More To Consider

 

Introduction




“The apostles had hardly died ere the spirit of deception thought it could easily break into the churches as into an empty house left without a guard…It may be conceived that in this second century originated nearly all the
heresies which afterwards raged in the church.”
The Magdeburg Centuries, chap. 1, p2.

“Toward the end of the second century, most of the churches assumed a new form, the first simplicity disappeared,
and insensibly, as the old disciples retired to their graves, their children, along with new converts, both Jews and Gentiles, came forward and new-modelled the cause”
Ecclesiastical Researches. Chap. 5, p. 51, edition 1792.

"In the interval between the days of the apostles and the conversion of Constantine, the Christian commonwealth changed its aspect...Rites and ceremonies of which neither Paul nor Peter ever heard crept silently into use, and then claimed the rank of divine institutions."
Dr. D. Killen, The Ancient Church.

“The services of worship increased in splendor, but were less spiritual and hearty than those of former times. The forms and ceremonies of paganism gradually crept into the worship. Some of the old heathen feasts became church festivals with change of name and of worship. About 405AD images of saints and martyrs began to appear in the churches, at first as memorials, then in succession revered, adored, and worshiped. The adoration of the Virgin Mary was substituted for the worship of Venus and Diana; the Lord's supper became a sacrifice in place of a memorial; and the elder evolved from a preacher into a priest.”
Story Of The Christian Church, p 79, by Jesse Lyman Hurlbut (1843-1930)


Hence these warnings from God's Word:


“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the
doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their
own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve”
(Rom 16:17,18, ESV).

“Let no one deceive you in any way; for that day [Christ's coming] will not come, unless the rebellion [apostasy]
comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to
be God” (2 Thess 2:3,4, RSV).

“The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish
because they refused to love the truth and so be saved” (2 Thess 2:9,10, NIV).

“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate
for themselves teachers to suit their own likings, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander
into myths” (2 Tim 4:3,4, RSV).

“ ‘My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…’ ” (Hosea 4:6, NKJV).




And all why there's always more to consider.


More To Consider

It's only natural that Satan would want to corrupt the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the purity, simplicity and wholesomeness of apostolic doctrine, the respectful, reverent worship befitting God. And don't forget that blending of Church and State that occurred under Constantine, those satanic inquisitions and burnings at the stake during the hundreds of years of darkness perpetrated by Papal Rome where millions and millions of innocent people died (the Jewish holocaust minor in comparison), and where people were even forbidden to read the Bible. So why should we not expect to see golden calves within the Church and heresy masquerading as truth within the ranks of Christianity?
The truth is, we've been warned to watch out for such (Gal 1:8; Rom 16:17,18; 1 John 4:1; 1 Tim 4:1), and have also been told of an apostasy that will take place just prior to Christ's return (2 Thess 2:3,4). The latter not only the brainchild of Satan (Rev 16:13,14; 2 Thess 2:9,10) but the hallmark of a coming persecuting and worldwide religious-political power that will eventually demand that all worship it (Rev 13:11-18; Rev 14:9,10,12,13). And all who do embrace it will incur the serious wrath of God (Rev 14:9,10).

With all this in mind, consider these words of A.W.Tozer (1897-1963):


"Christians habitually weep and pray over beautiful truth, only to draw back from that same truth when it comes
to the difficult job of putting it into practice! Actually, the average church simply does not dare to check its practices against biblical precepts. It tolerates things that are diametrically opposed to the will of God, and if the matter is pointed out to its leaders, they will defend its unscriptural practices with a casuistry equal to the verbal dodgings
of the Roman moralists. Can it be that there is no vital connection between the emotional and the volitional departments of life? Since Christ makes His appeal directly to the will, are we justified in wondering whether or
not these divided souls have ever made a true commitment to the Lord? Or whether they have been inwardly renewed? It does appear that too many Christians want to enjoy the thrill of feeling right but are not willing to
endure the inconvenience of being right!"


"Many a tender-minded Christian fears to sin against love by daring to inquire into anything that comes wearing
the cloak of Christianity and breathing the name of Jesus. They dare not examine the credentials of the latest prophet to hit their town lest they be guilty of rejecting something which may be of God. They timidly remember how the Pharisees refused to accept Christ when He came, and they do not want to be caught in the same snare, so they either reserve judgment or shut their eyes and accept everything without question. This is supposed to indicate a high degree of spirituality. But in sober fact it indicates no such thing. It may indeed be evidence of the absence of the Holy Spirit. Gullibility is not synonymous with spirituality. Faith is not a mental habit leading its possessor to open his mouth and swallow everything that has about it the colour of the supernatural. Faith keeps its heart open to whatever is of God, and rejects everything that is not of God, however wonderful it may be. Try the spirits is a command of the Holy Spirit to the Church. We may sin as certainly by approving the spurious as by rejecting the genuine. And the current habit of refusing to take sides is not the way to avoid the question. To appraise things with a heart of love and then to act on the results is an obligation resting upon every Christian in the world. And the more as we see the day approaching."


