King David
“But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after His own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the Lord’s command [so stated the prophet, Samuel]” (1 Samuel 13:14, NIV).
David was a man after God’s own heart, which the Scriptures convey,
However, from the truth of this matter, so many people stray.
You see, context is everything, and most certainly so here,
For not everything we sight is how it may sometimes appear.
So, was David really a man after God’s own heart? Yes and no.
Yes, when walking obediently, but no when not doing so.
Remember Bathsheba? Yes? Well, David paid dearly for that sin,
Reaping that which he had sown, and suffering deeply within.
But David repented, returned to the Lord, and very humbly,
Walking in accordance with His Lord's will — that being, willingly.
And it then that he was a man after God’s own heart, then only,
For let’s face it, midst wilful sinning, such he simply couldn’t be.
And nor could any man amidst wilful sin, incidentally,
For that wouldn’t make sense and would just glorify hypocrisy.
Which is why so many triumphantly and most derisively
Point to Samuel’s words here and ridicule Christianity.
“A man after God’s own heart?!" they cry, "That cold blooded murderer?!
What kind of God would say something like that?,” and I have to concur.
But as I said, context is everything, and certainly here,
And why, my friend, the truth of the matter, I have here sought to share.
Many under a cloak of piety have become bold in sin
Simply 'cause of Samuel’s statement being given a wrong spin.
All why God and His Word have been blasphemed, brought into disrepute,
And this because some people have bent Samuel’s statement to suit.
Or because they have misunderstood it, or even been misled,
And unwittingly, a wrong interpretation have thus soon spread.
And hence why such folk should have pondered on Nathan's statement instead,
Who, in the text that's below, the nub of the matter, clearly said.
“However, because by this deed you [David] have given great occasion to the enemies
of the Lord to blaspheme, the child also who is born to you shall surely die
[so stated the prophet, Nathan]” (2 Samuel 12:14, NKJV).
So, how then was David considered a man after God’s own heart?
Well, the intent of his heart was to serve God, not from Him depart.
And secondly, when he sinned, he repented in sincerity,
And also in humility, which is what our Lord wants to see.
One’s character is revealed not by occasional good deeds,
And nor, I must hasten to add, by one's occasional misdeeds,
But by the tendency of one’s habitual thoughts, words and acts,
Of which the omnipresent and omniscient Holy God tracks.
And that's where David qualified, unlike Saul — yes, this the context,
And yes, this the very reason for comparing text after text.
Saul despised reproof, and thus hardened his heart in impenitence,
Whereas David chose heartfelt humility and deep repentance.
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded 7 October 2017.
You may also wish to read my poem Will Your Folly Follow You To Heaven? which is about King David too. Such can be found on my page Where Love And Wrath Meet.
2. Oh David
Oh David, what were you thinking? It’s not like you were short of women, but enter Bathsheba,
Shame you weren’t otherwise occupied — in other words, you somewhere else, she really something, huh?
I wonder how long you stood there? The female form not unfamiliar to you, but there you go,
Another conquest in mind (your eyes being your foe), and you got your way — yes, treacherously so.
Adultery’s one thing, David, but you plotted her husband’s death — man, is that what lust can do?
And why a man must guard his eyes, no doubt, for what one sees sends messages, as it did with you.
Yes, such didn’t do you any favours, and given all your wives, you must’ve been out of your mind,
But isn’t that the way with man, never satisfied, such starting with Eve, she acting as blind.
Well, you certainly paid for your folly — oh, what a price, and all just because of a body,
A naked one, your loins doing the talking, her best interests being far from your heart, clearly.
Yes, you couldn’t wait to bed her, and as I said, all this for the sake of mortal flesh and bone,
Which in time fades in beauty and then rots in the grave, just like one’s ego, and no doubt your own.
Thought you were the man, huh? Well, you soon realised you weren’t, fell to your knees (credit where credit’s due),
But poor Bathsheba, she merely the object of your lust, sex being what you wanted to pursue.
Though mighty in battle, you showed a distinct lack of self-control, and where it mattered far more,
For the biggest battle is that which is waged over one’s heart and mind, where dare there be some flaw.
By Lance Landall
3. Shame On You, Moses
I can understand how you felt, Moses, and I’m sure I would’ve reacted the same as you,
And there we go, such so typical of fallen humanity, we simply fools through and through.
For look at us today, we still losing our cool, and justifying our rant on top of it,
And thereby, rather than grabbing hold of a ladder, are simply deepening that age old pit.
Sad you killed that Egyptian, for such didn’t do you any favours, and it was wrong, of course,
And always is, for none of us should lay a hand on anyone, the Spirit not behind force.
Yes, shame on you, Moses, but shame on the rest of us too, for how often does our anger flare?
And why we in the very same folly as that sadly exhibited by you, also share.
Forty years as a shepherd, huh? Man, that must’ve been hard, and given what you’d been used to too,
But then again, many have paid dearly for their folly, they having done what they shouldn’t do.
Yes, my hands up, been there done that, and can imagine how terrible it must have been for you,
I knowing how one's folly can pack quite a punch, and it worse where it affects other folk too.
And then you had to revisit Egypt — oh dear, I know what that’s like, have sort of been there too,
Having had to face up to folk, put things right, revisiting things I really didn’t want to.
But that’s how it can go, and why we can’t afford to lose our cool, more so if we’ve lots to loose,
And why whenever we’re confronted with some upset, we should call on God and the right path choose.
By Lance Landall
4. Thumbs Up, Paul
I’m glad you turned the corner, Paul, you seeing the light on the road to Damascus, sense at last,
For persecuting others because of their faith is moronic, that old Saul left in the past.
Yes, praise God for His actions, or there you’d still be, and one of many throughout Earth’s history,
They all deludedly hurting others and angering God, who created humanity.
Wow! How God mightily used you, your zeal re-channelled and constructive, you a saver of souls,
And no surprises there, for such is how it goes when one’s heart and mind God directs and controls.
And hence that line of biblical heroes and heroines — you amongst them, Paul — all standing firm and true,
And in your case, Paul, the persecutor soon persecuted, you receiving what others went through.
Yes, the tables having turned, and you having it no other way; though our cross comes with pain,
For those who take the side of Christ, incur the wrath of Satan and all who choose the way of Cain.
And that’s where you were, Paul, despite you thinking otherwise, you the Pharisee of Pharisees,
And to boot, sadly infected with that zealot mentality, which its sad state never sees.
