Lord, You brought me through so many situations, that when I look back, I have no words. Thank You.
Scripture: Philippians 4:13 KJV "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me"
A Moment To Reflect
(Music and Lyrics by Lee Waire, Leap Over Walls, 2005)
For the courage to go forward, I had to take a moment to look back. In doing so I discovered I’d have been lost without You to guide me and protect!
Bright and Morning Star, I can’t praise You enough. For Your Love, and Your Caring,
Upon these things, I reflect.
A moment to reflect, Lord, about the lessons I’ve learned. How some lessons came again, and again, until I gained The Truth in them.
And, only then could I go on!
You said grow a little straighter, grow each day, a little stronger In My Love.
Just a moment to reflect on how great You’ve been. How great You Are.
You’ve been a shelter when I needed one, a cover from rain and storm. You’ve been a fortress all around me, turning away hurt and harm. You’ve been a watch while I slept Lord, at my front door, side and back.
When I think about how great You’ve been, I’m overwhelmed with how great You are.
You’ve been the kindness in a stranger when I needed a helping hand.
You’ve been my road made smooth and pleasant, when others walked a bumpy path.
You’ve been my fullness overflowing, from the well that brings forth life.
When I think about how great You’ve been, joy fills my soul with just how great You Are!
How Great!
Just a moment to reflect, Lord, How Great!
Just a moment to give thanks for, How Great!
Just a moment to look back on, How Great You Are! How Great You’ve Been!
Scripture: Matthew 6:34: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Song: God Is Now
Lyrics and music by Lee Waire (Copyright Leap Over Walls 2005)
Now, Now, Now
God Is Now, Now, Now
God Is Now, Now, Now, Now, Now!
Joy in the morning when I rise
But must I wait for the morning skies?
I lift my soul for you to see.
What ‘ere I need, Lord fix it please—
Now, Now, Now
God is listening, now, now, now
God Is healing now, now, now, now, now.
Joy in the morning, when I rise.
When I raise my sights above my eyes
And see, the gray threads mixing with the gold,
on tapestry God calls man’s soul…
I know that God Is,
Now, Now, Now
Ongoing and forever
Now, Now, Now
Giving and forgiving
Now, Now, Now, Now, Now….
(Continued lyrics in Leap Over Walls Music Book, available at Amazon. Take a listen at leapoverwallsmusic-YouTube)
What kind of thinking can change, I do to I don't! What kind of thinking can change, Oh, I will, to no! I won't. What kind of thinking would change boys playing with balls, to men fighting with bats, worse still with guns that shoot and maim, with no care or thought. No thought that there is a tomorrow of remorse, or regret. So what if the neighbors are having a party, and it is too loud for you to rest or sleep. You ought to congratulate them for doing something nice. My goodness! buy them a cake and a bottle of wine, leave it at the door, with a note that is kind, that says, may you have many more...signed, from your neighbor next door. Be part of the pleasure of happy endeavors, give others a chance to be happy-timers, instead of crime head-liners. It must be a very fragile mind set and thinking without structure, to so quickly fly off base and hurt another.
This song was written years ago when I was working the night shift. With the kids off to school, I had another cup of coffee, and the morning paper in hand. The paper blasted, what seem to be the same news as yesterday, young people in gangs in trouble of all kinds, missing their opportunities, ruining their young lives and spoiling their futures. Having 4 kids, I couldn't help but focus on what the future held for my own children. No matter what the parent does for the child, at one point in time, the child has to pull the reins on his own life directions. Hopefully, God is in his thinking.
Paul the Apostle wrote to the Christians in Philippi, and in his letter, he told them what to think. There are no questions about this verse. How clear. He says..."Think true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, any virtue, any praise, think on those things (Philippians 4:8).
How many people today would unravel time, to undo a mean word to a loved one, a nasty remark to an official, a demeaning word to a child, and on and on. I read a sermon by very wise minister. He said, an argument is like a feather pillow fight. After the fight, trying to gather up all of the feathers, is a near impossible task, there will always be a few feathers hidden behind some place, in a couch, under a dresser, in a corner, etc. In the future, regardless of when a feather is found, it is bound to make the memory of the fight and the pain come to surface.
Think It Over 'Fore You Do, is a relationship song. Everyone should be aware of it's meaning. Some unnecessary breakups, hurt feelings, broken homes, sadden friendships, could be avoided just by thinking first, before you do.
