TO GOD BE THE GLORY
Angels of Clay [12/8/2024]
INTRO:
People are fascinated by angels and even worship them. But is that worship misplaced? The Bible describes angels as spiritual beings that can take on different forms. Sometimes they present themselves as humans. Hebrews 13:2 says, "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it," (NIV). Angels are also described as winged beings. Ezekiel, chapter one includes a detailed, lengthy description of four angels with four faces and four wings. Their faces are varied, showing the face of a human, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. They have human hands and their legs are like burnished bronze. And each angel has four wheels full of eyes. How fantastic that must have been to see. Then there's the account of the angel God used in Numbers to turn Balaam around. Chapter 22 states the angel was invisible to Balaam, but the donkey he was riding saw the angel and in fear would not take another step farther.
God uses angels as "ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation," (Hebrews 1:14; NIV). But the Bible also clearly teaches that we aren’t to worship angels or pray to them. Even John wanted to bow down before the angel that brought him God's Revelation, but the angel rebuked John because it is God, alone, who should be the object of our worship; He alone is worthy.
TEXT:
Revelation 22:8, 9; NLT.
"I, John, am the one who heard and saw all these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me. But he said, ‘No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this book. Worship only God!’”
ANGELS OF CLAY
Winging their way in wonderful circles,
angels descend to our world to be useful.
Out of the Heavens where they were created,
into our world as God designated,
spiritual beings come with mystical powers,
who eternally have been God’s faithful followers.
And yet while forgetting who they really are,
these created beings have come from afar.
And we in amazement have all become blind
until they have captured our subconscious mind.
Into forms and images, we have made them
created of clay, again and again,
displayed on mantels and shelves to be seen,
as if we have bowed down upon bended knee,
to Satan, the angel saying, "Like God I'll be!"
We allowed him to woo us; to herd us like sheep,
and to blow out our candles and put us to sleep.
A sleep of the ages, where we forget God,
who allowed His son Jesus to walk on this sod,
and be crucified while without love or respect,
we praise the things made of porcelain instead.
We are caught up in clouds of this angelic worship
when only Christ Jesus, the Savior deserves it.
But one day in glory when anthems are raised,
we'll see real angels singing, "Jesus be praised".
Then we'll be ashamed, for the thousands of days
when we worshiped the angels, made only of clay.
rdouglasveer ©Year Unknown
Is It You?[11/24/2024]
INTRO:
The heavens resound with the glory of God because of His faithfulness. His promises are true and His goodness never fails. And so we can trust Him with our deepest concerns and confessions as we come to Him in prayer. But prayer is so much more than finding solutions to our problems. It is an entrance into warfare for ourselves and others.
As Christians, we each are called to prayer. The Bible says, "Pray without ceasing," (I Thess. 5:17). The Pulpit Commentary says, "It is impossible to be always on our bended knees, but we may be in the spirit of prayer when engaged in the duties of our earthly calling. Prayer may be without ceasing in the heart which is full of the presence of God, and evermore communing with him."
Yes, when we are in the presence of God, we can commune with Him as friend to friend and in Him, all things are possible. Are you willing to stand in the gap? Are you willing to answer God's call no matter where He would send you?
TEXT:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; KJV
" Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
Colossians 4:2; AMP
"Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving."
Is It You?
God is looking for a man . . .
A man to stand in the Gap.
Is it you?
There's someone that the Lord God needs
to fill a spreading crack.
Is it you?
God is looking for the one
to spread the message of His Son
Someone to tell it clear and true.
Is it you?
God is in need of that someone . . .
to take the Gospel Word.
Is it you?
God is searching for the one
who'll let his voice be heard.
Is it you?
Unless the Word is given out
and others have the chance to hear
the world will live and die in fear.
Is it you?
Isaiah said, "LORD here am I."
But there must be ONE more . . .
Is it you?
God needs a few good men to go
and give the world a chance to know.
Is it you?
His eyes are traveling to and fro;
He's looking for those few . . .
. . . Who will go? . . .
YOU KNOW! . . .