Unless of course there’s a Damascus experience, and in such lives I pray that there will be,
For Christ was no zealot, persecutor or Pharisee, but a lover of humanity.
Hence His death on Calvary, He dying that we may live, and wanting that same love in us too,
Which you, Paul, oft waxed lyrical of, persecution having become abhorrent to you.
By Lance Landall
5. It's Got Me Beat, Samson
I’ve read some sorry stories, Samson, but yours has to be one of the saddest ones that I’ve read,
For though God chose you to save your people from the Philistines, you joined the Philistines instead.
Well, effectively so, and your fraternising with them leading to that very sorry end,
For once Delilah cut your hair, and they then destroyed your eyes, who could you possibly defend?
Yes, a tragic story indeed, you so blessed and chosen by God himself, and to think you strayed,
Though you’re not alone there, as all throughout history God’s people have rebelled and disobeyed.
Yes, be they Jews or Christians, the worldly Philistine camp proving too bigger a temptation,
And why so many today are finding themselves in a similar sticky situation.
Well, in the end you brought that building down on them all, though not before repenting, praise the Lord,
But oh, all that time wasted when you could've done so much good, and hence how we too, God defraud.
And just like you, so many Christian men are eyeing those women in the same forbidden camp,
And hence those unequally yoked marriages which soon extinguish the light in many a lamp.
Yes, just as it’s oft some son who wrecks an inherited business (their father more sound and wise),
So it is that we who’re so privileged mishandle what we’ve inherited, same scales on our eyes.
Oh, how we let our heavenly Father down — yes, just like you, Samson, and when you had it all,
A tragic path that’s been paved by so many who clearly haven’t learnt from Adam and Eve’s fall.
By Lance Landall
6. Thanks For That Example, Daniel
You’re such an inspiration, Daniel, and why I’m so glad we’ve the record of your loyalty,
You never compromising, Jehovah always coming first, which is how it should always be.
And oh, how you stood firm in Babylon, even regarding your diet, both mind and body sound,
For what enters the body can affect the mind too, and the mind being the greatest battleground.
Hence why the mind needs to be kept sharp and clear, one feeding on the Word and constantly in prayer,
The latter being why you were thrown into the lion’s den, but God spared you, His saving power clear.
Yes, He honouring your courage, and what a witness! For you, Daniel, were always firm and true,
Which reminds me of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who wouldn’t bow to any but God too.
Yes, you’re such an inspiration, Daniel, hence that song “Dare To Be A Daniel” that Christians sing,
And why being: Because your faith in God and your loyalty to His will came before everything.
Yes, for no matter the circumstances, you wouldn’t compromise-cum-give an inch to wrong,
And why within Christendom, "Dare to Be A Daniel" should be an oft heard-cum-favourite song.
And oh, how God used you, Daniel, your visions recorded that we too might be blessed as we read,
For via your visions much is revealed; and how like you, on behalf of others, we should intercede.
Yes, far more than we do, we thus more concerned for others than ourselves, and Daniels through and through,
For God would have it no other way, and nor will we, if our love for Him is as solid and true.
By Lance Landall
7. Lest We Too, Peter
On the one hand, Peter, you drew your knife on behalf of your Master, and on the other hand,
You denied Him three times, the latter being when you saw your true condition, hence your later stand.
Yes, what bitter tears you must have wept, for fancy denying Christ, and at such a time as that,
But to be honest, Peter, (you having repented), I guess that’s where a lot of us are at.
Yes, we quick to draw the knife on Christ’s behalf, as it were, yet denying Him via our false witness,
Our worldliness suggesting we aren’t His followers; shouting our lack of spiritual fitness.
Seems we’ve accepted Christ and His gospel mentally, but are we truly committed, firm and true,
And thus obedient to His will, or simply more like that knife wielding, Christ denying old you?
Oh, to be like Christ in every way, and hence that change that took place in you, Peter, praise the Lord,
And may it be so with us, we true followers, unashamed and bold, and minus any sword,
“For all who take the sword will perish by the sword,” Christ said, He forbidding such sad behaviour,
For Christ came to save and not destroy, and why we’re not to emulate the world but our Saviour.
Yes, may it be that our boldness for Christ never become arrogant, violent or hasty,
And that we not let Him down when it comes to where it matters, we living victoriously.
And why I’m glad that you turned the corner, Peter, a corner that many of us need to turn,
Lest it be that just like you, we weep bitter tears too, given that Christ is about to return.
By Lance Landall
8. That Solomon Syndrome
Many form wrong relationships hoping that their influence will win folk over,
But such thinking has less to do with God and more to do with a four leaf clover.
And hence that dating where one is a Christian and one isn’t, or where ones a Christian
And the other more one by birth, though interested, but will they prove genuine?
“How can two walk together lest they be agreed?”, God’s Word says, but let's get that ring,
And, “Don’t be unequally yoked,” God’s Word says, but to that wrong suitor they still cling.
Yes, they following Solomon’s unbiblical example which cost him dearly
’Cause they stoop to an unbiblical level to convert folk, who, ironically,
They’re wanting to lift above that unbiblical level, which is hypocrisy.
Yes, Solomon formed wrong relationships too, both with nations and princesses, he
Flattering himself that his wisdom and influence would somehow bring God glory.
In other words,
Those pagan women converted, those nations coming to a knowledge of God, but,
The purity of God’s people tarnished by such, and why we’re to leave such doors shut.
Solomon’s reasoning was but a feeble excuse for his pride of prosperity,
The will of God, godly principles and true witness exchanged for security.
And seeming blessings fooling him for a time, but oh, how far he’d wandered away,
Little by little, and hence those consequences, because there always comes a day.
So,
Never sink to raise folk up, or you may sink with them, it risky, risky, risky,
And unbiblical, the wrong means not justifying some good end, and why we see
Things that once seemed a blessing becoming a curse, a marriage ending in divorce,
And all because so many copy Solomon, convinced that such is the right course.
Solomon had everything (not just all those unapproved wives and concubines),
But in the end, his loyalty to principle was compromised, hence those crossed lines.
Yes, he seeking to carry out God’s purpose in his own way, but such is unwise,
And such still seen today, ’cause just like Solomon, folk clutch at what they shouldn’t prize.
Oh, the fool Solomon was.
Unswerving obedience once given to God now gave way to apostasy,
Solomon degenerating into a tyrant, he both cruel and miserly.