I thought the words important enough to match it with a melody, to catch your ears. I persuaded my daughter to sing it with me, with my one finger accompaniment. For me to sing must impress you about how much I want you to hear this song. I do it for you my loves, Bye.
I love the fact that the Leap Over Walls collection represents a diversity of music. In our library we not only claim the contemporary, rock, jazz, but also the hymn, and the southern Gospel. Our God is all-sided, speaking to all His people. His message calls to all, and every sheep knows His voice. That is why you will find musicians in every field. Music is powerful. Music is soothing. Music is soul-searching, reaching the soul when nothing else can. Babies stop crying, mad men cool their heels (1 Samuel 14:23). It reminds you, resonates with you, making memories clearer still.
It is history. For instance, stemming from the sounds of African spirituals, comes the song Run To Spirit. The music and lyrics recall the pain of another era. Theatrical in presentation, it is a joy to listen to. It gives instruction for escape, with the realism of a journey well run, in Spirit and in truth.
A pointed story about a conversation between good and evil, was told by a minister during his sermon. If you heard it before, it won't hurt to hear it again. It went thusly with the evil voice saying, "What's so grand about making a man? I can make a man!". The good voice answered, "Go ahead". The demon angel fell on his knees, and began to paw at the dirt. The good voice said, "No, No...make your own dirt!".
You know we think all day, 24/7. Can't help it, and there are things we must do to safeguard and protect ourselves. God has done His job, but we must do ours. He has given us our own domain, our mind. To block noxious, defeating, polluting thoughts that dare to attempt entry, require effort. Answer me why we allow things that, "Can't make dirt", to usurp God's word that we have been taught. Why is it we allow our prayer life; our meditation life (Psalms 119:97) to be interrupted by something that "can't make dirt". "Can't make dirt", meaning the devil, can discourage you from good works and good deeds. "Can't make dirt" will lie to you and tell you that you are alone, and that you are not beautiful, etc. The hymn, In The Garden, says He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own!
But then that's Satan's job. He doesn't have any power in your world, except you give it to him. Stand your ground! (Ephesians 6:13-14). Get Up Thoughts is a happy, happy song, light-hearted, and sun shiny bright, you can't sing it sad. It comes at the right time too, right when we're slowing up physically and mentally. Boy, are we tired. Working at home tired, or back and forth to work, tired. Tired is tired. But what we do know, God is able to keep us from falling (Jude 1:24).
Watch the fatigue factor. Years ago, a lady and I just happen to be passing by a store window. I was in my mid-thirties and she was much older. She was so close to me I was startled. Her reflection showed her shoulders were bowed, her back bent. She walked with a listless gait. Her face was without expression and her clothes were dark and droopy. I waited for her to pass but she stopped. I stopped too, in the middle of the sidewalk. We looked at each other for the longest time, in the windows reflection before I realized I was staring at myself! It was a creepy moment, it was a teary moment but, it was also a bright bulb moment. Do you follow me? Because I was going through a dark valley experience and I was tired, I did not safeguard my thoughts. I believed, even for a second, the lies, "Can't make dirt" told me about being alone, with God not present. I am so glad proper Christian principles and teaching snapped me out of that line of thought.
I know it sounds simplistic, but what problem is too hard for God? Up, up, up ideas will come to you, from God knows where, when we take it to Him in prayer. Get Up Thoughts is the song we are talking about today. Though it is not represented here musically, we at Leap Over Walls are seeking talent to sing it in all of it's glory. It was written September 1989.
For extra credit😊read:
1). What does Philippians 4:8 say about thoughts?
2). What does Psalms 46:10 say about meditation?
3). What does 2 Timothy 2:15 say about bible study?
4). What does 1st Corinthians 10:13 say about new problems?
5). Why does Proverbs say your thought life so important?
In this year of 2021, I am praying for you. As I pray for myself, I am praying for you, too. May the doors heretofore, that were closed to your good, be forever now, open wide. May the unexpected happy things, that happen to lots of others, happen to you and yours, and, to me and mine. May the prayer that I pray for myself, extends to it's most perfect form, covering also, your needs and wants, your hopes and desires (See Romans 8:26-28, Matthew 10:29,30 and 31). May the Holy Spirit, who knows us all, individually, with specificity...hair to hair-Fill the blank spots in your heart's cry, and leave them, only for God to hear (Ephesians 6:18).