Is it you?
rdouglasveer©year unknown
I Remember [11/10/2024]
INTRO:
There have been countless wars over the centuries. Good men along with the bad have given their lives to participate in many battles. We especially keep those in mind who are at war today. We think of our soldiers in the Middle East, or those helping in Ukraine and other places. They may be a father or a husband or a brother. They may be a mother or a wife or a sister. Their service to our country involves a great personal sacrifice for them and their families . . . especially if they don’t return home.
Jesus, too, made a great sacrifice. He gave His life to save mankind. He was the sinless, perfect Lamb of God, yet the sins of the world were placed on His shoulders. The Bible says that we’ve all fallen short of God’s glory,” (see Romans 3:23). We should have been condemned but Jesus fought the battle for us and won. By accepting His finished work on the cross we will be eternally saved and we can know that we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
TEXT:
Romans 5:6-9; NLT.
“When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation.”
I Remember
I remember hugs and kisses
so warm and full of life
but now I live on memories
that stretch across the miles.
That gentle hand I used to hold
that meant so much to me
has now been sent so far away
across the angry seas.
And that same hand that once I held
so safely wrapped in mine
was trained to hold a weapon
there upon the battle line.
Oh, how many nights I’ve cried
for my child so far away
to safely come back home to me
and here forever stay.
But now as death flies upon the wings
where wars of men are fought
a bullet or exploded shell
takes lives with each assault.
God, I know You understand
as my heart cries out to You
because You also sent Your Son
to do what He had to do.
And there upon that battle field
He bled and died for me.
You sent Him there upon that cross
so we could all be free.
Oh God, please hear this fearful heart
as I tearfully sit and pray
knowing that You care for those
so many miles away.
Lord, please bless them, everyone
whose loved one went to war
remembering the hand that they
will want to hold once more.
. . . We will not forget.
rdouglasVeer©May 26, 2024
A Christian Pumpkin Poem [10/27/2024]
INTRO:
Have you ever lit a match in a room that was pitch black? It's amazing to see how something as tiny as a match-head could illuminate an entire room. Even a tiny amount of light is powerful and the darkness can never overpower it, (see John 1:5).
In His "sermon on the mount," Jesus said that as Christians, we are the salt and the light of the earth. And He pointed out that salt isn't any good if it's lost its flavor, nor is light effective if it's hidden.
Halloween will be upon us tomorrow and many Christians cringe at the thought, for good reason. But what better time could there be to radiate Jesus to those who live in spiritual darkness, corruption, and confusion? One strike of God's match-head will uncover those things people do in secret. There's no where to run from God's piercing eyes and penetrating truths. He knows our hearts better than we know them, ourselves.
God loves people too much to let anyone perish, so He shines His light of conviction upon us so His truth will set us free. We also need to let the light of Christ shine through us so we can help others find the pathway to the Father and tell them what God's love is all about.
TEXT:
Matthew 5:13-16; (ESV).
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
John 1:5; (NLT).
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it."
A Christian Pumpkin Poem
I am a Jack O' Lantern
My light will shine so bright
For I am a Christian pumpkin
My symbols tell what's right
My nose is like the cross
On which our Savior died
To set us free from sin
We need no longer hide
My mouth is like a fish
The whole wide world to show
That Christians live in this house
And love their Savior so!
The story starts at Christmas
My eyes are like the star
That shone on Baby Jesus
And wise men saw from far
My color it is orange
Just like the big bright sun
That rose on Easter Day
Along with God's own Son
And so on Halloween
Let's set our pumpkins out
And tell the trick or treaters
What God's love is all about!
Author Unknown
Source: https://discover.hubpages.com/holidays/afewchristianhalloweenpoems
What Have I Done for Jesus? [10/13/2024]
INTRO:
Just as a child wants to please his father or mother, so a child of God wants to please his heavenly Father. But how can we actually please the God of the universe? Well maybe we should start with what displeases Him. We know "sin" offends and disappoints God because He is holy and cannot cohabit with sinful people. That's why He sent Jesus. Through the shed blood of Christ, all people are eligible to receive forgiveness if heart-felt repentance is offered. Through that and a personal acceptance of what Christ has done for us, a relationship with the Lord can begin.
