All Walk On

All Walk On
February 17
Proverbs 17:9

He who conceals a transgression seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates intimate friends.

The memory of sin in love’s mind cannot persist
the record of wrong in love’s heart does not exist
he who seeks love conceals transgression
not naivety but grace dictates discretion
for those that subscribe to love’s cohesion
there can be no guilty list adhesion
the return to a works based refrain
only results in prolonging pain
intimate friends are separated by unturning cheeks
grudges’ demands earn not what mercy seeks
in the driver’s seat of peace mercy will succeed
in sweet surrender there will be success indeed
evil is eliminated in every place
when it is wiped away by tidal grace
friendships are restored transgressions are concealed
and all walk on in peace with common fellowship healed

Lovingkindness and Truth

Lovingkindness and Truth
February 16
Proverbs 16:6

By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for and by the fear of the Lord one keeps away from evil.

The recipe for iniquity’s atonement is this
there are two things you cannot afford to miss
lovingkindness and truth bring healing indeed
working together to fill the need
left by the cancer of iniquity’s sting
these two are necessary in order to bring
wholeness back into love’s place
making it impossible to be face to face
lovingkindness is the tenderness to heal
bringing back a sense to all that is real
truth is the foundation to bring in leading
instilling solidity amidst all that is fleeting
the two together do all that is required
relying on each other they’re never tired
continually exchanging alternate energy
severing evil’s hold they make one free

Anyone Can Understand

Anyone Can Understand
February 15
Proverbs 15:2

The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable,
but the mouth of fools spouts folly.

How many learned men have you heard
that blah, blah, blah many a word
and say absolutely nothing worth repeating
but warrant instead a severe beating
such wise men aren’t wise at all
though they may teach in a crowded hall
it makes no difference without the common tongue
even if they have big degrees hung
up in offices where they educate masses
at big colleges with big classes
wisdom is knowledge made acceptable
sound instruction for anyone made directable
for anyone can go on about what he knows
but wisdom can translate so knowledge grows
if you know something great then here is my demand
teach it in a way that anyone can understand

No Enemies

No Enemies
February 14
Proverbs 14:1

The wise woman builds her house,
but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands.

If you’re a fool you have no enemies to fear
no robbers to destroy what’s dear
if you are counted a fool among men
what you fear comes from within
there is no one who could do you more harm
than the strength of your own arm
locked doors and security devices of any kind
will offer no protection nor peace of mind
not when your own hands deal your own destruction
such is the fate to those who refuse instruction
change on the inside will make one secure
turning from depravity and clinging to the pure
when foolishness is cast down it will be said
that you’re among those who hold up their head
you’ll be among those who realize
there is no inner-fear for the wise

Life Preservation

Life Preservation
February 13
Proverbs 13:3

The one who guards his mouth preserves his life;
the one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

If the difference between life and death
is as simple as a spoken breath
then let the earth be filled with quiet peace
and may guarded mouths ever increase
may the preservation of life spring forth
in the west and east yes the south and north
may the ruined cease to be so
let them choose wisdom’s path to go
surround me with those who guard their speech
so their examples will be to teach
me and everyone else they’re around
so that prudent tongues will abound
send the big mouths far away
so I will dwell in peace today
with guarded mouth I make declaration

to go on in life preservation

Here It Is

Here It Is
February 12
Proverbs 12:2

A good man will obtain favor from the Lord,
but He will condemn a man who devises evil.

It comes down to this when all is said and done
when it comes to the bottom line there is only one
only one way to obtain the Lord’s favor
demonstrating heart by exhibiting good behavior
the Judge of all is straightforward and true
if you’re a good man He will favor you
He’s not like a boss who’s unfair
or a teacher who doesn’t care
it’s not to the lucky it’s to the good
favor to those doing as they should
condemnation to those who evil devise
attracting wrath and angry eyes
I’ve devised evil time and again
sometimes I must be in love with sin
all this being so I don’t even know why
when it’s so simple to be favored by the Most High

The Shame of Pride

The Shame of Pride
February 11
Proverbs 11:2

When pride comes, then comes dishonor,
but with the humble is wisdom.

With pride not just one is affected
in the end many are infected
by the poison dealt by the one responsible
and communal dishonor is more than probable

In my pride I invite my own shame
but that isn’t the end of the game
pride has a way of dishonoring all involved
and more than the proud need to be absolved

Humility also has a way of spreading
blessings abound in frequent pride shedding
the giver and receiver are blessed the same
and both inherit honor’s name

Today I choose wisdom and humility
for too often has pride overtaken me
too much have I dishonored those I’m near
but humility shall be mine both now and here

Secure Gait

Secure Gait
February 10
Proverbs 10:9

He who walks in integrity walks securely,
but he who perverts will be found out.