Now then, Hi! Because He lives, we do too, that's the real good news. Other news might be causing a little disturbance, but we know who to call for help. Right now, a little obstacle, leaping over the walls here, calleddisappointment. I wanted to attached a song onto this blog, but had to revise this blog because the audio was not ready. The song is ready (I got more than enough songs! Praise the Lord) but not public ready. No worries, that day will come. Will not give importance to this stumbling block. Prayers will dismiss it's small sting soon enough. Thank You Jesus. Read Philippians 4:6, don't you just love the word, "Request". It sounds so 21st century, you know, cool & young, like me:).
Remember, as we start out this new year, we already have the victory. We have the power of God in us and instant accessibility to His mind and direction. Let us live and love as we have been taught as Christian soldiers. Let us be careful to do unto others as we want done to ourselves. I really love you all and want us to enjoy this day and season. Until we meet again, Lee.
This year, 2021 is not going to be your, "Oh dear" year. It is for you, a year for blessings, fresh ideas, and amazing discoveries. How do I know? I know because you are a child of God, and all things work (Romans 8:28) together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. So dear, argue that:). I thought this post would not have a song attached to it. I had run out money when I was younger and trying to record the songs as the choir sang them, well, the money was light. It went as far as it could go. I'm glad we did make the recordings we made, or else I'd have little to remind me of our early days. I'm saying all that because I found one last recording! And, it is so appropriate to start out with the new year, especially after last year. Whew! This recording is probably older than most of you guys. The name of this song, I Make My Way With A Song.
This year, we are looking forward to doing so much more with the yet unperformed, musical sounds from the Leap Over Walls, Volume One. Like I said, the songs you already heard, are just a few we were able to record early on. Volume One, itself, contains close to 90 songs.
If I sound a little reminiscent today, it is because the singers on these recordings, have long ago made their transitions (passed away) except for one precious soul. God bless them all for their journey with me.
I wish I could say that it was all uphill, but, "alas" (I feel so Shakespearean when I say that, humor me please), "twas" not so. As in most careers, there will be interruptions, extractions, and leaps over walls, that only faith in God can propel you over.
So what hinders you? What interrupts? What intercepts? or obstructs? Personally, I speak from experience. Wondering still why some things happen or did not happen. When you do everything right and it still comes out wrong, what happened? Carefully following steps, one, two, three, and four, according to well known authors and motivational speakers, things should have fell right into place. But they don't, and they didn't. What I learned from life is, Earth acts like a school, "A get out of hell ticket", passing each grade is imperative and is meant for your growth only, an individual plan. Your study may be quite different from my plan. Different from what I have to complete for my graduation. Same school, different courses, different exposures, different understanding, etc. That's why it's so ridiculous to be jealous of another person, his life, or his goals. You wouldn't fit his life's path and he or she could not fit your life's work. So what is this post about? It's about knowing the plan (Psalms 18:29). The plan God has for you is for your welfare, and not in anyway to hurt you. You may have to leap over walls but not in your own strength. When you leap with God he will clear the wall, after all you don't want to get stuck on the wall, one leg on, one leg off, or some other awkward position.
Observe the path of three, well-known characters. One, the lowly weatherman. Especially the one who is out in the cold. The one that the wind and the storm is blowing upon, full blast. Note, how he or she bends into the storm, head bowed, resolute, wanting you to realize the severity, the exposure, the discomfort they are immersed in. But as long as they must endure, they remain steadfast. Let steadfast be one of your 2021 resolution words. Number two, Sarah (Genesis 18:10-12). As you follow God's plan for your life, are you more Sarah or more Caleb. Remember is was given to Sarah to give birth to a son, Isaac. She was 90 years old. Sarah laughed, she did not believe. Caleb, my hero (Joshua 14:6-14), was one of the spies sent to explore the land of Canaan. With Joshua, he agreed the promise land could be taken, just as God promised. The Israelites disagreed vehemently and so they were punished by having to wander in the desert 40 more years. The land Caleb had been promised, at age 45, he asked Joshua for it again, 40 years later. He was now 85 years old. The land still had not been conquered. Caleb fought and won the land. If God is for you, who? I say who:) can be against you.
Hint for today, adopt a "Run To" scripture that reminds you of who you are in Christ. My scripture is Hebrews 10:23, "Let us hold fast, the profession of our faith, without wavering; (For He is faithful that promised). Until the next post, I'll be standing at the wall.
