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")



Picture: depositphotos.com #118536180, standard license

If You Love Me

John 14:15

“If you love me”—can you prove
that your faith in God is real?
What you say is not enough,
telling others how you feel!

“If you love me,” folks can see
by your actions what you love;
if your mind’s on things below,
or your treasures up above.

“If you love me,” Jesus said,
you will surely keep my words;
my sheep follow—know my voice;
such is faith that undergirds.

“If you love me,” you will bear
fruit, yes, much fruit that will bless
all of those who cross your path;
friends and enemies, no less.

“If you love me,” there’s no fear;
you will witness and succeed.
Winning others for your Lord,
they will listen as you plead.

“If you love me,” you’ll take time
to be with me privately,
fellowshipping with your God,
and with others where they pray.

“If you love me,” I will then 
manifest myself to you;
and I’ll come and take you soon
to my home beyond the blue.

fpn 9/82



Picture: The Communion of the Apostles by J.J. Tissot (1836-1902), accessed online July 8, 2017

The Greatest Test

A bonus post today, written by another poet, this is a favorite poem of Mrs. Nickel's, which she often quoted in family concerts. It was published with permission in "Sing and Give Thanks" as #12b.

The Greatest Test
by Barbara Ryberg

Lord, help me walk so close to Thee
That those who know me best can see
I live as godly as I pray
And Christ is real from day to day.

I see some once a day or year;
To them I blameless might appear.
It’s easy to be kind and sweet
To people whom we seldom meet.

But in my home are those who see
Too many times the worst of me.
My hymns of praise were best unsung
If He does not control my tongue.

When I am vexed and sorely tried
And my impatience cannot hide,
May no one stumble over me
Because Thy love they cannot see.

But give me, Lord, a life that sings
And victory over little things;
Give me thy calm for every fear,
Thy peace for every falling tear.

Make mine, O Lord, through calm and strife,
A gracious and unselfish life.
Help me with those who know me best,
For Jesus’ sake, to stand the test.



Picture: depositphotos.com #43252573, standard license

God’s Video Recorder

A video recorder
can copy an event
and you can have a re-run
to see just how it went.

We have it now in color,
fast motion or just slow;
when something is in question,
the truth we’re bound to know.

But still, it’s on the surface,
caught by the eye and ear;
perhaps they’ll trace our thought life
within a coming year.

Now we would say that’s scary,
’twould let our secrets out;
we might be in big trouble,
could place our lives in doubt!

Well, neighbor, let me tell you,
God’s got that much right now;
your thoughts are all recorded,
you’ll reap just what you sow.

God monitors affection
expressed in thought and word;
the slightest criticism
on His device is heard.

And if you love Him dearly—
that registers as well;
and that decides your future
in heaven instead of hell.

fpn/undated



Picture: depositphotos.com #4698288, standard license