Refuge In The Storms Of Life
This poetry book contains 37 poems about going through trials,
and the refuge found in the Lord Jesus Christ.
There are five sections and a Bible study called:
Leaning On The Lord
Foreward
The eternal God is thy refuge,
and underneath are the everlasting arms…
Deuteronomy 33:27
Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines Refuge as: Shelter or protection from danger or distress. That which shelters or protects from danger, distress or calamity; a strong hold which protects by its strength, or a sanctuary which secures by its sacredness; any place inaccessible to an enemy.
I want this book to be a comfort to all who read its contents; a source of refuge to those going through the storms of life. As my Pastor always says, “You are either going through trials, coming out of them, or preparing to go into them.”
The Scriptures and poems herein have one goal, to point to:
The Lord Jesus Christ.
The refuge He provides is found in the perfect salvation He offers by His death, burial and resurrection; complete pardon from sin and an eternal home in Heaven with our Lord.
Another definition Webster’s gives for Refuge is to flee.
Jesus is our refuge to flee to in seasons of dangers, distress, and calamity in our lives. He is our stronghold, our sanctuary, and our strong tower to flee to from our enemies.
May all who read this book be encouraged to flee to Jesus Christ, first for salvation, and then for refuge in the storms of life.
Jerry (Gerald) Bouey
The sections (and the poems contained in each) are as follows:
(You can click on any link to view that page individually on this website.)
Weathering The Storms
Poems on Going Through Trials
For A Season
His Voice Cries Out
Handle With Prayer
It’s Only After – by Jerry Bouey & Angela Trenholm
Our Little One – by Angela Trenholm
Still
Take A Second Look At Calvary
The Tempest Of The Lord
Under Construction
Calm Seas
Poems On Prayer and Dependence Upon The Lord
A Silent Prayer
Day By Day
Dream Or Reality?
Prayer For Faith – A Cancer Victim
Esther’s Prayer
Prayer For Perfect Peace
Wings
An Anchor For The Soul
Poems On Friendships and Close Fellowship With The Lord
Friends Forever
True Christian Friends
The Valley Of Faith
True Love
When I’m Lonely
Will You Be A Jonathan?
Peaceful Skies Ahead
Poems on New Beginnings
A Brand New Start
Be Thou Clean
Called
First Steps
Following
Forgiveness
I’ve Gone Home
God Is So Good
Why Wait Until Tomorrow?
The Master Of The Wind
Poems on The Preeminence Of Christ
In The Presence Of The Lord
Meaningless?
My Faltering Heart
Which Is Better?
Northern Lights
On My Knees
Weathering The Storms
Poems on Going Through Trials
For A Season
For a season, there will be troubles,
For the needed time, then they will go.
God has a purpose for every trial;
They are only for a season, you know.
Overwhelmed with sudden loss and anguish,
With a heavy heart, broken in despair.
Look up to Jesus for His comfort –
Even for this season, He will be there.
For a season, sufferings are our portion,
But, then, in a moment, they will pass away.
And after the season of our sorrows,
Heaven’s glory will shine bright as day.
February 24th, 2002
Jerry Bouey
Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
His Voice Cries Out
When this world loudly screams at you,
And steals away your song,
God’s gentle voice whispers deep within,
“To Me, My child, you belong.”
When you’re overwhelmed by the things you’ve done,
And are haunted by your past,
A tender voice cries out and shelters you,
“Mine is a love that will last.”
When it seems your heart is hardening,
And you sense that there’s a blindness,
Remember the Lord Himself has called you,
And drawn you with lovingkindness.
When the hurting is so very real,
And the pain seems to touch your soul,
Jesus is beckoning so softly,
“Come to Me. I will make you whole.”
When the aching inside overwhelms you,
And you need a friend who’s near,
The voice of Heaven keeps on calling out,
“Oh My child, I am here.”
When you feel that you’re left all alone,
And through these tears you can’t even see,
God’s voice still cries out to comfort you,
“My dear child, you are precious to Me.”
October 5th, 1996
Jerry Bouey
Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer;
thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am…
Isaiah 58:9
The LORD hath appeared of old unto me,
saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love:
therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Jeremiah 31:3
Handle With Prayer
May the Lord who weaved us in our mothers’ wombs,
Knit our very hearts together.
May our God who knows us intimately,
Be our comfort in stormy weather.
May the Lord who made us family in Christ,
And has our very lives in His hands,
Be the one we pour out our hearts to –
Because I know He understands.
May Jesus, who walked this way before us,
And knows our deepest sorrow,
Give us grace to help in time of need,
So that we can face tomorrow.
He experienced our temptations,
Our trials, and our pain;
He knows what it is like to press on
Through the driving rain.
May the Lord who has graven us
On the palms of His hands,
Be our source of lasting hope,
The Rock on which we stand.
There is nowhere we can go to
That our Lord isn’t by our side;
He has given us life eternal –
A love that can never be denied.
God knows our deepest emotions;
In Him we can truly confide.
He is our trust, our treasure,
His Spirit is our guide.
When the burden is heavy and life
Weighs us down with many a care,
Jesus who knows us heart and soul,
Says, “Life is fragile – handle with prayer.”
February 19th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched
with the feeling of our infirmities;
but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace,
that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:15-16
Can a woman forget her sucking child,
that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb?
Yea, they may forget, yet I will not forget thee.
Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands;
thy walls are continually before Me.
Isaiah 49:15-16
It’s Only After – by Jerry Bouey & Angela Trenholm
Roses are so beautiful that we forget that thorns cause pain,
We often forget that rainbows only come after the rain.
Sometimes the sun is hidden when storm clouds are in view,
It’s only after the rose is picked that it will bring great joy to you.