Thus some things that Christians should remember:

That it’s Christ who’s the head of the Church, not a man of any sort.
That the Bible is the ultimate authority, not the traditions of any church.
That the Bible isn’t just for priests, pastors, church leaders or theologians, but for everyone.
That it’s via deeply studying the Scriptures, guided by the Holy Spirit, that we understand God’s will for our life.
That it’s by God’s grace alone that we’re saved, thus justification coming via faith, not any works of our own.
That Scripture alone speaks authoritatively to all believers, independent of any church leader, council or human interpreter.
That there is only one mediator, Christ, and thus salvation accomplished by Him alone.
That only God should be revered, praised and given glory.
Note:
The following alternative poems are not connected to those that are in the
section further down this page that's titled POEMS.


So Which Camp Might You Be In?


There once was a godly man called Noah, a truth, love and righteousness sower, and he, an antediluvian, who’s world was overwhelmed by sin, violence and wickedness being everywhere — in fact, evil hanging in the very air, and thus little hope left for mankind, which is how those existing then, their fate signed.
But not before Noah had lovingly warned, and seen his patient entreaties scorned, he meantime building an ark,
(a boat), the chances of any being saved remote, except for Noah and his family, who midst the evil and frivolity sought to live righteously, and why they were spared by a God who cared, and who midst the worldwide flood their vessel steered.
Oh, imagine the fear and emotional pain of those outside that boat who felt the rain, they banging on the door of the ark, the Earth becoming cloudy and dark, and then, they running for the highest hills, only to soon be drowned in swells, unlike those within that floating ship that beneath such waves would never slip, their Master guiding it to safety, thus rescuing Noah and his family.
Yes, another chance for humanity, now repeating the same insanity, for once again, sin has engulfed the Earth, folk lost in lust, gross pleasures and mirth, and once again, violence everywhere, evil hanging in the very air, and thus little hope left for mankind, and how most existing now their fate have signed, the door of another ark about to close, this old planet in its dying throes, our Saviour having lovingly warned, a here we go again message scorned — well, by most, that is, who of their evil’s boast, or the temptations of Satan toast, and this, as they clink their cups of iniquity, forfeit the joys of eternity, for Paradise will hardly be theirs, but soon, great distress and regretful tears.
Oh, how I pray (and may it be every day), that you’ve accepted Christ as your Saviour, allowed Him to change your direction and behaviour, for God will no more save sinners today than He did back then, and thus why beforehand He must weigh the deeds of men, and then, return to rescue the Noah’s of today, they surrounded by evil and decay; hence that separation of the sheep and goats, that distinction that Christ currently notes.
So which camp might you be in?
That of those who’ve turned their backs on sin, or that of those still hammering nails in?

By Lance Landall

The Outlaw And The Sheriff


Now, if the devil were a cowboy of yesteryear, toting holster held weapons and all the gear, he’d no doubt be a nasty scarfaced outlaw, one who’d enter any window, kick in any door — and he, midst cussing, cursing and spitting venom copiously, would pull those triggers on his hate filled guns, he firing bullets at all that’s the Son’s, the spiritual always in his sights, for Satan wants his name up in lights, and thus the satanic reigning, of which, degrees he’s ever gaining, hence those saloons full of scarlet women stirring men (excuse my honest pen), those kegs full of befuddling brew, those card tables where the air is blue, all of which dotted each wild west town, and now, dots each boulevard and avenue, hence why under the sun there’s nothing new.
Yes, unshaven, tobacco stained and under the sad influence of booze, he’d anything but the heavenly-cum-righteous ooze, and after shootin’ up the town, bringing signposts and pillars down, and lashing out with his cruel cutting spurs midst graffiting walls with his heresy and slurs, he’d go looking for followers of the Lamb, and their devotion and commitment slam.
Oh yes, he hot on their evangelistic trail, and where there were pockets of resistance, would fight tooth and nail, discourage any assistance, he hoping to destroy those holding out, and he honing in on the most devout, for followers are one thing, disciples quite another, and why their truth and witness he’d want to smother.
But eventually, and most breathtakingly, and midst this good, bad and the ugly scene (though Satan’s not always ugly been), in would gallop Sheriff Jesus who wherever we are always sees us, and with Him, His angelic posse, calm, cool and collected (righteous, actually), not mean, evil and bossy (Satanic, obviously).
Oh, how Satan would tremble in his rawhide boots, that vicious no good varmint that lies and persecutes, for he’d be no match for the Lamb who Satan’s chamber full of bullets would jam, and grabbing him by the scruff of his neck, Satan then nothing but a babbling wreck, would smartly toss him and his bandits into jail, their ridiculous protesting of no avail, and their dreadful fate a certainty, for no longer at large they would be.
Meantime, should that outlaw come looking for you like the Bible says he’ll do, surround yourself with a heavenly fortified wagon train, biblical supplies that sustain the heart and brain, and when Satan blazes with his devilish guns, fire back with Scriptural ammunition, and shout, “I’m on the side of the Son’s!” along with this addition, “And He’s on His way, so look out!” and maintain your godly position, you trusting in His promises, taking hold of grace, for within that ranch above, full of mercy and love, there’s a cross-gained space, one soon to be filled by you if faithful and true and thus living anew, and to be honest, such the only path to embrace, not that one belonging to an outlaw whose bandana hides his face.