Yes, once the wisest and most merciful of rulers, now oppressive and despotic,
The erector of idols and the collector of pagan concubines, a wreck!
His conscience seared, his fine sensibilities blunted, his faith in God in tatters,
His separation from God through communication with idolaters his ruin,
He having lost sight of what really matters.
And hence why we are told to keep ourselves distinct and separate from the world, lest
We also, little by little, take that same tragic path that God has never blessed.
By Lance Landall
You might like to read my poem Never Date The Unconverted which is on my page titled Regarding Dating and which is found via my page Sex And The Christian. There you will also discover what is meant by "the unconverted".
9. Comments On Ecclesiastes
There's something 'bout that inspiring book of Ecclesiastes that particularly appeals to me,
And I guess that's because within its deep and absorbing pages we’re confronted with reality.
There’s no glossing things over, it’s a warts and all presentation, Solomon calling it as he sees it,
And so many of us relating to his pithy ponderings, such also placed there for our benefit.
Yes, life can be hard and cruel, and certain things will never make sense, and hey, nor should we expect them to,
'Cause we live in a fallen world where evil's deliberate, random, commonplace, hence what we go through.
A world when pain and heartache regularly choke joy and happiness; then there’s our own stupidity,
Which is the cause of so many of our problems, outside of ill, friendly fire, or some calamity,
Which Solomon knew well, having messed up himself, the wisest man of all, yet still acting foolishly,
And isn’t that the way, 'cause despite best intentions, we’re so human, not that such excuses folly,
But simply that it’s a factor come selfish rebellion, those foolish attempts to get our own way, sin,
Which brings me to that age old question (given the hypocrisy), how do you tell a genuine Christian?
Well, it could be argued (perhaps tongue in cheek), that the best way to tell if Christians are genuine
Is to tread on toes, upset apple carts, rock boats — yes, put their noses out of joint, and watch the fun begin.
And there’s reality for you, not that I'm suggesting or condoning such, but oh, isn’t such true,
And why when we (out of love) set out to help others see what they need to, get those responses we do.
And that's what Ecclesiastes is all about — yes, the truths of life — in others words, reality,
Something that so many don’t want to face, preferring their delusions, their error or sin, foolishly.
But in the end, such catches up with them, 'cause life's all about reality, not about fantasy,
Which Solomon discovered, 'cause consequences visit all, and why Solomon said, “All's vanity!”
All that man might seek in place of God and obedience to Him, is worthless, hollow like vanity,
Such stressing the futility and unsatisfactory end of human effort and life, unless it be
Oriented toward God, and where it’s not oriented so, a coming loss of eternity,
And there again we see reality, 'cause no one will sleepwalk to Heaven, drift there unconsciously.
Yes, Ecclesiastes sums things up nicely, expresses much wisdom that’s worthy of application,
And amidst such, conveys the realities of life courtesy of Solomon's articulation,
And creativity, 'cause Solomon had a way with words, words that show he met with reality,
Which is what the Christian walk's all about as well, 'cause didn’t Christ say, “Take up your cross and follow Me?”
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded 6 March 2020.
10. Don't Touch!
God’s Word Is Sacrosanct.
To tamper with God’s Word is to insult Him highly, and to challenge His authority,
For it is He who speaks through His Word, and why those who tamper with it won’t get off lightly.
And tamper folk do, they the biggest of fools, for such interference God has forbidden,
Hence why nothing within is to be erased, added to, altered, twisted, challenged or hidden.
Therefore, let us mind how we deal with the Bible, never daring to treat it casually,
Nor lowering its tone, but rather, holding it aloft-cum-taking it seriously;
That is to say, very seriously, and this, both in expression and presentation,
It being no comic, local rag or glossy mag, but God’s truth-cum-solemn revelation.
Though the Gospel message is one of joy, it isn’t trite, common, shallow, or trivial,
And is coupled with a strong “Repent and walk anew,” lest with those who don’t, all not be well.
And hence why all of God’s Word should be heeded, not doctored to suit, nor tailor-made for some,
But revealed just as God has given it, for a day of reckoning is going to come.
And fair enough too, for what’s His is His, not ours to tamper with in any shape or form,
And it being us, not His wise, proven, instructive, life-changing Word that’s in need of reform.
Yes, God knowing best, such why He gave His Word just as it is, and never said, “Play with it,”
For He knows that humans have a very bad habit of trying to make heresy fit.
Though no version is perfect, and a reputable modern translation not without its flaws,
Each Bible is still the Word of God, and thus sacrosanct — yes, it His Word, not mine or yours.
All why it should always be placed on top of other books, not under them, its status clear,
And its outer appearance in keeping with its content, (of which we’re not to interfere),
And oh, its pages showing how much it’s read; but overall, how it’s treated with great care.
By Lance Landall
"The acid test of our love for God is obedience to His Word."
Bob Jones, Sr.
11. Anchored In The Word Alone
Too many Christians operate from the basis of their denomination, rather than from the Bible,
Their beliefs being denominational bound, and they, riding some injurious doctrinal carousel.
Yes, they simply in a denominational rut-cum-bias, and thus more church bound than Bible bound,
Which is why many follow some man, have their own Bible, and keep clinging to beliefs that are not sound.
Now don’t get me wrong, 'cause I’m not knocking denominations as such, but more blind allegiance, sort of thing,
From which a faulty based ridiculing, and an unbiblical persecuting of others, can spring.
It’s not so much the denomination, but a mindset that’s attached to such, which just gets in the way,
'Cause where one's anchored in their denomination, rather than anchored in God’s Word, they very soon stray.
Many can’t seem to be budged from their errant beliefs, are oft caught up in rituals or tradition,
Thus in some other rut, or perpetuating some errant denominational composition.
And there they tend to stay, resistant to approaches, convinced there’s no need for reappraisal — folly! —
And midst it, condemning what is in fact correct, unable to see, blinded denominationally.
Rather than captive to the Bible, they’re simply captive to their particular faith, or some man’s word,
Thereby foolishly bowing to an organisation, or some leader, and too oft to what’s preferred.
Such simply gets in the way of enlightenment, 'cause rather than welcoming a challenge, they resist such,
Responding to questioning as they would do a threat, Pharisees who their cherished error tightly clutch.
As far as God goes, getting things wrong doctrinally is no small thing, all why we should be open-minded,
'Cause God's the God of truth, who doesn’t want His Word obstructed via liberals, those who’re narrow-minded.
