Songs Of My Heart - WHAT GOD HAS FOR ME, IT IS FOR ME

A simple song with a powerful message. Don't sweat the small stuff, God has got me covered and whatever His plans are for me, will come to me. Some of you know I have been job searching. Well I interviewed last month for the perfect job, that would allow me to combine all the talents (art, writing, singing, etc), administrative gifts, and the ministry all together. Wow, what an opportunity. As it came down I was in the top two for over two weeks - tight. But toward the end of last week, the Lord took all my anxiousness about this away, and this song has been in my heart, even as I awake in the morning, "What God has for me, it is for me."

For the last two years, I've been on another journey of trusting the Lord. As I went into retirement, I felt I would be alright financially, and I really needed the time to spend in the Word, and doing my community responsibilities as a pastor. Things have become real tight with the money, and my frustration level began to rise at not finding a position. Plus, all my drawing, painting, beadworking, cooking skills appeared to be going to waste - What's up with that God? Last week He gave me such a sense of peace about where I was, and where He was leading me. I knew in my heart I didn't have the job, but what He has been doing, and the ministers He has brought into my life over this past month has been phenomenal. All of them, unrelated to each other, with the same encouraging message of God's working in my life, and will use these gifts as He has placed me to minister.

There are still times in my life where I try to reason out what my next step should be, instead of allowing the Lord to order my steps. As much as I tell others, wait on the Lord; trust Him to lead you, there are times I need to preach this same message right back to me. When we put our trust in God's plans for us, and really learn to rest in Him, we don't have to worry, fret or cry, or become jealous of others for getting what we think we deserve. He said, He has a plan and a purpose for us. I don't know about y'all, but learning to lean ain't always easy.

Yesterday I learned I didn't have the job, and I was so peaceful. Working it, would have placed me back to 40 hours, cutting back on ministry duties. But, the manager went on to tell me they have another position coming open, that would be part-time. When they said, "Would you be interested in this,"My heart cried out, "What God Has For Me, It Is For Me."

Songs Of My Heart - SATISFIED WITH JESUS

Satisfied with Jesus link would not come up. Go to You Tube, Dr. James H. Tucker, Satisfied with Jesus. It will bless your soul.

Sometimes I just have to go back home.

Sometimes, I have to refresh the memories of my heart, of the old folks who encouraged me on with their simple songs like these two, "Satisfied With Jesus" or "I Thank You Jesus."

Sometimes, like this morning I just have to stop and say, Thank You Jesus, my soul is satisfied. Thank You Jesus, You're here today. Whatever happens on today, the world and all of its trials cannot make me doubt You, I know too much about You, and my soul is satisfied with You. They sang with the conviction of years of leaning and depending on Jesus. They sang with the knowledge that there is only one who saves, only one they can call on and know He will answer, only one who can do them like no other. They would throw back their head or sometimes even, bend their heads in their laps and sing like nobody was there but Jesus. The old folks would add in

I thank You, thank You Jesus
I thank You, than You Jesus
I thank You, thank You Jesus in my soul

I thank You, thank You Jesus
I thank You, thank You Jesus
I thank You, thank You Jesus in my soul

I feel the fire burnin'
I feel the fire burnin'
I feel the fire burnin' in my soul

I feel the fire burnin'
I feel the fire burnin'
I feel the fire burnin' in my soul

It burns like the love of Jesus
It burns like the love of Jesus
It burns like the love of Jesus in my soul
Oh, it burns like the love of Jesus
It burns like the love of Jesus
It burns like the love of Jesus in my soul

The tune would catch and somebodyelse would add something else to it, and before you knew it the song turned into a history of livin' - Ya Lord!!

This morning before I left for work I just couldn't let go. I sang these two songs getting ready for work, driving to and in between jobs. My car was filled with worship as these songs penetrated my heart. It's so good to feel the fire of His presence, and be assured in His love - Ya LORD!!!!

Songs Of My Heart - IN THE NAME OF JESUS

I love this song. Today it brings to mind how we have, throughout history, used this phrase "In the name of Jesus." Wars have been fought, much blood loss, lives destroyed, people burned at the stake, victories won, addictions broken, families restored, and many have willingly surrendered their lives in their refusal to reject - The name of Jesus.

So today I was thinking (hmmm), What do I do in the name of Jesus, how do I want my life to be projected in the name of Jesus, but more importantly, how does He see me living in His name?

I cannot live just to represent myself, but I must always be me. There are and have been times in my life where I have supposedly given up some of the relevant stuff to follow after Him and His will. Going to Mississippi from Seattle was one of those times. I had accomplished much, and was secure in me. People in my field of work, in several different states, knew who I was, I was full of me. When I got to Mississippi, the question became, "Jay who?" Humbling it was. But it became another beginning, another level of learning who "me" is, and to trust the Lord.

I had again started anew in Mississippi, and over 13 years I was no longer a stranger. The Lord allowed me to accomplish a few things there, then in 2001 BAM!!! I'm in Bellingham, Washington. What was the Lord going to do with a woman of 56 years, who had only received her ministerial license one year before, and there was no Full Gospel Baptist Chuch here - what was He going to do with me? And I didn't even have a job! Again, I'm in unknown territory, except to God. A little scared, yet I knew, this time I was really I traveling in the name of Jesus, and walking by faith that He knew what He was doing with me.

I'm a Midwest lady.
In Iowa, Kansas & Minnesota He healed me and moved me (He keeps doing that).
In Seattle, He showed me He loved me, and chose me, and cleaned me up.
In Mississippi, He broke addictions, and taught me how to trust and depend on Him in a land of strangers.
In Bellingham, Wa He taught me how to know Him as Father (Abba= Daddy), and seeing myself as a well loved daughter. Through the precious blood of Jesus I live to carry His name.

The Lord led me to SALT ON THE STREET. SALT is a ministry to the homeless. The word delivered, that Jesus Loves you is constant; in saying and in doing. The healing message and response of the SALT volunteers is an answer to the cry of many:
Is there anyone who loves me or cares about me?
Is there anyone who wants to be with me when I'm not in control?
Is there anyone who is not afraid to touch my tears?
We are servants in the name of Jesus. There have been times over the years where I've had to check myself from not serving just out of Habit. I must serve out of love for the person and the name of Jesus. The results are long lasting, and in some case life saving.

I see our Lord as majestic, awesome and Holy, but also as familiar, loving and close to me. I want to be a vessel that He chooses to use in His name, for His purpose. I don't heal, I don't open blind eyes, I don't break addictions, I don't free the captive soul - Jesus does!

I pray He sees me as surrendered to Him and His will. I pray He sees me as loving to His people. I am His daughter who knows His voice, His touch, and trusts Him to supply my every need. He asks, "Do you love me? Feed my sheep, feed my lambs." I shall, In The Name Of JESUS.

Songs Of My Heart - I LOVE YOU

I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU

I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU

I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU, Jesus I love YOU
I love YOU, I love YOU, I love YOU

About a month ago, I attended a Sunday morning service where two different denominations came together to worship our Savior and Head of the church, Jesus (House of Wisdom Non-Denominational Church and Hope In Christ Christian Reform Church). It was a beautiful exchange and interaction of the body of Christ. Pastor Westbrook, The minister who preached started by talking about the need to have a love song for Jesus. That stayed with me. And the words above are my love song to Jesus. Sing a simple song...

I write much; stories, poetry, and even a few songs, but I will always remember why I sing this. Sometimes I just get so filled up, that all I can say is "I love YOU." So why am I writing this today? I read an article this morning, in Tracie Armstrong's SPIRIT Magazine about a child who was praying. It's so beautiful to hear a child pray. I'm awed to my bones as I listen to my grandchildren talk to the Lord. Okay Jay, get back on track... the article talked about a child praying, and the words "I love You" slipped out. Not I love God or I love Jesus, but I love You. So personal, so precious, so cool that our heart cry can be so audible throughout Heaven and the universe in "I LOVE YOU JESUS."

When I sing to Jesus burdens are lifted, the joy of living is rejuvenated, the cares of the day seem so small, and I know that whatever I'm doing today, or will face in this day - Jesus is there with me. He said I will never leave or forsake you, I am with you always, and I am more than the world against you, and as the Father has love Me, so I love you.

I LOVE YOU JESUS!!

Songs Of My Heart - GIVE ME A CLEAN HEART

Give me a clean heart so I may serve thee.
Lord, fix my heart so that I may be used by thee,
For I’m not worthy of all your blessings.
Give me a clean heart, and I’ll follow thee.

I’m not asking for the riches of this land,
And I’m not asking for men in high places to know my name.
Please-- give me, Lord, a clean heart that I may follow thee.
Give me a clean heart, and I’ll follow thee.

As I was having my meditation and prayer this morning, I was reminded that it is not about clean clothes or clean hands, it's not about the car I drive or about the degrees I have; but my walk/our walk with the Lord is about having a clean heart.