By Lance Landall

Mister Sin


Well look at you, Mister Sin, so full of yourself and out to win — yes, you stealer of joy, and oh, how you love to toy, thus playing with lives, sharpening your knives, for pain and death you’ve more in mind, and why each sinner’s bound to find, that you’re no fun at all, but destructive as a cannonball.
Yes, look at you, Mister Sin, oh, how you’re seen to grin, for you know how God hates you, and all your lying ballyhoo, you leading folk astray, and thus how they disobey-cum-go their selfish way, and how they find themselves in trouble, consequences bursting their bubble, and how might they end up? Stubble.
Oh, Mister Sin, how you rub it in, you so determined to have your way, your say, you devoid of self-control, at the ready to rock ‘n’ roll, time and effort never too much, and oh, how you evilly clutch, many giggling as you tickle, until they’re in a pickle, though many still not learning and for more massage yearning, and you, convulsing with satisfaction, working on your next attraction, but only until Christ’s return, and same end that scoffers earn.
Yes, Mister Sin, you’re nothing but a deceiver, the troubler of the believer, who your dirty tricks should know, and thus not receive a blow, for oh, how you can thump, leave a nasty lump, not that your evil fists show, you oft careful how you go, back doors used regularly, gift-wrapped ills a speciality, all of which shows the brute you are, a cad who cons and then says au revoir.

By Lance Landall



Can't Have It Both ways


May I say, that at the end of the day, church-cum-that worship sanctuary is only as interesting as people want it to be, it more to do with attitude (to be frank, not rude), than gimmickry, or who’s teaching or preaching, or whether it’s conservative or contemporary, not that self nor the world should soil any church-cum-sanctuary.
But having said that (attitude being where it’s at), every church-cum-congregation should attract, and this, not an opinion but a fact, for many who enter or are found in a church aren’t converted, or truly converted, and as a result of that negative state, are no longer prepared to participate, or, the entertaining and superficial advocate.
The question then, is how can a church attract without worship principles being attacked, and without that set-aside sanctuary being sacked, and by that I mean, via wrong things being backed, which hardly pleases our Lord who doesn’t like His will ignored, and here, both His Word and biblical principles having made things very clear, if we’re truly looking, that is, not hung up on our will, but rather, seeking His will.
Well, no church will attract if it’s not loving, for it’s not just a place where one’s to listen, study, pray and sing, but a place (bearing in mind grace), from where a Christ-likeness-cum-true witness should spring, and thus love and truth flying from its steeple, all knowing that within are sound and caring people, people who rely on the power of God’s Word, not that laughter and clapping that nowadays is heard, and more preferred, and why little difference is oft seen between a church and the worldly scene, and why many think that they can have a bob each way, or back to sin-city are seen to stray, for “What has a church got that the world hasn’t got?” they think, thus cash registers rather than offering bags going “clink!”
Yes, God missing out on many an account given all the straying or those sad attacks some Christians mount, and rather than churches bursting at the seams, its those places where one hears excited screams, or elsewhere, anywhere, though having said that, stand near many a church and what does one hear? Heavenly refrains? A pin-drop prayerful silence? The straight and narrow Word? Or just what’s preferred? A beat that stirs the flesh? Activity that doesn’t mesh? Warm fuzzes that simply lull? — all how Satan’s seen to cull, for even in churches, believe it or not, there’s lost etched on many a skull.
Oh, too many court both God and the devil, and why Satan over such adultery is seen to revel, and why there’s a time and place, a judgment that all will face, for no Christian’s to sully God’s holiness whilst giving some crucifix what amounts to a Judas kiss.
When we turn to our own ideas about how we should worship, and God’s Word misinterpret (a church thus coming under our Lordship, not His Lordship), we badly err-cum-slip, for His ways are not our ways, we having been too long in Egypt, which a faulty witness often conveys.
And woe to hypocrites — all why the likes of rock guitars, drum-kits, puppets, clowns and skits (in a church, that is, that realm that's His), are not only a sign of failure and desperation, but of a worldliness that doesn't gel with holiness, and why it's only love and truth that Christians should rely on, they thus emulating the ways of the  heavenly Zion, not those which belong to the wayward, non-believing and hollow world of Babylon.