It’s only after the storm subsides that peace comes to calm the seas,
It’s only when the light turns on that the shadow suddenly flees.
Sometimes we only learn, to appreciate the light,
After walking through the darkness, in what seems like blackest night.
It’s often only when you miss someone that their worth is realized,
For iron sharpening iron, is a blessing in disguise.
You may lose your dearest friend, yet there will always be another;
Still, Jesus is the best of friends that sticks closer than a brother.
It’s only when you see you’re lost, that you truly can be found,
It’s when you admit your poverty that Christ’s riches can abound.
It’s only in losing yourself that you find life’s joy at last,
And sometime in the future, the Lord will heal the past.
It’s only after you pray in faith, that the peace of God transcends,
And only after your faith is proved, does the trial come to an end.
It’s only in surrender to the Lord that brings end to inward strife,
It’s only after dying that we rise to endless life.
It’s only after travailing that comes the joy of a child’s birth,
Only after the tribulation comes the new heaven and new earth.
Only after a seemingly endless night, comes the dawning of the day,
It’s only in eternity that the former things are passed away.
It’s only after the sorrow ceases that comes the soothing of the pain,
And just before the darkness passes that the Morning Star shines again.
After the tests and trials are done, the Father wipes all our tears away,
And we’ll live with Christ, our Saviour, in eternity’s endless day.
August 29th, 2000
Jerry Bouey and Angela Trenholm
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God,
to them who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28
Our Little One – by Angela Trenholm
Didn’t know if you were a boy or girl.
Would your hair be straight, or would it curl?
Would you be dark like your Daddy,
or would you be fair skinned like me?
Would you love to run and play outside,
or be a homebody by Momma’s side?
Would your mind in the clouds often wander,
or would engineering feats, be what you ponder?
The Lord never let us know these things,
but he knew the joy you’d bring.
Even carrying you for such a short time,
making me yearn for a new Little One in His time.
Your time with us was, oh so brief.
Your loss, brought us so much grief.
Yet through it all, I learned to see,
how My Lord, He walks with me.
I could not wish you back with us,
for surely, I have learned to trust,
and know you are safer with the Lord,
and am glad for the short time He could afford.
For surely, He must love you so,
to take you from us, and this I know,
that one day up in glory, when my Jesus I shall see,
there’ll be another Special Little One, waiting up there for me!
Angela Trenholm
September 26, 2000
Still
If the stars should fall down from their place,
If the tears fell slowly down my face,
Lord, still would I trust You,
And give You my praise.
If the world should be overcome by evil,
Still would I thank You for the good that remains;
If I am overcome by evil,
Lord, I ask You to remove the stains.
If life ever becomes too much to bear,
Remind me of how much You deeply care.
If all Your blessings suddenly ceased to pour,
Still I want it to be You that I adore.
Yea, though You slay me, Lord,
Still would I trust You.
Though my path may seem dark,
Still would I follow You.
Still would I wait for You,
Until Christ is standing at the door,
But no matter how much I love You, Lord,
Still I know that You love me more.
April 30th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender,
and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:
So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass,
know that it (Christ’s return) is nigh, even at the doors.
Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.
Mark 13:28-30
Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him:
He shall also be my salvation.
Job 13:15a, 16a
Take A Second Look At Calvary
When I went through times of loneliness, I thought, “Lord, where were You?
Don’t You know, Lord, can’t You see all this pain I’m going through?”
Then in the midst of my devotions, I was thunderstruck one day
When I realized: in my Saviour’s darkest hours all His friends had turned away.
When I struggled through depression, I cried, “Lord, where were You?
Can’t You take these doubts and fears away; help me somehow make it through?”
But I knelt in sweet submission, surrendered all and my heart was still,
As I remembered my blessed Saviour praying, “Not Mine, but Your will.”
When my heart ached in bitter anguish, grief-struck and broken too,
I cried through tears of agony, “Oh my Lord, where were You?
I can’t fight this battle anymore, I can’t overcome this gloom.”
Then in my self-pity, I recalled, that Jesus wept at Lazarus’ tomb.
When I think that I’m forsaken, bitter, anguished and alone,
I remember that my Saviour made all my pain His own.
He tasted death, He suffered much, He was tempted, tried, beset,
And in all His trials and afflictions, Jesus loved me yet.
A man of sorrows – He knew our grief, He bore our sin and shame,
He was forsaken by God above that we may never be again.
He was wounded for our transgressions – as the Bible has revealed –
But most of all, Jesus shed His blood and by His stripes we are healed.
So when you are feeling lonely, depressed, and are haunted by your grief,
Here’s a solution that, through eyes of faith, will surely bring relief:
When you are wondering if the Lord cares and if He is watching from above
Take a second look at Calvary – and there behold God’s wondrous love!
March 12th, 2001
Jerry Bouey
But God commendeth His love toward us,
in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
The Tempest Of The Lord
(Psalm 107:23-32)
The tempest rages sudden,
Cruel winds prevail strong,
Though jagged lightning spears the sky,
The night seems dark and long.
The storm crashes down upon them,
Pounding waves overflow,
All thoughts of mercy fade away
To fear, and anguish below.
Mounting high to heaven then
To the depths, plunging down,
Troubled souls melting, at wits end,
No refuge to be found.
But then out from distressed hearts,
Comes a wretched, ragged cry,
The storm calms down, the waves are still,
The Lord of hosts draws nigh.
Chastening, then conviction,
Turning away from sin,
Praying and seeking forgiveness,
Restored to God again.
Peace floods the trembling soul,
The haven is in sight,
A rainbow pierces through the clouds,
And scatters darkest night.
Bless the Lord for His goodness,
Exalt Him for His grace,
Give Him thanks ye children of men,
Oh give Him love and praise.