The latter prone to fanaticism, the other prone to dismantling, both not in sync with Scripture,
'Cause God says, “Come let us reason together,” a far cry from some biased denominational picture.
Hence why we need to be sure of those beliefs that we're upholding, and should never tamper with God’s Word,
Nor worship at the feet of mortals, or equally as foolish, put all our faith and trust in some herd.
Our faith, trust and every belief we uphold, should be built on God’s Word, we always ready to see
Where we might be in error, and acting accordingly — yes, moving more into line Scripturally.
Thus anchored in the Word alone, built on the Rock, Jesus, not some organisation or pious man,
'Cause while God may use organisations or men, subservience to either wasn't part of His plan.
And so, only Christ should be followed, receive homage that's due, be bowed to, and only His Word should stand,
'Cause someone coveting the same homage, and propagating his own words, was how trouble first began, and...
By Lance Landall
This poem was upgraded 6 March 2020.
"But
even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than
the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!" (Gal 1:8,
NIV).
"For
the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine.
Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a
great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.
They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths"
(2 Tim 4:3,4, NIV).
"He
[Paul] writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of
these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to
understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the
other Scriptures, to their own destruction" (2 Peter 3:16, NIV).
"And in vain they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men" (Matt 15:9, NKJV).
"At
this I fell at his feet to worship him [the angel]. But he said to me,
'Do not not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your
brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the
testimony is the spirit of prophecy [we're not even to pay homage to
angels]' " (Rev 19:10, NIV).
"Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6, NIV).
"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).
12. No, Can't Have God Without His Word
We can’t have God without His Word, and to be honest, what a poor relationship that would be,
As it’s via His Word that we come to know Him, and the more it’s read, the more such we come to see.
And so it is with couples contemplating marriage, they getting to know each other far more,
And thus chatting late into the night — and often, their interest in each other at the core.
For were it not so, and should they marry, how long would that marriage last? And so it is with us;
And with the Bible being God’s revelation, our ignoring of His truths even being blasphemous.
And hey, how else can He warn, instruct and guide us but via His Word, which His love and will conveys,
And why it’s His Word we go by, not our feelings, as the one who goes by feelings always strays.
And no wonder, for our feelings can be affected by almost anything and anyone,
Which is why many are heading down a path that the devil has engineered and not the Son.
Yes, God’s Word is there for good reason, and according to Him, deep searchers of it we should be,
We thus drawing closer to Him, our understanding deepening too, lest we swallow heresy.
Hence why we’re told to test everything and everyone via its contents, and to know it thoroughly,
And soundly, for we’re its guardians and defenders, imparting its truths to humanity.
And this being one reason why monks we shouldn’t be, for such acts contrary to what God has said,
That being: To not cut ourselves off from others, but to witness to all, we sharing why Christ bled.
Yes, we do little good for Christ when we remove ourselves from those who we’re meant to be seeking,
For every opportunity we get, those saving words of Scripture we’re meant to be speaking.
In other words, we not just dwelling on them for our own benefit, but sharing what we find,
That others may be saved and witness too, and via the Spirit develop a Christ-like heart and mind.
If one thing’s clear it’s this: That God attaches great importance to His Word-cum-those truths within,
Hence why we’re to live by His Word; it useful for teaching, reproof, correction and pointing out sin.
And therefore, should we neglect or ignore it, not only will we displease the One who gave it,
But thereby deprive both ourselves and others of many a blessing and daily benefit.
Yes, no empty, mindless, inward meditation, but we deeply dwelling on God’s every word,
Our help coming from outside ourselves, we sick within, hence why most only like warm fuzzies purred.
But God knows better, our condition needing surgery, that pointed truth that can set one free,
Rather than that which appeals to itchy ears and gives birth to a form of Christianity.
By Lance Landall
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God..." (2 Tim 2:15, KJV).
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as you teach and admonish one another in all wisdom…” (Col 3:16, RSV).
“All
scripture [Old and New Testament] is inspired by God and profitable for
teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in
righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every
good work” (2 Tim 3:16,17, RSV).
“Do your best to present
yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be
ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15, ESV).
“...Teach what accords with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1, ESV).
"Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him" (Prov 30:5, ESV).
“We
have much to say about this, but it is hard to explain because you are
slow to learn. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers,
you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all
over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk,
being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about
righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use
have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Heb 5:11-14,
NIV).
“Now these Jews were more noble than those in
Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the
Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (Acts 17:11, ESV).
"But
even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than
the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!" (Gal 1:8,
NIV).
"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).
For the time
will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to
suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of
teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn
their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths" (2 Tim 4:3,4,
NIV).
13. Test All Things
Too many Christians-cum-church members are accepting things that are biblically incorrect,
And this, because they don’t know their Bible-cum-God like they should, and thus error fail to detect.
They foolishly assuming that their pastor (for example), wouldn’t convey some heresy,
A big mistake, for any of us can get things wrong, even those who’re learned biblically.
And hence why the conveyors of error are seldom confronted, their error continuing,
Error that misleads, confuses, muddies and assaults, and to which too many church members cling.
Yes, be such error via the pulpit, books or other, it subtly meandering here and there,
Until it flowers like those blossoms in Spring, or those juicy titbits that gossipers oft share.
Yes, so many church members are sitting ducks, and oblivious to foxes in the hen house,
The apostles warning of the latter too; folk lacking in a certain spiritual nous,
And all because they aren’t attuned to the Spirit as they should be, and thus some things cannot see,
And this, even when approached about such, and no wonder when so ignorant biblically.
One can hardly be in love with God if not in love with His Word, as it’s via His Word we know Him,
Hence why so many Christians don’t know Him very well, and why their spiritual vision’s dim.
And consequently why they’re led astray, error not recognised even when they trip over it,
And why false and erring teachers get away with murder, even where their words and practice don’t fit.
By Lance Landall
14. Know God's Word Well
Imagine how Satan’s evil angels must feel given how they were deceived,
Because it was Lucifer and not Jesus Christ that they foolishly believed.
And so it is with many humans who have fallen for the devil’s lies too,
Rather than the inspired, Spirit-filled Word Of God that’s trustworthy and true.
So many going by whoever on Earth they think knows what God is saying,
And thereby possibly not going by what God actually is saying.
Hence why we need to know God’s Word for ourselves — and here, I’m meaning thoroughly,
Error oft looking like truth, and such the cleverness of our adversary.