By Lance Landall


“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy…” (1 Cor 10:20-22, ESV).

"So shall Babylon the great city be thrown down with violence...And the sound of harpers and minstrels, of flute players and trumpeters shall be heard in thee no more..." (Rev 18:21,22, RSV).


"A time will come when instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the church will have clowns entertaining the goats."
Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892)

And So It Is Today


Presuming that your Bible’s the same as mine (it inspired and authorised by the Divine), I don’t recall reading about necklaces, bangles, finger rings or earrings, or any other such things — that is, when it comes to Heaven, or even Eden (mankind’s origin) — and nor of such adorning the pure woman (Christ’s bride-cum-purified Church), but certainly of a scarlet woman decked out in such, she full of pride and on a pompous perch, and I know this much, that God’s wayward people certainly coveted such, and of course pagans too, by the way, and why I believe it’s right to say, that they’re responsible for jewellery-cum-that misuse of silver, gold and those precious stones we see, which ancient Israel clearly borrowed, enter idolatry and apostasy.
However, I have indeed read of a city, a Holy city, where there’re diamonds and pearls, walls of jasper and a street of gold, and there’ll be jewels in our crowns, we’re told, but you know, such in God’s hands is one thing, but in the hands of the fallen, quite another thing, for here (and this very clear), there’s a world of difference (so woe betide waywardness or indifference), for we, the fallen, have a covetous relationship with jewellery, and that being (which most aren’t seeing), those “Look at me” inventions we see — yes, those creations of men, who, and once again, laud the earthly rather than the heavenly-cum-Holy, and this, whilst lining their pockets with loot, much plucked from Christians twisting Scripture to suit, its oft figurative expressions only understood by the faithful and astute.
Oh, what a covetous lot we are, be it jewellery, clothing, that house, yacht or car, we surrounding ourselves or titivating ourselves with anything and everything that draws attention to ourselves — yes, we acting like stars, not those that twinkle naturally, but that shimmer cosmetically, and hence those painted faces with their also pagan traces, and supporting such, that jewellery we see.
Oh, how little is used to God’s glory, but as far as our own wishes go, its enter self, vanity, pride and ego — yes, it quite another story, one that’s paralleling that ancient wayward race, who, rebelliously so, thought it no shame to pierce their skin, and on their clothes or through their pierced skin, man’s jewellery pin, and paint their face, and who failed to see that God isn’t into jewellery, but precious stones and metals, and they, only for His purposes and glory.
Yes, God’s not into that jewellery so common to man, who, such a covetous love affair early began, and the rest is history, as they say, for the love of this world soon caused many to stray, their gaze not on Christ but what wrongly enticed, and so it is today.

By Lance Landall


“The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls” (Rev 17:4, NIV).

“ ‘I will punish her [ancient Israel] for the days she burned incense to the Baals; she decked herself with rings and jewelry, and went after her lovers, but Me she forgot, declares the Lord’ ” (Hosea 2:13, NIV).

“When the people heard these distressing words, they began to mourn and no one put on any ornaments. For the Lord had said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites, ‘You are a stiff-necked people. If I were to go with you even for a moment, I might destroy you. Now take off your ornaments and I will decide what to do with you.’ ” So the Israelites stripped off their ornaments at Mount Horeb” (Ex 33:4-6, NIV).

“I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God” (1 Tim 2:9,10, NIV).

POEMS


Five alternative poems can be seen above.

1.  It's Not For Want Of Trying


Yes, it’s not for want of trying, Christ doing all that He can to spare us from ill;
In other words, those consequences of unbiblical desires that cast their spell.
Or to put it another way, those foolish wants that we rebelliously pursue,
And from which we can badly suffer, and via such, cause upset for other folk too.

Yes, it’s not for want of trying, Christ working via this or that, this way or that way,
His Word full of wise direction and examples of what happens when folk so stray.
And oh, how oft we’re given the benefit of someone’s experience, but no,
Off we go a wandering, even convinced we’re right when far better we should know.

Yes, there’s no fool like an old fool, which most of us are, we erring time after time,
Only to fall flat on our face, or up from some prodigal waste pit have to climb.
The latter being those pig pens of Satan’s devising, not that we saw them that way,
But only after coming unstuck — in other words, when Christ we sought to betray.

Oh no, not consciously perhaps, but rebellion sure slaps Christ in the face, and hard,
For look at what He did on our behalf, yet, come sin, how that cross we so bombard.
And such all the more galling when Christ’s simply trying to spare us more misery,
Which midst our selfish wants and desires we choose to ignore or somehow fail to see.