The Weatherman, Sarah, and Caleb have, and had common walls to leap. The weatherman had to have a stick-to-it ness in his personality. Sarah had to learn to believe God, regardless of what the world said. Caleb had to know in his loins, that he was well able, God saying the same, well able at any stage in his life, to receive the blessing meant for him. What things block our way now; what has sat us down; what is stealing our dreams? What are your dreams? It is that which makes you different from the next student in Earth School. Only you can fill that place in the universe, only you. It may be just a little dream, a little wall, like perseverance. It may be for Sarah, the wall called, Believe God No Matter What The World Says. Or like Caleb, just by living, proved age is just a number.
Everybody has a wall(s). If we go about it right, with God, we'll know when to jump, where to jump, and how to jump. But, never in your own strength. My walls have been too big, couldn't have leaped the walls alone. I needed God all the way.
Since it's all about the music here at Leap Over Walls, "function junction". I must mention that there are songs that remedy every wall. For the weatherman, Safe In His Care. For Sarah, What Is Too Hard For God. For Caleb, Over Again. We're set to leap. Bye For Now.
Note: If you are having problems viewing the videos, please go to web version of blog.
Except for the congregation of the mid-western church where my family and I belonged, few others knew I wrote music. Several years ago, my kids, now grown up, encouraged me to write a blog such as this, to accompany the music, thereby, fulfilling my promised commission to continually raise, and praise the Lord. I hesitated to present the music itself because it wasn't as splendidly produced as I prayed it would be. At the most, we had did our best, with 4-5 volunteer singers and me, choir director/musician...giving it the best of our love. Today's selection is a Christmas carol called, Sing A New Song, It's Christmas Time.
The birth of the baby Jesus is told in Matthew 1:18 and into the second chapter of Matthew. It is also found in chapter 1 in Luke, starting with the 26 verse. Prophets in the Old Testament foretold of his birth, e.g. Micah 5:1-2, Isaiah 9:6. Each writer, in telling the story, brings more understanding to the socio-political, and religious environment surrounding His birth.
A young virgin named Mary, chose by the Holy Ghost, to be the mother of Jesus, was already espoused to Joseph, espoused meaning legally engaged, not married. When Joseph found Mary was with child, being a just man, he did not want to punish or shame her. Obedient to an angel in his dream, he married Mary, but did not consummate their vows until Jesus was born (Matthew 1:18-25). At that time Mary is said to be between 12 and 14 years old; Joseph was 90 years old.
Matthew 2 speaks of a supernatural sight of a star in the east, pointing to the place where the King of the Jews is born. Wise men from the east followed the star. King Herod had already called for a census (that all the world should be taxed). Joseph and Mary had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem (About 90 miles), because they had to go back to the land of his ancestors to be counted. Matthew tells how the wise men (3? not specified in the Bible) found Jesus. They worshipped Him and they left very expensive gifts for Him (gold, myrrh, and frankincense). Being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, as he had asked them to do. Then wise men went home another way since Herod, acting like he wanted to praise the baby, really wanted to kill the baby.
Luke 2 talks about the Holy Family arrival in Bethlehem. The inn was full. Mary was at term. Baby Jesus was born, and wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. An angel told the shepherds, who were watching their sheep nearby, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.." Then a multitude of heavenly host were with the angel, praising God (Luke 2:11-14).
Things to ponder and tidbits to go,
1) Time was split in half at His birth- BC/AD.
2) Two very funny comedians used to have a joke everybody loved. It was about baseball It concerned who was on first and who was on second. It behooves us, as Christians, to answer that question. For help, read Matthew 6:33.
3) The Christmas story is very powerful and should be told, not only as tradition but over and over to our children, til no other story outshines it.
This story is true, to the best of my remembering. The teacher has separated us into groups, with the aim of decorating of classroom for Christmas. We were all happily engaged, when suddenly a painful cry was heard. Startled, we all looked up! The teacher yelled, "What happened?". Lori ran passed the teacher, and out of the classroom crying. The teacher ran after her but could not catch her. The principal was notified and called her home. In those days we had neighborhood schools, easily within 5 minutes of home. For lunchtime we went home to eat and returned back to school for afternoon class.