By Lance Landall
The
following poem (originally called Molehills And Gnats) came about due to those, who, regarding someone new to
the faith, would insist that they only use/read the KJV, and whose
insistence expressed itself (one way or another) in unhelpful and even
destructive behaviour.
15. Much Ado About The KJV
It’s sad that there are Christians who’re wasting time in foolish scraps,
Making mountains out of molehills, zealously straining out gnats.
And a typical example is the Bible version row,
The KJV often at its centre, both in the past and now.
So, if you like the KJV, that’s perfectly fine with me,
But don’t force it on others, nor leave them feeling guilty.
Yes, you’re entitled to your view, but so are other folk too,
Who’re enjoying other versions, be they earlier or new.
Stating that all modern versions are corrupted and/or flawed,
Hardly aids our witnessing as ambassadors for the Lord.
We’ve been told to preach God’s Holy Word, not dispute its contents,
Because saying it’s been doctored throws doubt on all its contents.
Let’s just focus on God’s Truth that’s seriously under threat,
And thus not hung up on versions unnecessarily get.
Every truth can still be found if one has an open mind,
Despite the imperfections that any one of us may find.
Yes, the KJV is fine, but I just haven’t made it mine,
And in the version that I read, I’m still seeing each truth shine.
No Bible is free of defects, including the KJV,
But not one single defect removes that truth that sets men free.
So we can still trust God’s Word despite those defects we might see,
But more a storm in a teacup I consider them to be.
Besides, Christians shouldn’t get side-tracked by molehills or some gnat,
Nor by some imperfection, as arguing’s not where it’s at.
Is God honoured or dishonoured when we share those faults we find,
And could they shake another’s faith putting doubts into their mind?
So, next time you enter into a Bible version debate,
Please be very careful, lest indirectly, God’s Word you slate,
And I meaning: Don't make it look full of flaws, for such God would hate.
The KJV may well be the least corrupted of them all,
But even if that is so, lets not let Satan have a ball,
Because distractions are what He’s all about, when we should be
Concentrating on winning souls, not acting argumentatively.
By Lance Landall
“You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel!” (Matt 23:24, NIV).
“ ...Instead, make up your mind not to put a stumbling-block or obstacle
in your brother’s way” (Rom 14:13, NIV).
This poem was upgraded on the 9 January 2018.
This
poem is referring to Bible versions only, not paraphrased Bibles.
Paraphrased Bibles are totally unsuitable as study Bibles, and should
not be used as one’s standard Bible. One should also watch loose
versions of the Bible (and for example: the Good News Bible).
We need to remember that Bible eversions are just that, versions, they’re not totally different Bibles.
The following are examples of versions — NASB; KJV; NKJV; RSV; NRSV; NIV; ESV.
As I see it, God had His hands over the Bible because it was His Word, not necessarily because it was the KJV.
While
mistakes there may be, and indeed are, in modern versions, the point I
am making here via my poem is that we need to be very careful. When the
secular world sees us disputing the very book (the Christian Bible)
that we're trying to convince them of, it hardly helps our case. Flawed
though they may be, it's the Gospel message and the truths that it
contains that must ever be our focus and not the imperfections that
many are too preoccupied with. Even new Christians can find such off
putting.
Modern
Christendom (post-Reformation) pretty much grew up on the KJV, and thus
strong feelings have always surrounded what’s been seen as THE bible,
if you understand what I mean.
Thus modern translations (with
their easier to understand renditions) were resisted or greeted with
suspicion, and still are by some. The safest
approach is to always have a KJV or NKJV handy.
16. Study To Show Thyself Approved
Christians who profess to follow God, yet don’t know His Word well, are a worry,
’Cause such not only insults the Author who said to study it thoroughly,
But also leaves them open to being misled, or completely lead astray,
Given Christ warned of deceivers, who, though seeming otherwise, wrong things would say.
If we’re not searching the Bible each day in order to understand it more,
We’re hardly as committed as we might think, and Satan looking for any door;
In other words, any weakness in our chain, one’s armour incomplete, you see,
And we thus holding to certain incorrect interpretations, possibly.
Knowing God’s Word well, and getting it right, is absolutely crucial, and so,
We needing to study it well in order to outsmart the plans of our foe.
Otherwise, he’ll outsmart us, just like he has many who’ve gone before, and so,
We best be prepared, and via such, the ways, will and love of God we’ll better know.
By Lance Landall
You may also wish to read my poem What God Condemns, We Must Condemn which is on my page Concerned and Frustrated?
17. God's End-time Book
How wrong it would be to not study the book of Revelation, a must read,
It filling us in on Earth’s end-time events, conveying warnings we should heed.
Genesis telling how it all began, Revelation how it all will end,
And midst it all the love of God, how He will spare, save, restore, renew, and mend.
Yes, warnings go hand-in-hand with love, Jesus not wanting us to suffer more,
And more we will do if we don’t read and respond, knowing there’s a cosmic war.
The powers of darkness arraigned against the heavenly hosts; and you and I
Caught in the middle, and Revelation being all about the how, when and why.
Hence why we need to pray for understanding as we read, and we will be blessed,
This being a promise given, our not bothering to read or not, a test.
The true Christian not shying away from wrestling with the deeper issues, and
Those things that will take far more time and a much greater effort to understand.
And so we enquiring here and there, our mind open, our heart receptive too,
We not giving up until all’s clear, the Spirit helping us to see what’s true.
Yes, we not just taking anyone’s word for it, but asking God for guidance,
Lest charlatans or erring Christians say what’s incorrect, and wrongly convince.
In fact, the book of Revelation is critical, and it’s news of the hour,
Predicting things to come, and one thing being a persecuting One-World power.
One we need to be awake to, just like those other things revealed, coming true,
Which will catch the ignorant and distracted out; and how many some chance blew.
That power having a deceptive front to it, as with much that’s false, dear friend,
And deception well and truly being the name of the game nearing Earth’s end.
Much done in the name of God knowing nothing of Him, truth off hidden by lies,
And hence why even many Christians are in for a nasty end-time surprise.
All of which love is trying to prevent, and hence the book of Revelation,
Which is urgently pointing everyone back to the God of creation.
That God we find in the book of Genesis, that God who gave us a way out,
A Saviour who’s always thinking of us, which is what Revelation’s all about.
By Lance Landall
18. God Spoke And It Was
With all the modern marvels, one could say, “What is there that man can’t do today?”
Technology leaping and bounding, and each day something new coming our way.
