Jesus Paid it All

 

                                                Jesus Paid it All

There is nothing we can do in our own strength. We might think so, but God gives us our strength, and it is by His grace that we receive the strength we have. God is all powerful and can do anything He desires to do. If we watch what happens in our life, we can see just how powerful He is. All that we have comes from God. All that we do, comes from the abilities He gives us. He can do what we cannot do and through it all He can save us from our sins. It is through Him, we are complete.

Lyrics by Elvina M. Hall, arranged by John T. Grape

“I hear the Savior say, “thy strength indeed is small, child of weakness, watch and pray, find in Me thine all in all.”

Lord, now indeed I find Thy power, and Thine alone, can change the leper’s spots, and melt the heart of stone.

For nothing good have I whereby Thy grace to claim- I’ll wash my garments white in the blood of Calvary’s lamb.

And when, before the throne, I stand in Him complete, “Jesus died my soul to save,” My lips shall still repeat.

Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.”

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Blessed Redeemer

 

                                                            Blessed Redeemer

There He was hanging on a cross, blood dripping down and a crown of thorns on His head. Jesus didn’t ask, “Why me?” He didn’t call for revenge on the people that put Him there. He suffered but He didn’t complain. Instead, He looked on the people and asked God to forgive them. His shoulders were burdened down with sins of the people. Not just the witnesses who hung Him there but for all those who lived then and live now and in the future. Jesus knew each person He died for and loved us so much that He willingly died for us. There wasn’t a more selfless, loving person that ever lived like the Jesus who shed His blood for us.

Lyrica by Avis B. Christiansen, arranged by Harry D. Loes

“ Up Calvary’s mountain one dreadful morn walked Christ my Savior weary and worn; Facing for sinners’ death on the cross, that He might save them from endless loss.

“Father, forgive them!” thus did He pray, Even while His lifeblood flowed fast away; Praying for sinners while in such woe – No one but Jesus ever loved us so.

O how I love Him, Savior and friend, how can my praises ever find end! Through years unnumbered on heaven’s shore, my tongue shall praise Him forever more.

Blessed Redeemer! Precious Redeemer! Seems now I see Him on Calvary’s tree; Wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading, Blind and unheeding, dying for me!”

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To God Be the Glory

 

                                    To God Be the Glory

Our Father in heaven loved us so much that He gave us His Son who died on the cross to take away our sins. He has opened His gates to all who believe in His Son and has established a relationship with Him. Even the vilest criminal who turns to God will be forgiven.  His word contains many promises that we can rely on and rejoice in knowing Him. I for one, cannot wait to rejoice at the foot of the throne of God.

Lyrics by Fanny j. Crosby, arranged by William H. Doane

“To God be the glory, great things He has done, so loved He the world that He gave us His Son, who yielded His life as an atonement for sin and opened the life gate that all may go in.

O Perfect redemption, the purchase of blood! To every believer the promise of God, The vilest offender who truly believe, that moment from Jesus a pardon receives.

Great things He has taught us, great things He has done, and greater rejoicing through Jesus His Son; But purer and higher and greater will be our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord, let the people rejoice! O come to the Father through Jesus the Son and give Him the glory – great things He has done.”

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Sweet Will of God

 

                                                Sweet Will of God

Some people have had a near death experience or a close call where they are sure God had saved them. Others have hit rock bottom whether with drugs, alcohol, or some other sinful behavior where they felt there was no way out. It is only when God provides for them a solution that they realize they need to get to know God better and bend to His will. When God brings the light out of their darkness, they receive hope for a better future and peace in their life.

Lyrics by Leila N. Morris, arranged by Leila N. Morris

“My stubborn will at last has yielded; I would be Thine, and Thine alone; And this the prayer my lips are bringing “Lord, let in me Thy will be done.”

I’m tired of sin, foot-sore and weary, the darksome path has dreary grown, but now a light has risen to cheer me; I find in Thee my Star, my Sun.

Thy precious will, O conquering Savior, does now embrace and compass me; All discords hushed, my peace a river, my soul a prisoned bird set free.

Shut in with Thee, O Lord, forever, my wayward feet no more to roam; What power from Thee my soul can sever? Then center of God’s will my home.

Sweet will of God, still fold me closer, till I am wholly lost in Thee; Sweet will of God, still fold me closer, Till I am wholly lost in Thee.

