To God Be The Glory

Last updated:
25 November 2021

"Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; let thy glory be above
all the earth" (Ps 57:5, KJV).

But first, two hymns, the first one by Fanny Crosby (1820-1915).

To God Be The Glory

To God be the glory, great things He hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life our redemption to win,
And opened the life-gate that all may go in.

 Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the earth hear His voice;
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the people rejoice;
Oh, come to the Father, through Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory; great things He hath done.
 
Oh, perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
 
Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done,
And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son;
But purer, and higher, and greater will be
Our wonder, our transport when Jesus we see.



And the second hymn by Thomas Benson Pollock (1836-1896).

We Have Not Known Thee As We Ought

We have not known Thee as we ought,
Nor learned Thy wisdom, grace and power;
The things of earth have filled our thought,
and trifles of the passing hour.
Lord, give us light Thy truth to see,
And make us wise in knowing Thee.

We have not feared Thee as we ought,
Nor bowed beneath Thine awful eye,
Nor guarded deed, and word, and thought,
Remembering that God was nigh.
Lord, give us faith to know Thee near,
And grant the grace of holy fear.

We have not loved Thee as we ought,
Nor cared that we are loved by Thee;
Thy presence we have coldly sought,
and feebly longed Thy face to see.
Lord, give a pure and loving heart
To feel and own the love Thou art.

We have not served Thee as we ought;
Alas! the duties left undone,
The work with little fervor wrought,
The battles lost, or scarcely won!
Lord, give the zeal, and give the might,
For Thee to toil, for Thee to fight.

When shall we know Thee as we ought,
And fear, and love, and serve aright!
When shall we, out of trial brought,
Be perfect in the land of light!
Lord, may we day by day prepare
To see Thy face, and serve Thee there.





POEMS

1.  Only In Christ

My worth’s not found in what my spouse thinks of me, nor in what my kids think of me,
But in what Christ thinks of me, and His Word tells me that He thinks a lot of me.
All why I’m a Christian, because no one in the world loves me like He loves me,
I not only of His creation, but a purchase secured on Calvary.

Yes, it’s pointless attempting to find our worth anywhere else, it all in vain,
People changing their minds, unlike Christ, who accepts us regardless of the stain.
We drenched in sin, thus sure to disappoint — yes, well and truly copies of Cain,
Our offering just as unacceptable, the reason for grace very plain.

And so, should another’s love for me turn cold, not have been there in the first place,
Or hits to my self-esteem and confidence occur, I’ll just look in Christ’s face.
And there I’ll see a love that’s sure, open arms and helping hands, and rest I will,
My Dad a king, and I His child, and oh, how with joy and pride my chest will swell.

By Lance Landall

2.  Lest We Forget

(Courtesy of Christian hymns)

Yes, tell me the story of Jesus, tell me all about His amazing grace,
Oh, the wonder of it all, and hence why I can’t wait to see Him face to face.
And joy to the world, for Jesus is coming again — yes, the Rock of Ages —
So give me the Bible, that sweet hour of prayer where one divinely engages.

And hence why I cry, “Jesus, Saviour, pilot me, be Thou my vision, my all,
For great is Thy faithfulness, and why moment by moment it’s on You I call.”
And why I also utter, “Take the world but give me Jesus" — oh, love divine —
So please, Go, tell it on the mountain, for blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

Oh, how I love Jesus and the old rugged cross, for there’s power in the blood,
And why I’m standing on the promises, hope bursting forth like a sweet spring bud.
Oh, wonderful words of life, and why I sigh, “How great Thou art, draw me nearer,”
For what a friend we have in Jesus — and each day, His love becoming clearer.

Yes, ’tis so sweet to trust in Jesus — and you know, I’ve found a friend, one who’s true —
And why I say to others I meet, “You should turn your eyes upon Jesus too,
For softly and tenderly Jesus is calling — yes, the Saviour is waiting —
And when He cometh, you will soon see joy and happiness accelerating.”

And why I holler, “All hail the power of Jesus’ name! Praise Him! Praise Him!” and
Also let ring out, “Stand up! Stand up for Jesus! To God be the glory!” and,
“Onward Christian soldiers!” For we’ve been redeemed! Redeemed by the blood of the lamb,
The immortal, invisible, God only wise, the Holy, Holy, Holy,

I Am.

So open my eyes that I may see deeper insights coming from Calvary,
And grant me the faith of our fathers — and daily, just a closer walk with Thee.
And may I and others oft be found singing, “Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,”
And I, “O love that wilt not let me go,” and so glad You’ve said, “Abide with Me.”

All why I cry, “Come Thou fount of every blessing, for my faith looks up to Thee,”
I leaning on the everlasting arms, and often whistling, “Jesus loves me.”
And so glad that He’s got the whole world in His hands, for God will take care of you,
And me, and why I'll never stop repeating, “Please tell me the old, old story.”

By Lance Landall

3.  I Am Thine, O Lord 

(Courtesy of Christian hymns)

I’d rather have Jesus, for anywhere with Jesus is the ultimate joy,
And as a consequence, all things bright and beautiful, His presence sure to buoy.
So Jesus, keep me near the cross, and have Thine own way, Lord — I surrender all —
For glorious things of Thee are spoken, Your coming kingdom bound to enthral.