In perversion my steps are terrifying
appeasing my flesh is satisfying
but security is kicked out the door
so I am found paranoid to the core
‘cause I can’t look anyone in the eye
the impending doom of getting caught draws nigh
integrity is sounding good about now
I could deal with the security it’d endow
doing things right would be great
being on time not being late
walking with my back raised up strong
moving in confidence cut off from wrong
who moves like this? who treks securely?
show me the man who walks in integrity!
I want to learn emulate and imitate
‘cause I want to have a secure gait

Better Unsaid

Better Unsaid
February 9
Proverbs 9:7

He who corrects a scoffer gets dishonor for himself,
and he who reproves a wicked man gets insults for himself.

If someone points out the error of your way
it is best to take it personal and then humbly obey
only fools scoff at those who care to correct
only the wicked insult those who attempt to redirect

I’ve been on both sides I’m sad to say
‘cause there’ve been wise men sent to correct my way
but I have insulted them and thrown it back in their face
forsaking honor it was my disgrace

I too have seen friends pursuing folly’s wrath
and I have attempted to alter their path
but they have scoffed and insulted instead
and I now my words would’ve been better unsaid

It is best to take correction adding light to the eyes
forsaking folly choosing the wise
but correcting a fool issuing countermanding
will be insulting for they delight not in understanding

Blessed Perspective

Blessed Perspective
February 8
Proverbs 8:10

Take my instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choicest gold

I’ve seen more fools bejeweled than I can ever count
stupid men iced with diamonds of exorbitant amount
it might mean something for others to see
but the presence of precious stones
has never impressed me
instruction and knowledge from ages of old
is worth more than the choicest silver and gold
the presence of a sharp intelligent mind
is better than any material you can find
post-modern pop culture understands not
that men are much more than the things they’ve bought
shallow mentalities reign on the screen
and much focus is given to what is seen
who’s wearing what and it cost how much?
commoners look on without a touch
the intelligent chuckles and rolls his eyes
for silver and gold are worthless if not wise

Pulled Aside

Pulled Aside
February 7
Proverbs 7:4-5

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your intimate friend; that they may keep you from an adulteress,
from the foreigner who flatters with her words.

The adulteress came with beauty and flair
doing her best to make me stare
dropping “come and get me” glances galore
all the way as she walked in the front door
it occurred to me to strike up a conversation
and try to lay a friendly foundation
maybe we could even go talk outside
but my friends quickly pulled me aside
impolite and rather demanding
I was ushered away by wisdom and understanding
my two friends who have my interest in mind
even if it’s something I don’t want to find
my relationship with them is easy to explain
sticking with them keeps me from pain
they keep me grounded when surrounded by birds
and the foreign adulteress with her flattering words

God's Hatred

God’s Hatred
February 6
Proverbs 6:16-19

There are six things which the Lord hates, yes, seven which are an abomination to Him; haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. A heart that devises wicked plans, feet that run rapidly to evil, a false witness who utters lies, and one who spreads strife among brothers.

Six things cause God’s anger to flair
seven are abominations He cannot bear
eyes that look down at all others with pride
haughty eyes snobbish on every side
deceiving false witnesses that avoid the eye
tongues set with daggers that only lie
hands that shed blood of innocence
like Abel God is their defense
a heart that devises wicked plans
manipulating to their demands
feet that run to evil rapidly
what they should pursue they flee
a false witness that utters lies
breaking bonds and severing ties
and one who spreads strife among brothers
breaking the fellowship of all others

The Scariest Foes

The Scariest Foes
February 5
Proverbs 5:3-4

For the lips of an adulteress drip honey and smoother than oil is her speech;
but in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two edged sword.

I’ve seen terrible sights that stir great fear
I tremble when such foes draw near
there are enemies that define afraid
sinister silhouettes outlined in the shade

Movies are good at depicting such enemies
villains that bring heroes to their knees
books conjure images that imaginations find
plaguing at night in the back of my mind
but the scariest foes in life page or screen
are those which give pleasure when seen
damsels that put me in distress
on the inside they curse though outside bless
nothing is worse than the opposite sex
bent on bringing about destructive effects
the adulteress invites a presence to be adored
but she is sharper than any two edged sword

The Full Day

The Full Day
February 4
Proverbs 4:18

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,
that shines brighter and brighter until the full day.