So why do many doubt God’s ability to speak things into existence,
Thus embracing evolution courtesy of atheistic persistence?
The incredible advances we’re making, courtesy of technology,
Are surely but simply scratching the surface of God’s amazing ability.
His knowledge leaving ours for dead, we mere mortals whose brains are stunted by sin,
Unable to comprehend the supernatural where great stories begin...
Miraculous occurrences that many have experienced, and therefore,
We not short of accounts, incredible things that even sceptics can’t ignore.
But you know, we speak and our car door unlocks, it having been programmed that way,
So what might our Creator have programmed in things that the sound of His voice obey?
God’s ability way beyond the constraints of that Darwinian theory;
We made in His image, not in the image of something lesser and hairy.
God able to speak and it happens, His realm light-years ahead of ours, and so,
Our advances somewhat kindergarten like, despite how men may like to crow.
When sin marred our world, God clearly had to remove some of our abilities,
’Cause imagine what greater ill man would inflict, and the devil further please.
With the strength of angels, say, and Adam’s pre-Fall abilities, oh dear me,
Hence why our lifespan was shortened also, no doubt, we bad enough already.
And you know, even God’s love beyond our comprehension, it amazing too,
And hence why we will spend eternity learning far more than we ever knew.
Yes, our mental capabilities pigmy in size, our knowledge just as small,
And stunted and limited things will remain until Christ’s second coming call.
No, God doesn’t need thousands of years to create something, His voice enough, so
Put away those doubts and that nonsense that Satan and his cohorts seek to sow,
Remembering how Christ healed, raised the dead and rose Himself, for what can’t He do,
’Cause He’s God Almighty, and as far as Scripture goes, EVERY word proves true.
By Lance Landall
See my page Refuting Evolution which can be accessed via the
purple box titled Planet Earth, poetry garden One.
The
following poem also appears in my secular poems section for which
it
was particularly penned.
19. Darwin's Folly
Okay, so you may not believe in God, but nor would I in evolution,
For such a theory is nothing but nonsense, has no worthwhile contribution.
I mean, how could we have possibly come out of nothing-cum-no beginning?
For nothing creates nothing but nothing, including those hairy chimps that swing.
And in fact, all that evolution does is rob us all of worth and value,
We merely things that evolved and taught ourselves how and what to think, say and do.
Well, isn’t that amazing — yes, too amazing to be true, and why it’s not,
And why when it comes to evolution there’re so many flaws that one can spot.
Yes, we having no beginning and no idea where we’re heading-cum-no hope,
And I guess that’s why many have turned to gurus and are getting high on dope.
For what’s there to truly believe in, and thus perhaps anything one wants too,
And I guess that’s why most just eat, drink and get merry, no right, wrong, false or true.
In other words, there being no basis-cum-foundation for laws and principles,
But rather, such made up as we go along; one’s conscience choosing its own bells.
And hence why folk are all over the place, and others filling up prison cells,
For a missing day of reckoning-cum-God of love and justice equals ills.
Well, surely logic says so, no one answerable to anyone, clearly,
Given that we just evolved and thus who’s in charge? All having authority;
In other words, all able to suit themselves, and many do, for who are you,
But just another object that evolved, so don’t try telling me what to do!
Get the picture? Yes, Darwin’s folly, now the biggest hoax on Earth dressed to snare,
And snare it has, debauchery and suicide on the rise, and who should care?
After all, isn’t it a case of survival of the fittest? And thus we
Only needing to look after ourselves, not ennobled nor bound morally.
Yes, evolution doesn’t offer anything but excuses, all being why
Darwin’s flawed, sorry and borrowed theory of evolution I wouldn’t buy.
But rather, and if any, that creation account in the Bible, which I do,
For when it comes to such, and Jesus Christ, there’s far more evidence that rings true.
By Lance Landall
The
following poem also appears on my page Planet Earth, purple box, poetry garden One.
20. The Chat
Mandy quickly popped a porcelain vase on the table, then answered the knock on the door,
Surprise turning to exclamations and hugs, delight at the bouquet her kind friend bore.
If there was one thing Mandy loved, it was flowers — “nature’s jewellery,” she oft would say,
Yes, treasures for the plucking, that both natural beauty and endearing charm convey.
Mandy fetched some water and placed the bouquet in the vase that she’d popped on the table.
“I thought I’d call whilst passing,” June relayed. Mandy sighed. “Oh, I’m so glad you were able,
And such has worked out really well, given that on Tuesdays I’m usually not in.
It has been quite a while, and you should see my garden now, it’s a real little Eden.”
“A little Eden!” June exclaimed, “You haven’t gone all religious?” “Well,” Mandy began,
“It’s all very well for you to smile, but I’m convinced that there is some kind of plan.”
June feigned a frown. “What do you mean by a plan?” Both now moved to a welcoming chair.
“Well,” Mandy began again, “As far as I’m concerned, one thing’s becoming very clear:
Beauty like that found in a garden, just couldn’t have evolved, but must have been designed,
And if that’s so, then there just has to be some sort of supernatural mastermind.”
“Are you suggesting that there might be a God?” June questioned, somewhat less humorously,
And wondering what might well be coming next, what exactly had come over Mandy.
“I really don’t know,” Mandy replied, “But there surely has to be a being of some sort,
And why not a God? One capable of all this, just like Christianity has taught.”
“It would take more than a garden to convince me of that,” June replied, “Quite a lot more.”
“But don’t you see,” Mandy countered, “Could that not be our problem, we’ve lost our sense of awe?”
“You see, we’re always looking for the dramatic, some supernatural revelation,
When one could possibly argue that there is enough evidence within creation.”
“Oh, I can certainly appreciate just how beautiful gardens are,” June agreed,
“But beautiful or not, any garden is something that one constantly has to weed.”
“If there is a God, what’s with the weeds? And even evil people can look beautiful,
So I wouldn’t get too carried away, or next thing you'll be getting all biblical.”
“I can’t explain the weeds,” Mandy replied, “But that doesn't mean there’s no explanation,
And as for evil people who’re beautiful, there’s purely and simply no relation.”
“People choose to be evil, and due to lust or lack of control, in such will revel,
But isn’t it possible there’s an evil supernatural being too, a devil?”
“Well, if there is a God, I suppose that there could well be a devil too,” June admitted.
“And,” Mandy broke in, “A God who for some reason both those weeds and evil permitted.”
