Stop The Charade!
(On behalf of those who’re hurting)
You’re discouraged, struggling, hurting, wanting help — are in need of serious prayer,
And desire evidence that God is real, and that other Christians really care.
I mean, really care — not the usual platitudes, that pie in the sky stuff,
Which what little faith and hope that you’ve managed to muster is destined to snuff.
Yes, “I’ll pray for you,” they say — that’s if they remember, being busy and all that,
And as they bid their leave, it’s, “Chin up, we’re all struggling,” and the proverbial pat.
Come their prayer by rote time, you may get mentioned, but not for long, nor fervently,
And there you remain, racking your brain, and thinking “Where’s true Christianity?”
You hear them talking about faith, hope, love and care, even the power of prayer,
But oh dear, amidst it all, it seems that they have forgotten that you’re still there.
They seldom, if ever, get back to you, nor really wrestle on your behalf,
Which leaves you feeling much worse, and thinking that the whole thing’s just a joke, a laugh.
“Stop the charade!” you’d love to scream, or perhaps you lose it, and do let such fly,
Which well and truly sees them back off, and the next minute, even “Don’t judge me!” cry.
Anything but admit that they should’ve done more, (and they should’ve, in your case),
But isn’t that the way, for how many people such truth are willing to face?
And so you crawl back into your little hole, feeling like throwing it all in,
Wondering where God has got to, and those Christians who are in fact genuine —
You know, those who truly make the effort, willingly, ceaselessly, gut wrenchingly,
And who keep in contact like they should, talking and acting encouragingly.
Yes...
Some Christians seem far too busy playing church — they’re too involved in this or that,
Or too caught up in their own pursuits, thus haven’t time to visit, nor to chat.
So you have to make it on your own, if you can, and many can’t, and fall away,
Having been left alone and unattended for too long, or fed scraps like a stray.
Yes, you’re tired of it all, have been there a number of times, unfortunately,
Trying to stand on your own spiritual feet, but not finding it easy.
If not slugged by the devil, slugged by fellow Christians who neglect and pat the head,
Too busy, distracted, engrossed — or — no, perhaps some things are best left unsaid.
By Lance Landall
Dear Sandra
I was saddened to hear of your most unfortunate experience and departure from Christianity,
For such not only pains my heart, but far more so, the heart of He who suffered so dreadfully on Calvary.
Christ knew that your new found walk-cum-daily cross wouldn’t be easy, for Satan is not our only enemy,
But also those who are simply Christian in name, be they deluded, or hiding behind Christianity.
The biggest tests-cum-trials often come from our own — in this case, fellow Christians — and even those ones who are true,
For sanctification is the work of a lifetime, hence those meantime things that our brothers and sisters oft do.
We don’t magically become like Jesus the moment we surrender our all to Him, hence that saving grace,
And to be honest, we’ll always err at times, for we’re fallen creatures who this sad reality need to face.
And sometimes we err terribly, still struggling with our old self, not to mention background, circumstances and trials,
And we, most regretful of our wrongdoings, and our succumbing to any of the devil’s beguiling spells —
The latter being the devil’s temptations — all of which can or does impact on other folk, unfortunately,
And which also damages our Christian witness, or even worse, puts other folk right off Christianity.
But having said that though, the devil has also and always operated very cunningly from within,
For the best way to destroy something is from the inside out, and to use hypocrites to thwart the genuine.
Or if not hypocrites, those who have no place there at all, come agents of the devil who work destructively,
That is, within each congregation — both personally and officially — and within Christianity.
Hence why we must keep our eyes on Jesus alone, and never put our faith in others, or denominations,
For both people and organisations will always be flawed, and hence those common complaints and accusations.
After all, we live in an imperfect world, a world full of broken vessels to whom sinning comes naturally,
All of which is why we’ll always be disappointed by what we experience and see, unfortunately.
Well, Sandra, rather than run the risk of repeating myself, there is one final thing that I would like to say,
And that is: Please return to the safety of the Ark — those loving arms of Christ — He who'll never ever dismay.
For any Christian who lets anyone or anything come between them and their salvation is but a fool.
And over their folly, eternal loss and coming destruction, Satan and his evil cohorts no doubt drool.
You may consider those words a little harsh, Sandra, but your salvation’s no small matter, let alone that cost,
That being, all that suffering that Christ went through on your behalf in order to ensure that you wouldn’t be lost.
That is, if you remain faithful to Him, despite those things you experience and see within Christianity,
Coming from fellow Christians — who, by the way, given that Christ is also our judge — may not receive eternity.