From this point forward we become a new creation with a new nature. He puts new desires in our heart and our relationship with the Lord is by faith as we learn, daily, to trust Him. Our life of faith is what pleases Him most. In fact, the Bible says that without faith it is impossible to please God, (see Hebrews 11:6).
The self-life slowly fades away. We lose our appetite for chasing after every our whim to satisfy our every want. We trust God to supply our needs and wants, and out of love, we serve Him, doing all we can for the Lord.
TEXT:
I John 4:19; NIV
“We love Him because He first loved us.”
Romans 8:35, 38, 39; AMP
"Who shall ever separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? For I am convinced [and continue to be convinced beyond any doubt] that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present and threatening, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the [unlimited] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
What Have I Done for Jesus?
I walked a road of make believe.
I walked in dirt and worldly pleasures.
I walked wherever I felt pleased,
while God, my footsteps measured.
I took for me what e’er I wanted
to make for me a better life.
I never cared what I could do
about the work of Christ.
I let the world lead me along
and bragged about how I loved God,
yet all the while my footsteps fell
on worldly paths . . . of earthen sod.
I want to walk like Peter did;
I want to walk on water.
I want to follow Jesus' call;
I want to walk like I might oughta.
I ought to do things differently;
I ought to care for others.
I ought to feed the Master's lambs;
yes, my sisters and my brothers.
But what in me has magnified
the wondrous glory of the cross?
What have I done to lift up Christ,
no matter what the cost?
Oh, God please give me seeing eyes,
that truly fix themselves on You.
And let them see the work ahead,
to know what I can do.
Please let my eyes see only Christ
as He reaches out to me,
calming all my angry waves,
as I step out into the sea.
That I might walk upon the waters
of my pride and anger too,
putting them beneath my feet,
as I walk holy before You.
I want to leave the boat behind
with all it's weighty, worldly sin,
and feel You as You take my hand
and bid me enter in.
Please, help me Lord, to do the work
for You I pray, God’s precious Lamb,
who walked upon the surging seas
and Galilee’s soft sand.
Show me how to follow, Lord,
and in my life's last setting sun,
let me hear You gently say,
"Come in . . . I'm satisfied, My son.”
© rdouglasVeer 1/20/2019
In His Presence, Peace Be Still [9/29/2024]
INTRO:
For the most part, we all just want to live peaceful lives. Peace is one of the main foundations of the Christian walk. So, how is it that a Christian can lose their sense of peace?
Sin. Failure. Loss. These three things probably cause most of our troubles. Sin can catch us off guard, or it can creep in, hardly noticed, like “a frog in water,” as the saying goes. Sometimes, we even justify our sin. But God wants a better way for us. We need to welcome His conviction over the matter.
Sometimes we experience failure that’s beyond our control. Perhaps one our children disappoints us, or we’re offended by a friend or family member. We may lose our job or our budget may fail to keep up with rising costs. Speaking of loss, maybe our spouse passes away, or a parent or a sibling.
Life is filled with difficulties, yet James tells us to, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing,” (James 2:1-4; ESV).
When we learn to live life from God’s perspective through the lenses of heaven, we can walk with joy along with its close cousin, peace. How can we find this narrow path? We can find it only in His presence.
TEXT:
Matthew 6:33; (MSG).
“Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”
In His Presence, Peace Be Still
Out upon the near horizon
brews another stormy day.
And there a swirling dark depression,
once again has come my way.
Clouds with threats of looming sadness,
roll . . . o'er the greyish sky,
while my tired heart is asking,
"Why Lord? Why?"
Pitifully again I go
into my dungeons dark and deep,
dragging up the memories
of old, forgotten fears and grief,
where my aching body cries
for all the pain it bears,
and the Tempter calls out tauntingly,
"You know that no one cares!
“Who are you to have the peace
and love that others know?
Why should you have joy upon
your face like others show?
When have you done anything
to soften all their pain?”
He was constantly accusing me,
time and time again.
On and on with deepening sorrow,
this message ebbs and flows.
It wraps my mind within it’s grasp
while never letting go.
Like the rocking, ripping tide,
from a boisterous, angry sea,
swirling troubled thoughts pile high,
and beat me to my knees.