August 11th, 2000
Jerry Bouey
Matthew 8:23-27 And when He was entered into a ship, His disciples followed Him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but He was asleep. And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And He saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him!
Under Construction
Under construction by the Lord,
Pieced together in perfect accord,
Bit by bit, each part joined carefully,
Fitted and arranged with wisdom, tenderly.
As the Holy Spirit smoothes the edges,
And transforms His vessel into honour,
These changes, blessed by God’s own touch,
Are wrought by His glorious power.
When God’s final product is presented,
It will have been tested and proved.
Fired in the kiln of life’s afflictions,
Refined and the impurities removed.
Though I can’t imagine the end result as yet,
This work of art will someday be done.
Molded by the Potter with His very hands,
Lovingly crafted into the image of His Son.
August 22nd, 1995
Jerry Bouey
Romans 8:28-30 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Calm Seas
Poems On Prayer and Dependence Upon The Lord
A Silent Prayer
When I lose sight of the goal
And take my eyes off of the prize,
When all I can see are the mountains
That rise before my eyes,
When all I can feel are the waves
That come breaking over my soul,
Precious Jesus, I need Your touch
To heal me and make me whole.
I’ve fought the good fight, at times it seemed rough,
I’ve kept the faith, even when it was tough,
I wish I could finish my course with ease,
But sometimes I waver in times like these.
My heart is weighed down and burdened with care,
Lord, I lift up to you this silent prayer.
Don’t let me falter – let me be steadfast,
Give me a hope that will be sure to last –
A confident expectation that all will work out for good –
Even when it seems there’s no way that it possibly could.
When my own strength begins to fail,
Anchor my faith within the veil,
Where Jesus is.
October 17th, 2001
Jerry Bouey
… That we might have a strong consolation,
who have fled for refuge
to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul,
both sure and stedfast,
and which entereth into that within the veil;
Whither the forerunner is for us entered,
even Jesus…
Hebrews 6:18-20
Day By Day
Day by day, I will trust Christ
Day by day, He will provide
He will give me grace and mercy
If in His presence I abide.
Day by day, He knows my sorrows
Day by day, He shares my pain
Jesus is my joy and comfort
He’s my strength and life again.
Day by day, I can trust Him
Though some days I come unglued
As I wait upon the Lord
I find my strength is renewed.
Day by day, I have God’s blessings
Which Christ’s sacrifice affords
I cannot rely on my own strength
I will rather boast in the Lord.
Day by day…
August 3rd, 1999
Jerry Bouey
“…and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.”
Deuteronomy 33:25b
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Philippians 4:13
Written when I was dealing with chronic muscle pain (Fibromyalgia) and realized that my own physical strength was undependable at times – and I wanted to remind myself that my Lord is always dependable, and His strength is always there for the asking.
Dream Or Reality?
Is it just a distant dream, this vision that I see
To know my Heavenly Father as a warm reality?
To sense the blessed comfort within His precious Word
To know His deep compassion behind each word I’ve heard.
To understand the heart that knows the real me
To believe that I’m protected, that He’s my security
To know that He is near, His Spirit is inside me
To believe that He will never leave as a strong certainty.
To experience the presence of God that evil cannot harm
To give all my cares to Him and rest within His arms
To feel His joy and fellowship, His love without an end
To know God as my Father and as my trusted friend.
To believe I can depend on Him to provide my greatest needs
To know that He sees into my heart and hears my silent pleas
To believe He is there for me and holds my hand when I’m alone
As a parent stands beside their child and loves their very own.
To know that He created me and I will never be forsaken
To understand He is my fortress and He will not be shaken
To believe He is grieving with me as I suffer through my pain
To know that He will strengthen me and hold me once again.
To be confident that everything in my life is in His control
To believe that my Father is watching me and guarding my soul
To sense His love so real, to experience Him in my heart
What comfort and peace to know we will never, ever part.
Yes – that is my deepest prayer, my dream that I want to see
And I thank you, Father, that this dream can be a present reality.
May 9th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
And because ye are sons,
God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts,
crying, Abba, Father.
Galatians 4:6
Prayer For Faith – A Cancer Victim
I don’t know you yet, but for you I do pray,
I can’t wait until we gather in Heaven someday,
Where we will meet, face to face,
with our Father Divine,
We’re one big Christian family,
Oh sister of mine.
One day we will see the bright Morning Star,
For now, He can reach us, wherever we are.
In the Kingdom, He will wash away all our tears,
There will be no more worries, sorrows, or fears.
We will live in love eternally, too,
Each precious moment will be something new.
Away with these bodies, mortal and frail,
God’s promises to us will never fail.
The hope in our hearts will come true that day,
When Jesus is revealed, forever our joy will stay!
September 8th, 1993
Jerry Bouey
Beloved, now are we the sons of God,
and it doth not yet appear what we shall be:
but we know that, when He shall appear,
we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.
1 John 3:2
Who shall change our vile body,
that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body,
according to the working whereby
He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself.
Philippians 3:21
Esther’s Prayer
I have a prayer for when I go.
It may be soon, I just don’t know.
There is a bit of fear I guess.
I have some worries I must confess.
When the doubts come and the fear,
Help me remember, Lord, You’re near.
What will happen when I’m gone?
Who will help my loved ones carry on?
Who will comfort them and ease their pain?
Who will provide their needs and explain
That I’ve gone on to a better place,
To gaze upon my Saviour’s face?
Let me learn from the sparrows, Lord.
And teach me from Your Holy Word,
That You watch over each and every one,
And You decide when their time has come,
Then gently remind me that You are in control,
And I can still trust You, Lord, with my soul.