“Maybe something went amiss, something that we don’t really understand, but will in time,
Which might explain why in this world things oft occur for which there seems no rhythm or rhyme.
And those weeds that you mentioned, no doubt the work of that evil one, who such ill began,
Aided and abetted by erring humanity, very often referred to as man.”
“Yes, two forces, one producing good, the other evil, battling for supremacy,
Hence the rose with its thorns, the bee with its sting, laughter yet pain, defeat yet victory.
Yes, I like to think and dare to believe that good will conquer evil eventually,
And that the beauty I see in my garden came about purposely, not randomly.”
“Why stop at gardens?” June chimed in, seemingly coming on board. “Indeed!” Mandy replied,
“There’re all those beautiful sunsets that we see, and there’re the delights of the countryside.
And oh, look at each new born baby, a mother’s love — and love itself, let’s not forget,
And those genuine acts of loving kindness that most of us throughout our life have met.”
“But to me, a garden’s surely evidence enough, for there isn’t just beauty there,
But design and engineering, and surely an intelligence of another sphere.
Yes, the more I spend my time there, pottering and observing, sunny or cloudy day,
The more the possibility of a Creator with a Divine plan I’m forced to weigh.”
By Lance Landall
21. Heaven Won't Be Boring
No, there won’t be any of this lounging around on clouds and playing harps thing,
We far too busy learning and growing, it all beyond our imagining.
We only having scratched the surface of knowledge, man’s marvels like kid’s stuff, and
God having said that He’s got an eternity of mind-blowing things planned.
Yes, our fallen state unable to comprehend the marvels that await us,
That awesome, exciting, spellbinding Paradise that is the home of Jesus.
So, trust God’s word, ’cause there within its pages are promises of joys to come,
Heaven certainly not a place where anyone will be bored, tired or glum.
By Lance Landall
"But, as it is written, 'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined,
what God has prepared for those who love Him' " (1 Cor 2:9, ESV).
22. Don't Lessen Blessings By Degree
Though God doesn’t zap or ping us when we ignore His Word and act contrary,
We’re certainly asking for trouble, and lessening His blessings by degree.
Fancy thinking we know better, or simply doing the wrong thing anyway,
Depriving ourselves of the very best outcome, or somehow coming unstuck, say.
Yes, the sun still shines on the good and bad, and blessings can still be seen each day,
But more and greater joy follows us when we take notice of God, and obey;
Our choices wiser, less selfish, and good oft returned for good, and so it goes,
We also lessening troubles by degree, which surely even logic knows.
It’s kind of like this:
When we marry outside of God’s will, we get someone He wouldn’t have chosen,
And hence why so many marriages fail, love soon going from warm to frozen.
We having picked from the wrong crop, or chosen inferior quality,
Thus lessening blessings by degree, or opening the door to misery.
Yes, sometimes our mistakes take time to show, but show they inevitably do,
Hence why in time our foolish rebellion, or faulty choices, we’ve cause to rue.
And others oft affected by them too, and time needed there as well, ’cause pain
Can oft take time to heal, hence how we steal, and hence how we lose rather than gain.
Yes, we not only robbing ourselves of blessings, but others of joy, sadly,
Our mistakes our loss, but wrongfully affecting others is plain cruelty.
Hence why we should go by the Word and will of God, it safer and less costly,
We adding rather than lessening those life-enhancing blessings by degree.
You know, time and again I’ve seen Christians choose the wrong partner, tragically,
Their hurry or infatuation possibly costing them eternity.
They no longer drawing from the Fount of Blessing, but a dark and dirty well,
Or where still clinging to their faith, they having to put up with this or that ill.
Some are relatively happy, but who wants to be relatively happy,
Or having to live with self-created problems? It all unnecessary.
God wanting to spare us from such, that we might have as much joy as possible,
And that joy extending to others too, who, also benefit where all’s well.
Yes, certain blessings come with conditions, and many are removed by ourselves,
We having relegated God’s wise advice to dusty little selfish shelves.
He gracious but not silly, and hence how we miss out on so much, foolishly,
And why we’ve oft only got ourselves to blame, not even our adversary.
However,
When we come out from under God’s umbrella, we’re exposed to Satan’s attacks,
Our guard down, armour off, and Satan being very quick to note any cracks.
And God’s hands somewhat tied, because He has given us the freedom to choose
Him or Satan, His way or Satan’s; and Satan’s way how blessings we lose.
By Lance Landall
23. There Are Blessings, And There Are Blessings
When we talk about God’s blessings, we tend to think of those things that come our way,
A job, some windfall, some money saved, or a certain opportunity, say.
In other words, some gift or kindness Heaven sent or created, but you know,
Blessings come from adhering to God’s Word-cum-wisdom, from which good will oft flow.
For example:
You thinking, “Would God really want me going to that?” “No.” And so you don’t go,
But others do, suffering some kind of loss or pain, for in it was the foe.
Yes, it more where he would be and not God. “But many things just random,” you say,
And though true, the fact still remains that you never went to what it was that day.
And hence how you were blessed — yes, blessings coming from wisdom, us using our head,
And those blessings many, and why when it comes to certain things, what has God said?
But sense itself being God-given, all why we keep off drugs, lock our car, and
Have someone mind our house while we are away, and even keep some things close at hand.
By Lance Landall
24. Dear Backslider
Dear backslider, please forgive me being frank, but what on Earth are you doing,
Hung-over and a right mess, another pigsty I guess, which you’ll be ruing.
Some prodigals returning, but others caught out, and one of them being you,
Well, so it appears, your blatant effrontery a pretty appalling view.
Yes, you’ve clearly jumped in the deep end, seemingly unmindful of that hour glass,
And for you, perhaps, tonight being when its very last grain of sand will pass.
Yes, down its narrow neck when you’re indulging in lust fuelled immorality,
All those things that are opposite to righteousness, and that cost eternity.
No, grace not covering such, but only the repentant, so mind what you’ve heard,
False teachers having fooled so many by conveniently twisting God’s Word.
In other words, they’ve made it to suit, the rebellious Christian still being saved,
But not so, God says, because all must repent, and sin like stubble, must be shaved.
Hence that daily Spirit-filled maintenance, that daily getting down on our knees,
Lest that stubble become a beard, which in your life, dear backslider, one now sees.
Scissors needed, they safer that that sharp sickle in God’s hand, and why I plead,
Turn from such self focused stupidity, don’t help the hands of Christ to still bleed.