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Teach, Me Thy Will, O Lord

 

                                    Teach Me Thy Will, O Lord

All who follow Jesus wants to know God’s will. When we are in a confusing situation, we want to know God’s will. Whatever we are doing, we want to know God’s will. I know for Christians, His will is for us to have a relationship with His Son, Jesus and to emulate Jesus’ actions. When we are in a situation, we are not sure of, it is good to ask ourselves what would Jesus do? What does God’s word say about God’s will. He wants us to study His words daily, to digest it so much that when a person asks us a question concerning God, we will have an answer. He wants us to be obedient to His word. We cannot pick and choose what we want to obey. We must obey Him in all things.

Lyrics by Katherine A. Grimes, arranged by William M. Runyan

“Teach me Thy will, O Lord, teach me Thy will; Teach me to know Thy word, teach me to pray. Whatever seems best to Thee, that be my earnest plea; So that Thou draws me closer each day.

Teach me Thy wondrous grace, Boundless and free; Lord, let Thy blessed face shine upon me. Heal Thou sin’s every smart, dwell Thou within my heart; Grant that I never part, Savior from Thee.

Teach me by pain Thy power, teach me by love; Teach me to know, each hour, Thou art above. Teach me as seems best in Thee to find sweet rest; Leaning upon Thy breast, all doubt removes.

Teach Thou my lips to sing, my heart to praise; Be Thou my Lord and King through all my days. Teach Thou my soul to cry, “Be Thou, dear Savior, nigh, teach me to live, to die, saved by Thy grace.”  Amen

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Come, We That Love the Lord

 

Come, We That Love the Lord

All of us who love the Lord have no problem spreading the joy in song and in praise to our God, our Father. We look forward to stand at the throne before God and the more joy we have, the more we want to spread the joy around the world. Let us sing as though we are marching toward the heavenly throne to fairer worlds on high.

Lyrics by Isaac Watts, arranged by Aaron Williams

“Come we that love the Lord, and let our joys be known, join in a song with sweet accord, and thus surround the throne.

Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God, But children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad.

The Hill of Zion yields a thousand sacred sweets before we reach the heavenly field, or walk the golden streets.

Then let our songs abound, and every tear be dry; We’re marching through Emmanuel’s ground to fairer worlds on high. Amen”

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Unti the Hills

 

                                         Unto the Hills

The God who made heaven and earth provides salvation for those who have a relationship with His Son, Jesus. Our God watches over us day and night. He never sleeps. He protects us and fights our fights for us. He preserves us in our comings and goings. He is our aid in all situations.

Lyrics by John D.S. Campbell, arranged by Charles H. Purday

“Unto the hills I lift up my longing eyes; O where for me my salvation come, from whence arise? From God, the Lord, doth come  my certain aid, from God, the Lord, who heaven and earth hath made.

He will not suffer that thy foot be moved; Safe shalt thou be. No careless slumber shall His eyelids close, who keepeth thee. Behold, He sleepeth not. He slumbereth never, who keepeth Israel ln His holy care.

Jehovah is Himself thy keeper true, thy changeless shade; Jehovah thy defense on thy right hand Himself hath made. And thee no sun by day shall ever smite; No moon shall harm thee in the silent night.

From every evil shall keep thy soul, from every sin; Jehovah shall preserve thy going out, thy coming in. Above thee watching, He whom we adore shall keep thee henceforth, yea, forevermore.”

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Praise Ye the Father

 

Praise Ye the Father

Praise goes to the Father for choosing His children from all the followers of His Son Jesus. That is the only way to see God, through His Son. Praise be to God for loving us despite our weaknesses and sinful ways. He is the most compassionate, loving and merciful Father. His grace is unending. He loves everyone, both young and old, men and women. Praise Him for sending His Holy Spirit to comfort us and His Son to bless us. They are the trinity and loves us very much!

Lyrics by Author Unknown, arranged by Friedrich F. Fleming

“Praise ye the Father! For His loving kindness, tenderly cares He for His erring children; Praise Him, ye angels, praise Him in the heavens, Praise ye Jehovah!

Praise ye the Savior! Great is His compassion, graciously cares He for His chosen people; young men and maidens, ye old men and children, praise ye the Savior!

Praise ye the Spirit! Comforter of Israel, sent of the Father and the Son to bless us; Praise ye the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, praise ye the Triune God! Amen.”

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Work for the Night is Coming

 

Work for the Night is Coming

If you are a workaholic like me, then your schedule begins when your feet hit the floor in the morning and ends when the night has come. We all want to feel accomplishment at what we do, and we want to know that what we do has a purpose. If we are working at a place that we do not like, then it is hard to feel accomplished or to find purpose in it. On the other hand, if what we do is our Ministry handed to us from the Lord, then we know what our purpose is and accomplishment comes in many forms. It can be a job well done, or in the praises of those who God gave us to serve. Whatever we do, whether it be in a job we like or dislike we must learn to lean on God and He will give us what fulfills us. One thing to remember though is to take on only what God gives us and learn to say no to what we bring on ourselves through other requests.