"Oh, God, why must it be this way?
When can I find some rest?
When will there be peace and comfort,
for this aching breast?"
Then within the thunder clouds
a tiny light appears,
to grow and gleam and glisten,
as I watch it, drawing near.
Faintly there I see a figure,
walking deep within the glow,
silencing my beating heart,
because somehow I know . . .
that there amid the crashing rumble,
beneath a raging sky,
is the peace I’ve always dreamed of,
inside my troubled mind.
The figure draws still nearer,
through my puzzled, blurry sight,
as He turns my yawning darkness,
into a morning light.
My vision then becomes much clearer;
I see that it is He!
The One who calms the winds and storms;
the Man from Galilee.
And all around me peace and love,
are all that I can feel,
as He quietly walks upon my storm,
and whispers, "Peace be still."
Why do I let such sorrow
from this angry world withhold
all the precious treasures,
that He offers for my soul,
robbing me of joy and peace
He wants to bring to me?
Because I simply see what is,
instead of what could be.
©rdouglasveer, date unknown
No Compromise [9/15/2024]
INTRO:
Sin is an awful thing. And we all live under the weight of it; well, except for those whose consciences are seared and burnt beyond repair. God help those precious folks. Yes, they too, are precious to God. But this world is such a dark place because it’s under satan’s rule. He has blinded the minds of us all.
This was NOT God’s intent. At the beginning of creation, He gave all authority to Adam and Even to subdue the earth and take dominion over it. But Adam blew it. He gave away his authority and Jesus had to come to our world and buy us back from that tragic failure.
Now, all of us have access to God. But we have to be willing to humble ourselves and receive His forgiveness, and ask Him to walk with us each day without compromise. We now have an opportunity to receive God’s blessings and work for a new boss. But the choice is ours; a choice that affects our eternity. So, what have you done with Jesus?
TEXT:
Romans 6:23; (AMPC).
"For the wages which sin pays is death, but the [bountiful] free gift of God is eternal life through (in union with) Jesus Christ our Lord."
Proverbs 2:20; (AMP).
"So you will walk in the way of good men [that is, those of personal integrity, moral courage and honorable character], And keep to the paths of the righteous."
No Compromise
I walked a road of safety,
fully cleansed and committed to God.
And nothing there could touch me
as I’d see Him smile and nod.
I committed all my ways to Him,
and He was committed to me.
But then I went out on my own,
‘til His face I could not see.
The years grew so much longer
and my commitment vanished away.
I compromised everything to the world;
more and more with each passing day.
Soon my life in the Savior was empty.
I'd used it for the lure of my sin.
But in my heart a voice still said
I'd not be forsaken by Him.
My sins grew so much stronger
that they broke my body in pain
and ruined my pride in Jesus
‘til it filled me with my shame.
To be like Jesus, showing forth His love
was something I could no longer claim.
It hurt me to know that I'd failed Him
and tarnished His wonderful name.
I longed for the days when my Savior
walked with me in fellowship sweet.
I wanted Him back in my life;
to be His and be made complete.
So back to the alter of mercy
to the humble beginnings I knew,
I went with a broken heart
seeking His forgiveness anew.
I cried at the altar of Mercy,
“Change my heart, oh God, once more.
Purge me with some of your hyssop;
and forgive me, oh Lord, in full.
Renew within me Your spirit;
wash me clean and pure by your love.
Take my yielded heart and mend it,
by Your precious power from above.”
My will is to walk the road again,
that goes the way You’ve gone.
It doesn't matter where I've been
or where erring steps have trod.
The only thing that matters now
is being where You are,
and knowing that forever more
I’m safe in the arms of God.
©rdouglasveer, 04/2000
Lord, Use Me to Minister [9/1/2024]
INTRO:
With Labor Day upon us once again, we turn our thoughts toward the value of work. There’s been a growing trend over the past few decades in which people have lost the desire to work hard, taking pride in a job well done. People have cashed in their work ethics for “me time.” What’s so great about work, anyway?
Going to work and giving one’s best gives a person a sense of purpose and undergirds one’s dignity. It is also a way to give back with time and/or finances. It benefits others in many different ways.
