I SURRENDER

A Poem by PHILIP KENT CHURCH

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After being born again, I wanted to fight for God, see the war won,

But, after fighting for what I saw as right, I tired of the damage done.

 

Though I'd been a strong warrior against the world's evils that I sensed,

Defending God and church, in my righteous cause completely convinced.

The fruit of my labor wasn't joyful, peaceful or loving - facts uneasily dismissed.

After behaving and believing best I could, apparently - something had been missed.

 

Well-versed in the Word, I'd sought the full armor to, as a "Christian Soldier," stand,

But I realized I was desiring my own trophies, I hadn't been humble under command.

Though it meant placing my personal aspirations, what I desired, upon the shelf,

I had to become willing - no matter what the cost - to God's will . . . surrender myself!

 

First and foremost, I learned that my feud wasn't with others, the judge is God above,

Though I might be persecuted for it, my first duty to God and neighbor – was a ‘real love.’

That all I was to do and say must be from love, knowing, even in death, God would mend me,

Though there be things I desired and saw as ‘right,’ I'd do God's will - go where He'd send me.

 

I had to humble myself with a will, if required - to be “last” and serve others every day,

And if I became confused - not seek my own, but recall that Jesus is the truthful way.

Though I might not be popular, successful or politically regarded to suffice,

I'm only a foot-soldier in love's Army - my life forfeited - and bought with a price!

 

Sometimes there's a way that seems right, even in what some Christians try to render,

But it must be God's way - He is our commander to whom ourselves, we must -

 . . . SURRENDER!

THORNS

An Inspirational Sonnet Form

By PHILIP KENT CHURCH

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Was it some hidden desire, disease or sin? The Bible does not say,

But there was a "thorn in his flesh" that bothered Paul, so he'd pray.

God would not remove this, despite being all powerful and omniscient,

And, knowing a servant's weakness, said only, His grace was sufficient.

No one knows of the thorn in Paul's flesh, only why it was left neglected.

It was to show God's strength, which through a weakness was perfected.

Now, Paul had prayed three times about this thorn, he had dealt with it that long,

Though it was a weakness, he wasn't condemned for it, God's grace being strong,

Knowing God would not let this weakness separate them must've been a relief.

That God doesn't condemn a believer's weaknesses, if in such a grace is belief.

Maybe, just maybe, Christians should think twice before holding other's with scorn.

God's grace might be sufficient for them too, if a weakness to their flesh be a thorn.

So, before frightening another believer with any notions of hell's fires to burn,

Maybe we should remember that the merciful are blessed with mercy in return!