Your concerned friend…
By Lance Landall
“Many
will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy
name? and in Thy name cast out devils? and in Thy name done many
wonderful works?’ And then will I profess unto them, ‘I never knew you:
depart from Me, ye that work iniquity’ ” (Matt 7:22,23, KJV).
Regarding New Christians...
Please take great care when it comes to newcomers to the Christian Faith, lest they be forced to walk before they can crawl,
And by that I’m meaning, not burdening them too soon with this or that, for such is most likely to see them sprawl.
For growth takes time, as old ways must give way to knew, and letting go isn’t an instant thing, nor is it easy,
And many still have issues they’re dealing with, they vulnerable and fragile, hence why some up and leave, sadly.
And dare we be the cause via neglect or thoughtlessness, an expectation that is far too high initially,
They exiting as quickly as they entered, another wound now, and they perhaps anti Christianity.
Or upset by platitudes — that too heavenly minded to be any earthly good thing — or hypocrisy;
That disappointment at finding what they’d hoped they had left behind, that lack of difference-cum-just as worldly.
The devil’s on the tail of us all, he and his cohorts acting like a pack of wolves, hungry, mean and angry,
They seeking easy prey — the newest, weakest and trouble besieged — and snapping at their tender heels viciously.
And as for those ones who’re besieged by troubles — well, that’s often thanks to the devil and his nasty comrades too,
Who have a habit of using other members to do their dirty work for them — a sure to work avenue.
Hence why the newcomer, weak Christian, or Christian besieged with troubles, needs to be surrounded with love and care,
They conscientiously watched over by the rest of the flock who’re more battle savvy and experience share.
For when the vulnerable and fragile are left alone, they’re so easily savaged by evil marauders,
And hence why so many fall by the way, thanks to external, internal, demonic or earthy saboteurs.
Yes, the Christian walk is far from easy — well, if one’s walking truly, that is — for Satan hates the committed,
And trials are necessary for building character-cum-inner strength, which is why such trials are permitted.
But whether folk are newcomers or seasoned Christians, they should receive due attention, such being Christianity,
And thus ordered by Christ, for those who don’t love and treat others like our Saviour does, don’t deserve eternity.
By Lance Landall
Burdened, Wounded, And Anxious
For many poor struggling souls who’re beset with this or that, the upward path can often seem quite overwhelming,
And hence why within their sighing heart, the joy of Heaven’s promises can fail to fully register or ring.
Oh, how they need encouragement, given that they’re so vulnerable and alone, like stragglers behind some herd,
And so badly in need of some compassionate passer-by, one with a comforting arm and uplifting word.
The upward path is oft strewn with trials of its own, which are harder to meet if one’s already bruised and weary,
And yes, many are burdened with such unfair weights before they even begin — weights that seem too large to carry.
And on the way, bearing their hampering load, they see so many others who are seemingly hurrying past,
And who, midst their spiritual busyness and personal pursuits, have neither stopped nor caring questions asked.
Yes, perhaps smugly but erroneously assured, cheerfully oblivious to their lack of Christ-like love,
And not so much heading upwards, but appearing so, watched by He who knows the heart, and notes its contents above.
And who also sees those stragglers, perhaps more in sync with His Word and ways, but not as confident that they’re saved,
Though still attempting to put their faith and trust in the One whose deep love for them is now permanently engraved.
Oh, how these souls feel their need, know their wretchedness, and so desire to be free of those burdens that slow their pace,
And daring to hope that one soon coming day they’ll see their Saviour’s welcoming face, and feel His loving embrace.
Yes, sensitive souls who’re wrestling with all their inner demons, nursing heartache and bearing scars, and so in need,
And who, on their bended knee, (and too often overlooked and passed by), so often for heavenly help plead.
By Lance Landall
The Saddest Thing
The saddest thing of all, and a lesson that many soon learn is, that in our times of need, folk oft aren’t there,
And here I’m including Christians, for as we’ve been told, the love of many will wax cold, Earth’s End-time being near.
Hence why pain afflicting many will be all the deeper, their burden all the heavier, they more alone,
Given they’re the sad victims of any and every excuse-cum-charade, they having to cope on their own.
But no one should have to, for God has said otherwise, a command many aren’t taking too seriously,
They neglecting their Christian duty — doing nothing or too little — upsetting their Saviour terribly.