In the past few months my meditation has taken me to scriptures that have to do with the heart of the leadership of the church. Being that I is one, and am also a part of the the crowd of 'Older Women' whose responsibility it is to teach the younger, it is of great concern that I look at what we are giving the people, the sheep and lambs of Christ. Are they being fed? Is our Sunday meal giving the little ones in Christ the nurishment they need to grow? Are we offering food throughout the week, to hold them through the struggles of their weekly life outside the four walls of the sanctuary? Is it in our hearts as shepherds to go into the highways and byways where the people are? Are we offering 'feel good stuff' that will only last awhile, or teaching them as babies who will one day grow into wise leaders? Are we living as though the Holy Spirit of God lives in us, and teaching that we are not our own, but brought with the high price of the blood of Jesus? Are we teaching that His love is so strong, that nothing can draw us away - do we as leaders really live like that, and is that what the unsaved world sees in us/me/we as leaders?

Jesus said to ask of the Father what we will in His name, and it shall be done. This song, 'Give Me A Clean Heart' has always been one of my favorites, but today this is what I ask, it is my prayer.

Songs Of My Heart - I WANT TO WALK AND TALK WITH JESUS

I'm still on the "I Wants." Shortly after I woke up this morning this old song came to me. I'm so grateful for YOU TUBE and Web Searches, that I can find the words and hear so many of the old hymns and gospel songs that are not sung that much today. I grew up with the Barrett Sisters. If you are into Gospel music, check them out. Their ministry was tremendous.

Verse 1
I want to walk and talk with Jesus each and every day
I want my life to be an example for Him in every way
I want to treat my brothers the way that Jesus wants me to
Because He said 'Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you'

Verse 2
I want Him to lead me and guide me in everything I say and do
In His service I want Him to choose me and use me I do not choose
What a wonderful Counselor, Mighty Prince of Peace is He
And all I want each day is just a closer walk with thee

Chorus
I want Him to shower me with His blessings from up above
And rock me, rock me, rock me in the cradle of Your love


I was reading a meditation selection today. It was talking about how we as pastors sometimes put more emphasis on scripture than we do on the active role of HOLY SPIRIT in our day to day lives. It struck me as true in mine also. There are those days when I fully, and often throughout the day ask His direction. Then there are those days when I speak to Him in the morning, and the rest of the day is my own. Am I alone in this? Let me know how you're doing in this area. That's what brought about the song. I hope you listen to the words. For me this is where I want to be, walking and talking with Jesus each and everyday. I want my life to be an example for Him in every way...

Jesus told His disciples that when He left He would be leaving the Holy Spirit which would help them live victoriously for Him. "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you" (John 14:25-27). So this is my prayer today, "Teach me, Lead me, Use me to have a closer walk with You - God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. As I go out, let Your love through me reach out today.

Songs Of My Heart - ROADBLOCKS TO VICTORY

The song says:

I WANT TO BE A FOLLOWER OF CHRIST, I want to be one of His disciples.
I want to walk in the newness of life, so let me be a follower of Christ.
What do I have to do?
What do I have to say?
How do I have to walk each and every day?
Tell me what does it cost, just to carry the cross?
So let me be a follower of Christ.


I'm thinking all of us have "Roadblocks/Stealers" in our lives that attempt to trake us away from being a "Follower of Christ;" stealers that we consent to which sway us from following the road Christ is leading us down today. For me it is "games". I love computor games. I can come in and be mindless for a few minutes, relax, and not think. Sometimes as I'm playing a game I get a really good idea for something to write about, but more often I fall into the quicksand of wasted time, that lasts much longer than I first anticipated. Then I find myself playing catch-up on the assignment the Lord has blessed me to have. I finish it - always. But my best was not given to the Lord.

In this song I find not only self examination, but a statement of my purpose to walk in the newness of life that Christ daily sets before me. Proverbs 1:8 says to listen to what your father and mother teach you. What you learn will crown your with grace and clothe you in honor. I was taught, do the work first - then play. Set your priorities. We have often heard the saying, "Actions speak louder than words," the enticement for me of technology (games)can be as compelling as people who have no purpose but to draw me from my purpose, and destroy what the Lord is growing inside. And I have played a willing part.

For me and for all of us who want to be and are 'Followers of Christ,' these roadblocks must be identified and dealt with - EARLY. When the games I play take 1st place - God's place, they become sin.

The beginning of wisdom is God. With wisdom get understanding of who you are, where is God in your life today, what/who are the roadblocks in your life, and where is your strength?

Thank you Lord for the Your wisdom, and giving me understanding of my weaknesses, and strength in Christ. Thank you for Your amazing love that leads me back on the road to victory. Let not my eyes sway from You today, let me not pass up the opportunity to speak in kindness, to love others as You have loved me today.

Songs Of My Heart - LOOK WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE

MY TESTIMONY: An old song that expresses daily the love and power of the Lord.

Many of you have prayed for and with me over the weekend about my back. The testimony of the healing was so long I couldn't put it on the Facebook page, so I'm back to the blog. Not only in my life, but as the Lord works in, works out, heals and touches we must tell it.

About five years ago I fell over one of the cement parking thing-a-ma-jigs downtown and a lower disc in my back was moved out of place. I was preparing to have surgery on my shoulder and didn't want surgery on my back, so I went into physical therepy for it. Well it only bothers me about once a year and sometimes not that, but when it does, it's pure pain, and I'm laid up for about a week. This weekend it happened again. I didn't go to church Sunday, stayed home and nursed it real good (ice, pills, etc).

There was a minister coming to Pastor Anthony Westbrook's, House of Wisdom Non- Denominational Church, and I was planning on going. The minister is Kevin Ford, and he was going to speak on healing. Just where I should'a been right? I stayed home. Well, I got through Sunday, and went to work Monday, gingerly working and moving so as not to be in too much pain. Monday night I did go to the service. I tell others that there is healing in our praise, but I wasn't practicing what I preach. I was on the praise team, singing, moving a little bit, but to be truthful I wasn't giving Jesus my all, my mind was on my back.

I had met Pastor Kevin and his wife once before like introduction, hello, welcome to Bellingham. So I really didn't know much about him, and until I saw him again Monday, his name didn't phase me. After we sang and he got up to give his message, he talked about how the Lord healed him from various addictions, brought him out of homelessness (living in a box, delivered him from a lot of "ism's = I, Self and Me" to using him in His service, restoring his life, and giving him another family, while restoring past relationships with his previous family - The Lord Heals.

Kevin asked if anyone was having back pain, I was one of several who raised our hands. He came over to me and asked permission to take my hands, then he knelt down in front of me. He asked if I had one leg longer than the other, I told him, "Not that I was aware of." He took my shoes off (I was glad I had done my toenails), and then as we looked at my legs I saw that one was longer than the other. He assured me he was not going to yank or twist, but that the Lord would heal. He asked the congregation to come and see, they did. He just gently held both my legs over him arm.

As he held my legs, Pastor Kevin talked of healing, he talked of the love that Christ has for us, he talked about the Word, and the power in speaking the Word of God - he didn't pray, preach or beg for God to heal. At times he would say something funny, making us all laugh a little. As he held my legs, to our amazement - the shorter one became longer until it was even with the other. NEVER IN MY LIFE, had I EVER seen anything like that or experienced this. He asked me to stand, and then asked me about my pain level. I told him it was about a 7 when I came in, and that right now it was about a 3. He asked me to bend over and touch my toes. I used to do Modern Dance, so I was used to being able to put the palm of my hand on the floor with my legs straight. Now at 63 years old, it has been many a year since I could even come close to doing this, but I did. Not once or twice, but about 20-30 times, all the way up and all the way down. LOOK WHAT THE LORD HAD DONE - HE HEALED MY BODY.

Not only did he heal my back, but my shoulders were without pain, and my knees were bending like they had not in years. HE HEALED MY BODY, HE TOUCHED MY MIND, HE SAVED ME IT WAS JUST IN TIME - I'M GONNA' PRAISE HIS NAME, HE'S EVERMORE THE SAME, I'M GONNA PRAISE HIM, LOOK WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE.

When the praise team (including me) returned to sing, I was able to dance, dance, dance. Those who know me know I don't do a lot of bouncing around, but Jesus touched my body and gave me a dance. Today is Wednesday and I am without back pain, even the morning pains I usually wake up with. I spent a lot of years ignoring the Lord and doing my own thing with the energy He gave me. I know He is giving it back, and I will expend much energy in serving, praising, worshipping Him. My Father God loves us so very much, and He makes His presence known in our lives everyday. LOOK AROUND AT WHAT THE LORD IS DOING!