Thus, swing low, sweet chariot, for Lord, I’m coming home; waiting expectantly,
More than happy to trust and obey, and shine this little light of mine for Thee.
I knowing it took a miracle to put the stars in place, and Earth in space,
You the God of our Fathers, fairest Lord Jesus, God of mercy, God of grace.

Yes, give me Jesus, for I’d rather have Jesus than anything else, for sure,
And because He hideth my soul in the depths of His love, is the way, the cure.
And why I ain’t gonna let nobody turn me 'round, for one thing’s very clear,
His eye is on the sparrow — and in the heart of Jesus, love beyond compare.

All why it is well with my soul, even when I must walk my lonesome valley,
As the Lord’s my shepherd — O God, our help in ages past, You helping any!
So crown Him with many crowns, I say, and may God be with you too, oft in view,
For I know that my Redeemer lives — yes, He lives — and I hope, in the heart of you.

By Lance Landall

4.  Joy, Joy, Joy

Oh, joy unspeakable, another soul reclaimed, washed in the waters of grace,
Having risen from its cleansing depths, tears of happiness on our Saviour’s face.
And angels shouting, “Hallelujah! Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, for He,
He alone, deserves the honour and glory; penned in blood the Gospel story!”

And what a story! Each baptism another page, more reason to rejoice,
Another dear soul having thrown off the shackles of Satan, made the right choice.
Oh, the preciousness of Calvary, that freedom that it brings, that peace and joy,
Oh, amazing grace that saved a wretch like me, no gift more sure to please and buoy.

And so we plunge beneath those healing waters, our new direction clear to all,
The old creature giving way to the new, we responding to our Saviour’s call.
Thus our trust in Him, the Rock of Ages, the God of love and saving mercy,
We on our way to the promised land, hand in hand, Jesus our security.

Yes,

Our ticket grace, our walk obedient, our future full of hope and promise,
The Scriptures in our hand, 'cause every word proves true, and we no doubting Thomas.
No, our mission sure, our heart most willing, we seeking the lost and suffering,
That more may enjoy the treasures of Heaven, and utter praises to our King.

Oh yes, worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, for no greater love was shown,
And why the tragic and yet beautiful story of Calvary’s so well known.
And you know, Christ still longing for the return of those who’ve strayed, those others too,
Who, via seeds we sow, might embrace Him too, live forever on the Earth made new,

And bask in the love of the One who’s faithful and true.

By Lance Landall


Inspired by a special day, (a baptism), 29 October 2016.

5.  Honouring God

Upon those who honestly try to glorify God in their earthly walk here,
He pours His grace and blessings; they humble in their doings, their cross rightly bear.
And thus God winking at weakness, overlooking failures, because one thing’s so,
It’s not perfection but Holy intention that makes the difference, you know.

Eli and his sons failed to honour God in their lives and ministrations, and,
Suffered the tragic consequences — oh, how slow humans are to understand.
God’s honour not safe in such hands, but those first mentioned here, who, willingly so,
Seek to exalt God over all; they precious in His sight, their Master’s call know.

It’s all about putting God where He belongs, not exalting ourselves instead,
Hence we not desiring honour for ourselves, but for God, and why He once said,
“Them that honour Me I will honour,” and He thus honouring His Father too;
That example ours to follow, He only blessing those who’re faithful and true.

Yes, we not seeking glory for us, but God, who honours those who honour Him,
Thus we always putting Him first in our lives and echoing that age old hymn,
“To God be the glory, great things He hath done,” pride and pretence what all must shun,
Our worth found in Christ alone, who said, “Blessed are the meek,” they so like the Son.

By Lance Landall


It would be worth your while reading an article called FAME IS NO BLESSING which is on
my page called: Fame And Fortune.

6.  The Glory's All His

There was a man called Helmut Zacharias, he in love with his violin,
Such clear for all to see — or should I say, hear, and it nestled under his chin.
And when he passionately stroked it with his tender bow, they become as one,
And I thinking how that same love affair every Christian should have with the Son.

Oh, how Helmut could play, years of togetherness showing, both in harmony,
His instrument as if it were alive, it living and breathing just like he.
And one marvelling at the skilful weaving of that musical tapestry,
That beguilingly drew and captivated, reminded of the heavenly.

He a man, it mere wood, metal and gut, something that’s nothing ’till it’s played,
For only then, and according to its owner’s skill, is its true worth conveyed.
And I thinking: In ourselves nothing, in God everything, whose skill alone,
Brings forth a Divine melody, one that though it may seem so, isn’t our own.

By Lance Landall

7.  A Tightrope

Jesus walked a tightrope for us, it strung between Heaven and Earth, tight as tight,
And in each hand He held the lives of you and I, eternity in His sight.
Danger to the left, danger to the right, His scarred palms clammy, His knuckles white;
And with bated breath, the whole universe watching this unbelievable sight.

Inch by inch, step by wounded step, He made His tortured way, bore that heavy weight,
Knowing that by tilting and unbalancing He would seal both His and our fate.
Every muscle straining, sweat dripping from His brow, but His gaze fixed ahead,
Nasty welts on His back, crown of thorns on His head, a body that ached and bled.

