Songs Of My Heart - HEAVEN IS THE PLACE I WANT TO BE

Gospel, spirituals, jazz, country, and blue grass; I thank God that He gave me songs. 2009 is gone on bye, and we've entered into a new adventure for 2010. Christmas Eve night my pastor, Baron Miller talked about the bitter and the sweet of the past year. So as I started writing my thoughts two weeks ago, I've been doing more reflecting and prayer about the past and future. I've spent a lot of time asking the LORD for stuff, even spiritual stuff. But what I've really wanted, and he has granted my request is to be used by Him. I want to live so that God can use me, I want to walk in His presence and feel His tender touch, and be guided by His Holy Spirit.

This year He allowed me setbacks in ministry (getting my pastoral license), which was a good thing. Not getting it when I first applied took me into further study of the Bible, my relationship with people and Christ, and His with me and His people. Not getting my license caused me to really think about the why's and the costs of my decision to pursue ministry, and follow His leading. I did get it on the second try. Failure lead to more growth.

2009 has been a year of acomplishment; I finished my second book, "Lord, Take Me Back." It's being edited. My third book (Poetry) is almost done, "Somebody Prayed For Me." He has allowed a very special friendship to form with Pastors Anthony and Christina Westbrook, who brought me back to an old love - teaching, doing workshops for women. With Christina, we've seen the The Bellingham Community Gospel Choir continue to grow, and the gospel be spread through music. This year, I've been able to minister with people from various churches throughout Washington, and from different countries (Canada, Africa and Japan).

2009 has not been without its devastating moments. Sickness struck my family in a big way; my mom, gramma, son, the deaths of folks at the nursing home who were there in 2001 when I first came out here, and the death of my best friend for over 50 years. Sickness in my own body, finances and financial opportunities have come and gone. Yet through it all, I have seen His love well up in the hearts of those who love and trust Him, and God has given me a song to sing and a sermon to teach in every situation.

I'm learning not to take this life for granted. I'm grateful for the people He has put in my life this year; men and women, young and old, acros the nation. Some of these people we've never met, but we are family just the same, who love the Lord, and they also are learning to grow in Him, trust Him more. I'm grateful for the relationships I have with non-believers, and always praying that one day they too will not only seek but receive Jesus who lives in me.

Whatever 2010 brings I know Jesus will be with me, I know I will have a song to sing, and I know that the end result of my praying, singing, teaching and preaching is to win souls for the Kingdom, to one day be gathered in Heaven, hearing Him say to each of us, "Well done my good and faithful servant." In 2010 I will say and sing with my whole heart, "Where He leads me I will follow."

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 - 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 - 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.

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.