Songs Of My Heart - ALL IN HIS HANDS

Interview, Exam Day: Jesus knows just what's best, so I will leave this day, my cares and concerns in His hands. Is that a cop out for what the result may be - NO! This day he has been preparing me for, I have used the talents and gifts He has blessed me with. If I am not up to par for the course I'm seeking to take, the fault lies in my preparation, not His plan for me, and not Him. If I fall I will not quit, but will get back up, and keep on going.

I am so grateful for the opportunities of this day. In his hands is where I always want to be.

Songs Of My Heart - JESUS KEEP ME NEAR THE CROSS

There is peace and reconciliation through the blood of the cross...Colossians 1:20, Ephesians 2:15-16

Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain
Free to all, a healing stream
Flows from Calvary's mountain.

In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.

Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day,
With its shadows o'er me.

Near the cross I'll watch and wait
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river.

Chorus:
In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.

For me there are those times when I must go back, close to the cross. For me it is a time of remembrance of where my Lord found me; not that I was lost to Him, but He was lost to me. Sometimes I just need an adjustment of mind and soul as to what this life is all about.

The blood of Jesus is a healing stream that my heart cries out for everyone to experience. My heart aches for those who are so troubled and confused to accept that resting place that can only be found in Jesus. As I listen to the news of stealing, rape, murders, and wars I know that someday we will live in the glory of Christ, never to fight the battles of this life anymore.

But for today, we live and continue the message of the Cross of Jesus. For today we tell of the joy of resting in the eternal love of God our Father, our Daddy. As I watch the news and walk in the midst of pain and suffering on a daily basis, I am so thankful to be able to offer hope for today, and love unyielding through Jesus Christ who hung on the cross for my sins and the world. The telling of the cross is not only in the words we speak, but the life we live. Jesus shows up so the victory of Him living through us can be seen and realized by those around us.

Near the cross I'll watch and wait, hoping trusting ever - There is no turning around or leaving the path I have started on.

Songs Of My Heart - MY SOUL IS ANCHORED IN THE LORD

Private First Class Bowe R. Bergdahl of Idaho is the first of our soldiers captured by the Taliban in Afghanistan. HE NEEDS THE COMBINED PRAYERS OF ALL OF US.

When I first heard about his capture, I cried. But I also realized that God is with him. This song, tells us that we are sometimes in the storm, and sometimes the storm does not seem like it will ever end, but through it all when we are in Christ Jesus, we are anchored to someone stronger than any political system can boast of. Let us as a nation of world-wide Christians put this young man in specific prayer.

Acts 12:5...but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him....
We pray for all our troops, but let us combine our prayers for the return of Bowe as the early Christians did for Peter. I do believe prayer changes things and the hearts of people. I pray today that his soul is anchored to our Lord and Savior. I pray that in the middle of his storm of fear he will find peace that will carry him through this. I pray for his protection that the no matter what the enemy would attempt to do, they come up against our Lord and see His strength, and His love that He has for not only this soldier, but for the world. Not only can prayer break the chains of imprisonment of cells, but prayer can break the stony, cold hearts of unbelievers who would do harm. I pray that through the combined prayers of of the world for Bowe that his captors will themselves see the miraculous love of Christ and recieve Him.

Though the storms keep on raging in my life,
and sometimes it's hard to tell the night from day,
still the hope that lies within is reassured
as I keep my eyes upon the distant shore,
I know He leads me safely to that blessed place He has prepared.

But if the storms don't cease, and if the winds keep on blowing in my life,
My soul has been anchored in the Lord....

Songs Of My Heart - YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION

It's funny how TEMPTATION can take on the appearance of 'good, innocent, fun, and desireable. Even like, for me, the temptation of the internet. Staying on too long, putting really important things in my life on hold for a few games. Dumb and wrong when it interferes with life's responsibilities. But there are other temptations also that can/will produce long lasting pain. But after we have experienced what we should have examined more closely, we find the downside of temptaion to be deceit, devestation and depression and often despair. Temptation does not become sin untill we succum to it and commit into action that which we have been tempted. The Bible tells us to FLEE from the very appearance of sin, and in different passages lists the things that would we need to RUN from.


I think all of know the strong pull that temptation has on each of us, though it may not appear, at first, as something that would snare us into a very sticky web. The temptations we face are embedded within us. I do believe we all must look at our weaknesses within as well as our strengths. Knowing our weaknesses will keep us close to the cross, in the Word and in communication with our Lord. Now, I'm not saying that we live in continuous temptation, but the inner desires can seep out and overtake us when we neglect this great state of salvation we have been gifted with.

When temptation comes upon us, the Bible tells us to be submitted to God, resist the Devil and he will flee. Draw close to God and He will draw close to you. Cleanse your hands and recognize the sin within, and if we are double-minded, purify your hearts. Humble yourself before God and He will lift you up (Paraphrased, James 4:7-10). We are to Follow the Lord. Think about where this temptation is and can lead us, and take the time to verbally re-commit to: "Where you lead me Lord, I will follow you." Then sometimes we must RUN. Yes, as Christians strong and steadfast, there come times to run, flee from sin. 2 Timothy 2:22 says, Flee/run from youthful lust... 1 Corinthians 10:14 tells us to flee/run from idolatry. But read the scriptures before the 14th. Very clear as to where we should be, and that there is no temptation that is not common will come upon you. The victory is ours if we follow the roadmap. Each victory we win will help us to gain strength for the next temptation to come our way.

Remember at the end of the line is the prize eternity with Christ.

Songs Of My Heart - Tribute to Michael - CRY

Can't get the music off YouTube, but the words are great.

Somebody shakes when the wind blows
Somebody’s missing a friend (Hold on)
Somebody’s lacking a hero
And they have not a clue when it’s all gonna end again

Stories buried and untold
Someone is hiding the truth (Hold on)
When will this mystery unfold
And will the sun ever shine
In the blind mans eyes when he cries

You can change the world (I can’t do it by myself)
You can touch the sky (It’s gonna take somebody’s help)
You’re the chosen one (I’m gonna need some kind of sign)
If we all cry at the same time tonight

People laugh when they’re feeling sad
Someone is taking a life (Hold on)
Respect to believe in your dreams
So tell me where were you
When your children cried last night

Faces filled with madness
Miracles unheard of (Hold on)
Faith is found in the winds
All we have to do is to reach for the truth, the truth

You can change the world (I can’t do it by myself)
You can touch the sky (It’s gonna take somebody’s help)
You’re the chosen one (I’m gonna need some kind of sign)
If we all cry at the same time tonight

And when that flag blows there’ll be no more wars
And when all cause I will answer all your prayers (Prayers)
Show the world…

You can change the world (I can’t do it by myself)
You can touch the sky (It’s gonna take somebody’s help)
You’re the chosen one (I’m gonna need some kind of sign)
If we all cry at the same time tonight


I was beginning to get tired of all the coverage of Michael Jackson. His work opened up many doors for many people all over the world. His music gave lil' Black kids a strong vision as they watched him and his brothers on the Ed Sullivan Show. At that time VERY FEW Blacks were recognised and appeared on national TV. I will not go into his wrongs, sins or accusations. The Bible says whoever is without sin cast the first stone. Anybody remember that? Tonight I want to remember all the good. My blog, my post - lol.

I had not planned to watch the tribute today, but I did. And I'm so glad I did. I am not deifying him, he was a man. And today I am grateful for his music, his accomplishments, and I have prayed that he is resting in the arms of Christ. He was a parent that was so evident by the emotions of his baby girl. And he was a son himself.

Michael Jackson's use of his talent reminds me of the three men in the Bible who were given money to keep for their master. They knew he was tough and wanted the best for what he had. So one man invested really wisely, and made a great return on the original amount. The second man also put the money to use, and was able to show his master a gain. The thrid man knew the wrath his master would have if he lost what he was given, so he just buried it and was able to give the full amount back to his master. Naturally the first two were praised, but the third was rebuked because he allowed his fear to rule him. This man did not make use of what was freely given.

Michael used all his assets; voice, creativity, the activity of his body through dance, his brain in studying various scholars. All of the things he did not recieve as a child he tried to give to others. His incredible wealth, he shared. Everything he was blessed to recieve of God our Father, he expanded on and shared with the world.

As I watched, and looked at myself along with all the other folks there, and some I know; I ask the question, "Am I making the best of what God has given me?" No! Not by a long shot. Are you, could you? If we expanded on all of our talents, gifts and love, what would the world around us look like? I'm talking families, neighborhoods, churches, work? Just the immediate stuff we do everyday could be changed.

Read the words to this song, and put yourself in the equation. We can make a difference.

Songs Of My Heart - GIVE ME A CLEAN HEART

This is my particular prayer today, tonight. This is one of those days where I've been judgemental and uptight about things I really had no control over. It's one of those days, the Apostle Paul talked about, "What I don't want to do, I do. where I don't want my mind to travel, it goes there with lightening speed." Anybody but me have those kind of days? The old folks used to talk about the Lord being a heart fixer and a mind regulator. That's what I needed today, but was too stubborn to ask, so my mind became a battlefield of doubt, pridefulness and guilt. It is possible for our minds to become as turbulent storm, but it doesn't have to stay that way. When I finally talked to the Lord, the one who calms the storms, He was so present and quick to supply relief. But it took all day for me to ask Him. Sometimes I think I enjoy a lil' bit of misery. Can I hear an Amen?