Work is also a way to honor God. But we should be careful not fill our days with “busy work.” Rather, God needs people who are intentional about doing His will. Jesus said we must deny ourselves and follow Him, (see Matthew 16:24-26). That’s the beginning of everything.
So, how are you filling your time? Have you asked the Lord what He has created you to do? If you’ve communed with Him and have received His answer, you’ll be well on your way to discovering who He’s created you to become.
TEXT:
Matthew 16:24-26; (NKJV).
24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
Lord, Use Me to Minister
Lord, what am I to do today?
I'm just so covered up.
I've got to get my neighbor straight
and lots of other stuff.
The world is in an awful mess.
It's falling all apart.
I just don't understand mankind.
Oh, he has such a wicked heart.
And You, oh God . . . want me to use
my time to find a mirror?
What was it that You said to me?
"In there, I’ll see an error."
But, Lord, don't You remember me?
Don't You know who I am?
I'm born-again and go to church.
I've been saved since I was ten.
But Lord . . . is that one really me?
The image in the glass?
I thought that I was spiritual.
A regular coup de grace.
But the image says I'll need to die
before I'll ever see
the thrill of working in Your fields . . .
Your fields of ministry.
Then change me Lord, and teach me how
You want my life to be,
that I may serve from this day on
in Christian Ministry.
Give me the thrill of knowing, Lord,
that I have had a hand
in seeing others find their way
into Your promised land.
©rdouglasveer, date unknown
On the Road Again [8/18/2024]
INTRO:
As Christians, we have an adversary. He is known as the serpent, the devil, old slew-foot, or satan. One of his favorite tools is discouragement. He is always whispering words of defeat into our minds. If we remained steeped in the Bible and prayed up, we can sidestep his influence. But when we drift away from our close relationship with the Lord, that’s usually when the enemy of our souls steps in.
The Lord encouraged the Israelites through the prophet, Isaiah. The commentary covering Isaiah 43 says, “This chapter looks toward the deliverance of God’s people. But it also looks through that and beyond it to the great work of man’s redemption by the lord, Jesus. God has gone to great lengths to provide salvation for the lost world of men. His love is such that even while they are sinners, He continues to care for them and urge upon them the necessity for repentance.”
God did this for us because we are valuable to Him. He believes it! You must believe it, too.
TEXT:
Isaiah 43:1, 2, 4b (NLT).
“1 But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. 2 When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. 4 . . . because you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you.”
On the Road Again
"On the road again . . ."
was a phrase I used to say,
singing at a swanky club
or in a cheap café.
Did it really matter where
I'd sing, or sleep, or go?
No, because I didn’t care
that my worth was very low.
"Who I am," was plastic.
A “make believe”, no doubt,
‘cause, "You are just a nobody,"
was what the devil would shout.
But oh, the road grew weary
and the way was always dark.
And it didn't really matter
‘cause I had a loser’s heart.
So the devil had his say so
and my life was ruled by him.
He'd kick me out and holler,
"Git goin'. Hit the road again!"
He’d say that I was worthless
and I'd buy it every time,
‘til the day that I saw Jesus
standing on that road of mine.
With a glow of love around Him;
And both arms held out to me.
"Come, draw near. Be My child.
You are valuable to Me."
Now He reassures me daily
that I’m worthwhile to Him.
And the road I walk is holy,
because Jesus lives within.
©RdouglasVeer July 30/03
The Making of a Man [8/4/2024]
INTRO:
Did you know that God is not religious. He isn’t even interested in religion. Jesus didn’t come to earth to set up shrines and lead people in empty rituals. He wasn’t even about rules and regulations. He, Himself broke His own laws at times, when the lives of people were more important. For example, He elected to heal people on the Sabbath. When questioned He responded, “. . . The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath,” (Mark 2:27; NIV).
The God of the universe is much more interested in relationship. He wants to know you and me. And he desires that we get to know Him. We do that by reading His word and carrying out what we find there. We can also know God in a deeper way through prayer. It’s so easy, even a novice can do it. Prayer is simply talking to God just like you’d speak to a respected friend.