If You can preserve Your Word forever,
Then surely I need not doubt, no never,
That You know what’s best for me and mine,
And that I can trust You when it’s time,
To give them solace in their pain,
And bring them rainbows in the rain.
I thank You, Lord Jesus, for taking my fear,
And Heavenly Father, for drawing near,
And Holy Spirit, for Your comfort and peace,
For letting the doubts and worries cease.
I thank You again for peace in my soul,
And reminding me, You are in control.
August 20th, 2000
By your friend,
Jerry Bouey
My times are in Thy hand…
Psalm 31:15
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.
Luke 12:6-7 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
John 14:16, 26 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter that he may abide with you for ever; But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Prayer For Perfect Peace
(To the tune of “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”)
I need Your peace, dear Lord, oh how I dearly cry,
Fill me with strength and grace before I die!
I’m at the end of hope, help me to cling and cope,
Hold me in Your arms and bear me up high.
Help me to look to You and cling to You daily,
Help me to trust in faith, and cast fears away,
Grant me your perfect peace, please fill my mind with ease,
Comfort and strengthen my heart, Lord, I pray.
Father, I’m trembling, and troubled, and worried;
I give these cares to you, oh take them away!
Help me to lean on you, I’m wearied with struggling,
Fill my aching heart with Your peace today.
June 3rd, 2001
Jerry Bouey
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace,
whose mind is stayed on Thee:
because he trusteth in Thee.
Isaiah 26:3
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing
by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,
shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
Wings
I’m flying with the wings of an eagle
Soaring up above in the sky
My thoughts are on the things of Heaven
I’ll worship my Creator on high.
I’m swiftly running – somehow I’m not weary
I won’t give up, there’s a race to be won
I’ll keep my eyes on the Author, Finisher of faith
There’s a new song of praise to be sung.
I’m walking while the going is easy
I won’t tremble though the road gets hard
The Son of God is a mighty fortress
He’s my Rock, my shelter, my guard.
Though Satan desires I should stumble
As he sets each trap, to my protector I fly
When it seems I can’t win, and the snare closes in
On wings my Father will bear me up high.
Though thousands around me should perish
I won’t fear for my redemption draws nigh
While lightning flashes across the heavens
On wings of rapture I’ll meet my Lord in the sky.
December 10th, 1994
Jerry Bouey
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles;
they shall run, and not be weary;
and they shall walk, and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress:
my God; in Him will I trust.
He shall cover thee with His feathers,
and under His wings shalt thou trust:
His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Psalms 91:1-2, 4
An Anchor For The Soul
Poems On Friendships and Close Fellowship With The Lord
Friends Forever
Birds of a feather, that’s what we are,
Friends forever, whether near or far,
A friend will stand by you and never depart,
We’re friends together, touched by the heart.
Whether you are in sickness, sorrow, or pain,
Even when it seems there is nothing to gain,
Life could get bitter, sweet, or tart,
We’re friends however, sometimes torn by the heart.
We’ll stick close together when the going gets tough,
We’ll journey this road, no matter how rough,
Companions eternal, whether we’re apart,
Through Jesus we’re living, joined by the heart.
September 8th, 1993
Jerry Bouey
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:17
True Christian Friends
True Christian friends are a blessing that are sent out by the Lord.
They come straight from Heaven (I’m sure that’s where they’re stored!)
They can touch your life with joy and make all the difference in the world.
They offer comfort and compassion when the storms of life are hurled.
True Christian friends are a blessing that are sent from God above.
They fill your life with wonder and crown it all with love.
They are there with the answers when you haven’t got a clue,
And offer guidance and steadfastness when you don’t know what to do.
True Christian friends are like poems, composed by the Son of God.
He made each one different, some may seem slightly odd,
But Christ is molding every one of them in His own special way.
Thank our Heavenly Father for each one He sends your way.
August 29th, 2000
Jerry Bouey
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
Proverbs 27:17
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly:
and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24
The Valley Of Faith
(Based on Psalm 23)
The Lord is my Shepherd.
He’s proven faithful throughout the years.
Though I walk through death’s dark valley,
His grace calmly soothes all my fears.
As I closely follow His leading,
He provides for my every need.
Oh, the waters are so peaceful,
And the pastures are rich indeed!
When I get weary and heavy laden,
When the labour of love takes its toll,
I go to the Shepherd for refreshing,
And He gently restores my soul.
As I lean upon the Shepherd,
He guides me in the path that’s right.
When the shadows seem so gloomy,
The Lord is my Lamp and my Light.
The Shepherd’s name is so precious;
Like ointment poured forth to me.
Jesus’ name means He’s the “Saviour”,
And He gives life abundantly.
Yea, though I walk through this valley,
No sudden fears will bar my way.
His rod and staff are there to guide me,
And bring me back whenever I stray.
Though my enemies may surround me,
My Lord, omnipotent, still provides,
And though evil forces may assail me,
Within, God’s perfect peace still abides.
Anointed with God’s Spirit,
And overflowing with His love,
My cup indeed is running over
With showers of blessing from above.
Amazed with His goodness and mercy,
By His grace, in this pasture, I roam.
How I rejoice to see that day
When the Good Shepherd leads me home.
October 12th, 2001
Jerry Bouey
I Am the Good Shepherd:
the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.
I Am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep,
and am known of Mine.
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them,
and they follow Me:
And I give unto them eternal life;
and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.
John 10:11, 14, 27-28
True Love
A love so true, someone who is always there,
You love me, Lord, and I know that you care.
Though others disappoint and are always changing,
I know that You never will.
When life is turbulent and the road is twisting,
You say to my heart, “Be still.”
I must rest solely in Your tender arms,
Guarded by the strength You convey;
All others will fail time and again,
But You, my God, will always stay.