I'm not asking for the riches of the world. I already know and really believe that I can do all things through Christ who strenghtens me. I'm asking for what He has already provided, grace for today, faith for the moment, and to feel His love that never leaves me. See sometimes I wander to far away and it leaves me in the emptiest valley of despair. But I came home to Abba, to Daddy, I came home to His open arms of love and peace, and He restores within me a clean heart.

Songs Of My Heart - ORDER MY STEPS

ORDER MY STEPS

Order my steps in Your word dear Lord,
lead me, guide me everyday,
send Your anointing, Father I pray;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.

Verse 1:
Humbly, I ask Thee teach me Your will,
while You are working, help me be still,
Satan is busy, but God is real;
order my steps in Your word,
please, order my steps in Your word.

Verse 2:
Bridle my tongue let my words edify,
let the words of my mouth be acceptable in Thy sight,
take charge of my thoughts both day and night;
please order my steps in Your Word,
please order my steps in Your Word.

Bridge:
I want to walk worthy,
my calling to fulfill.
Please order my steps Lord,
and I'll do Your blessed will.
The world is ever changing,
but You are still the same;
if You order my steps, I'll praise Your name.

Vamp:
Order my steps in Your Word.
Order my tongue in Your Word.
Guide my feet in Your Word.
Wash my heart in Your Word.
Show me how to walk in Your Word.
Show me how to talk in Your Word.
When I need a brand new song to sing,
show me how to let Your praises ring,
in your word (2x),

Chorus 2:
Please order my steps in Your word,
please order my steps in Your word.

I love this song because it expresses all that sometimes my mind and heart are too overflowed to express. If you've read through and listened to the many songs on this blog, you see most of them are asking for guidance. I need a lot of that. On my own I wander, I'm kinda' scattered. But when I speak to the Lord in songs of praise, that connection is made, and He welcomes into His Holy presence, then I know that whatever happens on this day He has me covered. I can rest in Him.

I stay so busy, and am in control most of the time. So coming to the Lord humbly grounds me, steadies me, relaxes my mind and body. "Remember the Sabbaoth day and keep it holy,". The Sabboath, the day/time of rest is a stress remover that our physical bodies dearly need, and spiritual life desires. He helps me to keep still in this ever so quickly moving schedule I've set for myself.

Bridle my tongue, let my words edify. Our tongues can cause wars. Look at the political world to see just how much damage can be done. Closer to home, look at our families and see the damage, the division that words can cause.

Order my steps Lord, showing me this day how to walk, talk and sing Your praise today.

The Lord is My light and My Salvation, Whom Shall I Fear?
Psalm 27
So many versions of this Psalm in song, but they all assure us that with the Lord we have nothing to fear. In these days of craziness, we have nothing to fear. The Lord tells us to occupy until He comes. NOTHING that has happened in my life is a surprise to the Lord, and He has had me in His hands.

I was talking with my daughter this morning; she lives in Tennessee - I'm in Washington state, but we were talking about many of the situations the Lord has seen us through over the years. Again that keyword - THROUGH. Today she is celebrating, but we have been on our knees together in tears, not knowing what was going to happen to us. Sometimes all we can do is wait. When we've done all we can, prayed the prayers, cried the teas, and taken all the action we could have - there sometimes comes a time to WAIT. The song and the scripture say to WAIT on the Lord, and be of GOOD COURAGE. He has/will give us strength and courage to make it. The Lord has a way of turning things that are messes, in our lives, into messages of faith to others.

Let the LORD be your LIGHT when all seems dark, and know that He is your SALVATION.

Songs Of My Heart - THANK YOU JESUS

My phone rang today at 5:10 AM, usually no one calls at that time of day unless there is a death or sickness. But it was my mom. She said she had been troubled during yesterday, and had a dream last night and she knew she had to help me. There was a situation in my life, and the Lord showed her what to do. Last night driving home from work, I was crying and singing, "Guide me oh Thou great Jehovah, pilgram through this barren land, I am weak but Thou' art mighty, hold me with Thy powerful hand." Tho' I had prayed and done all I could, it wasn't enough to make things right, so I was still seeking direction. So I sang a prayer. The Lord hears His children, and even though I didn't know how this situation would end, He was already working it out through my mom.

There are times when nothing else is appropriate to say except THANK YOU JESUS. THANK YOU to the Lord, and THANK YOU to people He has put in our path to help us on our way. From the core of my soul I know that had it not been for the Lord, I would not have come through yesterday unscathed, and made it to today whole. This is one of those days that I cry,"Thank You Jesus, for You brought me from a mighty long way."

The song says,"You've been my mother, You've been my father, You've been my sista'. my brother too...You've been my doctor, my lawyer, my bread and water too."
His Word assures us over and over again that He'll be there for us; Seek Him first, trust Him to never leave us alone, and don't forget to say, THANK YOU JESUS!!

Songs Of My Heart - I REFUSE TO BE DISCOURAGED

Jennifer Holliday singing.

Here is a great poem: author unknown

I refuse to be discouraged, To be sad, or to cry;
I refuse to be downhearted, and here's the reason why:
I have a God who's mighty, Who's sovereign and supreme;
I have a God who loves me, and I am on His team.
He is all-wise and powerful. Jesus is His name;
Though everything is changeable, My God remains the same.
My God knows all that's happening; Beginning to the end;
His presence is my comfort; He is my dearest Friend.
When sickness comes to weaken me, To bring my head down low,
I call upon my mighty God; Into His arms I go.
When circumstances threaten to rob me of my peace;
He draws me close unto His breast, Where all my strivings cease.
When my heart melts within me, and weakness takes control;
He gathers me into His arms, He soothes my heart and soul.
The great "I AM" is with me. My life is in His hand.
The "Son of the Lord" is my hope. It's in His strength I stand.
I refuse to be defeated. My eyes are on my God;
He has promised to be with me, As through this life I trod.
I'm looking past all my circumstances, To Heaven's throne above;
My prayers have reached the heart of God I'm resting in His love.
I give God thanks in everything. My eyes are on His face;
The battle's His, the victory mine; He'll help me win the race.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!!!!
Pass it on!


"Vision is not seeing things as they are, but as they will be..."
-Unknown

Songs Of My Heart - I CAN ONLY IMAGINE

I CAN ONLY IMAGINE

Oh for the joy that awaits us when we cross from this temporary life of joy and pain, loss and gladness, to our forever home with Jesus. In our forever home with Jesus there will be no more tears, sadness, sickness, meaness, pain, treachery, or jealousy. There's a song that says, “I can only imagine.” But my vision and my imagination are so polluted, my mind and my heart are so full not knowing what perfection really looks like, I think my imagination cannot even imagine the totality of What God has planned for us - when we get home.

Just the thought of seeing Jesus is too wondrous for thought (I'm crying now). The Bible says there will be no marriages in heaven, but we will know all those who have gone on to glory before us. As we pray and intercede for loved ones, friends and all those we don't know personally right now, in Heaven there will be no strangers.

In my 63 years I've never seen such violence, and lack of morality, or absense of love for human life. The evil that assails us is not about racial or cultural differences. Men and women all over the world are doing horrendous violence to people they supposedly love. The love of God is waning and waxing cold. Yet, this is not new. History always repeats itself.

As I get old I find myself wanting to depart this life and be with Christ. Yet, I know there is much salvation work to be done. The harvest is plentiful, as people are searching for answers to their pain and loneliness. People are searching for peace while they are still alive. People are looking for a savior, an so need to be presented and introduced to The Savior.

I thank you LORD that You make yourself known to us. Your presence fill and surrounds me like a strong but gentle hug where I feel safe in Your arms. The reality of You leaves me humble and ever grateful to be called Your child, Your daughter. Thank You for being Abba, being Daddy to me. I can only imagine the joy of coming into Your presence forever.

NO POSTS TILL TUESDAY - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

WOMAN OF HONOR

LONG BLOG/SHORT STORY OF MY GRANDMOTHER. She's now 97, and still teaching, praising the Lord, and leading people to Christ.

Memories: sweet and gentle, passionate and pure.
Memories: of a woman proud, beautiful and sure.
Memories: of clean white sheets rinsed in water blue.
Dried bright, blowin’ light, high in
the Kansas heat.

Memories of kitchen smells lingering in the air;
Suspense, anticipation fillin’ every child’s head;
Fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni an’
cheese,
Hot, buttered cornbread, and cold, sweet tea.
And no one sits to eat without a thanks to God.
Then later on the porch, Homemade ‘nila ice
cream, and fresh baked lemon pie.