Lyrics by Anna L. Walker, arranged by Lowell Mason

“Work, for the night is coming, Work through the morning hours; Work while the dew is sparkling; Work, mid springing flowers. Work, when the day grows brighter.

Work, for the night is coming. Work through the sunny noon; Fill brightest hours with labor, rest comes sure and soon. Give every flying minute something to keep in store; Work, for the night is coming, when man works no more.

Work, for the night is coming, under the sunset skies; while their bright tints are glowing, work, for the daylight flies. Work till the last beam faded, faded to shine no more; Work while the night is darkening, when man’s work is over.”

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Did You Think to Pray?

 

Did You Think to Pray?

When you wake up in the morning, did you think to pray? Did you ask the Lord for blessings on your day and a shield of protection against temptations or even harm? Ddi you recognize the Holy Spirit who watched over you through the night and guided you through the day? Did you think to praise Him for his protection. God’s grace abounds when you are loving and forgiving to other people just as He forgave you. Let us not let our troubles draw us down but let us Let God lift us up. He is a balm for our sorrows.

Lyrics by Mrs. M.A. Kidder, arranged by W.O. Perkins

“Ere you left your room this morning, did you think to pray? In the name of Christ our Savior, did you sue for loving favor, as a shield today?

When you met with great temptation, did you think to pray? By His dying love and merit, did you claim the Holy Spirit as your guide and stay?

When your heart was filled with anger, did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace my brother, that you might forgive another who had crossed your way?

When sore trials came upon you, did you think to pray? When your soul was bowed in sorrow, balm of Gilead did you borrow, at the gates of day?

Oh, how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day; so in sorrow and gladness, don’t forget to pray.

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Tis the Blessed Hour of Prayer

 

Tis the Blessed Hour of Prayer

The most important part of prayer is faith. Faith in the fact that Jesus is there in your presence. Faith that He is listening. Faith that He cares for you in your joys and in your sorrows. Faith that He will bless you with an answer and it is what you need in your life. Take the time in your hour of prayer to focus on His presence and believe that He is listening and caring about every word you speak. Feel His presence and keep Him close. Pour out your heart and give of yourself. It’s your blessed hour of prayer, make the most of it. You are with Jesus.

Lyrics by Fanny J, Crosby, arranged by William H Doane

“Tis the blessed hour of prayer, when our hearts lowly bend, and we gather to Jesus, our Savior and friend; If we come to Him in faith, His protection to share,

Tis the blessed hour of prayer, when the Savior draws near, with a tender compassion His children to hear; when He tells us we may cast at His feet every care,

Tis the blessed hour of prayer, when the tempted and tried to the Savior who loves them their sorrow confide.

At the blessed hour of prayer, trusting Him we believe that the blessings we’re needing we’ll surely receive;  In the fullness of this trust we shall lose every care; What a balm for the weary! O how sweet to be there! Blessed hour of prayer, Blessed hour of prayer; What a balm for the weary! O how sweet to be there!

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The Beautiful Garden of Prayer

 

The Beautiful Garden of Prayer

Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane many times for alone time, only He wasn’t alone. He was with His Father. I like to garden and so did my husband. When I think of him, I think of him tending God’s garden. I don’t believe we can imagine how beautiful God’s garden is in heaven. I have seen some beautiful gardens in Oregon and Washington that took my breath away, but still, I believe God’s garden is much more beautiful. I am looking forward to meeting Jesus in the beautiful garden of prayer. Even now I know if I go meet Him there in my prayers, He will give me words of comfort and welcome me there. I want to relish the blessings that He gives me. He has blessed me in many ways throughout my lifetime.

Lyrics by Eleanor A. Schroll, arranged by James H. Fillmore

“ There’s a garden where Jesus is waiting, there’s a place that is wondrously fair; For it glows with the light of His presence, Tis the beautiful garden of prayer.

There’s a garden where Jesus is waiting, And I go with my burden and care, Just to learn from His lip’s words of comfort in the beautiful garden of prayer.

There’s a garden where Jesus is waiting, And He bids you to come meet Him there; Just to bow, and receive a new blessing, In the beautiful garden of prayer.