Yes, death below, life above, things hanging in the balance — oh, so much at stake,
No room for error, we reliant on Christ not making the slightest mistake.
Yes, Earth below, Heaven above — and in-between, Calvary, Christ, you and I,
He making His way across that tightrope, determined to save, not let us die.

And Satan hoping all along that Christ would fail, shoved obstacles in His Way,
He trying to detach that tightrope, lifeline, or make it perilously sway.
And he aided by his fallen helpers, both spirit and flesh, the latter men,
Who, blind or rebellious, Christ still asked forgiveness for, a love beyond our ken.

But in the end, Christ made it, gained the victory, He reaching the other side,
A heavenly “Hallelujah!” ringing out, His Father full of joy and pride.
And we now as safe as a house built on a rock, God’s grace extended to all,
A promise made and kept, a tightrope, lifeline, and on it, One who didn’t fall.

By Lance Landall

8.  Welcome To The Family Of God

Yes, welcome to the family of God, those who now have hope beyond the grave,
For the very God who created mankind came to Earth in order to save.
So never doubt your decision, nor go back on it, as Satan wants you lost,
And hence why you should always stand firm for Jesus Christ no matter what the cost.

Oh, how He loves you, and how happy you’ve made Him, He who can’t wait to return,
And then He’ll take you in His outstretched arms and far more about His love you’ll learn.
For God is all about goodness, not that cruel picture that Satan paints, sadly,
Which sees many giving up or spurning the path that leads to eternity.

Yes, Satan will certainly put your new found faith to the test, but hang in there,
For God has promised He’ll always be with you and that one day He’ll soon appear.
And meantime He has also promised that He’ll give you all the strength that you’ll need,
For no one can make it on their own, and why daily on His Word you should feed.

Oh yes, you can trust Him alright, as He’ll be there through thick or thin, good or bad,
For He’s the best friend you could ever have, the finest example of a dad.
And He having sent the Holy Spirit to guide and not just empower you,
Given that discernment and His truths will serve you well, and staying near Him too.

So let me commend you on His behalf, for He’s so chuffed that you’ve chosen Him,
His way being the path to joy and peace, the devil’s path both deceptive and grim.
And why I’m so glad you’ve joined the family of God, chosen the One who cares,
And this more than proven by those ugly scars that each hand and foot of His bears.

Now that’s love! Pure, unadulterated, boundless, everlasting love, true love,
Love like you’ll never find on Earth, for it’s Divine — yes, no mere likeness above,
But everything you could wish for, it looking to the present and future, and,
It all courtesy of a God who’s suffered too, hence how He can understand.

And this why He’ll bear long with you, forgive your faltering but repentant steps,
Carry you when you’re tired and weary, be with you no matter how tough it gets.
And yes, there’ll be more expressions of His love within each day, within each year,
And an eternity of them when He finally arrives and shouts, “I’m here!”

By Lance Landall


Inspired by a special day, (a baptism), 6 December 2014

9.  Glorify God

Our purpose on Earth is to bring glory to God, and glory to Him we’ll bring
If living rightly, which will see angels rejoicing, who, “Hallelujah!” sing.
The pleasure all ours, we so grateful for all that God has done, and shouting too,
“Worthy is the Lamb that was slain!” and, “Is there anything else that we can do?”

Yes, we more than willing to fulfil His will, to go by His Word that spares us,
His wisdom blessing our lives, bringing joy, thus there no sweeter name than Jesus.
Our putting Him first being the pathway to greater happiness, praise His name!
The God of love and grace, who, on a saving mission to Earth, willingly came.

By Lance Landall

10.  A Sober And Striking Parallel

You decide to have children, you the origin of their life, effectively,
They on Earth because of you, and thus thoughtfulness and gratefulness due, clearly.
And you watch over them with tender, loving care, raise them well, guide them soundly,
Place a protective hedge around them, provide their every necessity.

Yes, their best interests always at heart, you honest, transparent, just and fair,
Rules and boundaries going without saying, hence healthy respect, never fear.
And you never giving them any reason to doubt your love, to question things,
But one day, deep inside one of them, the brightest, a terrible spirit springs.

And sadly, via things untrue, that child sowing seeds of discontent, sibling wise,
And a third of those siblings buying those insinuations, those outright lies.
And such soon resulting in open rebellion, your authority snubbed, and,
Action becoming a must, sound reasoning having been dismissed out of hand.

And so, with great reluctance, you then remove them from the home, and rightly so,
Much damage done already, and their ill and foolishness only time will show.
But meantime, you continuing in the same vein, showing tender loving care,
And this, despite those lies outside the home that soil your name, even create fear.

Oh, how such pains you, the ripples gaining supporters, folk you haven’t harmed, and,
Would only wish to befriend, treat well too, but oh, how to make them understand?
And there you have Christ too, it far worse for Him, and there being much more at stake,
And lessening that pain, or worsening that pain, that choice that you and I make.

Yes, those children of yours having taken their eyes off the ball, and dare we too,
For we’ll only sink like Peter who took his eyes off Christ when boisterous winds blew.
But who stretched out His hand and caught Him? Yes, our Saviour, always faithful and true,
Repentant prodigals welcomed home despite what His children have put Him through.

But not Satan, it too late, his probation time over, his choice loud and clear,
And so it seems for many of Christ’s fallen children who Satan’s fate may share.
They not returning home with repentant hearts, but still dishonouring Him, and,
Therefore, may not experience the joy of returning to the promised land.