They say, no one is ever perfect our humanness shows through. But as I look back on the years I see moving murals -
Memories, of a woman who never gave up on me.
Memories that have a name; stored in the depth of my mind,
Memories that show up in the tender smile of her eyes. My grandma, mama, my friend.

She was sitting at the piano, tears gently falling down Cinnamon colored cheeks, hair always in place. This beautiful lady coordinated hat, tailored suit, purse, gloves and shoes - the lady was sharp. She sat there playing and singing, back straight, eyes closed, and head lifted toward heaven; singing ‘I Trust in God, I know He cares for Me.’ I thought to myself, this surely must be what angels sound like.

It was 1955, and she was my grandmother. Secretly I wanted to be just like her. Of course I couldn’t say that out loud. She was so old, forty-three, and I was ten. This lady was tall, Black and proud, even before it was fashionable. If Black power had a name back then, it would have been my grandma. She came from the city life of street cars, cabs and busy streets, and the semblance of equality of Des Moines, Iowa - to a small town in Kansas; dirt streets, ditches with an occasional water moccasin hiding in ditches, dank and dark, or swinging from a tall walnut tree. The heat was extreme, and segregation was still openly practiced. But, mama took second for no one.

My grandma didn’t march, wasn’t at the rally’s to give the Negro their rights. Mama lived. She wasn’t scared, wasn’t uppity, just secure. She knew who she was, and what she had to do to get me where I needed to go, and where the Lord wanted her to be. Mama didn’t look down her nose at anyone, but her very presence demanded respect. God gave her a gift of love, and a talent to bring His love to all His people through music and song. She sang her way into the segregated white churches and some of the segregated white homes in this part of Kansas. Wherever she went she made a difference in the opinion that people might have had about her individually, and about us as a race. She even opened up room for thought in some of our minds, that everyone white wasn’t a special demon sent to destroy the Negro. Mama taught people young and old to look at the person, not the race. She said, “You can’t forget wrongs that have been done, but not everyone did it.” She would always say, “Trust God to guide your mind and heart to see the good and the bad of the individual. While you don’t ever stop thanking Him for where He’s brought us, don’t lose sight of how far you still have to go. Just be honest, and be the best.“ No, this small Kansas town in 1955 wasn’t ready for the likes of mama.

In so many ways I thought her life so mundane. She was always fixin’ breakfast, cleaning house. There were days for washing and days for ironing, days for picking vegetable, days for canning - over and over again, nothing really seemed to change – but the people. They sought her out, not for gossip, they knew she didn’t, but because they hurt. She was the preacher’s wife. She was a teacher, comforter, friend, and a lady who made the most wonderful music I ever heard.

We lived not far from the railroad tracks, and the men who road the rail would come looking for work to get food. I think our house had a reputation for good food, cause different ones would come often. Anyway, I remember one day I came into the yard after school, and a man was sitting by the door. He was minding his business, but crying. Mama was practicing songs for the choir. He asked real gentle, “Please let her finish?” We sat there together, him in tears. Mama could always find something for them to do, even when we didn’t have much. We were never completely without.

My grandma dried my tears, held me close when I was sick, sad or angry. She would even do the same for the teenage girl in church that found herself in unexpected trouble, or unsure about school, grades and family. In this small town in, if a girl came up pregnant, she carried a reputation and so did her family. One more log to fuel the fire, as the old folks would say. With head held high, in 1961 mama brought me back from another school, another state to Kansas to finish school. My family, through much sacrifice of love and time and more love, made it possible for me to raise my own baby. She also gave me a bit of her wisdom and a stern warning, more like a ever-present promise. Mama told me, “Everybody makes a mistake every now and then. But, if you want this baby, you will finish school, you will take care of your baby after your homework, and you will not have another one until you’re married and on you’re on your own. Once is a mistake twice is a habit.” She spoke and this granddaughter listened. I knew full well I couldn’t make it without my family.

My grandma never turned her back on hurting people. People, especially women realized she was genuine. Mama didn’t just speak about her caring. She showed it. Mama would pick kids up for church, and go out of her way to make sure they had milk and donuts, something in their stomachs before they came to spend all morning at Sunday school and church. For the girls she would sometimes comb their hair, and always seemed to find an extra ribbon or two for the final touch. Mama welcomed people into her home and the church no matter who they were or what they did. She took special time with mothers who were trying to do right by their children; keeping them in church and active in clean activities so they wouldn’t be so prone to repeat grown folks mistakes. She was a sounding board to many women in our community judged as questionable.

Mama even took care of a few women who got down on their sickbed, women, filled with open hate and jealousy for her. Women who refused to let the stupidity of jealousy pass until they were about ready too die themselves. Why is kindness so hard to understand or accept for some people? She could’ve talked real bad about them or turned her back in their time of need. But, mama believed in loving people into the truth of God’s kingdom.

One day, I was feeling like I was the lowest thing in God’s earth, and just the way she cupped my face and told me I was just as good as anyone alive, made me believe I could do anything. There were many times after I left home that I depended on her strength and her prayers. To this day I can feel the strength, authority and love in her hands while they encircled my face.

In our segregated town, my grandma refused to allow me to go to any backdoors for service. If businesses wouldn’t serve me because of the color of my skin, but would take my money, I couldn’t go to the backdoor, side-door or any window. Definitely I couldn’t spend her money inside stores where I couldn’t try on clothes or hats before I bought them; just because my skin was Black. Mama said my money spent like everyone’s, and it didn’t have to be spent in this town. Shopping trips to Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas City, Kansas were so much fun. We shopped and ate in some of the biggest stores and restaurants I’d ever seen. Most of the things we bought, the local stores in our small town didn’t have them anyway.

No one looked or dressed like me, between our trips and my mama in Minnesota (Different story, same strength). I remember my grandma going to the best clothes store in town (with me in tow) asking to see the manager or owner. Early when we came to Kansas, she clarified in person if they had a policy of not serving Negro’s. Wow, did that leave him and his sales staff a little red and stumbling for words. He explained none of the Negro’s ever came into the store. From then on, he sort of became a personal buyer for mama, usually finding something very tailored, very special for a special lady.

The whole town wasn’t segregated, but enough of it was. Grown folk would try to keep conversation from the kids. But the violence, the hate, the looks, the whispers or the outright, “Negra, git’ out my way,” was enough to keep hate and distrust alive in our increasing minds. Memories ugly, just like memories good refuse to die.

My grandma, my teacher taught me priceless lessons in experiencing people as they are. There were few times I saw mama angry. But this day, I shall never forget coming home from school with my left hand almost double its size. I’m left-handed, and was in fourth grade. The teacher didn’t think this was the right hand to use, so she hit my hand, many times that day to teach me to use my right hand. When mama, Sis.Simmons, as she was known in the Negro community, (Mrs. Simmons in the white), came back to the school, this teacher was very surprised. My teacher started to tell Frieda what she believed, and was instantly corrected as to what my grandmother’s name was. Then she started to tell mama how and why she hit my hand so many times. Mama sent me out of the room to wait in the hall. Over the protest of my teacher mama shut the door. I could vaguely hear mama’s voice, and this time, it sure didn’t sound like angels singing, but like a roaring lion protecting her cub. I never got hit again, nothing ever happened to mama for being uppity or out of place, so I know God was watching over her REAL good.

Music being a major part of mama’s life, our choir was always well received. She went on to establish a Men’ Chorus. Men came to practice once every other week from as far away as eighty miles. These men, under mama’s direction shined, and were known all over Kansas - The New Hope Baptist Church Men’s Choir.

Today, at ninety-three this young lady lives in Minnesota. She’s still praying, still teaching, and singing the praises and truths of Jesus Christ. Mama is one who has followed the dictates of Christ to go into the highways and byways, and preach the gospel. The songs she sang then and now; she still lives. If there are people who have never read the Bible, but want to see in the flesh a living example of Christian love, they’d be blessed to meet her. In her living, she continues to allow the love of Jesus Christ to flow through her. Mama still teaches Missionary, plays piano during Sunday school, visits the sick, and wherever she’s called to go.

My Grandmother, now a great, a great-great grandma is the very example of this song –
“My Living Shall Not Be in Vain”.

Songs Of My Heart - PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM AND ALL BLEESINGS FLOW

Words: Thom­as Ken, 1674. These lyr­ics, sung as the Dox­ol­o­gy in many church­es, are ac­tu­al­ly the last verse of a long­er hymn, Awake, My Soul, and with the Sun.

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Many of our services started with this song. When I sing this song, it is more than just a song. I hope my life for today can be a life of praise. So many things can happen in the course of a day, and I'm glad all my hope is in my Father from whom all blessings flow. I need the tiune of God my Creator, my Father, my Dad. I need God the Son, my Savior, my friend and comforter. I need so much today God the Holy Spirit to lead me through this day, to keep me in the perfect will of God.