O the beautiful garden, the garden of prayer, O the beautiful garden of prayer; There my Savior awaits, and He opens the gates to the beautiful garden of prayer.

 

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Tell It to Jesus

 

Tell It to Jesus

Are you anxious about tomorrow? Do you grieve over past sins? Are you fearful about dying? Are you afraid you may not be accepted to heaven? These are all questions we have pondered at one time or another. The answer lies within our prayers. Telling all our problems to Jesus relieves the stress we experience in our life. He will give us forgiveness; He will bring clarity to us and understanding of what we do to overcome what bothers us. There’s no other friend or brother that we can take our troubles to that will help us in our time of need.

Lyrics by Jeremiah E. Rankin, arranged by Edmund S. Lorenz

“Are you weary, are you heavy-hearted? Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus; Are you grieving over joys departed?

Do the tears flow down your cheeks unbidden? Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus; Have you sins that to men’s eyes are hidden?

Do you fear the gathering clouds of sorrow? Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus; Are you anxious what shall be tomorrow?

Are you troubled at the thought of dying? Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus; For Christ’s coming Kingdom are you sighing?

Tell it to Jesus alone. Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus, He is a friend that’s well known; You’ve no other friend or brother, tell it to Jesus alone.

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Teach Me to Pray

 

Teach Me to Pray

I’ve heard it said that there is power in prayer. I sometimes wonder where the power is in my prayers as my mind seems to go on rabbit trails when I talk to God. It isn’t until I see that my scattered prayers were actually heard and He has answered them. Thank the Lord for the Holy Spirit who translates our prayers to the ears of God. God wants to hear what we have to say and even though we can’t see Him with our eyes, He sees us and hears us. If you have trouble praying, then go to Mathew 6:5-15 and start there. From there you can build a relationship with Jesus and learn how to pray.

Lyrics by Albert S. Reitz, arranged by Albert S. Reitz

“Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray; This is my heart-cry, day unto day; I long to know Thy will and Thy way; Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray.

Power in prayer, Lord, power in prayer; Here mid earth’s sin and sorrow and care; Men lost and dying, souls in despair; O give me power, power in prayer!

My weakened will, Lord, Thou canst renew; My sinful nature Thou canst subdue; Fill me just now with power anew; Power to pray and power to do!

Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray; Thou art my Pattern, day unto day; Thou art my surety, now and for aye; Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray.

Living in Thee, Lord, and Thou in me; Constant abiding, this is my plea; Grant me Thy power, boundless and free; Power with men and power with Thee.

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Revive thy Work

 

Revive Thy Work

To revive something is to deepen a believer’s faith, opening his or her eyes to the truth in a fresh, new way. It’s a fresh start with a clean slate, making a new beginning of a life lived in obedience to God. Revival breaks the power and charm of the world, which blinds the eyes of men and generates the will and power to live in the world but not of the world. If your life has been in a stagnate status or you have left God for a period, then ask God to revive His work in you and give God the glory.

Lyric by Alfred Midlane, arranged by James McGranahan

“Revive Thy work, O Lord! Thy mighty arm make bare; Speak with the voice that wakes the dead, and make Thy people hear.

Revive Thy work, O Lord! Disturb this sleep of death; Quicken the smoldering embers now by Thine almighty breath.

Revive Thy work, O Lord! Create soul-thirst for Thee; But hungering for the bread of life, oh, may our spirits be!

Revive Thy work, O Lord! Exalt Thy precious name; And, by the Holy Ghost, our love for Thee and Thine inflame.

Revive, revive!  And give refreshing showers; The glory shall be all Thine own; The blessing shall be ours.”

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I Must Tell Jesus

 

I Must Tell Jesus

Everyone needs someone to tell their troubles to. Whether it be a Minister, Doctor, Lawyer or a close friend. Or maybe you are the type of person who nurses their problem, then rehearses it and disperses it to everyone you meet. Unfortunately, our society is filled with people who take their problems to a physical person and forgets about taking them to the One who knows all, sees all and understands what you need. It takes a lot of faith and trust to take our problems to someone that we can’t see or touch, but Jesus is here waiting with open arms to listen and do what is necessary to end your troubles. Tell your problems to Jesus first and you won’t need to share it with everyone else.

Lyrics by Elisha A. Hoffman, arranged by Elisha A. Hoffman

“I must tell Jesus all my trials; I cannot bear these burdens alone; In my distress He kindly will help me; He ever loves and cares for His own.

I must tell Jesus all of my troubles; He is a kind, compassionate friend; If I but ask Him, He will deliver; Make of my troubles quickly an end.