Yes, it’s not for want of trying, though Christ’s not one to force, for such is not His way,
But rather, He whispering in our ear, appealing to our heart day after day.
And where we’ve tuned out, (and for our sake, given that we’re heading near a cliff-cum-fall),
He oft allows what spares us from such, but what displeases us, and oh, how we bawl.

In other words, having not got what we want, we feel aggrieved, childishly pouting,
When the praises of a God who seeks to spare us from trouble we should be shouting.
But oh, how those wants get in the way, we thinking such will make us happy — a lie —
One that the old devil propagates, all being why his fairytales one shouldn’t buy.

Well, sometimes we do get what we want, our persistence ensuring such, and you know,
Sometimes we appearing not to suffer, but Christ having lost out — joy for our foe.
And who knows, for come eternity, such may be what we lose, and why we should choose
Only what truly blesses, and what the grace of our God doesn’t void or abuse.

By Lance Landall

2.  Caught Between Heaven And Earth


So many Christians take the wrong paths having convinced themselves otherwise, and,
When things turn to custard, blame the devil or others who’re oft those close at hand.
The truth is, that others’ interference say, is really immaterial,
For if those Christians hadn’t taken the wrong paths, they wouldn’t have met with ill.

A similar truth is, we reap what we sow, or to put it another way,
Bad choices result in bad outcomes, we having set such up-cum-will not may.
In other words, it’s no good blaming Satan or others if we’ve gone astray,
As we could’ve avoided such, and why troubles come just as night follows day.

The problem is, that most Christians are caught between Heaven and Earth, right and wrong,
Hence all those messed up plans and that ensuing blame-cum-anyone but me song.
And all because they tried to bridge the gap between Heaven and Earth, which one can’t,
For are such unprincipled bridges sanctioned by God’s Holy Word? No, they aren’t.

Yes, it’s funny how many interpret the Scriptures to suit their desires, and
Seek out those who endorse such errant paths, such supporters always close at hand.
But not those who warn of such paths, they having been avoided, their words dismissed,
And why ill soon appears, for when many desire something — oh, how they persist.

And this, oft how children dishonour their parents, and all because of either,
They being: rebelliousness or thoughtlessness, when kids shouldn’t indulge in neither.
For against such God has warned, and why honouring one’s parents avoids much ill,
Especially where godly parents point to Scripture where wisdom’s seen to dwell.

And so it is that many get caught between Heaven and Earth, both appealing,
One eventually giving out to the other and someone’s fate sealing.
For God has said to choose one of the other, and not to try bridging the gap,
He knowing that hidden under such bridges is a satanic booby-trap.

Yes, one that oft goes SNAP! — someone having fallen in love with what they shouldn’t,
And when they tried to free themselves (their heart most unwilling), they found they couldn’t.
And God foreseeing such, others too, whose loving warnings fell upon deaf ears,
The ears of someone caught between Heaven and Earth — and oh, how bitter their tears.

By Lance Landall

3.  Here's The Reason Why


There is no question that God has been slowly withdrawing His restraining hand,
Given the growing wickedness that’s been accelerating in every land.
And how more and more are turning their back on the ways and will of God above,
And why there’s so much lawlessness and a greater absence of genuine love.

And hence those ills and calamities that His angels may have once prevented,
And that destructiveness from certain things that man has foolishly invented.
But bare in mind too, that much heartache on this Earth can be traced to agendas,
In other words, the plans of those who Satan’s behind-cum-heartless offenders.

At the end of the day, Satan’s always sought control of Earth, and such he’ll get,
But only temporarily, hence his fast approaching End-time closing net.
And why we see certain things taking shape behind disguises designed to fool,
And why most will be deceived, and why prior to Christ’s return, deceivers will rule.

However, good-cum-Jesus will triumph in the end, but not before more pain,
Given things are worsening, and Satan’s game plan, (that to truth seekers is plain).
And why legislation condoning what God condemns is a sure sign that soon
Christ will put an end to evil and burst Satan and his helper’s cruel balloon.

If God didn’t withdraw His restraining hand, many would continue to drift,
And due to their contentment or distracting folly, miss His End-time airlift.
And hence the other reason why God has no choice but to let go winds of strife,
Lest even more people — and as in the dark days of Noah — forgo eternal life.

Yes, love must do what true love would do, and what true love wouldn’t think not to do.

By Lance Landall


“Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God” (2 Thess 2:3,4, ESV).

“...And all the world marveled and followed the beast [End-time worldwide power] ” (Rev 13:3, NKJV).

“A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: ‘If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead or on the hand, he, too, will drink of the wine of God’s fury...’ ” (Rev 14:9,10, NIV).

4.  Equally Askew


If we know the Bible back to front, but aren’t loving, we're equally askew
As those who are loving, but don’t know the Bible back to front like they should do.
For every Christian should not just have a love affair with God, but with His Word,
As it’s via His Word we get to know Him, His will and ways, and thus ourselves gird.