By Lance Landall


May your prodigal children return to you, but more so, to their waiting Saviour.

11.  Calvary Deep

I was hoping to speak to you via My Word, but on arising you rushed out,
I wanting to commune with you in that quieter hour and thus not have to shout.
But you were in a hurry, not attuned, and I not one to force myself on folk,
And thus hoping you’d remember and willingly meet with Me when you awoke.

I was hoping you’d help Me out today. Remember that poor old chap that fell?
You braking a little, saw other folk in the same street, kind of wished him well.
But those others were further away from him, and time of importance to all,
And often seconds counting when someone who is elderly is seen to fall.

I’d hoped I’d get your attention via that close shave you had, not that I caused it,
The other driver in as bigger rush as you; would’ve been a nasty hit.
Yes, I protected you, not that you were aware though, your thoughts being elsewhere,
And I guess that’s why you didn’t utter “Thank you” in a momentary prayer.

I was hoping you’d finally catch up with Me come the evening, but no,
You dozed off in the middle of a programme on TV, and I thinking, “Oh,”
’Cause after a prod or two you muttered something about heading off to bed,
More indifferent snores eventuating, and not a word having been said.

Meantime,

No stranger entered your gate, and your breathing continued, angels standing by,
For I am a merciful God, though one that today you didn’t glorify;
Neither via responding to Me nor that one you failed to help, and why I’m sad,
‘Cause regarding what should’ve, could’ve and would’ve been, there’s so much I could add.

You see, the prayer filled life is a life that’s far more in sync with the heavenly,
It’s receptiveness more likely to spot error and danger, avoid folly,
Because Satan’s busy, and one's walk far weaker where prayer is less heard, and why
There’s greater regret, Satan claiming more — so please, when I call, will you reply.

I died for you, and thus I wondering: How much does that actually mean,
Given that you didn’t seem to have time for Me today, and yet I so keen.
My love for you Calvary deep, and thus that time together precious to me,
And your regular contact, lest your love grow cold and I find your heart empty.

By Lance Landall

12.  Balancing The Gospel Of Jesus Christ

It’s true that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is all about love, amazing grace,
How Jesus suffered on our behalf, and how on Calvary He took our place.
But part and parcel of that Gospel of love and grace are words we need to heed,
Like repentance, obedience, and judgment; we acting true in word and deed.

And thus we balancing the Gospel message given our Lord’s hatred of sin,
Grace never designed to excuse any continuing-to-rebel Christian,
Because that’s what put Christ on the cross in the first place, and thus why we’re to preach
Every single thing that both Christ and the apostles sought to share and teach.

And this is the Gospel, “Go and sin no more,” love and behave like Jesus, and,
Thereby, acting like faithful ambassadors, who, on biblical principles stand.
Yes, the Gospel of Jesus Christ convicting, converting and transforming, so that
All who see that sound and righteous example will clearly know where it is at.

And where it’s at is, we turning from sin, willingly surrendering our all,
Love for God emblazoned on each word and deed, we not taking our eye off the ball,
But standing tall, as balanced as the Gospel itself, we straight, true and loving,
That on beholding our likeness to their righteous Master, the angels may sing,

“Glory and honour belong to our King!”

Christ never came to leave people where they were (are), but to lift them up, and so,
We too pointing out the way, those ancient paths, that in their lives changes may show.
No obscurity there, the old creature out, the new creature in, goodbye sin,
The Gospel of Jesus Christ showing in every obedient Christian.

Even the most loveable earthly judge punishes lawlessness, and so too
Must God above, who despite being the God of love, says wrong we shouldn’t do.
Hence that imparted code of Christian conduct that still applies to you and I,
’Cause Christ never spoke of two paths, but one, except where speaking of the broad way,

Satan’s way, where men our God defy.

Yes, it’s all about balance, love knowing nothing of wrong, nor hypocrisy,
Christians having been called to live Godly lives, thus they not errant nor worldly.
But letting their love-light shine, it both caring and revealing, that all may know
What God is like, what God desires, ’cause many are looking at that window.

By Lance Landall


This poem was penned 19 May 2018 and upgraded 21 May 2018.

13.  Keep Tugging, Lord

Rooted in many of us, Lord, are negative, destructive issues, sadly,
And they’re often the product of emotional damage, Earth’s insanity.
Hence less glory heading Your way, Lord, the focus on ourselves, each want and need,
And why these issues need Your tender tugging, that their tenacious roots be freed.

Oh, so much introspection, Lord, and this baggage is pinching space in life’s shed,
Which means that there’s less room for Your presence, other things stored in our heart and head.
So keep tugging at these issues ’till they give, Lord, that we may be well and free,
And thus better able to spend our time on what brings You far greater glory.

By Lance Landall

14.  Plain To See

Despite what any ignorant or foolish folk may say, God is good, God is love,
But hey, what God who died to save wouldn’t be? So lets praise Him who’s above.
Oh yes, for look at the wonders of creation, all that beautiful artistry,
Those colours, those designs, that delicateness and intelligent intricacy.

Yes, its clear as clear can be, so plain to see, that God is good, that God is love, and
Same love and goodness is found in earthly hearts, those who respond as God has planned,
All why God first loved us, that we might love Him in return, share His goodness around,
And why despite Earth’s chilly shadows, hearts full of love and goodness can still be found.