And meantime, they deludedly thinking they’re saved, they having failed the test, their fitness for Heaven lacking,
For Heaven isn’t for those who act indifferently, or perhaps selectively, Christ hardly their king.
When encouragement is needed, and folk are beset by gnawing distress say, others should always be there,
A roster ensuring support as long as it is needed, such ones surrounded by loving care and prayer.
For some things seem more than folk can bear, be such physical or emotional, and they, thus struggling badly,
Or simply battling the attacks of Satan that threaten to shipwreck their faith, they weakened by injury.
And oh, how they suffer more so, or fall by the wayside, many having festered within, gotten angry,
For though it doesn't pay to expect, they know that help should be there, such being the crux of Christianity.
And why the saddest lesson many soon learn is, that others oft aren’t there when needed, even though they should be,
And that for the hurt and struggling Christian, it’s often just God and them, who does take their plight seriously.
By Lance Landall
Don't Give Up
When folk aren’t there for you, and your cry for help or healing remains hanging in the air,
Don’t give up, don’t lose heart, but continue to persist and wrestle with God in prayer.
For God can do anything — nothing’s impossible for Him — that is, if it’s His will,
And why wouldn’t it be? Unless you’re asking for something that’s wrong, or that’d bring ill.
Therefore, you’ve more reason to be hopeful than not so, so don’t give in to despair,
But rather, continue in faith and hope, confident that there is power in prayer.
Though God allows suffering, that doesn’t mean He won’t remove it, (when He’s ready),
For trials are often for a season — that is, until they’ve achieved what’s heavenly.
Just as being positive can attract a better outcome, so it is when we pray,
For our loving God is touched by child-like faith, and “Yes” rather than “No” may well say.
And should He say “No,” then “No” it is, but there’s hardly victory where there’s no fight,
So continue to press your case, speaking your mind and baring your soul, with all your might.
Yes, make sure you go down fighting — don’t succumb to the comments of the faithless, who,
Given time, are less encouraging, and their initial belief and hope review.
Though they may drop off, (one by one), make sure that you’re the last one standing, expectantly,
For God often waits until the last moment, rewarding those who wait patiently.
And don’t be discouraged by reminders of those who weren’t healed, nor had their lot eased,
For though true, such folk have become a handy reply, that no doubt sees Satan pleased.
What Christian doesn’t know of such? And there’s a time and place, at the end of the day;
Yes, better to dwell on brighter outcomes, lest you become discouraged, and weakly pray.
And what a difference it makes when others are there throughout it all, as they should be,
Constantly upholding folk in prayer, making regular contact, personally.
But sadly, such is often not the case, and the journey harder and more lonely,
And why many give up who otherwise wouldn’t have, forfeiting eternity.
And hence why I say, don’t give up, don’t lose heart, but persist in prayer, confidently,
For God has promised that He will answer, and answer He will, eventually.
And why wouldn’t He? For just as earthly fathers are touched and respond, more so He,
Which gives us more reason to be hopeful than not so — so pray on — expectantly!
And should you receive the result you’re wanting, don’t be surprised — for didn’t you expect?
Yes, so rejoice and give God the glory, for His love, way, and timing is perfect.
He never says “No,” except where “Yes” wouldn’t be for the better, for He knows best,
But whether He says “Yes” or “No,” either show, He’s working in your best interest.
By Lance Landall
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him,
who have been called according to His purpose" (Rom 8:28, NIV).
Just Rest In His Love
Dear child of God, suffering under the depression of ill health, never forget that your Saviour deeply cares,
And that He feels every pang of anguish that His loved ones feel, and hears every cry that they utter midst their tears.
Oh, how Jesus sympathises, and having suffered Himself, His love still as deep as that shown on Calvary,
And hence why He’ll never leave or forsake you, for He who died for you, also watches over you, faithfully.
So please don’t fret, but just rest in His love, even if just clinging to a grain of mustard seed, for that will do,
And just as a loving father holds his little child in his arms, He too, when you’re weak and anxious, will hold you.
He knows that you love Him, and oh, how even deeper He loves you — a friend you can trust, one who always proves true —
A God who cares for each little sparrow, a God who knows your plight — yes, a God who will always be there for you.
So just rest in His outstretched arms, for that’s all He expects you to do, aware of your weakness and misery,
And if you’re faithful, trusting in His loving care and promises, He will soon reward you with eternity.
And then, along with the others so blessed, you’ll praise Him with a voice of triumph, forever remain in His care,
Daily enjoying His presence, free from that burden that once plagued, courtesy of love and mercy true and clear.
