Mary had a little lamb
Its fleece was white as snow
Every where the blood was applied
The shadow of death could not go.
Covered by the blood of the Lamb
My sin made white as snow
Everywhere that Mary went
The Lamb was sure to go.
Not by the blood of goats and lambs
His precious blood was shed
Before the world was made, God planned
To redeem us , though spiritually dead.
Oh Gracious Savior, Lamb that was slain
You stand beside the throne
Thank you for giving your life for me
And making me your own.
Poem inspired by Beloved Disciple Bible study
~2004~
G.Harlin
Showing posts with label By: Gail Harlin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label By: Gail Harlin. Show all posts
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Jesus, Behold the Lamb*
During this Easter season, the Lord has impressed upon me the tremendous need to bathe my mind and spirit in songs based on His Word, about His Son’s sacrificial blood. So while I walk by the nearby creek, I have been drinking in songs from Glad, Shelia Walsh, Twila Paris and others, as they proclaim the majesty and cleansing of the blood of the Lamb. I am reminded that I cannot stand on my own righteous, but I must come by Jesus’ holy shed blood. My soul is glad because all my debt has been paid up in full! Oh, Lamb of God, wash me in Your precious blood.
The Lord has also brought to mind the contrast of another ceremony of shed blood that I learned about five years ago, while in Cairo on a mission trip. Before entering a factory shop, my friend pointed out “bloody” handprints on the outside of this business and explained the religious tradition/superstition of killing an innocent goat or lamb during the festival, 'Id al-Adha . This represents the day when Abraham was ready to sacrifice his son, Ishmael (as the Muslims are taught) in the name of God. This festival is celebrated after the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca and pilgrims are mandated to sacrifice an animal, at the sacrificial altar. Even those who do not make the physical trip to Mecca, still commemorate this “holy” day and the shed blood of any number of animals, including camel, is placed on anything that is precious to them (children, place of business etc.), for protection against evil spirits. Much feasting and celebration concludes this time, as they eat the sacrificed animal. Reminds you of the Jewish Passover in several ways, but misses the main point!
As I have pondered this religious “holy” day for Egyptian Muslims and all Muslims worldwide; it is once again reveals how the truths and principles of God are often twisted and distorted by the “Father of Lies”, Satan. The focus of Jesus the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, is downplayed and sidestepped. Hebrews 10:4 and 9:2 says “it is impossible for the blood of goats and lambs to take away sins; without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.” The costly blood of the perfect Lamb, without blemish or fault, is the one who sets captives free, by covering ones sin and appeasing the wrath of God on our behalf. It is only then, that we can come into His throne room of grace and mercy. Yet another song depicts it so well, as it decrees that, only by grace can we enter, only by the blood of the Lamb.
I am so thankful, those 30 years ago during the month of April, Truth was revealed to me and I was washed by the blood of the Lamb. I have the privilege to daily come into His presence so He can cleanse me of my sins as I confess them to Him, asking for the ability to resist the temptation and flee to the arms of Jesus. Because God has promised never to leave or forsake me, it is not necessary to put the blood of a goat or lamb on those precious to me like my family, my church, workplace, possessions and numerous friends like you for protection from evil. Ps. 91:4 says that “His faithful promises are our shield and protection” and by humbling myself under the authority of God and calling on the name of Jesus, the enemy must flee. James 4:7-8.
During this 2011 Easter celebration, may all of you rest in the mysterious, yet absolutely beautiful way in which God has reconciled Himself with us, through His only Son, Jesus. What we do not deserve, He has lavishly poured out on us in the form of forgiveness, salvation, protection and peace.
Hallelujah what a Savior!
Gail
*Title of a S. Walsh song
~ Gail Harlin April 2006, revised 2011~
The Lord has also brought to mind the contrast of another ceremony of shed blood that I learned about five years ago, while in Cairo on a mission trip. Before entering a factory shop, my friend pointed out “bloody” handprints on the outside of this business and explained the religious tradition/superstition of killing an innocent goat or lamb during the festival, 'Id al-Adha . This represents the day when Abraham was ready to sacrifice his son, Ishmael (as the Muslims are taught) in the name of God. This festival is celebrated after the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca and pilgrims are mandated to sacrifice an animal, at the sacrificial altar. Even those who do not make the physical trip to Mecca, still commemorate this “holy” day and the shed blood of any number of animals, including camel, is placed on anything that is precious to them (children, place of business etc.), for protection against evil spirits. Much feasting and celebration concludes this time, as they eat the sacrificed animal. Reminds you of the Jewish Passover in several ways, but misses the main point!