When my heart is aching inside,
no matter the reasons why,
You touch the wounds, heal the hurts,
and dry these tears I cry.
When something is missing in my life,
And my heart yearns for something more,
You teach me of Your covenant love,
And the hope that is laid up in store.
When I’m lonely inside, Your arms are open wide,
Sheltering and protecting, so strong, yet mild.
Your Spirit stirs within my heart, fixing every broken part,
Reminding me that I’m Your child.
Though some things in life are unsure,
And at times I feel left all alone,
You touch my heart and I am content,
Your love surrounds me – I feel right at home.
August 13th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
We love him, because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms…
Deuteronomy 33:27a
Be still, and know that I am God:
I will be exalted among the heathen,
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
When I’m Lonely
When I’m feeling lonely,
Lord, I know You are here.
When I need someone to talk to:
Remind me that You are near.
When I need a friend for comfort,
When I need a helping hand,
When I need someone that loves me:
Lord, I know You understand.
When I need a shelter from life’s storms,
When I need a tender heart that’s warm,
When I need to feel Your peace of mind:
Send my way someone that’s kind.
Whenever I need a touch of Your love,
When it’s You I need to be reminded of,
My Father, who cares for each little sparrow:
Remind me, it’s You who holds all my tomorrows.
Lord, I know You care for me,
And I believe You reign from above,
Whenever I’m lonely and need a friend:
Send someone my way to share Your love.
January 12th, 1996
Jerry Bouey
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,
that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble,
by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Will You Be A Jonathan?
When I feel like David and I am weighed down,
When I need encouragement from you,
When I don’t feel so brave and my heart is frail,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
When I lose the vision and my eyes are dim,
When I can’t see God’s blessed view,
When I need reminders of God’s perfect love,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
Will you make a covenant to stand by me,
In tough times will you help me through,
When I stumble and falter in my walk with God,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
Will you think of me before yourself,
Demonstrating what a servant should do,
Will you show me how to live before the Lord,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
Will you love me as you love yourself,
Will you delight yourself in me too,
Will you speak well of me to my enemies,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
Will you risk your life for me to show your love,
Will you do your best to be true,
Will you encourage me in God, and strengthen my heart,
Will you be a Jonathan too?
Thank you for your friendship, and for all your love,
I feel like I’ve been renewed;
Now that my faith is strengthened and my heart has healed,
I can feel the Lord’s love flowing through.
My life is right with God,
I can see His glory now,
And I am no longer blue;
But when I see your pain,
That you are struggling again,
I know I can be a Jonathan for you.
November 3rd, 1996
Jerry Bouey
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly:
and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Proverbs 18:24
And Jonathan Saul’s son arose,
and went to David into the wood,
and strengthened his hand in God.
1 Samuel 23:16
See also 1 Samuel 18:1-4; 19:1-2, 4; Chapter 20
Peaceful Skies Ahead
Poems on New Beginnings
A Brand New Start
I can feel my God moving
in my heart and in my soul.
It’s a beauty beyond description
when I let Him take control.
I know without a doubt
I can’t live this life alone.
The burden was so heavy,
but He rolled away the stone.
In my time of searching,
Jesus came and rescued me.
He completely turned my life around;
His Spirit set me free.
I believe my Saviour died and rose;
I’ve made a brand new start.
He didn’t change my world,
He just purified my heart.
Inside, His grace is overflowing,
My Lord – He reigns supreme.
Of all the motives I could choose,
I want real love to be the theme.
I know I’m still imperfect, Father,
of that I’m very much aware,
But I thank You, Lord, for Your forgiveness,
for Your mercy and Your care.
August 26th, 1994
Jerry Bouey
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:
old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.
2nd Corinthians 5:17
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,
that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God,
which is your reasonable service.
Romans 12:1
Be Thou Clean
My sins were as scarlet; they were a burden to me.
My eyes were so blinded that I could not see.
Then I heard of Christ dying on Calvary,
And my soul stirred to life deep inside of me.
(Chorus)
I wondered if Jesus would have compassion on me.
I asked Him if He was willing, and He said, “Be thou clean.”
“Oh sinner, come unto Me. I am willing; be thou clean.”
I asked Him if He was willing, and He said, “Be thou clean.”
My sins, oh how many, pierced my soul like a dart!
Foul leprosy within seemed to stain every part.
I wondered if it was possible to make a new start,
And then God’s gracious love came and filled my heart.
I was like a black sheep that had wandered astray.
I had rebelled against God and gone my own way.
Then I, in repentance, fell on my knees to pray,
And Christ’s precious blood washed my sins all away.
If you are weighed down by your sin’s constant blame,
Overwhelmed and grieved by the burden of shame,
Take a look at the Saviour; there’s a reason He came,
He died for your sins – hear Him calling your name.
February 4th, 2000
Jerry Bouey
Mark 1:40-42 And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean. And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.
Called
You were washed in the blood of the precious Lamb.
You were sanctified by the great I Am.
You were justified in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
You were cleansed inside by His sacred Word.
You were purchased by the Holy Spirit in you.
You were called forth from the world – now you,
Whom Jesus Christ loved, died for, rescued and saved,
So in the Book of Life your name would be engraved –
Run in such a way as to earn the prize:
Play to win.
In the race for eternity, dear friend,
Let the games begin.
September 16th, 1993
Jerry Bouey
And such were some of you:
but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified,
but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus,
and by the Spirit of our God.
For ye are bought with a price:
therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit,
which are God’s.
1 Corinthians 6:11, 20
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all,
but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things.
Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly;
so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection:
lest that by any means, when I have preached to others,
I myself should be a castaway.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
First Steps
As I learn to walk with You, Lord,
I’ll take each step, however small.