I could word it gently, say it softer, but your ears are plugged with hardened wax,
Hence why you need to be jerked from your perilous cesspool by the cold hard facts.
Though we can’t earn our way to Heaven, we can certainly sin our way to Hell,
Eternal loss, that is — and why it’s a loud siren that’s needed, not a bell.
What a sight you look, nothing like our Holy righteous Saviour who gave His life,
But what madness, the signs of His coming near, the Earth bathed in turmoil and strife.
Your pleasures fleeting, and earthly consequences there’ll be, not just heavenly,
So turn from your foolish path, dear backslider, the cost too high, which soon you’ll see,
Unless you leave that pigsty, and I’d recommend you do, very rapidly.
Tomorrow may not be ours, so we should mind what we do, and just hang in there,
“Because I’ll only be a few more years,” Christ’s saying, and Paradise you’ll share,
But you, dear backslider, with your nose in earthly truffles, are risking it all,
And so much worse for you it’ll be having once responded o the Gospel call.
And hey, if you’re going to be naughty, why not be naughty more discreetly,
But no, it’s all over Facebook, you glorying in your shame, predictably.
Yes, such being one of the signs of the times, you thus fulfilling prophecy,
And thereby, working on the devil’s behalf, mocking Christ’s death on Calvary.
By Lance Landall
“How
much WORSE PUNISHMENT do you think will be deserved by those who have
spurned the son of God, PROFANED THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT BY WHICH
THEY WERE SANCTIFIED, and outraged the Spirit of grace? [these folk
referred to had at one time professed to accept salvation through the
atoning grace of Christ]”
(Heb 10:29, NRSV).
“But when
the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth
iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked
man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall
not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his
sin that he hath sinned, IN THEM SHALL HE DIE”
(Ezek 18:24, KJV).
“For
IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO RESTORE AGAIN TO REPENTANCE those who have once
been enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in
the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and
the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away [totally
rejected Christ, or never returned to Him], SINCE ON THEIR OWN THEY ARE
CRUCIFYING AGAIN THE SON OF GOD AND ARE HOLDING HIM UP TO CONTEMPT”
(Heb 6:4-6, NRSV).
“For
if we go on sinning WILLFULLY after receiving the knowledge of the
truth, THERE NO LONGER REMAINS A SACRIFICE FOR SINS [we will not be
covered by God’s grace], but a terrifying expectation of judgment...”
(Heb 10:26, 27, NASB).
25. You Foolish Christian!
Yes, you foolish Christian, for the door of God’s merciful ark-cum-grace is about to close, and there you are,
Running back into the world, away from what can save, and with the knowledge you have — well, that’s really bizarre.
I’m saddened that you were mistreated, saw and experienced much that wasn’t right, but hey, look at you now,
Plunging back into darkness, and worshipping at the foot of the devil’s entertainment industry. Wow!
Look, only a fool lets anything get in the way of his or her salvation, for there’s too much to lose,
And all for the sake of what little time’s left here, or those kick back pleasures, which yes, only a fool would choose.
Thus, I’d ditch that pride, stop nursing those wounds, or doubting God’s Word, for believe me, one thing is patently clear,
There’s no hope where you’ve returned to, and you’re risking it all for eternity, for Jesus is almost here.
Yes, why follow in the footsteps of backsliders, for their flawed path can lead to the same unfortunate end,
They also knowing far better, but just like the pity party brigade, oh, how this and that they defend.
Well, we can come up with all the excuses we like, but not one of them will stand up to God’s scrutiny,
For we’ve been enlightened and warned, blessed with the enabling of the Spirit, promised Heaven for loyalty.
Thus, no apologies for telling it as it is, as a wake up call’s sorely needed given the high stakes,
For running away from the only thing that can save — God’s merciful ark-cum-grace — is the biggest of mistakes.
At the end of the day, it’s all about faithfulness despite the cost, 'cause unfaithfulness God won’t reward,
And why sloth, doubts, pity party trips, and love of sin-cum-any such return to the world, we can't afford.
By Lance Landall
26. That Weak Men Syndrome
Weak men always compromise or change their position come public pressure, and
Thereby make it harder on those who’re still sticking with the original stand,
A stand that’s correct, in line with Scripture, but not popular, and why we hear
Those weak men apologising, consequences seemingly too hard to bear.
Some even pressured by their spouse or family who can’t seem to handle such too,
The bigger picture lost, self getting in the way, and why Pauls and James are few.
Yes, the apostles made of tougher stuff — BACKBONE — prepared to stand come what may,
Having heard Christ’s call and taken up their cross, ’cause men before God doesn’t pay.
If they can’t stand the heat, what were they doing in the kitchen in the first place?
And bowing to the pressure of squirming colleagues just as bigger a disgrace.
One either right or wrong, and where one’s right, there shouldn’t be any backing down,
Such but betrayal, and any such Judas not worthy of that righteous gown.
Yes, too often men who were right have changed their tune, even listened to folly,
Flawed counter arguments, new theology, or been induced by some lolly.
In other words, change your stance and we’ll look after you, and why in time we see
Some turning their back on Christianity altogether, and eternity.
Where wrong, a change is admirable, but where right, a change is a crime, a sin,
A stumbling block that causes confusion and brings shame on every Christian.
It’s not a good look when what’s right is publicly stated as actually wrong,
Doubts about any Christian belief stirring, and thus opposition more strong.
Oh, that weak men syndrome, the Church having too many Peters, not enough Pauls,
And hence why the Church lurches this way and that way, and why many a church stalls.
The straight word modified to please rather than jar, all why many fall asleep,
And why in time we see more and more apologising, far more goats than sheep.
God’s standards are high, have been and always will be, hence why we become Christians,
Having repented of our worldliness — and making a stand, where it begins,
And always ever after, for better or worse, the truth needing to be said,
Christian soldiers hardly to be mollycoddled, fed fables, tucked into bed.
But oh, one can’t say this or that anymore, fear of upsetting running wild,
And why ills after ills within the Church are gradually being piled.
Watchmen on the wall now the target, when once it was attackers of God’s Word,
Which, in its entirety (meaning: Its straight talking too), was meant to be heard.
But the Church having adopted worldly thinking now, calls for purity less,
It all sounding like ancient Israel’s downward slide, blind and rebellious mess.
And where did it all lead to? Christ’s death on Calvary, and so it is today,
As nail after nail crucifies those straight words that Christ intended men convey.
By Lance Landall