As I have pondered this religious “holy” day for Egyptian Muslims and all Muslims worldwide; it is once again reveals how the truths and principles of God are often twisted and distorted by the “Father of Lies”, Satan. The focus of Jesus the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, is downplayed and sidestepped. Hebrews 10:4 and 9:2 says “it is impossible for the blood of goats and lambs to take away sins; without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins.” The costly blood of the perfect Lamb, without blemish or fault, is the one who sets captives free, by covering ones sin and appeasing the wrath of God on our behalf. It is only then, that we can come into His throne room of grace and mercy. Yet another song depicts it so well, as it decrees that, only by grace can we enter, only by the blood of the Lamb.
I am so thankful, those 30 years ago during the month of April, Truth was revealed to me and I was washed by the blood of the Lamb. I have the privilege to daily come into His presence so He can cleanse me of my sins as I confess them to Him, asking for the ability to resist the temptation and flee to the arms of Jesus. Because God has promised never to leave or forsake me, it is not necessary to put the blood of a goat or lamb on those precious to me like my family, my church, workplace, possessions and numerous friends like you for protection from evil. Ps. 91:4 says that “His faithful promises are our shield and protection” and by humbling myself under the authority of God and calling on the name of Jesus, the enemy must flee. James 4:7-8.
During this 2011 Easter celebration, may all of you rest in the mysterious, yet absolutely beautiful way in which God has reconciled Himself with us, through His only Son, Jesus. What we do not deserve, He has lavishly poured out on us in the form of forgiveness, salvation, protection and peace.
Hallelujah what a Savior!
Gail
*Title of a S. Walsh song
~ Gail Harlin April 2006, revised 2011~
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Claiming Your Mountain
Claiming Your Mountain
Desolation and death in the desert they went
Forty years wasted, they were worn and spent.
Refusing the best they were denied God’s rest
If only the report of the two was believed
Their wilderness experience would have been relieved.
The land is great, God will put it in our hands
But the crowd was afraid and took their stand.
The ten spies reported a story so sad
The land if full of giants, we’ve already been had!
Too often we listen to discouraging lies
And it certainly is our demise.
Stop thinking and saying, “I’m too small”
The “giants” will squash me, like a grasshopper or ant
Look to God and stop saying I can’t!
Do not rebel or be afraid of the truth
Don’t be swayed or dismayed!
Surrender early to finish strong
With God on your side you can’t go wrong!
Claim your mountain and stand on these words
“I know what God says is true”
He has mountains of blessings wafting for you.
Joshua 14:12, Numbers
13:30, 14:8-9
~Inspired by the Holy
Spirit through Pastor Mikes’ sermon ~
~G .Harlin~
Nov. 13, 2011
Desolation and death in the desert they went
Forty years wasted, they were worn and spent.
Refusing the best they were denied God’s rest
If only the report of the two was believed
Their wilderness experience would have been relieved.
The land is great, God will put it in our hands
But the crowd was afraid and took their stand.
The ten spies reported a story so sad
The land if full of giants, we’ve already been had!
Too often we listen to discouraging lies
And it certainly is our demise.
Stop thinking and saying, “I’m too small”
The “giants” will squash me, like a grasshopper or ant
Look to God and stop saying I can’t!
Do not rebel or be afraid of the truth
Don’t be swayed or dismayed!
Surrender early to finish strong
With God on your side you can’t go wrong!
Claim your mountain and stand on these words
“I know what God says is true”
He has mountains of blessings wafting for you.
Joshua 14:12, Numbers
13:30, 14:8-9
~Inspired by the Holy
Spirit through Pastor Mikes’ sermon ~
~G .Harlin~
Nov. 13, 2011
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Storms
The sun is always shiningNo matter what we face
But often we see clouds
Instead of God’s sweet grace
The storms and north wind blow
Causing us to be dismayed
But when the sun comes beaming through
Our cares are cast away.
