Thy Perfect Plan

Oh, I must build with mind and hand,
my life upon the rock or sand;
be this my prayer and constant aim—
to glorify the God I claim.

Oh, let me never seek advice
from sinful souls who would entice
to leave the path of truth and right,
and walk with fools into the night.

So let me live, so let me walk,
so let me pray, so let me talk—
communing sweetly day by day
with Thee, dear Lord, the Truth and Way.

Chorus:
Thy plan, oh Lord, Thy perfect plan,
revealed throughout life’s rugged span;
help me to read with willing eyes
Thy blueprint for the highest prize!

fpn/1975

Published in Contemporary Psalms, p. 57, ©1975, Radiant Light Enterprises
The song was recorded on LP 771: God is Good, side two



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The Sane Perspective

This world is too far gone
for me to make big plans;
enough for me to know
my times are in God’s hands.
I’ve got a job to do,
Lord, help me not to shirk,
I’ll keep on looking up,
and go about Your work.

I know we’ve got to plan
and we need vision, too.
The young ones coming up
are just like me and you.
They need encouragement, 
and too, our confidence
for realistic dreams,
each laced with common sense.

God’s word is practical;
it tells it like it is.
This life is not for long;
it’s not our plan, but His
that gives fulfillment true
and peace at setting sun.
Let’s simply look to Him
until the day is done.

fpn / July 1985



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In Control

“In control!” —this situation 
doesn’t pose a threat for God.
His resources and His wisdom
shaped earth’s boulders and each clod.

“In control!” —though circumstances
raise their protest: “Out of hand!”
He who rules the wind and tempest
doesn’t cancel things He’s planned.

“In control!” —Satanic forces
were defeated at the cross;
’tis for good each test is working,
for eternal gain, each loss.

“In control!” —though we make choices
not in line with His pure will,
those who seek His mind and purpose
will not panic, but hold still.

“In control!” —the night of sorrow
must concede to break of day—
fear and gloom, give way to gladness;
’tis God’s promise when we pray.

“In control!” —our heavenly Father
works within His frame of time;
after showers comes the rainbow;
after turmoil, peace sublime.

fpn / October 1983
See related song: Our Refuge and Strength (Psalm 46)



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Accepting His Will

Accepting the will of my Heavenly Father—
leaving the choices in His hands alone.
Fully resigned, not to ask any question,
I would exert no will of my own.

Accepting the will of my Heavenly Father—
choosing my way can but lead to regret,
often I’ve thought that I knew what I wanted:
much of it now I would rather forget.

Accepting the will of my Heavenly Father—
always He has my best interests in mind.
Losses become stepping stones for the future;
He is so loving and He is so kind.

Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life,
how can I question or fear any ill?
He loves me dearly and He holds the future;
I am resolved to do His sweet will.

fpn / undated

Be sure to follow along this week for a selection of poems written by Frank Nickel on the topic of mothers and motherhood. If you'd like to receive the poems each day in your Email inbox, subscribe to "A Poem a Day" in the right sidebar or click here.

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