But meantime, midst those shadows that mar your life, never forget that your loving Saviour is always very near,
And that nothing escapes His attention, nor escapes His tender compassion, each moment, day, week, month and year.
For He’s the God of love, a God who cares so much for you that He gave His life for you, so that with Him you’ll soon be,
Free from that which chokes joy and happiness — yes, free from the depression of ill health — alias infirmity.
By Lance Landall
This poem was inspired by the pen of a very godly author.
Trust Him!
When you’re feeling discouraged, dwell on the awesome power of God, a power that’s available on request,
And in that mighty power from on high that’s generously provided, eagerly and thoroughly invest.
Remembering that this ruler of the universe awaits your every call, with your best interests at heart,
And that His love for you is deeper than deep, higher than high, wider than wide, and from you will never depart.
Oh yes, we have a God who can outsmart Satan any day, and solve any seeming impossibility,
A God who can do anything — nothing being too big or too small for Him — and such done very creatively.
A God who thinks with His heart, a heart that’s attached to wisdom that will never fail, wisdom that will never err,
And to which we in our hour of need, or amidst our daily duties, should just as wisely refer and defer.
Yes, a power, wisdom and love that will never let us down — unstoppable, unshakable, true, sound and deep,
And working on our behalf every day and every night — such meaning, whether we're active or soundly asleep.
And all freely available — there whether sought or not — for God is unchangeable, (Himself can only be),
A God who’s a seeker, giver and rescuer — a MIGHTY God — and one who’s unfazed by our archenemy.
So trust Him! — for you can, beyond a shadow of a doubt — falling to your knees in repentant recognition,
For when it comes to an obstacle that towers, intimidates or blocks, He knows all about demolition.
Oh, how He loves to tear down hellish strongholds, push His way through devilish barricades, and open up closed doors,
For He is a God who hates darkness, a God of love and light, who cries from His anxious children never ignores.
By Lance Landall
Don't Neglect Each Other
Have you any idea just how much it means when a member who is anxious gets a visit or a phone call,
Or when they're feeling unwell, lonely, discouraged, depressed, hurt or afraid — in other words, when their back’s against the wall,
And when God can seem far away, and their prayer unanswered? — despite Him always being there, and that all prayers are heard;
Something that sometimes doesn’t register midst the fog of certain emotions, and more so, when there’s no call or word.
Well, that visit or phone call makes all the difference in the world, and yet, far too often such doesn’t take place,
Leaving the needy one still in need, and their plight oft compounded, which no doubt leaves streaks upon our Saviour’s face.
And oh, how often those tears must fall, given the way that His children are neglected, and this, when they shouldn’t be,
For Christians have been instructed to look out for their fellow brothers and sisters, and more so, those who’re needy.
Hence why we shouldn’t wait until someone cries out, but rather, should go seeking, willingly and attentively,
Thus putting our brother or sister’s best interests before our own, somewhat like a hometown missionary —
One who has died to self, one who’s full of loving concern like our Saviour, who, even notices sparrows fall,
A Saviour who goes seeking, Himself — and who often provides an answer to our prayer before we even call.
Yes, that visit or phone call means so much, and there are many who are in need of such, and even urgently,
Given that some have almost lost heart — brothers and sisters whom Christ is carrying whilst waiting expectantly.
That is, for you or me to make that visit or call, thus displaying the same love as that shown on Calvary,
For those who don’t show the same love as Christ, are hardly worthy of Heaven, and thus Heaven will hardly see.
By Lance Landall
Anger's Place
There’re those who consider all anger to be a sin, but given anger’s not foreign to God himself, we
Must surely question such, and I do, submitting righteous anger, going by what I see biblically.
You see, righteous anger — indignation — is directed solely at the evil itself, the wrong that’s done,
Those acts that dishonour God, those acts that injure innocent people, for of such acts, there shouldn’t be one.
So what might such acts be? Well, starting with God,
He being our first port of call, clearly: Those wrongful attacks on His Word-cum-incremental chipping away,
So oft courtesy of Christians themselves, who should know better, but who with the Word of God can’t help but play.
They twisting the Scriptures in order to woo and convince others of what they shouldn’t, and what oft appeals,
Given that nowadays the Church is full of itchy ears, beat and claps, rather than the prayerful quiet that heals.
Another example?
Despite all the talk about love, there’re still those folk within the Church who’re neglected and mistreated, sadly,
Many badly struggling-cum-hurting, even angry, they angry enough to strike back injuriously.