Did you look for Him today in your quiet time?
TEXT:
James 4:8a; (GNT).
“Come near to God, and he will come near to you . . .”
The Making of a Man
I cannot count the Sundays
that I have been to church . . .
The offering plate comes to me
and I give . . . (but not if it hurts).
I'm satisfied with my own life;
I have no sense of loss.
But the way the preacher preaches . . .
I wonder . . . have I counted the cost?
I don't see Jesus as he does.
I just don't know what to say . . .
I wonder what is in me,
that keeps me bound this way?
He speaks of joy in obedience,
and laying of my life down,
to win one day in glory,
to place at His feet . . . a crown.
I feel there's something I'm missing,
but I want it to be mine,
if I'm to know the joys of Heaven,
and languish in His presence sublime.
Oh God, I want to know You
and what You want me to be,
even if the price You require
is to give my all to Thee.
Burn out my self-sufficiency.
Burn out my pride and shame,
and set my life afire
by the fuel of Jesus' name.
Oh God, consume my being.
Make me the work of Your hand.
Destroy the will within me,
to believe in the self-made man.
Cover me with ashes
to remember evermore,
that sufficient I will never be,
without You, Jesus, my source.
©rdouglasVeer 11/03
A Taste of Beauty [7/21/2024]
INTRO:
God’s creation is magnificent. Every time I venture outside, I can’t help but be struck by the beauty of nature that surrounds me. My heart becomes filled with delight which leads me to worship our God.
While our aim is to worship the Lord, there are religions out there that actually worship nature. They bow down to the trees and the wildlife in all of its surrounding beauty yet they are too blind to look past the creation to behold the Creator. What a shame.
Such people are just a breath away from realizing that without God, the canvas of life would be blank. And more than that: without God, we ourselves would not exist.
Yes, God created this world for us to enjoy, moreover, He created us for His enjoyment. Pause, and think of that.
TEXT:
Psalm 8:3-9; (NLT).
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
A TASTE OF BEAUTY
So flocks the brilliant butterfly
upon the gentle stem
which holds the nectar of the dainty flower.
As silently, invisibly
doth beat the gentle wing
suspending it with tireless, gentle power.
Who but a God of wonders would
create one such as this
to give the world, a taste of beauty such,
that in His love for man would He
share such a majesty
to show the wonder of His love for us.
©rdouglasveer 02/28/2021
A Poem[7/7/2024]
INTRO:
God’s creation is truly magnificent. We encounter our world every day but so often, we become oblivious to the beauty that surrounds us.
Genesis chapter one tells how God created the heavens and the earth in six days. First, He created the light and separated it from the darkness. Next, He separated the waters of the heavens from the waters of the earth. On the third day, He commanded dry land to emerge with its plants, and trees, and seed-bearing fruit. On the fourth day, God set lights in the sky to light the earth and to govern the day and night. Next, He filled the waters with fish and the sky with birds of every kind. On the sixth day, God produced all sorts of animals, each able to produce offspring of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.
But God saved the best for last. On the sixth day He created Adam and Eve and told them to be fruitful and multiply. And for six millenniums, we have done just that.
Out of all of creation, we are God’s crowning glory. May we find a revelation of how special we are to His heart. We know it’s true because one day, God sent His Son to redeem us. He paid a great price for us. It was costly and expensive. Yes, Jesus was the “poem of God’s heart” that He lovingly wrote to us. Praise His name forever.
TEXT:
Genesis 1:26, 27; (NLT).
“Then God said, ‘Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.’ So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
A Poem
Oh, how the mighty hand of God
created everything.
The trees, the flowers, the flowing brooks,
the birds, and the songs they sing.
He gave us stars to light the night
and a sun to warm the day.
And then to guide us through the dark,
a moon to light our way.
Oh, how His wonders do surround us
if we’ll take the time to see
how beautiful He made His world
to share with you and me.
Yes, flowers, birds, and dewdrops, too,
with songs only they can sing
created He, to bless us with
a world only He could bring.
But as He watched His final work,
the woman and the man,
created He, our wondrous God,
a gift, as only His love can.