Songs Of My Heart - LEAD ME, GUIDE ME

Psalm 31:3
"Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me."


FROM the time I was a lil' bitty girl, I remember the old folks singing this song. Daddy wasn't crazy when he said he wanted all the kids to learn all the hymns in the Gospel Pear Song Book. He knew there would come a day and time when we needed help, and these old songs would be embedded in our memories. More than once, including today, have I cried out Lead me Oh Lord. I am weak and I need your strength and power to guiede me over my weakest hour. Bring me through the darkness Your face to see - LEAD ME, OH LORD, LEAD ME.

Surely I'm not the only one out there in Blogger land who can relate to this song. But if I am, Thank You Lord for guiding me back into the safety of Your love.

Verse:
I am weak and I need Thy strength and power,
To help me over my weakest hour.
Let me through the darkness Thy face to see,
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.

Chorus
Lead me, guide me along the way,
For if you lead me I cannot stray.
Lord let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.

Help me tread in the paths of righteousness.
Be my aid when Satan and sin oppress.
I am putting all my trust in Thee:
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.

I am lost if you take your hand from me,
I am blind without Thy light to see.
Lord just always to me thy servant be,
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.

Chorus
Lead me, guide me along the way,
For if you lead me I cannot stray.
Lord let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.

Songs Of My Heart - HE'S THAT KIND OF FRIEND

In this day when people are losing jobs, and some families seem to be breaking up, violence is on the upsweep, and evil that folks do to each other is taking on a new and increasing volumn, WE NEED A FRIEND. In my life I know, that I know, that I know, that Jesus is that kind of friend who is always with me and there for me. Within my heart, when I took Jesus in a new life did began. I'm not saying everything was rosey - no; trouble still assulted in various ways, but the peace that passes all understanding in devastating circumstances was in my life. Yes, I reccomend Jesus, because He will never leave or forsake us. No matter what we've done or where we've been His love, His peace, His forgiveness is there for us. There is also JOY. I'm not talking about happiness that comes and goes with the actions of others, or the getting or losing of stuff. Joy comes and stays, and carries us through whatever life throws at us. The Bible say, the joy of the Lord is my strength. And it's true. I love the times I cam joyfully say, "Thank You Jesus!!" I love those times when I'm so giddy and I know that the Lord is with me. He's that kind of friend.

Listen to the words of this song, and if you need this kind of friend, ask Him into your life, come to the Jesus. He's there for all of us. The Bible tells us that God would have EVERYONE SAVED from the grasp of Satan. Not all will respond, and that's our choice. In making our choice, He will NEVER turn us away when we seek His love and mercy. But if you have a need today, Come to the only friend who will never leave you - Jesus.

Verse 1
If you ever need a friend that sticks
closer than any brother,
I recommend Jesus, Jesus;
because He's that kind of friend.

Verse 2
He will never forsake you, even though
He knows everything there is to know about you;
I recommend Jesus, Jesus;
because He's that kind of friend.

Chorus 1
He'll walk right in front of you
to always protect you,
so the devil can't do you no harm.
He's faithful everyday
to help you along the way;
He's that kind of friend.

Chorus 2
He'll walk right in front of you
to always protect you,
(so the devil can't do you no harm).
If within your heart you take Him in,
New life will begin, (He's) that kind of friend, oh.

Songs Of My Heart - SOMETHING ABOUT THE NAME JESUS

Philipians 2:8-11

This is one of my ALL TIME favorites. When I think about the name of Jesus, and all that His name means and has come to mean in my life, I have to praise Him. When I hear this song, I know that in Jesus my life is secure and I am loved. I know that In Jesus whatever pain my body may be in, I am not alone. When I hear this song, and meditate on Jesus, and prais Him instead of complaining and allowing myself wallowing time, my hurt actually subsides. When I hear this song I know that my time here on this earth is temporary, and my home is eternal with my Lord.

The name of Jesus brings peace. I don't know if y'all ever had demons (human or spiritual) in your life. I have. I know that just the mention of His name drives off every evil that tries to bring down one of His followers. I know who I belong to, but there have been times in my life where I've played the harlot (just being honest), and went looking for something other than what my Lord had to offer. For the minute, sin was fun and I thought I had it made. But Ohhhhh, oh, oh the long lasting affect brought me to my knees. Through it all, Jesus was there all the time, ready and waiting, and able to fight my battle. Just calling His name from my heart to my mouth is POWER.

Something 'bout the name JESUS is the sweetest name I know. I wish for everyone to know the name, and experience the power and love He has to offer.

Songs Of My Heart - I GO TO THE ROCK

Deuteronomy 32:1-4, 2 Samuel 22:1-7



DOTTIE RAMBO: Wrote her first song on a Morganfield, Kentucky creek bank at the age of eight years old. By the time she was twelve, she had learned to play her brother’s guitar by listening to broadcasts of the Grand OLE Opry on WSM radio, Nashville, Tennessee. In 1999, Dottie took the stage with Whitney Houston to receive the Dove award for Best Traditional Gospel Song with “I Go To The Rock.” Houston performed this in the movie, “The Preacher’s Wife,” the soundtrack of which sold double platinum—the largest selling gospel recording ever.

Her songs include legendary hits like, “We Shall Behold Him,” “I Go To The Rock,” “I Will Glory In The Cross,” “Sheltered In The Arms Of God,” “He Looked Beyond My Fault (and Saw My Need).”

Decisions, Desicions! I have to make desicions and my head is confused. This song has been on my mind since I came out of church yesterday, and I know the only place to lay all my questions, doubts and fears is at the feet of Jesus, my Rock. Sometimes I can't talk to friends and relatives.


Where do I go when there's nobody else to turn to?
Who do I talk to when nobody wants to listen?
Who do I lean on when there's no foundation stable?

I go to The Rock
I know He's able
I go to The Rock

Where do I go, where do I go,
When the storms of life are threatening?
Who do I turn to when those winds of sorrow blow?
And is there a refuge in the time of tribulation?

I go to The Rock
I know He's able
I go to The Rock

I go to the rock for my salvation
I go to the stone that the builders rejected
I run to the mountain and The Mountain stands by me
When the earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to The Rock

I go to The Rock (4x)
You can go to The Rock (4x)
Oh I can go
I go to The Rock (8x)

Chorus:
When the earth all around me is sinking sand
On Christ, the solid rock I stand
When I need a shelter, when I need a friend
I go to The Rock

Songs Of My Heart - BE THOU MY VISION

The lyrics of "Be Thou My Vision" derive from an eighth-century Irish poem,"Rob tu mo bhoile, a Comdi cirde." Little is known about the person who created such moving poetry. Though their identity remains a mystery, "Be Thou My Vision" stands as a living testimony to their faith-filled heart.

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:34

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;
Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;
Thou my soul's Shelter, Thou my high Tower:
Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heaven's Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

My best time of day is when I awake with the thought of Christ in my head and on my heart. There is NOTHING I have found so satisfying as knowing His presence is with me. Whatever I face in the day to come, I know He's got me covered. And I do look forward to that day when my vision will be clear, and I see my Savior as He is.

Songs Of My Heart - AT THE CROSS

John 11: 25,26 ...I am the Resurrection, and the life; he that believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Believe you this?

Words: Isaac Watts, Hymns and Spir­it­u­al Songs, 1707; Ralph E. Hud­son wrote the re­frain in 1885.

Watts’ fa­ther was Non­con­form­ist im­pris­oned twice for his re­li­gious views. Isaac learned Greek, Latin, and He­brew un­der Mr. Pin­horn, Rec­tor of All Saints, and head­mas­ter of the Gram­mar School in South­amp­ton. Isaac’s taste for verse showed it­self in ear­ly child­hood, and his prom­ise caused a lo­cal doc­tor and other friends to of­fer him a un­i­ver­si­ty ed­u­ca­tion, as­sum­ing he would be or­dained in the Church of Eng­land. How­ev­er, Isaac de­clined and in­stead en­tered a Non­con­for­mist Acad­e­my at Stoke New­ing­ton in 1690, un­der the care of Thom­as Rowe, pas­tor of the In­de­pen­dent cong­re­ga­tion at Gir­dlers’ Hall; Isaac joined this con­gre­ga­tion in 1693.

Watts left the Acad­e­my at age 20 and spent two years at home; it was dur­ing this per­i­od that he wrote the bulk of his Hymns and Spir­it­u­al Songs. They were sung from man­uscripts in the South­amp­ton Cha­pel, and pub­lished 1707-1709.

The next six years of his life were again spent at Stoke New­ing­ton, work­ing as tu­tor to the son of em­i­nent Pur­i­tan John Har­topp. The in­tense stu­dy of these years is re­flect­ed in the the­o­log­ic­al and phil­o­soph­ic­al ma­ter­i­al he sub­se­quent­ly pub­lished.

