~ Take it to the Lord ~

What a friend we have in Jesus,

All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit,

Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer!

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged—

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful,

Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness;

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy-laden,

Cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our refuge—

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?

Take it to the Lord in prayer!

In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,

Thou wilt find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised

Thou wilt all our burdens bear;

May we ever, Lord, be bringing

All to Thee in earnest prayer.

Soon in glory bright, unclouded,

There will be no need for prayer—

Rapture, praise, and endless worship

Will be our sweet portion there.

~ Charles C. Converse, 1868

Lost Sheep

"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost." Matthew 18: 12 - 15

I feel like that lost little sheep. Except, I didn't innocently wander away and get lost. No, I knew where I was going, where it would lead, but I went anyway. I am such a stubborn little child. I don't listen, I don't take advice, I am selfish.

I look at the narrow path and grumble, it's too hard. I'll just take the 'easier' route.

I am full of wants, wants, wants.. forget the needs. I care about me, myself and I before anyone else. I desire instant gratification... I'd rather save face today, then be rewarded for my faithfulness in Heaven.

And yet, when I finally come to my senses and decide to return home - broken and sad... He is there. He doesn't stand there with a contemptuous glare on His face. He isn't getting ready to say... "I told you so".

He's standing there, with arms wide open. He says, even though you couldn't see me, I was always there with you. He is happy for my return.

I don't deserve His love, I am not worthy of His grace. And yet, He gives it freely. And I am so thankful.

I am so thankful that He is not like me.