Though I may stumble from time to time,
I know with You I’ll never fall.
I’ll hold onto Your hand, Father,
As You lovingly guide the way,
Knowing that wherever You lead me,
On Your path I will always stay.
Through dismal tunnels dark,
Into bright passages of light,
I’ll walk forward with You, Lord,
Bravely facing the night.
When I falter in Your footsteps, Jesus,
I know You will gently lift me up.
When my feet are tired and worn,
You’ll let me drink from Your loving cup.
Each new fresh morning is another walk;
Oh, there’s so much more I have to do,
But I’ll take each welcome step, dear Lord,
Because it will bring me closer home to You.
August 28th, 1993
Jerry Bouey
For even hereunto were ye called:
because Christ also suffered for us,
leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.
1 Peter 2:21
He that saith he abideth in Him (Jesus)
ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.
1 John 2:6
Following
Following in Abraham’s footsteps,
You are going like never before.
Though uncertain of the outcome,
In faith you will trust the Lord.
While you wait upon God’s guidance,
Unsure of where to start,
Like Moses of so long ago,
Waiting for that Sea to part.
Like the Israelites in the wilderness,
Receiving Manna from the skies,
You will follow God’s own leading,
As His path opens before your eyes.
For we know Jesus has great plans for you,
A future that’s laid up in store;
A path of peace and holiness,
With Christ’s blessings forevermore.
It’s in Him we live and move and have our being,
Trust in His Word – it’s worth believing.
As you seek wisdom and leading from the Lord above,
You’ll find what you need through His mercy and love.
Persevere in the race and stand firmly too.
As you are transformed by His grace
Let His love shine through.
April 7th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
I am the light of the world, he that followeth Me shall
not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12
My sheep hear My voice,
and I know them, and they follow Me.
John 10:27
Hebrews 11:8-10 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
Forgiveness
Forgiveness – it’s a blessing;
When a heart that once was stone,
Stops exalting its own self,
And lets Christ reign from His throne.
Forgiveness – it’s a blessing;
When all bitterness departs,
When the water of the Word
Purifies a broken heart.
Forgiveness – it’s a blessing;
Though sometimes walking by sight,
Now reaching for God’s promises,
By faith, grasping them tight.
Forgiveness – it’s a blessing;
Though blackest sins barred the way,
With rivers of mercy flowing,
Christ can wash them all away.
Forgiveness – it’s a blessing;
Eternal life by God’s grace,
With joy, looking to Heaven,
And beholding our Saviour’s face.
November 2nd, 1999
Jerry Bouey
Isaiah 38:17 Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back.
Isaiah 43:25 I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.
Isaiah 44:22 I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee.
Psalm 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Micah 7:18-19 Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.
Hebrews 8:10-12 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.
I’ve Gone Home
I’ve gone home to see my Father,
I’ve gone home, so don’t you cry
I’ll be waiting for you in Heaven,
In my mansion prepared on high.
No more sickness, no more sorrow,
No more pain, and no more grief.
I’ve gone home to be with Jesus
Though my sojourn here was brief.
I’ve gone home to live in Heaven
With all the blessed saints of old,
Here with Abraham and David
To stroll through streets of gold.
I’ve gone home to be in Heaven
Where there’s no sadness, and no night.
There is joy and peace unending,
In this blissful land of light.
But there’s something else more beautiful,
So precious, beyond this crystal sea,
As I wander through realms of glory
I find my Saviour walks with me.
I’ve gone home to be in Heaven,
Though you miss me, and tears abound,
Just keep believing in God’s promises,
And listening for that trumpet sound.
Because one day in God’s timing
When the Lord calls out your name
Look to the skies in awe and wonder –
We’ll see each other again.
August 1st, 2000
Jerry Bouey
Precious in the sight of the LORD
is the death of His saints.
Psalm 116:15
God Is So Good
God is so good,
But this life is so tough.
The days seem so long,
The road is so rough.
Sometimes I get bogged down
With the things that I find.
The pressures seem too much,
The world’s lies claw at my mind.
When I begin to feel trapped,
Locked within this rat race,
I know that there’s real truth,
And it’s only found one place:
The answers to my search for life
Do not lie within.
Inside is a rebellious heart,
Marred and scarred with sin.
When I need true peace
That takes away the fear,
The doubts that come
Lord, I know they’re here,
When I need hope
That overcomes the pain,
A will to live,
And grace to start again
I look to Jesus –
Oh He loves me I know;
I can feel His mercy and strength
Beginning to flow.
January 4th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
John 17:17
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,
whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure,
whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report;
if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Those things, which ye have both learned, and received,
and heard, and seen in me, do:
and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9
Why Wait Until Tomorrow?
Another year is now over
And there’s a new one on the way
With some fresh New Year’s Resolutions
And bright promises to make.
So many things you wanted to do,
So many bad habits to throw away.
So many hopeful new horizons
Just waiting over the way.
All the could’ves, would’ves, should’ves
And all the things you wanted to say.
But – why wait until tomorrow,
When you can begin today?
Why wait for another year to pass by,
For twelve more months to fly away?
When God’s mercies are new every morning.
He gives us a new beginning every day.
So why wait until tomorrow,
When you can begin anew today?
Praise the Lord for second chances and new beginnings!
January 1st, 2001
Jerry Bouey
This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.
It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed,
because his compassions fail not.
They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:21-23
The Master Of The Wind
Poems on The Preeminence Of Christ
In The Presence Of The Lord
In the presence of the Lord
Is where I long to be.
Living each moment in His tender care,
My God communing with me.
Teaching me wonders from His law,
Filling my life with His love,
Finding delight in serving Him,
Jehovah who reigns above.
Living each day before Christ,
Fearfully aware of each move that I make.
