Transparent and Honest

Some folks may appear to be faithful
in worship and service of God,
but if we just knew, we would see them
less loyal than some whom we prod.

For motives so often are hidden
and we can be fooled a long time;
while God knows, He practices patience—
with mercy and kindness sublime.

It’s sad when we practice deception.
Is there gain in telling a lie?
Some prosper in money and standing—
but loss will result by and by.

When we are not truthful with others,
our mind must approve what we say;
we come to believe our own falsehoods;
we’re deceived, as no longer we pray.

This means that communion with Jesus
is out, for He is the Truth;
We’re bound to be callous and grouchy,
having lost the bright luster of youth.

Why bring on ourselves great injustice
and to others, as well, prove a curse?
Oh, let us make sure folks won’t wonder,
when we’re carried one day on the hearse.

And that day will come—let us face it!
“To die once”—then judgment and fate;
being saved, transparent and honest,
we’ll be welcomed at heaven’s strong gate.

fpn 1/83
(Alternate title "The Double Mind")



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Know Thyself (On Being Honest)

It’s hard to understand 
how God puts up with me;
just like a juvenile,
I get so ornery!
But He goes right ahead
and keeps on blessing still;
He gives me help when I
am struggling up some hill.

Now don’t you start to gloat
and think you please Him fine.
I doubt that your own score
is that much better’n mine.
Just like the Pharisee
whose prayer had a pious sound
“He prayed thus with himself”—
it never left the ground!

God’s patience is so long;
He waits and waits and waits
for us to see our sin;
it’s pretense that He hates.
Let’s never try to hide
nor coddle secret sin;
it’s honesty that counts,
the smile of God to win.

He’s promised to forgive
by transfer of the guilt
to Jesus, Lamb of God,
whose precious blood was spilled.
Imagine, if you can,
a mortal fooling God!
Anyone who tries
is nothing but a clod.

fpn / 1978

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When is a Friend a Friend?

When is a friend a friend?
Not just when the skies are blue,
but when you hurt, they understand
and try to help you, too.

When is a friend a friend?
When you are in the wrong
they’ll find a way of telling you,
not just quietly go along.

When is a friend a friend?
Not just when folks speak well.
When you’re despised, they won’t defect.
Their love rings true like a bell.

fpn / undated



Photo Credit: Deposit Photos #96530486, standard license