By Lance Landall

15.  Why Many Die Before God Intends,

Or Suffer Needlessly

No doubt Holy angels have protected us time and time again, otherwise,
We would be far worse off, wouldn’t have got this far, and it a case of, “There lies…”
But having said that, God doesn’t give His followers total immunity,
And I meaning, from death or suffering, and we choosing our own destiny.

The truth is, that if God did grant total immunity from what’s mentioned here,
He’d have lots of bogus followers; and there is such a thing as healthy fear.
Yes, this world a minefield of many sorts, and danger lying in wait for fools,
Hence the wisdom and warnings contained in God’s Word, those protective, loving rules.

And why scripture tells us not to indulge in folly lest we die too soon, and
Many have, they having disregarded wisdom, been reckless, or built on sand.
Or if not death, they’ve suffered hurt or pain, even both, despite being Christians,
For profession is one thing, commitment another, and it a fool who sins.

Expecting the same blessings or protection that may follow committed folk
(Though not total immunity),
Is foolishness when we’re going contrary to God’s will, or when ill fires we stoke.
Yes, God’s certainly merciful and compassionate, and fools oft spared from much
(All having sinned), but where there’re hot elements, we know we’ll get burnt if we touch.

And therefore, it seems rather silly to me to ask for God’s protection, when,
We place ourselves at risk when we don’t need to, and when it’s not wise too, but then,
That’s the way of men, even Christians, who pray before they take that risk, and thus
Still reap what they sow, and when burnt, it’s, “Why, Lord?”, and God thinking, “What’s all the fuss?”

After all, He didn’t sow what they reaped, nor zap them, so why the, “Why, Lord?”, and
God so gracious, for how many times in the past were they shielded from fate’s hand?
And God no fool, He not to be taken for granted, used and abused, and so,
There comes a time, and why many die too soon having gone where one shouldn’t go.

When nothing happens to them, men become emboldened in their sin or folly,
They doing such again, their risks or sin greater, and all’s well, apparently.
Well, seemingly, but risks and sin play catch-up, and folly brings its own results,
Hence why that, “Why, Lord?”, is something that our gracious Saviour, too often insults,

And Christ we shouldn’t insult, His grace and mercy undeserved, His patience too,
And yet, how oft we put Him to the test — yes, another thing we shouldn’t do,
Just like that praying for protection that we shouldn’t expect, nor need to pray for,
Because we know that hot elements burn, that risks are risks, and so, why ignore?

And thus one could say,

It oft not our prayers that spared us, but God’s graciousness, for we knew better, ay,
And thus such prayers dismissed out of hand, our request for protection a cheek, say.
But God so merciful, and oh, how we push the envelope until is seen
Those sad consequences, and perhaps an eternal loss that needn’t have been.

Yes, we need to learn, such all part of the sanctification process, but hey,
How very slow we are to learn given how we so like getting our own way.
Meantime, should we still be saved eternally, our error may have cost, and thus
We dying too soon, suffering needlessly — and via that “Why?,” we insult Jesus.

By Lance Landall


"Do not excel at wickedness, nor be a fool. Why die before your time?" (Eccl 7:17, NIV).





Christian version of my secular poem: Change Those Tyres.

16.  Hail, Slippery Roads, And A Roaring Lion

“I’d change those tyres,” you advise, “The tread almost borderline, dangerous, in fact,”
But despite your effort to save them from injury, even death, they don’t act.
And off they go for a couple of days, seven hours there and seven hours back,
And you thinking how you wouldn’t be surprised if they soon had a nasty smack.

And right you were! Well, kind of.

“The weather was dreadful. It hailed and I lost control of the car, totally,
It zigzagging ’till it spun around to face the wrong way, and such scaring me.
But both I and the car fine, so I continued on my way more quietly,
And so grateful I hadn’t hit anyone, nor caused chaos, fortunately.”

Now, you’d think they’d get those tyres replaced, but no, they short on cash or too busy,
And thus still motoring around, and because you care, it causing some worry.
And though they may escape injury, perhaps not someone they might crash into,
And thus it not just about them, but also others, though what more can one do?

Oh, what a troubler of others you are, a real worry wart, they safe and sound,
(Though nearly weren’t), and half our fears for naught, it’s said, so relax and don’t pace ’round.
Yes, never mind those who weren’t fine, they in hospital or dead, their victims too,
Which is why we should advise — even nag, sometimes — but not expect a “Thank you.”

After all, most don’t like to be told, and there are those who say, “I know, I know,”
Which interpreted means: “Don’t bother, leave off,” and on their merry way they go.
They knowing better, or will deal with it when they’ve time, when it suits them, and hey,
If things do turn out just like you feared they would, “Don’t say, I told you so, okay.”

Yes, you just can’t win, for how many love advice, constructive criticism?
It none of your business, and the latter an attack, verbal demolition.
Oh dear, for that’s how it’s oft seen, and hey, “Haven’t you got better things to do?”
“Well, no, because I can’t think of anything better than my thinking of you.”

“Ha, ha, very funny — well, don’t,” they might retort, should you say such, and thereby,
They cutting off their nose to spite their face, effectively, and going awry.
And so, we can only do our best when it comes to others, then it’s their call,
Our heart in its right place and our conscience clear when they’re seen to stumble or fall.