Watts preached his first ser­mon at age 24. In the next three years, he preached fre­quent­ly, and in 1702 was or­dained as pas­tor of the In­de­pen­dent con­gre­ga­tion in Mark Lane. At that time he moved in­to the house of a Mr. Hollis in the Mi­nor­ies. His health be­gan to fail the next year, and Sam­u­el Price was ap­point­ed as his as­sist­ant in the min­is­try. In 1712, a fe­ver shat­tered his con­sti­tu­tion, and Price be­came co-pas­tor of the con­gre­ga­tion, which had moved to a new cha­pel in Bu­ry Street. It was at this time that Isaac be­came the guest of Sir Thom­as Ab­ney. He lived with Ab­ney (and lat­er Abney’s wi­dow) the rest of his life, main­ly at The­o­balds in Hert­ford­shire, then for 13 years at Stoke New­ing­ton.

THIS SONG has got to be in my top 10 songs of when I think about the Lord, it makes me want to SHOUT!! Knowing what a worm (yes, I said it) I was, and could be again if Jesus Christ were not in my life, brings tears to my eyes. That God loves us all so much that He sacrificed His son for us, for me. The crimes that I have done, the raunchiness of my actions, He paid for with His life. He died/I lived. His Father, my God, Our creator looked at Him and pronounced - GUILTY; God looked at me and said COME, I am forgiven, I am loved and precious in the sight of God through the shed blood of Jesus.

"But drops of grief can ne'er repay the debt of love I owe." No amount of sorrow for my actions can repay for the love that christ showed for me. I am so for real when I tell you Jesus is alive and well, and talks with us each day.

My first book, 'Meet Me At The Cross, One Woman's Testimony' (http://www.lulu.com/content/1911953) tells about going to the cross to meet the Savior. If you make the trip He will surely meet you there. You don't have to prepare, clean up, get straight - Just go with an open heart to recieve. NEVER, NEVER can I go back and take on all the burdens of my life before Christ. Whatever happens good or bad, losses or gains I know I can make it because of Christ.

Alas! and did my Savior bleed
And did my Sovereign die?
Would He devote that sacred head
For such a worm as I.

Refrain

At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!
___________

Was it for crimes that I had done
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!

Thus might I hide my blushing face
While His dear cross appears,
Dissolve my heart in thankfulness,
And melt my eyes to tears.

But drops of grief can ne’er repay
The debt of love I owe:
Here, Lord, I give my self away
’Tis all that I can do.

Songs Of My Heart - IT'S ANOTHER DAY'S JOURNEY AND I'M GLAD ABOUT IT

These are The Mighty Clouds of Joy. If you like group music, you'll love to hear their many, many recordings.

I don't know who wrote this song, but I'm glad they did. Many have sang it as a solo, a group, and as a choir.

When I sing it, I just love to recount how the Lord came into my life and why I'm glad about it today. When I think about going on a journey, I know I'm moving. I'm not sitting or standing stagnant, just catchin' whatever comes my way. No I'm taking action today. There is purpose in today, and I'm going to find it.

What does it profit me to dwell in sorrow, aches and pains, hurts of the past or even yesterdays mess-ups? I can linger there and become depressed, obsessed, and doubtful of today, making myself and everyone else around me miserable - or I can be glad that my Lord has given me new mercy, new grace for today. There's another song that says, "Pick Yourself Up, Brush Yourself Off, And Start All Over Again." This is what 'Another Days Journey' says to me.

The old folks used to pray, "Thank you Lord for a reasonable portion of my health and strength." I may not have it all, but I thank You for what I have. They used to say, "Thank you for clothing me in my right mind," recognizing that we could have woke up this morning totally messed up." So I'm Glad for this another day.

I don't know where some of you came from, but I know the Lord brought me from a mighty long way. Yes, from lovin' the alcohol and not allowing it to ruin my life - He brought me to sobriety. From molestation, rejection and depression - Yes, Jesus brought me, and I'm so glad to be alive to encourage someone today to KEEP ON GOING, DON'T GIVE UP. This is a new day, and I'm glad about it.

This is the Day the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in this day. I shall not die, but live and tell of His mighty works - I Am The Work Of HIS Hands, and so are you.

Blessings Y'all!

It's another days journey and I'm Glad
C: I'm glad about
L: I'm so glad
C: I'm glad about
L: I'm so glad
C: I'm glad about
L: It's another days journey and I'm Glad
C: I'm glad about, I'm so glad to be here

L: It's another day for Jesus and I'm Glad
C: I'm glad about
L: I'm so glad
C: I'm glad about
L: I'm so glad
C: I'm glad about
L: It's another day for Jesus and I'm Glad
C: I'm glad about, I'm so glad to be here

Songs Of My Heart - WHEN THE STORMS OF LIFE ARE RAGING, STAND BY ME

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7l4xjXfRwo

I guess I'm an old soul. since I was a lil' bitty girl I have loved this song. Even at a young age, things happen in our lives that we need to look for comfort. I found much comfort in songs. The writer of this song must have known sorrow, and I'm so glad that he put it into words for all of us cling to.

In this day and age I'm sure that thousands are going through tribulations, faults and failures, persecutions, battles in court or on the for real battlefield, and (like me) growing old and feeble. Through it all, I know to call on the Lord, for He is the only one who is there 24/7. Say Amen somebody!!

Tindley is known as one of the “found­ing fa­thers of Amer­i­can Gos­pel mu­sic.” The son of slaves, he taught him­self to read and write at age 17. He was a driv­en young man, work­ing as a jan­i­tor while at­tend­ing night school, and earn­ing his di­vin­i­ty de­gree through a cor­re­spond­ence course. In 1902, he be­came pas­tor of the Cal­va­ry Meth­o­dist Epis­co­pal Church in Phil­a­del­phia, Penn­syl­vania, the church where he had ear­li­er been the jan­i­tor. At the time of Tindley’s death, his church had 12,500 mem­bers. The Tind­ley Tem­ple Unit­ed Meth­o­dist Church in Phil­a­del­phia was named af­ter him. Tindley’s “I’ll Over­come Some Day” was the ba­sis for the Amer­i­can ci­vil rights an­them “We Shall Over­come,” pop­u­lar­ized in the 1960’s.

Sometimes things just don't go right; like this Post. For the life of me I cannot find this song on Youtube, Godtube or whatever, I don't even know how to get the one I sang onto this site. Maybe some things are not meant to be. If anyone knows where I can download a video of this or an audio, please let me know.

When the storms of life are raging,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the storms of life are raging,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the world is tossing me
Like a ship upon the sea
Thou Who rulest wind and water,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of tribulation,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of tribulation,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When the hosts of hell assail,
And my strength begins to fail,
Thou Who never lost a battle,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of faults and failures,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of faults and failures,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When I do the best I can,
And my friends misunderstand,
Thou Who knowest all about me,
Stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of persecution,
Stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of persecution,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When my foes in battle array
Undertake to stop my way,
Thou Who savèd Paul and Silas,
Stand by me (stand by me).

When I’m growing old and feeble,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When I’m growing old and feeble,
Stand by me (stand by me);
When my life becomes a burden,
And I’m nearing chilly Jordan,
O Thou “Lily of the Valley,”
Stand by me (stand by me).

SONGS OF MY HEART - JESUS WANTS ME FOR A SUNBEAM

JESUS WANTS ME FOR A SUNBEAM
To shine for Him each day
In every way try to please Him,
At home, at work, at play.

A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
Jesus wants me for a sunbeam,
A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
I'll be a sunbeam for Him.

Jesus wants me to be loving,
And kind to all I see;
Showing how pleasant and happy
His little one can be.

A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
Jesus wants me for a sunbeam;
A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
I'll be a sunbeam for Him.

I will ask Jesus to help me,
To keep my heart from sin;
Ever reflecting His goodness,
And always shine for Him.

A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
Jesus wants me for a sunbeam;
A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
I'll be a sunbeam for Him.

I'll be a sunbeam for Jesus;
I can if I but try;
Serving Him moment by moment,
Then live with Him on high.

A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
Jesus wants me for a sunbeam;
A sunbeam, a sunbeam,
I'll be a sunbeam for Him.


Words: Nellie Talbot. Rack­ing her brain for ma­ter­i­al for her Sun­day school class in rur­al Mis­sou­ri, she thought to her­self, “How can you say there’s no­thing to teach about when you have the sun and the sky and the trees and the flow­ers!” Hence the theme of this song.

Music: Ed­win O. Ex­cell, 1900. He ded­i­cat­ed this song to his grand­son, Ed­win O. Excell, Jr.


This is another children's song that says a lot.