In fact, it’s via God’s Word that we learn of that love that we should be displaying,
And then in our lives, that love preceding those truths we’re meant to be relaying.
But who would insult the Author of the Bible via their ignorance of it?
A book God wants us to know back to front, that we and others may benefit.

When we don’t know it back to front like we should do, it’s then that we err-cum-stray,
And why many, simply going by their feelings, “So long as we’re loving,” say.
For God never said such, but instead, bound love and truth together, and why we
Are to convey His truth in love-cum-inform and encourage doctrinally.

Yes, "Defend the Word of God," we’re told, which we can’t if we hardly know it,
And what will be our excuse, for given what we’ve been told, how could one fit?
Such why we should also bind love and truth together-cum-carry out God’s will,
And that being: To not just live the Word, friend, but of its important contents tell.

By Lance Landall


“Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers,
love one another deeply from the heart” (1 Peter 1:22, NIV).

"My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge..." (Hosea 4:6, NIV).

5.  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 devils 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

6.  Why Obedience?


God, like any loving father, desires the best for His children — you and I —
(Unlike the devil who has no time at all for us; would rather see us die).
And God knows how ignoring His wisdom can result in pain and misery,
Those long-lasting consequences that can blight one’s life, and all so pointlessly.

God also wants others to learn of His goodness, His boundless love and mercy,
And how He delights in righteousness given that He’s pure, Divine and Holy.
And the way others will see this is via you and I imitating His ways,
Applying His wisdom, carrying out His will, which admiration conveys.

And you know, that’s why obedience is our best friend, for it not only spares,
(Ensures less pain), gives more glory to God, but any observer rightly steers,
And thus we not guilty of hypocrisy; nor a light that’s dim and dirty,
A poor example of what God can do, and thus all the less for it, sadly.

And yes, obedience the response of a grateful heart, for what did Christ do?
Not that I should have to say, for we know of Calvary and what He went through.
And all because of sin, our rebelliousness — which has cost us too, by the way,
But which needn’t cost us any further, and all why God asks us to obey.

By Lance Landall

7.  Please Don't Look At Me


Please don’t look at me, because I’m nothing like my Saviour, for how could I be,
Given that I’m a fallen creature-cum-sin being all part of my ancestry?
And I, born a sinner, wanting my own way from birth, and self still dogging me,
Hence why I slip and stumble midst praying that Christ will grant me the victory.

However, should that day come (and I pray that it will), when I receive a crown,
I’ll be singing the praises of the Lamb as He drapes me in a pure white gown.
For victory comes courtesy of Him, He the giver of strength and power,
And why I always call upon Him come temptation’s moment or trial’s hour.

So please don’t look at me, for such Christ never intended, and nor should such be,
I not even boasting in any victory lest I rob Him of glory.
Yes, I still that fallen, struggling and needy mortal with a grimy background,
Who’ll never truly reflect the one who’s unblemished, Holy, righteous and sound.

Yes, a God whose love and example can’t be matched, and dare we think it can be,
For look at us, our best still like filthy rags when compared to the heavenly.
Oh yes, so let’s not kid ourselves, and hence why you’d be foolish to look at me,
For I can only but do my best, keep kneeling at the foot of Calvary.

Yes, so please don't look at me, but Christ.

By Lance Landall

8.  God Has Every Right To Feel Angry


Think about it: First God creates this world and then He creates man, you and I,
And what do we do? Moan and groan, go our own way; and constantly question “Why?”
Now if that’s not a cheek I don’t know what is, for how easily we forget
That if it weren’t for Him we wouldn’t exist, would still be doomed-cum-lost, and yet,

Here we all are, even ranting and raving, foolishly looking elsewhere, when,
We’ve nothing to lose and everything to gain — oh, the stupidity of men.
For rather than making the most of their birth, praising God for their stretch of life,
They’re acting as if they’re owed eternity; knee deep in folly, vice and strife.

The truth is, God owes us nothing, has every right to do with us what He will,
And therefore, we’re completely at His mercy and dependant on His goodwill.
And oh, how merciful He is, for look how undeserving we are, and yet,
Who gave up His life, still supplies sun and rain, though deeply saddened and upset?

Yes, God has every right to feel angry, men stomping on His Word, cursing Him,
They shunning His ways for the world’s, their cup of iniquity full to the brim.
Or they taking His name and shaming Him, He who paid their debt on Calvary,
He who wants nothing but the best for them, and delays His coming thoughtfully.

By Lance Landall

9. Like With Amelia Earhart


It appears Amelia landed on an Island, sent signals for three days,
Until her plane succumbed to the waves, that is, and there beneath the sea it stays.
A ship was finally sent, but no plane or wreckage was spotted,
And there on that uninhabited Island, her body too, succumbed and rotted.