Did I glorify God, were my motives pure,
Is upholding His Truth the risk that I take?
Is my life a living and holy sacrifice,
Or has my focus faded again?
I won’t be conformed to this world,
I pray my Father restores me to Him.
I want to obey when I hear my Lord speak,
As His Spirit and His Word command me.
But sometimes, inside, I feel so weak,
Still Jesus says, “Take up your cross and follow Me.”
Sometimes this life can seem so hard,
It’s only with eyes of faith that I can see.
I know it’s in the presence of the Lord,
That I, His beloved child, long to be.
August 25th, 1994
Jerry Bouey
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
John 14:21-23 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Meaningless?
Life is meaningless – as Solomon said, “All is vanity.”
Nothing is worth living for – except God.
Nothing is worth everything – except God.
He is my only reason for living – He is in my heart,
Always on my mind – the possessor of my soul.
He is the great “I Am” – His throne is established from of old.
Jesus is my Lord, my Saviour, my Shepherd.
I am a sheep of His pasture – I know Him.
And that knowledge alone is worth eternity.
The fellowship, the lovingkindness,
And mercy He showers upon me,
I could never give up.
He is the only Way.
He is ultimate Truth.
He is my Life.
He is the only God;
I worship only Him.
I will never turn away,
Or give Him up for anything.
Life is utterly meaningless – vanity of vanities,
From beginning to end –
Without the Alpha and Omega,
The First and the Last,
Who is, who was, and who is to come,
He that liveth, and was dead, and is alive forevermore,
The Almighty,
My Saviour, My God,
Jesus.
August 3rd, 1994
Jerry Bouey
Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher,
vanity of vanities; all is vanity…
What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under the sun?
…The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be;
and that which is done is that which shall be done:
and there is no new thing under the sun…
I have seen all the works that are done under the sun;
and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit…
Ecclesiastes Chapter One,
written by King Solomon,
the richest, wisest man who ever lived.
Without the Lord Jesus Christ, everything life could possibly offer is only Vanity of Vanities.
My Faltering Heart
There are times when it seems my courage is so frail and small.
I look within my own life and I see how I fail and fall.
I know in myself I falter and I am nothing at all.
But how do I follow You, Lord Jesus, when I hear Your loving call?
Sometimes my emotions deceive me and my heart isn’t fully Yours.
So many things distract me and I find I am led off course.
And I realize again, somehow, my love has grown dim.
Yet how do I repent and now have my heart stayed on Him?
I lose my devotion so easily, yet nothing stands in my way.
What is it within my own heart that pulls me further away?
How did my joy dry up? Why doesn’t it ever stay?
How does my desire wane? Restore me, Oh Lord, I pray!
I see within myself that I have nothing to offer you.
My vision seems so faded – Lord, grant me another view.
I don’t know why my heart wanders or why it so often roams.
Why can’t I follow You fully, and seek Your face alone?
Take my fragile heart – I offer it to You again.
Do Your will in my life, Lord, and help me to say, Amen!
Change my heart, transform my mind, and help me return to You.
Be my everything, dear Lord. Restore, remake, renew!
January 26th, 1997
Jerry Bouey
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9
Which Is Better?
Which is better:
To play loud music for the masses,
Or to sing softly for the Holy One?
To soar among the heavens,
Or to walk beside God’s Son?
Which is better:
To touch the lives of others
Who only touch your own?
Or to reach toward another
Who feels left out and alone?
Which is better:
To climb the highest mountain,
And to swim the raging sea,
Or to worship Him who made them both,
And who also created me?
Which is better:
A life filled with rose-strewn pathways,
A life of ease and luxury,
Or a life that has its pain and suffering,
And a God who cares for me?
Sometimes I want the easy way,
A way that doesn’t test my faith,
But then the hard times come along,
And my dreams vanish away like wraiths.
I don’t want to stumble blindly in darkness,
I would rather pierce the night,
But I will gladly give away all my candles,
And let Jesus be my guiding light.
I won’t let my emotions play upon my faith,
As if it were a jungle gym,
I will let life’s situations be the pressures,
That ever draw me close to Him.
October 15th, 1995
Jerry Bouey
The LORD is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
the LORD is the strength of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 27:1
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:12
Northern Lights
We saw the Northern Lights tonight, glittering up in the sky.
In rapture, we beheld the sight, and my how the time passed by –
In worshipping and praising the Lord who made all these things.
In amazement and wonder, our souls began to sing.
We talked about God’s love tonight, and sang songs from His Word;
About how Jesus died to give us life – so glad that we had heard.
Awestruck at all the colours, bright green and white and red.
Praising Christ for Calvary, and for the blood that He had shed.
Night grew a little bit colder, but now we were warmed within.
We thanked Jesus for having saved us and forgiving all our sin.
Remembering God’s past mercies, and sharing them again,
And all through this time of worship, our hearts drew closer to Him.
Thank you, Lord, for your awesome gift of creation,
and for making us new creatures in Christ Jesus.
Amen.
October 4th, 2000
Jerry Bouey
When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers,
the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
What is man, that thou art mindful of him?
and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
Psalm 8:3-4
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:
old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
2 Corinthians 5:17
On My Knees
On my knees I will worship the King of heaven and earth.
Lord of all creation, You alone are worth
More than a million diamonds, or pearls from the sea,
For they will pass away, my Lord, but You will always be.
When troubles come, my God, I know You will conquer all.
You will heal my heart and rescue me every time I fall.
In the darkest night of despair, my Jesus, You’ll pull me through.
There is no other Saviour, Lord, there is only You.
When my heart is tempted away, Lord, I know You will pull me back.
When riches start to sway me, remind me there’s no lack
Of Your glorious blessings. I have no use for greed.