Within the breathing breast He put
a heart, like His alone.
And there within the heart God wrote
to speak to us a poem.
With His tender words of love
could God alone impart,
and created He, this tender gift,
His poem . . . of the heart.
©rdouglasveer; 2021
For Dad's Only [6/16/2024]
INTRO:
There’s an old saying: “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” While we do inherit our parents’ genes we also inherit their behaviors and the way they “model” themselves. There are many Bible verses that encourage us to walk uprightly, with integrity, not only for our good outcomes but for our children as well. Proverbs 20:7 says, “The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them,” (NLT).
Many homes today are missing either a Father or a Father’s good character. If you are a dad, please consider taking an inventory of your life. Maybe you don’t know God but maybe you do; it’s just that you’ve fallen away from Him. It’s up to you to realize you can break the cycle. You can begin serving the Lord, today. And by doing so, you will make a tremendous, positive difference in your family life. Joshua was determined to serve God: “. . . as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” (Joshua 24:15b; KJV). So, what about you?
Need some advice? God wants you to grow wise so you can live a blessed, abundant life. Look for His counsel daily through His Word. Then bring up your children with the same principles. They will thank you for it. Here is a Father’s instruction from Proverbs 4:1-9, (TPT).
1 Listen to my correction, my sons, for I speak to you as your father. Let discernment enter your heart and you will grow wise with the understanding I impart.
2 My revelation-truth is a gift to you, so remain faithful to my instruction.
3 For I, too, was once the delight of my father and cherished by my mother—their beloved child.
4 Then my father taught me, saying, “Never forget my words. If you do everything that I teach you, you will reign in life.”
5 So make wisdom your quest—search for the revelation of life’s meaning. Don’t let what I say go in one ear and out the other.
6 Stick with wisdom and she will stick to you, protecting you throughout your days. She will rescue all those who passionately listen to her voice.
7 Wisdom is the most valuable commodity—so buy it! Revelation-knowledge is what you need—so invest in it!
8 Wisdom will exalt you when you exalt her truth. She will lead you to honor and favor when you live your life by her insights.
9 You will be adorned with beauty and grace, and wisdom’s glory will wrap itself around you, making you victorious in the race.
TEXT:
Proverbs 4:1; (TPT).
“Listen to my correction, my sons, for I speak to you as your father. Let discernment enter your heart and you will grow wise with the understanding I impart.”
For Dads Only
Three-hundred and sixty-five days a year
there are birthdays, Christmas, and other days of cheer.
It seems as if there’s always something to do
to remember me, or remember you.
Fourth-of-July or Easter or Lent;
there are always presents or cards to be sent.
And sometimes it’s not a yearly event
such as leap-year, to tell us where four years have went.
Presidential birthdays are found there too,
and the calendar reminds us of what celebrating to do.
New-year and Halloween or the first day of Spring
are some of the seasons we find reason to sing.
There are songs about Mothers, and even some poems
but I don’t want you, Father, to feel all alone
because this day is yours and I am so glad.
I’m proud and I’m happy to call you my Dad.
I hope you enjoy every minute
celebrating this Father’s Day
©rdouglasVeer-Year Unknown
Beneath the Sod [6/9/2024]
INTRO:
Peace can be illusive. We get wrapped up in the cares of this world and we forget that we don’t have to continually strive. We forget that we can let Jesus carry our burdens. We forget that we can rest in the Lord and trust Him for what we need instead of trying to make everything happen in our own strength.
Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you . . .” Matthew 11:29a; (NIV). What does that mean? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “yoke” as follows: “a wooden bar or frame by which two draft animals (such as oxen) are joined at the heads or necks for working together.” When we slip into a “yoke” with Jesus, we are joining our life with His and we can then “pull the load together.” Is there anyone more loving and more qualified to team up with besides the God of the universe?
So, go ahead and rest; relax; know that God’s “got this.” Trust in Him. “Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders— he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out. He’ll never let good people topple into ruin,” (Psalm 55:22; MSG).
TEXT:
Matthew 11:29; (TPT).
“Simply join your life with mine. Learn my ways and you’ll discover that I’m gentle, humble, easy to please. You will find refreshment and rest in me.”