Tempted and tried I need a great Savior; One who can help my burdens to bear; I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus; He all my cares and sorrows will share.

O how the world of evil allures me! O how my heart is tempted to sin; I must tell Jesus and He will help me over the world the victory to win.

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! I cannot bear my burdens alone; I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! Jesus can help me, Jesus alone!”

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Sweet Hour of Prayer

 

                                    Sweet Hour of Prayer

There is a place where you can go to make all your wishes known, to lay all your stress and grief in the hands of God. There is a place where you can turn from temptation and cast your every care. It is in your prayers to Almighty God. He has a listening ear and wants us to come to Him with all our wishes, cares, and struggles. He wants us to trust His word and His grace. Trust that He has a place for all of us who come to Him and trust Him to take care of us in even the littlest things.

Lyrics by William W. Walford, arranged by William B. Bradbury

“Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! That calls me from a world of care and bids me at my Father’s throne make all my wants and wishes known; In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter’s snare by thy return, sweet hour of prayer.

Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! Thy wings shall my petition bear to Him whose truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless; and since He bids me seek His face, believe His word and trust His grace, I’ll cast on Him my every care, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer.

Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! May I thy consolation share, till from Mount Pisgah’s lofty height, I view my home and take my flight; This robe of flesh I’ll drop, and rise to seize the everlasting prize; and shout, while passing thro’ the air, fair well, farewell, sweet hour of prayer.”

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I'd Rather Have Jesus

 

                                                I’d Rather Have Jesus

There are no amount of silver or gold or material possessions that can take the place of a good relationship with Jesus. There is no amount of praise or popularity that can take the place of “Well done thou good and faithful servant” we will receive from Jesus when we are face to face with Him in heaven. Our relationship with Jesus determines how we succeed here on earth and whether we will enter the Kingdom of Heaven to sit at the footstool of the throne of God. We can’t see God without a relationship with Jesus.

Lyrics by Rhea F. Miller, arranged by George Beverly Shea

“I’d rather have Jesus that silver or gold, I’d rather be His than riches untold; I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands, I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hands.

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause, I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause; I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame, I’d rather be true to His Holy name.

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom, He’s sweeter than honey from out of the comb; He’s all that my hungering spirit needs, I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead.

Than to be the king of a vast domain or be held in sin’s dread sway; I’d rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today.

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I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

 

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

This time of year, we get to enjoy Christmas carolers and most of the songs they sing are about peace on earth, good will toward men. We live in a chaotic world and sometimes find it hard to find peace, much less good will toward men. One thing we can hang on to is the fact that this world is not our home, we are just passing through. There will come a time when all the songs and all our hopes of peace and good will, will come true. Let us focus on the Promises of God and continue to sing about peace and good will toward mankind.

Lyrics by Henry W. Longfellow, arranged by J. Baptiste Calkin

“I heard the bells on Christmas Day their old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come, the belfries of all Christendom had rolled along the unbroken song of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head; “There is no peace on earth,” I said, “For hate is strong, and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep; “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep, The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.”

Till, ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day, A voice, a chime, a chant sub-lime, of peace on earth, good will to men!”

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The first Noel

 

                                                The First Noel

Out in the fields lay shepherds keeping their sheep and word came to them by an angel that their king was born in the town of Bethlehem. There were also wise men who heard of this extraordinary event. The Bible doesn’t say how many wise men there were, just that they came bearing three gifts of Frankincense, Myrrh and gold. All of them followed a star that rested on Bethlehem. There they worshipped the King of Israel.

Lyrics by an Old English Carol, arranged by W. Sandy’s “Christmas Carol”

“The First Noel the angel did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

And by the light of that same Star, three wise men came from country far; To seek for a King was their intent, and to follow the Star wherever it went.

This Star drew nigh to the northwest, O’er Bethlehem it took its rest, and there it did both stop and stay, right over the place where Jesus lay.

Then entered in those wise men three, fall reverently upon their knee, and offered there in His presence, their gold, and Myrrh, and frankincense.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.”

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Silent Night! Holy Night!

 

                                                Silent Night! Holy Night!

Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem for the census. There were many people in town, and it is hard to imagine that the night was silent. However, if the soon to be baby was expected to be born, those who knew of it can be silently waiting for the Holy night to bring forth a Savior. Once Jesus was born the Heavenly hosts were singing Hallelujah. The star shone down on His face, and the shepherds and wise men looked upon Him in humble amazement.

Lyrics by Joseph Mohr, arranged by Franz Grueber

“Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night, Shepherds quake at the sight, glorious stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born!