Such being a risk that we should never invite, but one that we too often do invite, unfortunately,
Hence their anger, which though justified, is oft more directed at the wrongdoer, and not the wrong, as should be...
Thus, they sinning too, sadly.
Yes, acts that dishonour God, or injure innocent people, are cause for righteous anger — indignation —
We rightly condemning such acts, but not taking it out on those who’re at fault, despite the association.
And we thus not sinning in our anger, which, though easier said than done, is how God intended it be,
For Christians who feel no anger at such acts, hardly know God, whose cup of wrath will be delivered shortly.
And dare such fall upon us, hence why revenge should never be an option we take, nor holding grudges too,
Or simply striking back at others angrily, for such is most un-Christ-like, and what we’re told not to do.
But as I said, easier said than done when struggling or hurting, and thus why tolerant we all should be,
Whilst busy doing all we can to ease those burdens of others-cum-taking care of Earth and humanity.
By Lance Landall
"But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause
shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother,
'Racca!' shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, 'You
fool! shall be in danger of hell fire" (Matt 5:22, NKJV).
Where Busy Turns Sinful
So many Christians are very busy, (even doing good), hence why one often hears, “I’m sorry, but I forgot,”
Or, “I’m sorry, but I didn’t have time,” or, “I’m sorry I didn’t get back to you,” and off they then quickly trot.
Yes, busy, busy, busy — far too busy — and hence those broken promises, those excuses that amount to sin,
Or those thoughtless, careless, forgetful ways, that aside from being un-Christ-like, really get under someone’s skin.
No matter how busy we may be, and as understandable as such may be, it is still unacceptable,
That is, to let folk down when we could’ve avoided such, (which inevitably upsets, and oft leads to some ill).
Yes, too caught up in being far too busy, our priorities no doubt askew — a state that hardly pleases our Lord,
For going by His Holy Word, such behaviour is not the kind of behaviour that He is seeking to reward.
Such behaviour is too oft seen as being of a minor nature, ignoring that if not faithful in little things,
The God of order, who keeps all His promises to us, won’t trust us with more responsible and far bigger things.
Sure men might, even granting us such, but not God, for it’s those little things that show that within us there’s a sad flaw,
One that could prove injurious or fatal to some cause, or distrust and certain assumptions from other folk draw.
And God can’t afford that, and nor can we, not if we want to be truthful witnesses, which we all should want to be,
For such is what the Christian walk is all about — yes, keeping our word, acting in a way that shows integrity.
Hence why we should keep in contact, give folk time frames, produce the goods; or if we’re genuinely too busy, say so,
Rather than say we will and then not, or have folk chasing us due to silence and time, from which annoyance can grow.
Yes, justified annoyance.
By Lance Landall
One Thing's For Sure
One thing’s for sure: God will take no one to Heaven who has evil hidden in their heart, evil that they have done,
That is, evil they’ve not admitted to, repented of, nor sought to put right, and thus possibly lies have spun.
And be that wickedness murder, torture, rape, extortion, betrayal, or whatever, as justice must have its day,
For why should those who get away with evil enjoy eternity, hence the folly of them thinking they may.
The only hearts that will enter Heaven, will be those devoid of malice, jealousy, lust, pride, and cherished sin,
Those devoid of secrets that should be made known — such being, evil doings that wrongly remain hidden within.
Yes, those folk who’re prepared to pay the earthly price for their ill, given they should, and whose conscience is sharp and clear,
Unlike those who though they may well be sorry, still avoid the earthly price, and thus still have good reason for fear.
At the end of the day, its all about the heart and conscience, and so it should be, both sound and thus heavenly,
That is, both daily becoming more Christ-like, their contents and the will of God becoming more in harmony.
And as they do, selfishness and self-preservation giving way to that which benefits others and the Lord,
Such being how genuineness is proven, and why our heart and conscience determine our punishment or reward.
And God certainly knows what’s within our heart, for nothing can be hidden from Him, and its right that such can’t be,
For those who’ve evil hidden in their heart, and thus have a faulty conscience, should hardly receive eternity.
And they won’t, unless they admit to such, repent of such, and seek to right such wrong — as far as one’s able too,
For there’s no excuse for evil, no pardon for hidden evil, and no Heaven for any who such pursue.
By Lance Landall
“For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing...”
(Eccl 12:14, NKJV).
“
‘Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of
heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven ’ ” (Matt 7:21,
NKJV).