Just as God sends rain and snow
To clear the air today
He also washes all our sin
And makes our lives aglow
When turbulence and trouble
Are sent by God above
Remember He is on the throne
Guiding us with His love.
~February 2007~
G. Harlin
On the way to Pa. in Feb., a snow storm was brewing . We also had turbulence in the plane.Dan mentioned how the sun is always shining above the clouds, even when we are in the storm below. God sent these thoughts.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Be Holy
I Peter 1:16
Be Holy for I am Holy
My life I gave for thee
I became the atoning sacrifice
As I hung upon that tree.
Some have trampled the Son of God*
And scorned His precious blood
Oh Holy Spirit, we need you
Please fill us with Your love!
Lord, make us willing, pierce our soul
Have tender mercy on us
May we not insult or enrage you
But in you, have confident trust.*
Be Holy for I am Holy, the spotless Lamb was slain
With outstretched arms and a heart full of love
My death is your eternal gain.
*Hebrews 10:29& 35
Be Holy for I am Holy
My life I gave for thee
I became the atoning sacrifice
As I hung upon that tree.
Some have trampled the Son of God*
And scorned His precious blood
Oh Holy Spirit, we need you
Please fill us with Your love!
Lord, make us willing, pierce our soul
Have tender mercy on us
May we not insult or enrage you
But in you, have confident trust.*
Be Holy for I am Holy, the spotless Lamb was slain
With outstretched arms and a heart full of love
My death is your eternal gain.
*Hebrews 10:29& 35
Monday, August 1, 2011
Columbine
Two years ago a lone Columbine stood by itself. At the end of spring, it literally burst into nothing, sending forth a lot of seeds. It took the next spring to see how many new seedlings had propagated and this past spring my front yard underneath the pecan trees were blooming with this beautiful, delicate flower.
As I looked at it, I was reminded of the words of Jesus in Matthew,
“Unless a kernel or grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone: but if it dies ,it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life will find it”.
My lone Columbine is now surrounded by many others because it died! I pray that, as you and I seek the Lord and hear his voice, we will humbly submit to whatever He is calling us to die to and then look forward to an abundant “bumper crop” of joy, peace and contentment and whatever gifts the Lord wants to bestow upon us !!
~Gail Harlin~
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Highway of Holiness
The Highway of holiness, it is told
Is great and mighty, yet a less traveled road.
Those who frequent this special sod
Are the ransomed, not fools who reject Holy God.
Those evil minded never find the way
It’s for those who follow God and obey.
The dangerous and ferocious beasts who once thronged
Are gone and the redeemed sing a joyful song.
Crowned with everlasting joy
Their sorrow and mourning has been deployed.
And the land that was once deplete from fresh springs
Will once again bloom with all living things .
The Lord will display His splendor and glory
Oh praise our dear God, what a glorious story!
~Gail Harlin~
Dec. 2010
Inspired by God Is. Chpt.35
Friday, June 17, 2011
Dear Abba
D is for dear one, who dries all my tears. ( Rev.1:17)
A is for my Father, whose love cast out all fear. ( I John 4:18)
D is for devoted, you pour Your love on me. ( Romans 5:5)
D is for dependable, you died upon a tree. (Romans 3:15)
Y is for the yearning as my heart cries out for you. ( Galatians 4:4)
Daddy, your love is faithful and all your words are true. (John 17:17)
A is for my Father, whose love cast out all fear. ( I John 4:18)
D is for devoted, you pour Your love on me. ( Romans 5:5)
D is for dependable, you died upon a tree. (Romans 3:15)
Y is for the yearning as my heart cries out for you. ( Galatians 4:4)
Daddy, your love is faithful and all your words are true. (John 17:17)
Sunday, May 29, 2011
The Restorer
You are the restorer of broken hearts.
But first, we must be willing to do our part
To confess and own up to our sin
And let your Spirit heal from within.
You are the lover of our soul.
When you touch our lives, we are completely whole.
Your love so complete, beyond compare.
Our sins on the cross, You did bare.
You are the loving Shepherd of Your sheep.
Your promises to shield and protect, You keep.
If we will keep our eyes on You
There is nothing that we cannot do.