Yes, she took a risk that didn’t pay in the end, and so it is with many,
Who, take a risk regarding the snares of this world, losing out on eternity.
They finally succumbing too, the search ended, they not found ready and waiting,
And why via this lady’s tragic and needless end, a similar great risk I’m stating.

Folk stranded on Earth, perish the thought, once beguiled by Satan’s chicanery,
But no longer, they dead to the world, lost in mortality’s clutch, sadly,
They no longer alive, a mere three score years and ten (or less) their lot, and thus
Never to enjoy the eternal rewards and blessings coming with Jesus.

By Lance Landall


This poem was prompted by the book Finding Amelia by Ric Gillespie.

10.  Done With Sin


Tell the world that I’ve had enough, that this Earth is less and Jesus more,
That the father of lies can’t deliver what our Saviour has in store.
Tell the world that its doomed, but not the lover of righteousness and Christ,
Who’ll enter the coming kingdom of God that cannot be earned or priced.

Yes, tell the world that it’s got it wrong, and that it’s God who’s got it right,
That there’s nothing to be found in darkness, but everything in light,
And that it’s wasting it’s dwindling time, that all it’s done is lead astray.
And this why I’ve embraced and surrendered to the Life, the Truth, and Way.

Yes, enough’s enough, I’m done with sin, and everything it’s cost me,
So tell the world that it’s simply fool’s gold, shallow, bitter and empty,
That Adam and Eve wept when they knew what they’d lost, but rejoiced in grace,
That very same cross that stood on Calvary where Jesus took our place.

Tell the world that I’m tired of the charade, those things it wants me to be,
That I’ve found my purpose and reason in Christ who simply accepts me.
That I lingered far too long and missed blessing after blessing, and paid,
And all when I needn’t have, but by the side of Jesus should’ve stayed.

By Lance Landall

11.  Do Your Best


Should there be a role call in Heaven one day, how would you feel if no one replied
When the name of a loved one rang out, and you remembering how hard you had tried,
Or didn’t try, and then you feeling a pain within your heart, tearing it apart,
And hence why regarding effort and pleading, it is never too early to start.

You starting with prayer, regular and passionate, that example likely to win,
And then heavenly overtures following, that certain seeds may be sown within.
Now being your only chance, because Christ will soon appear, and the devil’s stalking.
So do your best, love and time invest, that through Heaven’s gates, they too, will be walking.

By Lance Landall

12.  Sin's Our Middle Name


Well, we can preen our feathers and strut our stuff, but who do we think we’re kidding, as sin’s our middle name,
'Cause everyone of us is riddled with its selfish cancer, and thus no saintliness or glory can claim.
But rather, should be well aware of how fallen we are, and how each day we need to fall on our knees,
And there, in humble repentance, plead for God's mercy, our smugness replaced with a respectful unease.

And by that I’m meaning, we divesting ourselves of any self importance, that swelled head, tilted nose,
'Cause none of us have the edge on others — and hey, even a hint of self-cum-pride, Jesus sees and knows.
And oh, so much He sees, 'cause sin’s our middle name, and why saintly we’ll never be — well, not here on Earth, And why if it wasn’t for the seriousness of such, our pious swaggering would be cause for mirth.

Yes, each of us shamefully exposed, in need of Christ’s robe of righteousness (secured by grace alone),
'Cause no matter how much we grow, it won’t be enough to earn Heaven, we still reeking of Earth’s cologne.
And how dare we try to bring Christ down to our level, thinking we can attain same righteousness as He,
'Cause sin’s our middle name, and everyone of us to blame for that horrific crime on Calvary.

So midst our daily best, empowered by the Spirit ('cause God never said to do naught), let's not forget
That only grace can save, and not an ounce of effort, 'cause Christ paid in full each sinner’s outstanding debt.
But such isn’t cause for preening our feathers either, nor strutting our stuff, though we're children of the King,
'Cause we should remember where we’ve sadly been, what we’ve thought, said and done, and “Amazing grace” loudly sing.

By Lance Landall


This poem was upgraded 14 March 2020.

13.  Mind That Complaining


Given that the majestic God of the universe didn’t have to create humanity,
Nor offer us all a home in Paradise-cum-immortality-cum-joyous eternity,
Why are we constantly moaning and groaning — in other words, acting very ungratefully,
For after all, aren’t we His possession, and didn’t He die on our behalf upon Calvary?

Sure life’s tough, and Satan a determined enemy, but we’re only here temporarily,
And a lot of us getting off lightly compared to the terrible afflictions of many.
And yet, despite our mere three score years and ten, we’re hollering for all we’re worth come any ill,
Despite God offering us daily strength and an inner peace — and don’t many things turn out well?