Silent night, holy night, Son of God, love’s pure light radiant beams from thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord at thy birth, Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

Silent night, holy night, wonderous star, lend thy light; with the angels let us sing, Alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born.

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While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

 

                                    While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

It was while the shepherds were watching their flocks that angels appeared and told them not to be afraid. They spoke to the shepherds of a baby born of David’s line in the town of Bethlehem. A baby that will bring peace and good will to all men here on earth. All this to the glory of God on high.

Lyrics by Nahum Tate, arranged by George F. Handel

“While shepherds watched their flocks by night, all seated on the ground, the angel of the Lord came down, and glory shone around, and glory shone around.

“Fear not” said he’ for mighty dread had seized their troubled mind, “Glad tidings of great joy I bring” to you and all mankind. To you and all mankind.

“To you, in David’s town this day, is born of David’s line, the Savior who is Christ the Lord, and this shall be the sign, and this shall be the sign.

“The heavenly babe you there shall find to human view displayed, all meanly wrapped in swathing band, and in the manger laid, and in the manger laid.

“All glory be to God on high, and to the earth be peace; Good will hence forth from heaven to me, begin and never cease, begin and never cease.”

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It Came upon the Midnight Clear

 

                                                    It Came upon the Midnight Clear

This time of year, we join in the songs of Christmas and our voices blend into chorus’ of happiness. Just imagine what it would sound like if we could hear the voices of the angels. I don’t think we could imagine how melodious it would really be. We have angels all around us and we are told they sang at Jesus’ birth and are always singing His praises. Let’s take this season to join in with the angels and praise Him not only today but every day.

Lyrics by H. Sears, arranged by Richard S. Willis

“It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old, from angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold; Peace on the earth, good will to men, from heaven’s all gracious King: “The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.”

Still through the cloven skies they come, with peaceful wings unfurled, and still their heavenly music floats over all the weary world; Above its sad and lowly plains they bend on hovering wing: And ever over its Babel sounds the blessed angels sing.

And ye beneath life’s crushing load, whose forms are bending low, who toil along the climbing way with painful steps and slow; Look now! For glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing; O rest beside the weary road, and hear the angels sing.

For lo, the days are hastening on, by prophet bards foretold, when with the ever-circling years comes round the age of gold; When peace shall over all the earth its ancient splendors fling and the whole world give back the song which now the angels sing.”

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O Come All Ye Faithful

 

                                                O Come All Ye Faithful

What a joyous day that was when Jesus Christ was born. Wouldn’t it be great if we had been there to witness His birth? To know that He was born to be our Savior and the Son of God. Praises be to God, our Father for caring so much for us to send His one and only Son to be born on earth. This time of year everyone seems to gather together to sing praises to the newborn King. This day should be celebrated every day of the year and not just on Christmas Day. His birthday outshines all birthdays and gives us reason to sing in jubilee. Glory to God in the Highest.

Lyrics by Frederick Oakeley, arranged by John F. Wade

“O come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, o come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem; Come and behold Him born the King of angels;

Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultation, O sing all ye bright hosts of heaven above; Glory to God, all glory in the highest.

Yea, Lord we greet Thee, born this happy morning, Jesus to Thee be all glory given; Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;

O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him Christ, the Lord.  Amen.

 

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O Little Town of Bethlehem

 

                                    O Little Town of Bethlehem

It was the stars that shown above Bethlehem that brought the Wisemen to baby Jesus. The lights above illuminated where Jesus lay, and the angels were all around Him. The birth of baby Jesus brought hope to all who heard of His birth and visited Him in the manger. Songs broke out in praise for the peace that Jesus was to bring to all mankind. Even today, we praise His name and request His presence in our life.

Lyrics by Phillips Brooks, arranged by Lewis H. Redner

“O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above Thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by; Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light; the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary; and gathered all above, while mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wondering love. O morning stars, together proclaim the Holy birth, and praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently the wondrous gifts is given! So, God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming; but in this world of sin, where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.

O Holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell, O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.”

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Hark the Angels Sing

 

                                                   Hark the Angels Sing

Jesus, born in a manger, birthed by a virgin, came to bring peace, mercy and reconciliation to all sinners. All believers who believed that this child was a miracle sent from God hailed and praised him as the newborn King. He came with healing powers and the Love of God. He came to earth to live among sinners in an upside world. He came to die so that we may live.