In no time Lori and a very upset mother returned to our class. Lori was red eyed from crying. Her mother was just red-eyed. After giving our class and our teacher a thorough tongue lashing about being so big mouthed, she and Lori left. Phew! The classroom was very quiet. Our teacher looked over at Lori's group, yes, the usual suspects were there, James, William and Ralph, trying not to laugh, stood waiting for Teach to scold but she didn't. She quietly addressed the three of them, "What did you do?". James burst out laughing, "We told her there was no Santa Claus!". The whole class giggled. Trying not to verbalize, "Wha!!". The teacher just told us to continue working on our projects. She never mentioned this to us again, and perhaps not even to Lori when she returned to school the next day. We were in the 8th grade, soon to be Freshmen in High School! (Of course, all names have been changed to protect the innocent).
The beauty of the Christmas season should be enjoyed with lights, colors, gift giving, well-wishing, decorations and beautiful Christmas trees, for sure! Joy to the world.
My dear readers be ever blessed and protected by Jesus Our Lord. If there be tears of sadness in your home right now, may they soon become tears of joy. May the love of the Jesus Child, I pray, fill your life with gladness in every way. And may you sing, yes, sing, a beautiful new song today.
*If using a cell phone, to listen to the music, go to web version.
The easy melody, and words of praise in, I'm Coming In lends itself beautifully to the creative stylings of most Gospel singers. Meaning, it builds emotionally in thought and feeling. Though it only has 3 short verses, and a repetitive melody, it capably superimposes and reiterates the message it intends to convey. That is; the wonderfulness of meeting Jesus, growing to be like Him and forever to stay with Him.
God makes no question about us being welcome, we can at any, and all times, enter into His Holy Presence for anything, big or small (Proverbs 3:6). By his own invitation He says come. Often. Routinely(1 Thessalonians 5:17). In Spirit and truth we can enter into His gates with thanksgiving and praise.
He is omniscient. He knows all. Yet, Father God allows me, indeed, encourages me (Isaiah 43:25-26) to seek His face. He says plead your case, put Me in remembrance. He says, let us argue together. I can freely approach Him because He Says I can. Whether by prayer or meditation, I have His ear. Conversationally, in my mind, in praise and adoration in my soul. Weeping and wailing in the depths of my spirit, He hears me. He forgives me for His own sake. He blesses me because He can, because He is love, because He is mercy.
(2 Kings 20:1-6) King Hezekiah had just been given a message by the prophet Isaiah that he would not recover from his sickness. God had told Isaiah to tell the king to get his house in order. King Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and wept bitterly. He prayed and reminded God of his obedience e.g. how he had walked before the Lord in truth and with a perfect heart, and had done that which was good in God's sight. Before Isaiah could get to the middle court, God told Isaiah to go back and tell Hezekiah, "I have heard your prayers and seen your tears; I will heal you. I will add 15 years to your life, and I will deliver you and this city out of the hands of the king of Assyria".
King Hezekiah reminded God and God blessed him.
Our church was small, from the front door to the pulpit, so it was just a matter of a few steps to the choir stand. When I suggested "marching in" to I'm Coming In, I expected the smiles of amusement from the choir. "Lee, all we gonna get out is, I'm Com... and Reverend will be opening up the order of service". I grinned too, they were right. But not this time, we sang it all the way through. Maybe, so you can hear it today, thanks to our dear pastor, posthumously, for letting us finish the song. Forgive the unpolished recording, it was only meant for rehearsal--a tape recorder on top of a piano.
So blessed friends, while the invitation is still being offered and, the door is still wide open---I'm Coming In.
As you know, this blog centers around introducing to you, my friend, the music I've written. The music is varied, it touches on many experiences we've all had and/or having. So if what I write, makes you smile or think kindred thoughts, just say, "Aha, she must have been there"!
The song for today is Safe In His Care. It is about leaving the family.
Let's see, what is family? I'm going to wing it with my own definition, as it fits my purpose here. Let's say family is a group of people, that belong to each other, by blood, cultural ties, friendships, etc., "for better or worse". Father God meant the family structure to be the most beautiful, family institution known to man. It was to nurture and protect each person in it's clan.
Depending upon the circumstances, a person leaving home can invoke a myriad of emotions from each of the family members. So recognizing the definition of family is important to the civilized world. We are approaching this subject cautiously because leaving home is not necessarily a bad thing, as in e.g. going to school, getting married, pursuing a job/career, bettering one's self, or so forth. When these things work out, it's a blessing. The Bible speaks of many such blessings. But when it is not blest, it can be disastrous, as in the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).