Now enter God, He advising too, conveying truths that it’s best we hear, but
Oh dear, how often He gets the same treatment, earthly eyes closed, earthly ears shut.
Yes, our response oft like that “I know, I know, don’t bother, leave off” behaviour,
malarkey,
As if it’s just our business, ’cause who created us and became our Saviour,
stormed Calvary?

And hey, He not wanting others hurt by those closed eyes or shut ears, but who cares?
You? Me? Many continuing with something that causes injury or tears.
And when their wrong action hurts them, it’s that same nonsense, “Don’t say, I told you so,
Okay,” and, “Ha, ha, very funny — well, don’t,” God’s thoughtfulness in their way too, oh.

 But God inclined to nag — well, in some form or other, all precious in His sight,
He knowing that things should be said, if not for our sake, for another’s sake, right?
Surely you agree, so get those tyres replaced, life full of hail, slippery roads,
And that roaring lion; and other folk already carrying heavy loads.

By Lance Landall

17.  Want To See God Do Amazing Things?

Well, if you do, and going by God’s Word, bring your life into line with His will,
’Cause little will happen until all His desires you’re willing to fulfil.
No, I’m not talking about legalism or perfection, but commitment,
And I mean, serious commitment, for why should God have to cajole or hint?

No, amazing things won’t happen if we’re still playing around, clinging to sin,
Or to put it another way then: Being a false witness as a Christian,
Because the truth is, we can’t have it both ways, it God’s pure grapes or Satan’s wine,
And why in His Word, where sound instruction is given, God lays it on the line.

Yes, what a cheek to expect amazing things when we’re not in sync with His will,
But still reading, watching, doing and listening to what God considers ill.
For should He do amazing things for such people, what would such say to the world?
And why its only where there’s true discipleship that great wonders are beheld.

Yes, where there’s genuine repentance, a renting of clothes, gnashing of teeth, and,
Where folk are seeking to honour and glorify God, and on His side, firmly stand.
So don’t be deceived,
Because Satan surrounds his own with his signs and wonders, they too oft believed,
And thus how the foolish, deluded or misled are so easily deceived.

By Lance Landall

18.  The Sin Of Pride

No, never get prideful, such occurring to Solomon and Hezekiah
(For two examples), pride originating with Lucifer, the old liar.
And oh, the consequences! Pride the downfall of many throughout history,
And it having cost Lucifer and a third of the angels eternity.

Yes, pride is such a foolish thing, self on a pedestal, and how sin began,
Lucifer becoming puffed up, and look at what he lost, and it costing man.
Eve flattered by a higher plain, and what a shame, ’cause she had everything too,
And now, humbleness less appealing to most, when only God, glory is due.

By Lance Landall





Christian version of my secular poem Where Are Such People?

19.  In One Accord

Give me the Christian that one can disagree with and still be friends — Praise the Lord! —
Such put aside in Christian love and for God’s great purposes, in one accord.
A spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation, a moving on, and
Satan not gaining some victory, nor keeping someone from the promised land.

Oh, those fools who sulk and murmur, criticism perhaps too prickly for them,
And yet, some minor fault or flaw in some fellow member are quick to condemn.
Oh, Move on! Move on! Take it on the chin, ’cause your walk’s being tested, you know,
And disagreements there’ll always be, and the bigger man always the hero.

By Lance Landall

20.  Spiritual Embarrasment

When early married, and when the Lord wasn’t in my life like He should have been,
I hired a TV for a while, and watched the usual things that are seen.
With the hire period about to end, I rang for it to be picked up,
The man in no hurry, but I in a flurry, lest the cost go up and up.

So I rang and complained, he having delayed out of kindness, no extra cost,
But quickly picking it up given my ungrateful annoyance, facial frost.
And you know what? Come visitor's day at church, who had someone brought along? Yes,
That very man who wasn’t impressed, and how we witness badly, make a mess,

And dishonour God.

By Lance Landall

21.  What Christ Is Trying To Say

Tell the world the answer’s not down there, never has been, never will be with men,
And if they think I’m wrong and buy into anything, they’ll all be duped again.
So, no matter how wonderful someone’s plan seems, their words or their works, beware,
For only I, Christ, have the answer, and I will provide it when I get there.

And I meaning (just like My Word conveys), at My second coming, soon return,
When, surrounded by clouds of angels, every eye will see Me, and all heads will turn.
And scooping up the saved without touching the Earth, I’ll head back from where I came,
Hence those mansions that My Word speaks of, they reserved for those who revere My name.

And then, after a millennium (which My Word also conveys), it’s back here,
The New Jerusalem descending with the saints and I within, and Earth we’ll share.
Yes, a renewed Earth, sin and suffering removed, tears having been wiped away,
But like I said, not until I return, so don’t let any lead you astray.

I’ve warned you about false teachers and Messiahs, those who’ll say I’m here or there,
The latter woefully ignorant, because it’s in the sky that I’ll appear.
There’ll be a trumpet blast, and the Earth will be shaken, the wicked full of fear,
But not the saved, that lesser number, for their joy and happiness will be clear.