As Nelli realized as long as we can see or feel the beauty of God's creation all around us, there is something to praise Him for. My grandma taught me this song when I was a child in the Sunbeam Band at New Hope Baptist Church, in Chanute, Kansas. I was about eight years old. Every Saturday we met for about 1 1/2 hours. We learned short scriptures, and told each other what that scripture meant for us, we sang songs like this one, did crafts, learned to stitch by making blankets for our dolls, or learned how to make aprons as gifts for our moms. At the end we always knew we would be treated to too sweet kool Aid and cookies. We closed by each of us saying a sentence prayer, then the Lord's Prayer together, and sang Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam. It was a time all of us kids looked forward to.

I recently (yesterday) learned that a very dear friend of mine also learned this song as a child, and taught it to her kids. My friend is 90 years young, and in the last stages of transitioning from this life to eternal life with Jesus she loves. At her bedside her daughter and I were talking about songs she loved, and she told me about this one. We sang it softly together, both of us very surprised that the other knew it. Her daughter shared that her mom told her she was about five or six when she learn this song. As she listened to the words that Jesus wanted her for a sumbeam, she had better learn to be a sunbeam.

I'm happy to say she is a GREAT success at being a sunbeam for Jesus. This is a woman that shines for Him, is loving and kind, reflects and shares His goodness with others, and holds Him preciously in her heart. And I believe in every way she has pleased Him. Her legacy lives on through her sons and daughters, grands and all who have come to know her, and able to gleen from her wisdom. The Bible says, "Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies. "My dear friend is this woman, and she will shine as a sunbeam for Jesus through eternity.

SONGS OF MY HEART - JESUS LOVES ME

One of the most sung songs in history is the first verse of JESUS LOVES ME. Did you know there are two other verses that are completely beautiful – even powerful.

Jesus loves me this I know,
For the Bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak, but He is strong

Chorus:

Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus Love me
Yes, Jesus loves me, for the Bible
Tells me so.

Jesus loves me He who died
Heaven's gates are open wide.
He will wash away my sins
Let His little child come home.

Jesus take this heart of mine
Make it pure and wholly Thine.
Thou has bled and died for me.
I will henceforth live for Thee.

It seems to me that we only teach our children the first verse because a lot of adults don't know the second and third themselves; and it's neutral. Okay, no one likes to think of our babies as sinners, but the Bible says we are born into sin. Yes, there's the age of innocence, but I believe we must teach our children about sin and about love, and most of all that Jesus dies for sinners, which we are. Jesus alone can was away our sins. How are they going to know that the heart of mankind is not pure without Christ?

In this song they learn so much about the shed blood of Jesus and His love for us, as well as our love for Him. I believe when we teach the truth of Christ, our kids can handle it, and it helps them to handle life. Yes Jesus loves me, Yes Jesus loves me, Yes Jesus loves me, the Bible tells me so.

Jesus take this heart of mine make it pure and wholly thine. A prayer for everyday for all of us no matter what our age. He has bled and died for me, I vow to live for Him. This isn't normally an Easter song, but today I can see where this song fits perfectly for this weekends praise and worship time.

But let us not forget that though our Savior suffered and died for us, He AROSE!! We celebrate our living Lord as we all remember JESUS LOVES ME!!

SONGS OF MY HEART - LORD LEAD ME DAY BY DAY

LORD, LEAD ME DAY BY DAY


The words of a song…

“Lord keep me day by day in a pure and perfect way.
I want to live. I want to live Lord, in a building
Not made by hands.”

And I add, in a city not made by hands, by a new name not given to me by mortal parents, but by my Heavenly Father.

Over the years I’ve learned that getting to all those wonderful places is a process; a process that has hills, sometimes rocky and sharp, narrow and twisted. A process that has pitfalls and valleys, sometimes dark and lonely, often filled with shadows of the past, and fears of what lies ahead.

In this new year of 2009 I am determined to follow the leading of God’s Holy Spirit. He has a job; we are His assignment and He is our Devine Leader; God our Father who created us and waits to be united with us again; God the Son, Jesus who came to earth in love, as and our example, our Savior who returned to our Father as our mediator, Lord and King; and God the Holy Spirit, friend, helper, our power source, our comforter, our internal map who leads us right back to our original home.

This is the day the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in this day. On this day of April 8,2009 I look back, and I don’t have to wonder how I got over. I know it was only through the divine guidance of God. I count the many blessings of 2006 – resolving health issues, reunification of uncontrolled children to a sometimes-reckless parent; riding the roller coaster of productive writing and grandeur thoughts into a valley of stagnant thoughts and laziness of hand. I count the blessings of ministering to hurting people, whether face to face, written word or songs of praise. I count the blessings of receiving through them the healing balm of reassuring love of being in God’s will and following His plan.

2008 has presented open doors of creativity and financial opportunity. With gifts of writing, drawing and cooking God has blessed me with business opportunities. I count the blessings of old friendships continued, and the excitement into the exploration of new friendships. In 2008 there have been losses; physical loss of close friends who will be sorely missed, loved ones who can never be replaced; but I have the realization that we shall meet again in that wonderful, Holy City prepared by God Almighty.

Now in a tic of the clock or a blink of the eye we find ourselves in the new year of 2009; 365 days of, what? For the rest of my life I want to say, “Yes Lord!” I want to be obedient, to listen for and hear a still small voice saying, “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way, walk in it, when you turn to the right hand, and when you turn to the left"(Isaiah 30:21). I want to be a follower of Christ; not easily angered or frustrated in Psalm 25:9, the Bible says, “The meek will He guide in judgment; and the meek will He teach His way. He will guide me in making decisions of 2007, even unto death. The Bible, the Word of God, our literal map to salvation says, “For this is our God forever and ever: and He will guide us even till death" (Psalm 48:14). I take great pleasure in knowing that I am not alone – ever.

In the middle of uncertain situations He is with us. When we are like one who is blind and cannot detect exactly what may be before us, God leads us. “I will bring the blind by a way they know not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make the darkness light before them, and the crooked things straight. These things will I do to them and not forsake them" (Isaiah 42:16).

I know this to be true. I’m the kid who couldn’t get more than three words out of my mouth in front of strangers; tongue-tied, shaking and sometimes reduced to tears. But, this God, My God has led me, taught me to stand before hundreds to sing His praises, speak His Word. This my Heavenly Father has taught me that with and through the power of Jesus Christ, I can do all things that He has purposed for my life. I have learned that the spirit of fear that occasionally tries to envelope me – is not from above. "For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind" (1 Timothy 1:7). So when my mind is uncertain and fear begins to wrap me in dark clouds I can remember, Jesus is there to lighten my way, guide mmy feet into the way of peace (Luke 1:79).

In this year of 2009, there will be tests. As difficult times come into my life, those are times to remember, where God has brought me from; delivered me of; and is preparing me for my intended purpose. Many years ago when I was still so very full of me (sometimes still am), I remember reading and praying Psalm 119, the teach me parts; teach me Your will; teach me Your statutes (laws); teach me Your way. Though I prayed for it, I wasn’t ready to follow and learn from hardly anyone – let alone go down a path I really didn’t understand. On the outside I rebelled, people saw my selfishness and attitude plus, but God looked on my heart and heard that very small cry for help that only his ears can hear. He heard me, remembered me. Like a shepherd He gently lead me out of the crooked places of my life onto a plain path.

There were times I tried to break His hold on my life because the way of the world appeared to be filled with more excitement, more satisfaction. Whenever I made the choice to take the wide road of acceptance – partying, drinking, and sex, I paid the consequences of my choices. But the truth of God’s Word is powerful, and always there to guide me back into the light and safety of Christ. There is no situation that is beyond the reach of God that His loving, powerful hand cannot lead us out of.

This journey, adventure we make toward our eternal destination is not easy by the world’s standard. But Jesus tells us His yoke is easy, His burden is light, cause we don’t have to go it alone. The more I learn to lean on Jesus and the word of God rather than the call of my flesh, the less time I give place to Satan. We are never alone or without help.

Just as Jesus journeyed through His life to the cross where He laid down His life for us, for the forgiveness of our sins, for us to be one with Him, and one with God. We journey to the cross where we see and confess our sins, acknowledge our need for Jesus our Savior, and accept His love and guidance. Jesus says, I am the light of the world (John 8:12). Jesus says, "I am the door: by me if any man enter in he shall be saved… I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd gives His life for His sheep." He knows us by name, He knows where we are, He knows are address – even if we don’t have a permanent residence.

Jesus says, "I lay down my life, that I may take it up again… my sheep (followers)hear my voice and I know them, and I give to them and I know them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither (This is soooo good)shall any man pluck (take) them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them to me is greater than all (YEAH God!!!), and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one." How cool is that? We are one with Christ, one with God, one with His Holy Spirit who is leading us through our life here to our eternal home, where we will see HIm face to face. Whether we part this life through death or through His rapturous return –

He’s Coming Back Again to receive us into His Glory.

I want to live Lord in that building not made by hands.

Lead On Holy Spirit!