To leave too soon, too young, inexperienced, not enough education, especially in the whims and seductiveness of the world, too much money; soon to be too little, no real friends and no where to go is just to name a few pitfalls awaiting our vulnerable travelers. This is just the opposite of what a real family should be providing.
So, the question is, as Christians, how are we to react when a family member leaves home for whatever reason. Aside from the constant gulping, to keep the, "Heart in throat" sensation back. We have to remember this:
If I may so further speak, may these words be a comfort to you. No matter what the reason, no matter what the season-Your loved one, old or young, is, Safe In His Care. God is God, from mountain to mountain, from valley to valley.Knowing this-Pray in faith and sing in praises. God sees All, and knows All, and All, is (Psalm 139:8) Safe In His Care.
The painting, "The Light of the World", we normally recognize as Jesus standing outside of a door. A closed door, with no handle to open it from the outside. So long has it been unopened it is overgrown with vines and unruly vegetation. Jesus may have been knocking a long time. Man has always had power of his will to accept or not accept God's invitation. Of course, Jesus could easily open the door. No problem. But, robotic love was never the plan. The plan was salvation via the cross. Psalms 103 speaks of the marvelous benefits of God's love. Paul says, in Galatians chapter 5:22 through verse 23 speaks of beauty instead of the dredges of mankind. God is a loving God, praise His name.
This art was done by William Holman Hunt (1827-1910). It is an allegorical, that is a figurative depiction of a harden heart, the refusal of mankind to answer the call, the loving call of Jesus.
The fact that a doorknob is missing from the outside speaks volumes about the patience of Jesus. He awaits the response of the soul inside. It is to the host's sorrow if he does not answer, and to his eternal joy if he does.
The Leap Over Walls Music Library, "paints", a whole new scenario in music, of the host who hears the knocking. He recognizes the Holy Visitation of Our Precious Savior. He rushes to the door, and flings it open wide. In happy expectation, he greets his Holy Visitor with love and adoration. On his knees he praises Him who is so worthy to be praised. You talking about celebration? There are instruments playing, and dancing in the streets. The once stagnant heart leaps alive with new found joy, strength and vitality.
When Jesus arrives, so do all His benefits, and His blessings, His promises and eternal security. The Blessed Holy Spirit takes a permanent abode. You are never alone. The weeds and the meaningless vines, choking your would-be life-giving fruits, drop off your dying branches. With God's Presence your ground becomes fertile, bearing Fruits of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, forbearance, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. No wonder people living near by the habitat of this used to be hard-hearted soul, barely recognize him anymore. Jesus is the best plastic surgeon around.
A quick review:
1) Who loves you? John 3:16
2) Who told you so? The BIBLE
3) The door with no knob represents? Psalms 14:1
4) The Good Shepherd had 100 sheep, 1 sheep was lost. What did the Good Shepherd do? Luke 15:5
5) Who is "I" that stands at the door and knocks? Revelations 3:20
6) There is a party going on. Luke 15:7
7) Who is invited? Luke 15:6
8) What are the benefits? Psalms 103:1-5
Come Sup With Me Video
If you are using a cell phone, please go to web version of blog.
You better recognize! Depending on the attitude of the person speaking, these words can be said as a joy and a joke. Ha! Ha! Or, as a inflammatory provocation. Being a Christian song writer, words tend to stand up on their own holy feet, and challenge the idea I am trying to express. For instance, the song I am introducing to you today was written years ago and is probably much older than some of you are. Has its truth survived to this moment? I think so! The title certainly backs it up. It's Not Me, It's God! with a little humor perhaps but flat out teaching, it says that to praise the creation is just wrong! To do so is to give it labeling fit only for God.
Your good is not your God. It is the vessel God used to send your good to you. For instance, a wonderful spouse, a great job or career, a lofty position that commands respect and so on. Scripture agrees that it is good to recognize the good things in your life (Proverbs 3:27). Be thankful for it, by action, kindness or verbal gratitude, but do we see God behind it all? Where have we placed our faith? Who can we always trust? When all appears lost will we think our God is gone?
Your most loyal pet may run away, your spouse of so many years may stray, if only for a day. Your favorite idol may have clay feet, and when these feet crumble, stumble or fail, do you take it personally? Do you want to yell?! All because man, who breathes just like us, can not stand up under the press and fuss. Shame on you to heap that load on someone as fragile as man. When a mere handshake, and "thank you so much", maybe flowers and money too, will do. Other than that, don't label it wrong--this person, or what he represents, is not God to you. In all things recognize God, with your single eye, see His loving care and know behind every blessing, He is standing there.