Lyrics by Charles Wesley, arranged by Felix Menelssohn Bartholdy

“Hark! The herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King; peace on earth, and mercy mild; God and sinners reconciled.” Joyful, all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies; with angelic hosts proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem.”

Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord; Late in time behold Him come, offspring of a virgin’s womb, veiled in flesh the God-head see, Hail the incarnate deity! Pleased as man with men to appear, Jesus our Immanuel  here.

Hail the heaven born prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, Risen with healing in His wings; Mild He lays His glory by, born that man may no more die; born to raise the sons of earth; born to give them second birth.

Come, desire of nations come! Fix in us Thy humble home; Rise the woman’s conquering seed, bruise in us the serpent’s head; Adam’s likeness now efface, stamp thine image in its place; Second Adam from above, Reinstate us in Thy Love.”

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Like a River Glorious

 

                                              Like a River Glorious

When a person has perfect peace, it feels good every day and grows deeper in the soul every day. There is no worry or shadow of care, no need to make hasty decisions. The Love of God flows through us and creates a trust in Him. Those who trust Him wholly, find Him wholly true.

Lyrics by Frances R. Havergal, arranged by James Mountain

“Like a river glorious is God’s perfect peace, over all victorious in its bright increase; Perfect, yet it floweth fuller every day. Perfect, yet it growth deeper all the way.

Hidden in the hollow of His blessed hand, never foe can follow, never traitor stand; not a surge of worry, not a shade of care, not a blast of hurry touch the spirit there.

Every joy or trial falleth from above, Traced upon our dial by the Sun of Love. We may trust Him fully all for us to do; they who trust Him wholly find Him wholly true.

Stayed upon Jehovah, hearts are fully blest; find, as He promised, perfect peace and rest.”

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Master, the Tempest is Raging

 

                                     Master, The Tempest is Raging

There are so many natural disasters in this world, that each of us have experienced one kind or another. We probably wondered whether this was it, the last day on earth. We might have wondered where God was in it and feared He wasn’t listening to our prayers. With a troubled heart, we think about our life and the sins we committed. Take heart, God is the whisper in the storm. He promised never to leave us or forsake us. We can rest easy when the storm passes and He assured us that He was there all along. He is always there to save. He has a place prepared for us for just that purpose. Whether we are saved for heaven or earth, God’s plans are perfect in every way.

Lyrics by Mary A. Baker, arranged by Horatius R. Palme

“Master the tempest is raging! The billows are tossing high! The sky is overshadowed with blackness; no shelter or help is night; Carest thou not that we perish? How canst Thou lie asleep, when each moment so madly is threatening a grave in the angry deep!

Master, with anguish spirit I bow in my grief today; The depths of my sad heart are troubled; O waken and save, I pray! Torrents of sin and of anguish sweep over my sinking soul and I perish! I perish, dear Master; O hasten and take control!

Master, the terror is over, the elements sweetly rest; Earth’s sun in the calm lake is mirrored, and heavens within my breast. Linger, O blessed Redeemer, leave me alone no more; And with joy I shall make the blest harbor, and rest on the blissful shore.

The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will. Peace be still! Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea, or demons, or men, or whatever it be, no water can swallow the ship where lies the Master of ocean and earth and skies; They all shall sweetly obey Thy will, peace, peace be still!”

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Wonderful Peace

 

                                                     Wonderful Peace

Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.” When we ask God to protect and guide us through a storm and we believe that He will answer that request, we will receive a peace that passes all understanding. There will be calm like no other. Nerves are settled, worries are gone and the Love of God abounds.

Lyrics by Haldor Lillenas, arranged by Haldor Lillenas

“Coming to Jesus, my Savior, I found wonderful peace, wonderful peace; Storms in their fury may rage all around, I have peace, sweet peace.

Peace like a river, so deep and so broad, wonderful peace, wonderful peace; Resting my soul on the bosom of God, I have peace, sweet peace.

Peace like a holy and infinite calm, wonderful peace, wonderful peace; Like to the strains of an evening Psalm, I have peace, sweet peace.

Gone is the battle that once raged within, wonderful peace, wonderful peace; Jesus has saved me and cleansed me from sin, I have peace, sweet peace.

Peace, peace, wonderful peace, peace, peace, glorious peace; Since My Redeemer has ransomed my soul, I have peace sweet peace.”                 