You are love eternal; that is all I really need.
When the world grabs at my attention, don’t let me be lured away.
All the money I can dream of is not worth one single day
Of being without You, my Lord, my God, my King.
You alone are worth forever, You’re worth everything!
May 18th, 1994
Jerry Bouey
If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
To whom coming, as unto a living stone,
disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious…
Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture,
Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:
he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
Unto you therefore which believe he is precious…
1 Peter 2:3-4, 7
Leaning On The Lord
The biggest thing to remember when going through trials and afflictions is to stay focussed on the Lord, and continually renew our minds with His precious promises. Doubt and discouragement come when we forget His perspective and we start looking at our situations through the eyes of fear, not faith.
A) Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: Isaiah 26:3-4
“Stayed” in verse 3 means “to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively, to lean upon or take hold of”. It is a choice to lean on the Lord and stay focussed on Him. Take hold of Jesus and trust Him with your struggles, for it is in Him that you will find the strength you need, and the perfect peace that only comes through prayer.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
“Careful” means “anxious or worried.” The word “keep” in verse 7 means, “to mount guard as a sentinel; to hem in, protect.” If you consider that Satan’s greatest attacks are against our minds, then the promise of God’s perfect (complete) peace protecting and guarding our hearts and minds is a powerful promise indeed. The solution to discouragement, fretting, and worrying, is to give them all to the Lord in prayer, trusting in Him to answer them according to His perfect will.
B) Another passage that uses the same word in Hebrew (and same definition) as the word “stayed” above is: The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in His way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with His hand. Psalm 37:23-24
The word “upholdeth” in verse 24 has the same meaning. If you let the Lord order and arrange your life, then even if you stumble or fall, the Lord will uphold you. You can trust the Lord with the good and bad in your life because, if you are His child, He is working all things together for your good. Because the Lord is working everything for your good, you can rejoice and be thankful for everything, even the trials in your life. (See Romans 8:28 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
C) When I said, My foot slippeth; Thy mercy, O LORD, held me up. Psalm 94:18
The word “held” here means “support.” The Lord’s mercy is able to hold you up, to support you.
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16
The word “help” in verse 16 means literally to “run to the cry”. Jesus has gone through the same types of trials and temptations that we all face, and therefore can sympathize with everything we could ever go through. If we will just cry out to Him in our time of need, He will run to our aid and provide the mercy and grace we need to persevere under this trial.
D) They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay. Psalm 18:18
The word for “stay” here means “a support; a protector or sustenance.” The Lord is our protector, our sustenance, and our support in times of calamity. Wait on Jesus to provide the strength you need to go through this calamity.
Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:28-31
“Mount up” means “to rise, to ascend.” If you wait on the Lord in prayer, He will give you the strength to rise above your problems, and to soar in the heavenly places with Him.
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:1-2
E) Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22
“Cast” means “to throw out, down or away”. Quit holding on to your burdens and trying to control the circumstances that are in your life. Instead, throw your burdens on the Lord Jesus because He loves you and knows what’s best for you, even if you can’t understand the reasons He allows certain trials into your life.
Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Throw your worries on the Lord and let Him deal with them. When doubts and fears knock on the door of your heart, send Jesus to answer them!
F) Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness. Isaiah 41:10
The word here for “uphold” means to “sustain.” Trust in the Lord, wait on Him in prayer, and He promises to give you the strength you need to sustain you and uphold you.
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14
G) Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of His servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of Mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow. Isaiah 50:10-11
The word “stay” in verse 10 means “to support one’s self; lean, rely on, rest on.” If you want perfect peace even in the midst of trials – when your way is dark and you can’t understand why the Lord is allowing certain afflictions in your life – don’t make your own way. Instead, look to the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word. Then trust in Him and lean on Him. The verse says “trust in the name of the LORD.” In the Bible, a name is who a person is, what they represent. In the King James Bible, every time all the letters in the word LORD are capitalized, it means “Jehovah” – “I Am” – the eternal, self-existent God. (Exodus 3:14-15) The name of the LORD is I Am. Let Jesus be your everything. Let Him be your peace, your strength, your refuge, your shield, and your fortress. Let Him be your LORD!
When you are struggling, meditate on the nine compound names of Jehovah in the Old Testament and Jesus’ seven I Am statements in the Gospel of John, and marvel at how the LORD meets every need you could possibly ever face.
The nine compound names and their translations into English are as follows:
1) Jehovah-Jireh, The LORD my Provider (Genesis 22:8,13-14)
2) Jehovah-Rapha, The LORD my Healer (Exodus 15:26)
3) Jehovah-Nissi, The LORD is my Banner (Exodus 17:15)
4) Jehovah-Qadash, The LORD thy Sanctifier (Exodus 31:13)
5) Jehovah-Shalom, The LORD our Peace (Judges 6:23-24)
6) Jehovah-Raah, The LORD my Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)
7) Jehovah-Sabaoth, The LORD of Hosts (Isaiah 6:3)
8) Jehovah-Tsidkenu, The LORD our Righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6)
9) Jehovah-Shammah, The LORD Is There (ie. Present) (Ezekiel 48:35)
The name “Jesus” means “the LORD our Salvation,” a further revelation of the magnitude of the LORD.
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins. Matthew 1:21
Jesus’ seven I Am statements are:
1) I Am the Bread of Life (John 6:35,48,51)
2) I Am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
3) I Am the Door of the Sheep (John 10:7,9)
4) I Am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-14)
5) I Am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)
6) I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6)
7) I Am the True Vine (John 15:1,5)
By the way, the number seven in the Bible represents perfection, fullness, completion. Just thought you should know Jesus is all you need!
Keep leaning on the Lord!
March 29th, 2001
Jerry Bouey