This song, in it's own way, begs your attention to your daily surroundings and relationships. Getting this understanding is so important, your soul is depending on it. God is a Jealous God (Exodus 34:14). Nothing, no---thing comes before Him.
I press towards the mark of getting the Leap Over Walls collection published and recorded for the chance to tell the vision of God's love for us in music, through my eyes. It is a beautiful picture. "You got to have a dream to make a dream come true", from the musical South Pacific, the song is Happy Talk.
OK....Now a peak into my world.
Error made in the song...OOPS!
Didn't mean to do it!
Wrote FATE instead or FAITH.
Tried to change it, but was too late.
What a bummer...I sigh, really wanted to cry.
But, Spirit reminded me, that only He
is perfect, see Mark chapter 10, verse 18.
So take heart, fellow followers of Christ,
there is a spiritual place where error is forgotten,
and,
all mistakes are spiritually
...erased. Praise God, see you later.
Note: For cell phone users, please go to YouTube site to hear music video for song.
What an awesome gift prayer is. A privilege, a blessing, a devout communion, or, a simple dialogue from man to God... which, God, in all His Majesty accepts. God not only accepts but hears, and encourages this spiritual communication and bonding. Prayer is an open invitation for us to call on Him at anytime, anywhere, for anything. We have the immediate ear of God, and all His can-do, will-do for you Powers. We have been given a weapon, surpassing all other weapons on this earth, David thought so (Psalm 91).
We have a direct in-road to Jesus on any level, from "Now I lay me down to sleep" (A children's bedtime prayer from the 18th century), to "Our Father which art in Heaven" (The Lord's Prayer).
What am I saying? I'm saying this. When I pray aloud, in an empty room, I am heard. If I cry into my pillow at night, I am heard. I am seen, I am not alone. My heaviest burden is miraculously changed to easy and light (Matthew 11:30). When I pray, the Holy Spirit in me encourages me to run on, because the race is not given to the swift (Philippians 3:14). He tells me not to be weary in well-doing (Galatians 6:9) and always PRAY and not faint (Luke 18:1). That verse has picked me up and brushed me off many a day.
I'm sharing these thoughts with you today because we have forgotten who we are, and WHOSE we are.
The trickster (demons all) wants us to feel fearful, weak and unloved. Instead of praying we worry. We worry about government, politics, the pandemic, personal relationships, economics, etc. We are Christians! We pray to God who has the whole world in His hands. The government is still on His shoulders. I love this scripture, found in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If a people, called by my name, will humble themselves and PRAY...", there you have it, read it for yourself. He made the promise to heal the land. Well, we certainly need healing. As a nation, we have the power to turn things around.
Power? Yes, power to overcome the enemy! To bind him on earth and in Heaven (Matthew 18:18).
The Way Must Be Made Through God, is a song of few words, it says do not lose confidence in prayer.
The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16).
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant prayer (Romans 12:12).
Here at Leap Over Walls Music, we like to experiment with the presentation of our music. The music itself stands on it's own spiritual feet. With God's direction we present the music to inform, inspire, entertain in an insightful manner. Holy Strategy is in, what I call, "Speaking-sing/song" category. The lead singer tells the message of the song as a storyteller, speaking, then singing. The singer here will engage you. Can't wait for you to hear it. But first, a little history (Judges, chapter 6-8).
The moral decay and decline of Israel lasted about 350 years. During this time, God called forth men (and a woman, Deborah) to become judges. Their job was to lead His children back to him. Under the judge's regime, Israel did well. However when the judges died, their leadership and teachings waned, and the Israelites slipped back into their old ways of pagan activities and worship of idols.
Gideon, a farmer, was threshing wheat by the wine press. Doing so, to hide the wheat from the Midianites. An angel of the Lord addressed Gideon, "Thou mighty man of valor". Gideon sure did not feel mighty, neither valorous. In one book I read, the author called Gideon a "cowardly farmer". I have another viewpoint, that is, Gideon was cautious. His questioning the angel sounded bold to me. Gideon wanted proof he was talking to God. The angel responded by doing 3 miracles. Speaking for Gideon, I would personally think that what God is asking me to do is really, really big. So, forgive me, but I would be checking on my back-up. The angel didn't flinch a muscle, He just shot fire out of a rock (Judges 6:11-22) and we all know the other two miracles involving the fleece (Judges 6:36-40).