Now's Not The Time To Be Indulgent
God’s coming soon — very soon — so share your wealth if so blessed; though for some it’s not a blessing, tragically,
For it hampers their spiritual walk — as sandcastles can — for such are of man, not God, generally.
That is, not so much what God ordains, but what people build up as a matter of course, and too often greed;
Many too concerned with their security, rather than trusting in the Lord, unmindful of those who plead...
Be such their own family members who’re much worse off, or those folk who’re further afield, and also in need,
And who go unnoticed, or are wrongly ignored for some reason or other — and yes, even when they plead!
Yes, so many reasons for not giving, so many excuses for fattening their lot, perilously,
For God is watching, and hardly pleased, and that may be all that they are going to get — not eternity.
Oh, the amount they waste on selfish indulgence, unnecessary jaunts, opulent homes, expensive chattels,
While others are going without necessities, needed healthcare-cum-fighting financially strapped battles.
And yes, God is watching, able to see all the wealth that could ease such; oft bequeathed to those who’ve little need,
They being, family members who’re doing very well, and who add to their pile just as thoughtlessly-cum-greed.
Well, the time is coming when sandcastles of any description will be smashed to smithereens, though meantime
More economic disasters-cum-financial collapses will see those losses of the past burgeon and climb.
All of which is why our trust should be in God, not in others, nor in riches-cum-chattels or property,
And why every spare dollar we have should be going to help the needy, and secure souls for eternity.
By Lance Landall
Get The Picture?
Given that our Saviour’s coming is very near, and that this planet, (as we know it), is fast coming to an end,
And given how many are suffering, one way or another, and that such pain one shouldn’t ignore or extend,
Why oh why are Christians misusing, coveting, hoarding, and even withholding money that is badly needed?
Something that the Bible strongly condemns, and admonishes otherwise, which obviously isn’t being heeded.
Well, at least not by the majority, who give far less than they should, far less than they could — very short-sightedly,
And foolishly, for God is watching, and one day will respond accordingly to such lack of generosity.
For such must appal Him — and even stagger Him, no doubt — given the shortness of time, and the incredible need,
And yet, here folk are — ten for me and one for you — (or not even that) — displaying degrees of selfishness and greed.
Yes, not content with a humble home, but somehow justifying a grander one, (or extra one), or is it a car?
And then there’re those unnecessary interior do-ups, and over which, via glossy books, they coo, um and aah.
Or if not such, then certain chattels, dining out, expensive holidays abroad, expensive personal pursuits,
For rather than doing what's more in harmony with love, the Scriptures, and the times, they simply do whatever suits.
Yes, there’s nothing new under the sun, and hence all that frivolity in the sun, but very dark clouds are looming,
For there’re people desperately in need, millions starving and dying, whilst meantime and elsewhere, business is booming.
And God is not pleased, for He wants more of that wealth distributed, and far greater personal generosity,
Such being more like — one for me and ten for you. Get the picture? If you don’t, you’re on the wrong side of eternity.
Yes, let's go without our wants so that others can meet their needs.
By Lance Landall
"If
anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no
pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" (1 John 3:17, NIV).
"If
a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and
one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without
giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?" (James
2:15,16, ESV).
The following poem also appears in my secular poems section.
Grant Me Heaps!
Dear God up in Heaven, please make me wealthy — I mean, seriously wealthy,
And then keep it coming, though not for my sake, but for others, and urgently!
You see, there’s so much that I could do to ease the misery of so many,
And on whose behalf I sorely beg — yes, please make me seriously wealthy.
I give my word that I’ll not use such for myself, other than where I have need,
Like a humble home, say, (for I’ve none), and that from bills and debt I may be freed.
Yes, never for selfish indulgence, for there’s so many suffering today,
Yes, anxious and hurting people that I could help, if You’ll just send millions my way.
I want to do what most who’ve wealth do not do — that is, share ninety nine percent,
But I can only do such, if amidst Your plans and daily rule, You so consent.
I’m angry that so many die, that so many suffer, live in poverty,
While those who have so much dispense so little, if any, very selfishly.
Yes, make me wealthy, and please keep it coming — fill my cup each time it’s emptied,
And please respond with urgency, for down here on Earth, dear God, there’s so much need.
I don’t want wealth for wealth’s sake, and I don’t want wealth for me, so please, grant me heaps!
For in times like these, only someone heartless, such wealth squanders and Scrooge-like keeps.
By Lance Landall
You might also like to read my poem "Little Faith, Little God".
