A Poem by PHILIP KENT CHURCH
~
After being born again, I wanted to fight for God, see the war won,
But, after fighting for what I saw as right, I tired of the damage done.
Though I'd been a strong warrior against the world's evils that I sensed,
Defending God and church, in my righteous cause completely convinced.
The fruit of my labor wasn't joyful, peaceful or loving - facts uneasily dismissed.
After behaving and believing best I could, apparently - something had been missed.
Well-versed in the Word, I'd sought the full armor to, as a "Christian Soldier," stand,
But I realized I was desiring my own trophies, I hadn't been humble under command.
Though it meant placing my personal aspirations, what I desired, upon the shelf,
I had to become willing - no matter what the cost - to God's will . . . surrender myself!
First and foremost, I learned that my feud wasn't with others, the judge is God above,
Though I might be persecuted for it, my first duty to God and neighbor – was a ‘real love.’
That all I was to do and say must be from love, knowing, even in death, God would mend me,
Though there be things I desired and saw as ‘right,’ I'd do God's will - go where He'd send me.
I had to humble myself with a will, if required - to be “last” and serve others every day,
And if I became confused - not seek my own, but recall that Jesus is the truthful way.
Though I might not be popular, successful or politically regarded to suffice,
I'm only a foot-soldier in love's Army - my life forfeited - and bought with a price!
Sometimes there's a way that seems right, even in what some Christians try to render,
But it must be God's way - He is our commander to whom ourselves, we must -
. . . SURRENDER!