They not having turned to the world for answers relying on the plans of men,
But aware that I said My kingdom’s not of this world, and here it’s said again.
For I’m a righteous Holy God, My feet only resting on the Earth made new,
The New Jerusalem having settled, and in it, I’m hoping there’ll be you.

Yes,

I’m coming very soon, I who created the world, I who created man,
I who should therefore know what I’m talking about, and why they can’t and I can.
So put your trust in Me, Me alone, otherwise the devil will deceive you,
And what if he appeared as if Me? All why you need to know Me through and through.

Hence why I’ve given you My Word, so study it thoroughly both morn and night,
Walking in My footsteps surrounded by My truths which act like a shield and light.
And tell the world the answer’s not down there, but up here, you walking without fear,
And uprightly, despite the cost, for trust put in men will only wrongly steer,

And in the end, leave both you and they with only this life you’re sharing down there.

By Lance Landall


" 'For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His
day [at His second coming]' " (Luke 17:24, ESV). Note Matt 24:30,31; 1 Thess 4:16.

“ ‘When the Son of Man comes in His glory [at the second coming]...He will separate the people one from another
as a shepherd separates the sheep [righteous] from the goats [the wicked]’ ” (Matt 25:31,32, NIV)
. Note 2 Thess 1:7,8.

“ ‘In My Father’s house [in Heaven] are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a
place for you [referring to when Christ ascended to Heaven after the cross]. And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come again [the Second Coming] and [then] receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be
also [that’s His reason for coming again]’ ” (John 14:2,3, NKJV).

“And all these [faithful Bible heroes of all the ages], though commended through their faith, did not receive what
was promised [eternal life, immortality], since God had provided something better [much fairer] for us, that apart
from us they should not be made perfect [immortal. They will have to wait]” (Heb 11:39,40, ESV).

“Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection [at the Second Coming]! Over such the second
death [the destruction of the wicked] has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign
with him for a thousand years [in heaven]” (Rev 20:6, ESV).

“ ‘And I have the same hope in God as these men, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous [at the
Second Coming] and the wicked’ ” (Acts 24:15, NIV).

“ ‘Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming [the Second Coming] when all who are in the tombs will hear His [Christ’s] voice and come forth, those who have done good, to the resurrection of life [the Second Coming], and
those who have done evil, to the resurrection of Judgment’ ” [the second death and hence the lake of fire]’ ”
(John 5:28,29, RSV).

“ ‘But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the polluted, as for the murderers, fornicators, sorcerers, idolaters, and all
liars, their lot shall be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death’ ” (Rev 21:8, RSV).

“The rest of the dead [the wicked dead struck down at Christ’s Second Coming (2 Thess 1:7,8)] did not come to
life again until the thousand years were ended [the second resurrection]...” (Rev 20:5, RSV).

“And when the thousand years are ended, Satan [who was confined, alive, along with his angels, to the depopulated desolate earth] will be loosed from his prison [to face the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)]” (Rev 20:7, RSV).

“Then I saw a new [renewed] heaven and a new [renewed] earth...And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem [the one that the wicked tried to attack (Rev 20:9,10)], coming down out of heaven from God...And I heard a great voice from
the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling of God is with men. He will dwell with them [on the renewed earth], and they shall be His people...He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall their be mourning nor crying nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away’ ” (Rev 21:1-4, RSV).

“And they [the wicked, Satan and his angels] marched [preparing to attack] up over the broad earth and surrounded
the camp of the saints and the beloved city [the descended New Jerusalem containing the saints and Christ (Rev 21:1-3)]; but fire came down from heaven and consumed them [the ‘second death’ (Rev 21:8)], And the devil who
had deceived them [the wicked] was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet were [the End-time world wide persecuting power], and they will be tormented day and night for ever and ever [metaphoric symbolism denoting complete destruction” (Rev 20:9,10, RSV).

22.  So Help Me God

Your faith, trust and beliefs must be firmly built on the Word of God, God alone,
And never on what your church or pastor says, lest God be wrestled from His throne.
So search and question until you’ve found the truth, for it’s the truth that sets one free,
Unlike error which holds many in its grip, Satan the lord of heresy.

So,

 Pray for understanding, greater light, getting to know God’s Word intimately;
An open mind, a strong desire for truth, and unceasing prayer being the key.
’Cause the Father of Lies has sought to hide, dilute, dispute and rubbish truth, and
Many have ignorantly or deliberately given Satan a hand.

Yes,

Truth makes sense, can handle investigation, unlike falsehood which needs its guards,
Like those closed minds and traditions of men as shaky as a tower of cards.
And so too the state of those who hardly know God’s Word, they easy to deceive,
And hence why the whole truth and nothing but the truth is all that we should believe.

Your church and pastor may be right, but what if they’re wrong, and you believing lies?
So don’t depend on others, but study for yourself until it verifies,
Or proves them wrong. And this why God gave His Word to everyone, you and I,
'Cause we’ve been warned of those who lead astray, hence that need of a discerning eye,

So study, study, study!

By Lance Landall


"And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the
love of the truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thess 2:10, KJV).

"But those who obey God's word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we
are living in him" (1 John 2:5, New Living Translation).

23.  Just As Lame

The God of love wants to save us from eternal death, needless suffering, and
In ancient times warned via His prophets, and no less today, His judgment at hand.
For Christ is returning soon, and all having two choices: It Satan or Him,
One path full of light, hope and promises, the other dark, deceptive and grim.