Yes, God oft bringing good out of bad, teaching us valuable lessons and restoring some loss,
But no, we want a life that’s easy — “Lord, would You mind removing that character building cross?”
Well, He knows better, loves us far too much to free us from such, and believe me, well knows pain too,
Yes, that agony of Calvary, the weight of man’s sin — such more than anything we’ll go through.

But even if we are truly suffering, what’s such compared to an ecstatic eternity?
Of which I’m sure we’ll agree once experiencing such, thus accepting life’s bitter entry.
And hey, sin-cum-suffering wasn’t God’s doing, you know; His life spoilt by such misery too,
And why He’s so full of loving empathy — and don’t forget, His coming rescue almost due.

By Lance Landall


"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not
lacking anything" (James 1:2-4, NIV).





Note:
 The following poem draws from the lyrics that have been placed directly below it,
and which are best read before the poem itself. And please bear in mind that this poem
is not an attempt to knock any good intentions of Pharrell Williams.




14.  With The Song "Happy" In Mind


I was tempted to put Christian lyrics to the Pharrell Williams song, “Happy”
(A very clever, catchy secular creation, though penned somewhat oddly).
But then I remembered the story of Dagon, how same principles apply,
And they being, that wedding the secular with the Holy sees things go awry,

And thus incurs God’s strongest condemnation, 'cause the Scriptures make one thing clear,
That here, God has drawn a demarcation line, this world different to His sphere.
Yes, something dramatically borne out in first Samuel chapter five, and
Reiterated by that “Come out of her, my people,” judgement close at hand.

As far as the song goes…

“Bring me down,” Williams hollers — then, “Can’t nothing bring me down, my level’s too high,”
And I thinking, now there’s a clear challenge to Satan who’s happy to let fly.
And why each day we must reply on the power of the Spirit, not some high,
'Cause just when we’re “a hot air balloon that could go to space,” down oft comes the sky.

“Give me all you got, and don’t hold back,” he challenges again, asking for it,
Though there is something else that Williams hollers, which repeated, does have merit,
And those very words being, “Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth,”
And who among us can’t relate to, “If you feel like a room without a roof”?

So many of us have our dark days, but happy are those who’ve embraced God’s truth,
'Cause without such, we’re a ship without a rudder — yes, “a room without a roof.”
And therefore why I agree with, “Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth,”
But add, “If God’s love is in your heart,” 'cause then you’re a room that does have a roof!

Yes, “No offence to you,” but, “Don’t waste your time” seeking some high outside of Christ,
'Cause a love of this world will lead to ruin, and its “sunshine” is way overpriced.
So no, don’t “take a break,” but remain on watch, and happiness will fill your heart,
'Cause there’s no joy and peace like that which Christ offers, the world and He poles apart.

All why I won’t mix God’s things with the World's, “like I don’t care, baby, by the way,”
'Cause though others may laugh, I’d rather bear that cross than somehow foolishly stray.
Yes, “It might seem crazy what I’m 'bout to say,” but I will say it anyway,
“Can’t nothing bring me down,” cause I’ve given my all to Christ, the life, truth and way,

Who gives me the strength for every day — otherwise, I certainly would stray.

By Lance Landall


"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13, NKJV).

“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy…” (1 Cor 10:20-22, ESV).

" 'Her priests have done violence to My law and have profaned My holy things. They have made no distinctiion between the holy and the common [the same principle applies within the Christian sphere]...' " (Ezek 22:26, ESV).


Here's the actual lyrics to the song, "Happy".


“Happy”

It might seem crazy what I’m ’bout to say
Sunshine she’s here, you can take a break
I’m a hot air balloon that could go to space
With the air, like I don’t care, baby, by the way

(Because I’m happy)
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
(Because I’m happy)
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth
(Because I’m happy)
Clap along if you know what happiness is to you
(Because I’m happy)
Clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do

Here come bad news talking this and that, yeah,
Well, give me all you got, and don’t hold back, yeah,
Well, I should probably warn you I’ll be just fine, yeah,
No offense to you, don’t waste your time
Here’s why

Hey, come on

Bring me down
Can’t nothing bring me down
My level’s too high
Bring me down
Can’t nothing bring me down
I said (let me tell you now)
Bring me down
Can’t nothing bring me down
My level’s too high
Bring me down
Can’t nothing bring me down
I said





15.  Molehills And Gnats


Too busy swatting gnats that they don’t see the wasps, and then there’s those molehills,
Both molehills and gnats oft responsible for pointless burdens and certain ills.
Yes, some people making mountains out of molehills, and others swatting at gnats,
And thereby, when it comes to the more important issues, perhaps blind as bats.

And enter any wasp, some people far too sidetracked to notice its entry,
And wasps more dangerous than gnats — and as for mountains, there’s enough already.
And thus it all about focus, we either looking in the right place or not,
The latter making burdens heavier and those wasps so much harder to spot.

By Lance Landall