Beneath the Sod
Over the horizon a new dawn was breaking,
kissing the world with fresh dew and making
the used up yesterday, flee into the past
and you, my friend, didn’t even have to ask.
Then up came the sun to brighten the day,
chasing the shadows of yesterday.
With it the promise that all would be new
for whoever wanted it, and that includes you.
Oh what a joy is yours to be had,
offered to each little girl and each lad,
driving all worries far into the past.
And no one, not anyone, has to be last.
Its not only offered to those who are swift,
for God is the Giver, and His Son is the gift.
If you accept His offer of Grace,
you’ll find that His Peace will come and replace . . .
. . . the worries that you, once used to have
because God will have sent them all into the past.
Then comfort will follow Him into your life
as God Himself will vanquish your strife.
So, please give your life to the Son of God
before they lay you beneath the sod.
He’s waiting to answer if you’ll call His name
because everyone who calls is treated the same,
and the peace that you’ve wanted will be yours at last.
My friend . . . all you need do is ask.
©rdouglasVeer 10/11/2023
A Soldier's Prayer for Memorial Day [5/26/2024]
INTRO:
Some folks may wonder what the difference is between Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. The two occasions might seem quite similar because they both honor the military, but actually, the two patriotic holidays are quite different.
Veterans Day, a federal holiday that falls on November 11, is designated as a day to honor the more than 19 million men and women who have served or do actively serve in the U.S. military.
Memorial Day, which is commemorated on the last Monday in May, honors service members who have died in military service to the nation. The holiday began in the post-Civil War era, when citizens would informally place spring flower memorials on the graves of fallen soldiers, (See https://www.uso.org/stories/2522-understanding-the-difference-of-memorial-day-vs-veterans-day).
Today, we feature a poem from ReadGoodPoems.com. The lyrics to this poem describe so wonderfully the sentiment of our fallen heroes that we wanted to share these words with you. God bless our many soldiers who fought and died for this great country called America.
TEXT:
John 15:13; (NIV).
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
A Soldier's Prayer For Memorial Day
Dear Lord above, hear my prayer,
For those who fought, but are not here.
Bless their souls, in the afterglow,
In your loving arms, let their spirits grow.
For the comrades lost in the heat of the fight,
In the shadows of darkness, in the silent night.
Bless their souls, in the celestial flight,
In the realm of peace, where there is no plight.
In the hallowed ground, where heroes repose,
A soldier's prayer; the wind softly blows.
Grant them rest, and solace profound,
In your loving arms, may peace abound.
Their sacrifice, a prayer eternally heard,
In the presence of angels, in your holy Word.
A soldier's prayer, for the brave and true,
In the tapestry of remembrance, forever anew.
Source: https://readgoodpoems.com/memorial-day-christian-poems/
Notes on Memorial Day Christian Poems:
These Memorial Day Christian poems are a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made by those who have fought for our freedom. They also serve as a reflection on the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Let us honor and remember all who have given their lives for our country.
Walk With Me, Mama [5/12/2024]
INTRO:
There is a wonderful passage in Proverbs chapter 31 that describes the character of a wife and mother. While there are certain pockets of pious, religious thinkers out there who believe women are of no value and subject to a man’s authority, the Bible values and praises women. Here is what Solomon wrote in Proverbs:
“10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. 15 She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. 16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. 18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. 19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. 20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. 22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. 25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate,” (NIV).
Today’s poem is written from the perspective of a child. How can we as a society produce good, upright people with fine character? By raising them in a home with strong parents of good character, because like the child in the poem says, “I have so many things to learn that I don’t yet understand.”
Today we honor mothers everywhere; that they might be encouraged as they go about tending to their households and raising their families.
Walk With Me, Mama
Walk along side me, Mama
and hold my little hand
I have so many things to learn that
I don’t understand
Teach me things to keep me safe
from the dangers everyday.
Show me how to do my best
at home, at school, at play.
Every child needs a gentle hand
to guide them as they grow.
So walk along side me, Mama.
We have a long way to go.
Source:
https://www.craftymorning.com/free-mothers-day-poem-printables/