And so, we either becoming more like Christ or less like Christ, even a fake,
For there are those who don’t pick up their humble cross, but rather, the broad path take.
They having a form of godliness, a false belief that they’ve been saved by grace
Despite their lives not being in harmony with God’s will, such too oft the case.

It’s such a tragedy that all throughout Earth’s history God’s people have strayed,
Ancient Israel a lesson book given the huge mistakes that those people made.
Yes, the surrounding nations once in awe of how blessed they were, how rich and well,
Until, due to apostasy, their imitating of heathen ways, they fell.

And now, Christians are following suit, our light having dimmed also, most astray,
And thus things looking very much like they did in ancient Israel’s errant day.
And our crime all the greater given that we've had their mistakes to learn from, and
Know how Jesus suffered because of sin. So tell me, dear friend, where do you stand?

Yes, who’s getting the glory, who’s being honoured, because if it’s not Jesus,
It’s either a devil or a human, and dare it be that it might be us.
For such would see us acting like a usurper, once having pledged loyalty,
But aiding Satan via some form of betrayal of Christ, not wanting to see,

Because it doesn’t suit.

Christians aren’t meant to be chameleons, they either true to God or not, and
Either working on His behalf or seeking their own pleasure, fat of the land.
Thus, with workers few, God’s storehouse lean, that rampant worldliness, and heresy,
There’s a call for Elijahs, those who’ll blow the trumpet and work tirelessly.

Yes, “Give us a king,” God’s people cried, but most of their kings acted dreadfully,
All why Christians shouldn’t follow after men either, only God almighty.
And just like that time when Elijah’s faith failed, many are looking elsewhere,
And why, given the worldliness too, less amazing workings of God appear.

With their spiritual eyesight poor, their thinking and path errant and askew,
They’re easily deceived by Satan’s signs and wonders, that form of godliness too,
For God demands no less today, His morals, principles and standards still the same,
But oh, those ungrateful, self-serving, past-like excuses, how they’re just as lame.

By Lance Landall


“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).

“ ‘This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men’ ” (Matt 15:8,9, RSV).

24.  Loving But Bold

If we’re a true Christian, we won’t be able to help but rock the boat, and so,
“Pick up your cross,” Christ said, and He meaning: Despite how rough the sea looks, row! row!
And so, we taking any waves in our stride, because troubles will come our way,
Given that we’re to stand up for Jesus, denounce evil, and thus straight things say.

Yes, Christ never said, “Here’s a comfy chair,” but, “Pick up your cross,” for flack will come,
Simply because we are Christians, but more so if we're considered quarrelsome.
In other words, if we’re an annoyance to the don’t-rock-the-boat brigade, who,
Only like calm seas and no opposition, and why little they say and do.

Well, Christ never said to say and do little, but to say and do much, and hey,
He wasn’t just talking about sweet words and kindly deeds, for such are child’s play.
No, Christ wanting us to be bold, strong opposers of oppression and heresy,
We jealous for His cause, that He may say, “Well done, you chose what wasn’t easy.”

Yes, Christ hardly looking with favour on those who hardly make a splash, for they
Display far too much concern for themselves, making sure no trouble comes their way.
All why they don’t rock the boat, but wink at sin, face the other way; such not Christ’s way,
For despite His love, and when it came to wrong, He had an awful lot to say.

And given the times, we should be saying much too, wrong both in and out the Church,
Hence those watchmen on the wall —- that’s you and I, folks, and it not a comfy perch.
But it just as important as loving deeds; God, truth and right under attack,
And too many suffering one way or another, so hey, bring on the flack!

Come Heaven, and what a joy to hear someone say, “Thanks for standing up for me,”
And Christ saying, “I really appreciated how you condemned heresy,”
And then adding, “And thanks for helping out one of My children at your expense,
And thereby suffering for My sake, refusing to sit on that nauseous fence."

Yes, God’s hardly chuffed with folk who shield themselves from flack, hide behind warm fuzzies,
Avoiding hassles; they too busy smiling for the camera, saying, “Cheese.”
For though God wants us to be loving, He also wants us to be bold, and so,
We standing up, speaking out — yes, loving but bold, to heck with the status quo!

By Lance Landall

25.  Like A Roaring Lion

When Christ stepped out of the waters of baptism, the fight of His life began,
The devil and his cohorts out to break Him, and utilizing fallen man.
First he tried to destroy Christ via Herod, and then, when Christ was at His weakest,
Via the strongest tailor-made temptations, Satan every bit the strategist.

The cheek, the gall, “All this will I  give you, if you will bow down and worship me,”
But Jesus said, “Go away from Me, Satan!”, thereby gaining the victory.
And likewise, we should say the same to Satan too, when he promises the Earth,
Not bowing down to him either, he after both Christ and humans right from birth.

And this why we need to be at the top of our spiritual game, and claim
The power in Jesus’ name, He depending on His Father, and we, the same.
Because on our own we haven’t a chance, and if we did, who’d get the glory,
When it’s Christ and Christ alone who’s our hope and centre of the Gospel story.

By Lance Landall

SOME KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING GOD'S WORD

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BOOK OF GENESIS

By Henry M. Morris