear, perfection's not found in humanity.
And the reason is, 'cause we’re fallen creatures, and hence Christ’s robe of righteousness — oh, amazing grace,
'Cause via such, and in the sight of the Father, we’re viewed as perfect; will become so when we see His face.

If faithful, that is.

Meantime, my trust and hope is in the Rock — Jesus — 'cause He’s rock solid, unchangeable, steadfast and true,
Someone in whom there's no variation, His love boundless and everlasting, His caring constant too.
Yes, He’s the solid rock on which safety is found, no matter how violent the storm or angry the sea,
All why my trust is in Him (Is yours?), 'cause anything else is clay, sinking sand — in other words, folly!

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 18 February 2020.

“He [Christ] is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He” (Deut 32:4; KJV).

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, My strength, in whom I will trust...” (Ps 18:2, NKJV).
 
“They [the Israelites] all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ” (1 Cor 10:2-4, NIV).
 
“For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor 3:11, NKJV).

13.  Faith A Must

Everyone’s wanting security, Lord, but safety is only found in Thee,
Though not as this old world views such, but in ones securing of eternity.
For here, Lord, we will never be free of those sad things that plague humanity,
And thus can only put our trust in Thee, ask for help and wait expectantly.

And yes, we’ll have our woes, and more so when we take up our cross and follow Thee,
For this world knows nothing of Heaven, and thus its ways and desires being anti.
All why the committed Christian is soon offside with its unkind cut and thrust,
And why true peace and happiness is only found in Thee, and thus faith a must.

By Lance Landall

14.  You Know,

Nowhere in His Holy Word, nor at any time, did Christ tell Christians to war,
To carry guns, inflict any kind of injury, or even an old score.
So please, stop pointing to that ancient theocracy, and more so when it suits,
For Christians must carry their cross like Christ, and we’re told we’ll know them by their fruits.

So where do some get the idea from that it’s okay to hit back, carry guns,
Or to war? Not one of these fallen things being an uttering of the Son’s.
We Christians, remember, not Israelites, Calvary all about love and grace,
So let’s not indulge in what for the Christian would be nothing but a disgrace.

By Lance Landall

15.  In Christ Alone

We look for breaks and summer days midst Earth’s toils and growing calamities,
When the only rest and peace that’s truly found is in Jesus, and on our knees.
He in our heart, He in our hope, we trusting in His Word and promises, and
Still able to smile and praise Him for His greatness when things don’t go as planned.

Yes, we mustn’t rely on breaks and summer days, for life may snatch them from us,
And thus we finding our rest and those warming rays in our contact with Jesus.
We knowing He’s always there, we knowing He’s faithful and true, and answers prayer,
Yes, His love and goodness always found, for He’s the God of love, who’s full of care.

By Lance Landall

Christian version of my secular poem Something To Think About.

18.  Starting With A Story

One day an employer was waxing lyrical about a particular employee,
A man who was never off sick, but was always on time, thorough, willing and trustworthy.
And this, despite his lowly position, he taking care of portable toilets, you see,
Which included not just their delivery, but anything else that was necessary.

“He’s been with us fifty years,” the employer stated, unable to hide his delight, “And,”
He continued, “Best man I ever employed, he making sure everything goes as planned.
Which,” he added, “Is critical to our operation despite it not appearing so,
And all why I'd hate to lose him, unlike other employees here who tend to come and go.”

“Is he rewarded well?”  “Well enough,” the employer replied, “All his needs attended to,
Though he not one to complain, cheerfully doing his job despite having a high IQ.”
“So why not promote him?” the employer was then asked. “Well, where would I find someone as good?
'Cause though it’s only toilets that he’s dealing with, things soon wouldn’t be running as they should.

You’ve no idea how much trouble I had before,” he sighed, “Which is why I have left him there,
Otherwise I would soon see history repeating itself-cum-past problems reappear.
But having said that, I’ll see his future is taken care of, he being valued highly,
'Cause few are as faithful, happy to do whatever and for as long as needed, like he.”

Yes, how many Christians are oft complaining: “Why can’t someone else do this? I’d like a break,”
They desiring a nicer task, or some limelight, rather than some path God would have them take.
They thus overlooking the fact that the reason God may be leaving them there could well be
One similar to that faithful man’s employer, they too perhaps, thought of just as highly.

Oh, what a shame it would be to let God down.

Or could God be trying to teach us something, perhaps humbleness, contentment or patience, and
We shouldn’t forget that He may be testing us before He gives us something far more grand.
Or He simply seeing how genuine our walk is, 'cause not all who take His name are true,
Or, “for better or worse” having gone askew, they bucking something hard He wants them to do.

“Grace?”  “Yes please, Lord.” But as far as better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and
Until death do us part goes, it’s a case of, “Hang on, Lord, do grace and such go hand in hand?”
Oh dear, what a question to ask, yet isn’t that exactly how it is with some Christians,
Who avoid or curse trials, or clutch grace in one hand, and in the other, cling to desired sins.

By Lance Landall


This poem was tweaked on 2 October 2022.

19.  Only A Fool

 
Oh, what an honour and privilege it is, Lord, to stand in defence of You,
To back the Scriptures up to the hilt, and the interests of Heaven pursue.
And yes, be that for a lifetime, You giving us eternity in return,
And why it’s nothing but folly that for the temporal things of Earth we yearn.

Oh, all that time, money and effort that’s spent on chasing the opposite sex,
Or on other desires and ambitions that one sees through the same earthly specs.
And meantime, this Earth rushing to its end, millions dying without hope — and You,
Lord, looking at a bride who’s dragging her feet, she restless, flirty and askew.

Oh, the craziness of it, Lord, when nothing should shake our faith and trust in You,
We active and vigilant on Your behalf, self lost in a heavenly hue.
In other words, we putting our own interests last, even forgoing things,
For only a fool, when I comes to this wretched world we’re in, dallies or clings.

By Lance Landall

20.  A Modern God

The modern God, according to my sources, isn’t all that bothered about sin, seemingly;
So much for Him being the unchangeable God, and what He said about walking obediently.
And now, His grace covering us whether we’re wilfully sinning or not, which is sure to please,
And thus attaining eternity a piece of cake, and why into Heaven almost all will breeze.

Yes, so go for it, it seems, enjoy the best of both worlds, or worst in Earth’s case, we fancy free,
And no longer to be concerned about witnessing righteously, or walking biblically.
Nor need we be concerned about truth when it comes to unity, truth somehow dispensable,
We pretty much pleasing ourselves rather than getting into a tizz over what might be God’s will.

I can hear the cheering, see people flinging their crosses down despite Christ saying, “Pick them up,”
Though not now, apparently — Hello world, I’m on my way, I've so much to do, read, watch and sup.
Well, such no doubt being the way many would like it, belief in God the only criteria,
And according to my impeccable sources, man’s thoughts and ways now far more superior.

Yes, it’s all so different, we inherently good rather than having a rebellious bent,
And bound for the glory land despite any hypocrisy, and if Jesus we misrepresent.
Well, there’s no question we’re looking at a modern God here, or is such simply man's invention,
Another tower of Babel, and for those involved, an end far too horrible to mention?

By Lance Landall