~G. Harlin~
1998
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Bread of Life
Feed me, Oh my Jesus
My hungry soul please fill
There’s no place I would rather be
Than resting in your will
Your words are what sustain me (Jere. 15:16)
They are my joy and delight
The power of darkness cannot prevail
When I am walking in your light
A heart of praise will calm the soul
May I not forsake your peace
As I feed upon your faithfulness ( Ps. 37:3)
My troubled soul must cease
As You provide my nourishment
I drink deeply from Your springs (Ps. 36:7-8)
Hiding under Your shadow
My heart rejoices and sings
Oh taste and see that the Lord is good (Ps.34:8)
His promises are true
No good thing will You withhold (Ps. 84:11)
As I keep my eyes on You !
~2003~ Third day of Dan’s unexpected down size
Monday, May 9, 2011
Highway of Holiness
The Highway of holiness, it is told
Is great and mighty, yet a less traveled road.
Those who frequent this special sod
Are the ransomed, not fools who reject Holy God.
Those evil minded never find the way
It’s for those who follow God and obey.
The dangerous and ferocious beasts who once thronged
Are gone and the redeemed sing a joyful song.
Crowned with everlasting joy
Their sorrow and mourning has been deployed.
And the land that was once deplete from fresh springs
Will once again bloom with all living things .
The Lord will display His splendor and glory
Oh praise our dear God, what a glorious story!
~Gail Harlin~
Dec. 2010
Inspired by God Is. Chpt.35
Is great and mighty, yet a less traveled road.
Those who frequent this special sod
Are the ransomed, not fools who reject Holy God.
Those evil minded never find the way
It’s for those who follow God and obey.
The dangerous and ferocious beasts who once thronged
Are gone and the redeemed sing a joyful song.
Crowned with everlasting joy
Their sorrow and mourning has been deployed.
And the land that was once deplete from fresh springs
Will once again bloom with all living things .
The Lord will display His splendor and glory
Oh praise our dear God, what a glorious story!
~Gail Harlin~
Dec. 2010
Inspired by God Is. Chpt.35
Sunday, May 1, 2011
The Sovereign Lord Is Passing By
After hearing Mike's sermon today which was really good, it reminded me of a sermon he did a few years ago, with a parallel passage. This is the poem that was born of it.
The Sovereign Lord Is Passing By
He hears the blind man’s humble cry.
“Son of David”, have mercy on me
Won’t you stop and hear my plea?”
What do you want me to do for you?”
Please come close, I pray please do.
“My sight, dear Lord, may I see your face?
Please lavish on me a bit of your grace!”
“Indeed your faith has made you well
Go spread the news, go and tell!”
Then others joined in the victory song
Praising God and following along.
He came to set the captives free,
Bringing salvation and true liberty.
To break the bonds of heaviness
And call them trees of righteousness.
Exchanging ashes for beautiful clothes
Garments of praise instead of woes,
Unbinding the weary and those who weep
Rebuilding and planting a treasure to keep.
Inspired by Pastor Mike Simmons sermon
Luke 18:35-43, Is. 61: 1-3
~G. Harlin~
Jan. 22, 2006
The Sovereign Lord Is Passing By
He hears the blind man’s humble cry.
“Son of David”, have mercy on me
Won’t you stop and hear my plea?”
What do you want me to do for you?”
Please come close, I pray please do.
“My sight, dear Lord, may I see your face?
Please lavish on me a bit of your grace!”
“Indeed your faith has made you well
Go spread the news, go and tell!”
Then others joined in the victory song
Praising God and following along.
He came to set the captives free,
Bringing salvation and true liberty.
To break the bonds of heaviness
And call them trees of righteousness.
Exchanging ashes for beautiful clothes
Garments of praise instead of woes,
Unbinding the weary and those who weep
Rebuilding and planting a treasure to keep.
Inspired by Pastor Mike Simmons sermon
Luke 18:35-43, Is. 61: 1-3
~G. Harlin~
Jan. 22, 2006
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Morning Glory
Morning GloryWaiting for the dawn’s new day
She patiently awaits the sun’s first ray
Gently displaying her lovely face
She represents kindness, mercy and grace.
Royal hues of purple and magenta
The Bumble bee bows to get all she has sent him
The amazing beginning of each new day
Cause me to reflect and pray.
About Creation and the old, old story
As I soak in God’s garden with my Morning Glory!
~G. Harlin~
Sept 11, 2008
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