Listen to Holy Strategy. What practical advice did you pick up on after listening to the song?
1) God calls you by what He knows you are. He sees your potential.
To materialize that potential just obey him. Do it His Way.
2) Less is more-You don't need all that stuff to succeed!
3) Too many cooks spoil the broth.
4) What was God's reason for sending the war volunteers home?
True story. There we were, flying down the biggest expressway in the Mid-West, bumper to bumper with cars going way over the speed limit. Yeah, that's the way they roll but not the way I roll, especially with my four children aboard. The brake light came on for the third time that week. Each time I had them fixed by a (reputable?) mechanic. My oldest daughter, about 10 years old at that time, looked at the light, then did a side glance at me, saying nothing. The youngest, about 3 years old, lay with his head in my lap and his feet on his sister. Seat belts weren't required at that time. My other two children who were seated in the back were quiet. Have you ever noticed when God is working, everything gets a little quiet. Just knowing my God answers prayer, I said, "What shall I do Lord?". The only phone I had was inside my quiet room, so you can listen in if you want to. Father said..."Get off next exit". When I got off the exit, the left lane was backed up to the street, the right lane was clear. Until, a semi trailor, impatient with waiting in line, began to pull out in front of me. Since the exit was on an upgrade, I was probably going faster than before. I beeped the horn loudly, and like a cartoon truck in a Walt Disney movie, the truck moved sideways back into line. Praise God! Can trucks move like that? But now me and mine, faced crossing a blind traffic corner, into a large downtown shopping area. May I stop here to tell you, God don't lead you where He hasn't prepared the way. We hit the street. I hadn't seen an alley way there but I was guided to go in that direction and there it was. Driving wildly into that alley, we were safe for just a short time. Closing quickly onto more shopping streets, I could see the buildings opening up into a large parking space. "In here", immediately I drove into that blessed space. Note.. in the middle of a working day, all the stores open, no cars were parked, no trucks, no bicycles, no motorcycles. No people walking, just us going round and round, in a circle, on two wheels, until we finally stopped. What happened? We limped home, with lights flashing. Even today, my daughter still looks at me sideways, as if to say, "I remember". Here's something to think about... 1) "Yea, though I walk through the valley..."(Psalms 23:4) 2) "If I ascend up into Heaven..."(Psalms 139:8) 3) "God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him..." (John 4:24) 4) "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby...(Hebrews 13:2) 5) "What is man, that thou art mindful of him? (Psalms 8:4) 6) Jesus never fails (Proof, the kids and I are fine).
I call the Leap Over Walls Music Collection, "Everybody's Gospel". Why? Because there is something good e.g. "Good News", for everybody included in it's 90 or more compositions. It covers many genres, keeping the root or focus on Jesus. Telling people in all the world about HIM. The Grand Commission. We've all been given something to do and talent to do it with. Paul speaks of the talents and the callings (Romans chapter 12:6). Sometimes talents are given outright (Born with it, and aren't we amazed when we see it in action). Some, you have to work hard for (Schooling, trial and error, or just hard experience). No one can express your talent like you can, and if you don't do it there is a space left on the world stage where you should have been. I'm just saying. "The Lord is my strength and my song..." (Exodus 15:2). The words I compose come from Him and I thank Him for using me. The Bible says, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven". This verse keeps me from being shy of the gifts God gave to me. Leap Over Walls music is diverse in content. If I were to list the songs accordingly, it would probably be: Children's songs, Southern Gospel, Modern, Contemporary, Rap, Word-in-Verse, Humor, Spiritual, and Theatrical songs, ALL in praise to God. Were this blog a story of my life, you would readily understand why I speak this way. I love the Lord, I encourage you to do the same. My dream, my hope is to one day present Leap Over Walls Music to you in it's finest form but as I am prone to say, use what you got. When I began to develop as a composer, I had just joined a small church that just starting up. Our choir was 4-6 people, maybe. Untrained, they were willing to voice their praise in song. These are the voices you hear. Most of the ladies have passed on, God bless them in their on-going. I'm still here and so is my dream. I direct your attention to, I Make My Way With A Song. As you listen to it, enjoy the robust delivery, the energy and the simple message.