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Sweet Peace, the Gift of God's Love

 

                                       Sweet Peace, the Gift of God’s Love

If you want peace in your life, turn to Jesus. Jesus is proof of God’s Love, and it is eternal. We can’t find peace in life without Jesus. It’s not in a bottle; it’s not in family or friends. It’s not in a needle or a cigarette. Peace only comes from one source and that is in our relationship with Jesus. Jesus is our Gift from our Heavenly Father. His peace abides within us and helps us through whatever trials or tribulations we may face. Keep Him close to you and He will keep you close to Him.

Lyrics by Peter F. Bilhorn, arranged by Peter F. Bilhorn

“There comes to my heart one sweet strain, a glad and a joyous refrain; I sing it again and again, sweet peace, the gift of God’s love.

Through Christ on the cross peace was made, my debt by His death was all paid’ No other foundation is laid for peace, the gift of God’s love.

When Jesus as Lord I had crowned, my heart with this peace did abound; In Him the rich blessing I found, Sweet peace the gift of God’s love.

In Jesus for peace, I abide, and as I keep close to His side, there’s nothing but peace doth betide, Sweet peace the gift of God’s Love.

Peace, peace, sweet peace! Wonderful gift from above, Oh, wonderful, wonderful peace! Sweet peace, the gift f God’s love!”

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Be Still, My Soul

 

                                                   Be Still, My Soul

Relax, God’s taking care of everything.  “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10. God is always on our side. He doesn’t want bad things to happen to us. That doesn’t mean He doesn’t allow bad things to happen to us, but when He does, He always provides a way out. He will order and provide, and all things will work out for the good to those who Love the Lord, your God. Be patient and watch what God will do. He does amazing things in our lives when we wait on Him and trust Him in all things.

Lyrics by Katharina Von Schlegel, arranged by Jean Siberlius

“Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side; Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain; Leave to thy God to order and provide; In every change He faithful will remain. Be still, my soul: thy best. Thy heavenly friend through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake to guide the future as He has the past. Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake; All now mysterious shall be bright at last. Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on when we shall be forever with the Lord, when disappointment, grief, and fear are gone. Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys be restored. Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past. All safe and blessed we shall meet at last. Amen.

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The Holy Spirit, Lord, Alone

 

                                  The Holy Spirit, Lord, Alone

Only the Holy Spirit can free us from our sins, He can give us deeper Love and answers to our prayers. The Holy Spirit comforts us and takes away our fears and worries. He alone, can grant us grace. But you must receive it from the oHoly     

Holy Spirit before it can be done. The Trinity is there with open arms ready for you to lift your arms up to Him. Just like little children that reaches up for their parents to pick them up, we must reach up to God for Him to pick us up.

Lyrics by Henrietta E. Blair, arranged by William J. Kirkpatrick

“Thy Holy Spirit, Lord, alone can turn our hearts from sin; His power alone can sanctify and keep us pure within.

Thy Holy Spirit, Lord, alone can deeper love inspire; His power alone within our souls can light the sacred fire.

Thy Holy Spirit, Lord, can bring the gifts we seek in prayer; His voice can words of comfort speak, and still each wave of care.

Thy Holy Spirit, Lord, can give the grace we need this hour; and while we wait, O Spirit, come in sanctifying power.”

What does this song mean to you? Please leave a comment as what you think of when you sing this song.

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Heaven Came Down and Glory filled My Soul

 

Heaven Came Down and Glory Filled My Soul

Remember the day you accepted the Lord and through baptism God washed away your sins. Do You remember how happy you felt and so energized to get busy for the Lord. God’s forgiveness should mean a lot to us and when we see how He meets our needs, especially the needs of our heart, it should exhilarate us into praising Him daily. We have become a part of a unique family and carry with us a hope of eternity in the mansion God has prepared for us. Heaven came down and glory filled my soul!

Lyrics by John W. Peterson, arranged by John W. Peterson

“O what a wonderful, wonderful day – Day I will never forget; after I’d wandered in darkness away, Jesus my Savior I met. O what a tender, compassionate friend, He met the need of my heart; shadows dispelling, with joy I am telling, He made all the darkness depart!

Born of the Spirit with life from above into God’s family divine; Justified fully thru Calvary’s love, O what a standing is mine! And the transaction so quickly was made, when as a sinner I came, took of the offer of grace He did proffer, He saved me, O praise His dear name!

Now I’ve a hope that will surely endure after the passing of time; I have a future in heaven for sure, there in those mansions sublime, and it’s because of that wonderful day when at the cross I believed, riches eternal and blessings supernal from His precious hand I received.

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul, when at the cross the Savior made me whole; sins were washed away, and my night was turned to day. Heaven came down and glory filled my soul!

What does this song mean to you? Please leave a comment as what you think of when you sing this song.

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