As the days of evil grow continually stronger
day grows shorter and night grows longer
worldwide wickedness takes possession of the land
but the righteous are able to stand
our light shines brighter in a world depraved
our fruits bear witness to truth: we are saved
like the light of dawn our full light is on its way
in the night around us we anticipate the day
the full day where darkness will be swallowed alive
the Full Day where evil will no longer survive
our path is building strength until the end
where we will sit down with our Friend
in the land of Full Day at the end of all things
resting at last with the King of kings
but as the days of evil continually grow

we proceed with confidence for this is what we know

Discipline

Discipline
February 3
Proverbs 3:11-12


My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord or loathe His reproof. For who the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in who he delights.

At the very least He’ll whoop my misbehaving
though it’ll hurt it’ll be my saving
matter o’ fact it’s happening now
I’ve been out of line but He’s showing me how
How He loves me so He sends me pain
He blocks out sunshine and pours out rain
so I’ll remember not to trespass again
and think twice before I sin

At the most He’ll put me to the test
put me though the fire and take away rest
inflict pain to bring improvement
ensuring my direction of holy movement
it’s scary to think about but it’s true
that He’ll test me but pull me through
He is both firm and tender to the touch
and He gives me both ‘cause He loves me so much

Him Shielding Me

Him Shielding Me
February 2
Proverbs 2:7

He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
He is a shield to those who walk in integrity

I’ve got to believe He shields the true
when your walk is tight God shields you
everyday I walk the streets of integrity
‘cause I can’t take a step without Him shielding me
hypocrisy once had me locked down in shame
but Divine endorsements don’t exist for that game
He protects those who obey His will
His Hand heals what would go ill
He marks the path who desire right
in their darkness He is their light
He stands between them and what they can’t see
to aid their resistance to the enemy
when we are real with weakness He is real with power
providing shelter in the needy hour
to those who are honest about their behaving
He will always be near for their saving

Hat and Necklace

Hat and Necklace
February 1
Proverbs 1:8-9
Hear, my son, your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head and ornaments about your neck.

I love my hat I wear it everyday.
it dictates where I go what I do and what I say
I wear it as an indicator of my identity
and as a reminder of who I’m supposed to be
most people don’t get it most don’t understand
some resort to ridicule in this wicked land
but I keep my hat on amidst mayhem and destruction
I love the hat of my father’s instruction

I love my necklace it never leaves my neck
it instructs my path to wisdom
and keeps my soul in check
sometimes I want to remove it but I refuse
because it’s more than a trinket I use
it is a reminder of who I am and who I need to be
it sings victory songs and points the way for me
I look at it when my enemy is reaching
I love the necklace of my mother’s teaching

Who Can Find Her?

Who Can Find Her?
January 31
Proverbs 31:10
An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.

I can find a wife. That’s not hard to do
I can even find a good one though there are only a few
But an excellent one? I don’t think that’s possible for any man
but where men fall short you’ll find that God always can

I say that because I know it’s happened to me
I know He’s shown me excellence beautifully
I look back at the story from where we’ve begun
and I know I’m blessed not from what I’ve done

Who can find an excellent wife?
Who can produce the perfect partner for life?
Who can introduce two hearts to make them one?
Who can take doubts and reduce them to none?

He brought her to me so I rest my case
her excellence is a blessing of His grace
I didn’t do the finding so I rest in humility
He binds us together me and her, her and me

His Word

His Word
January 30
Proverbs 30:5
Every word of God is tested; He is a refuge to those who take refuge in Him.

I don’t know of anyone who can make such a claim
for such a quality there is no other name
some might be good others better but only God is the best
others do this others do that
but every word of God is put to the test
with every test I can guarantee
that every one is passed flawlessly
His word is perfect there is none above it
by His Word I am saved therefore I love it
His words cut through time and all history
His word is perfect reaching even to me
His word crosses every language culture and race
His word defeats sin and brings in healing grace
His word teaches what is hidden from view
His word is for me His word is for you
His word is enough for me to overcome sin
that is why in His word I take refuge in

Receiving Correction

Receiving Correction
January 29
Proverbs 29:1
A man who hardens his neck after much reproof
will suddenly be broken beyond remedy.

Nabal and Ahab these are the names
of men who continually played the same games
I’m sure they had chances but all were wasted away
and because of no change destruction came in one day

Saying you’re sorry saying you’re wrong really is a good thing
when ;you respond to another’s correction it’s enough to make ‘em sing
but when you harden your heart and waste another’s breath
you do yourself no favor but rather wish for your own death

When you stood on the hill of death and sin
you were warned again and again
come down before it gets too late
and in the end you suffer a much worse fate

Receiving correction is a humbling occasion
but you could request no better persuasion
there can really be no better plan trying
for often it’s the difference between living and dying

Nothing to Fear

Nothing to Fear
January 28
Proverbs 28:1
The wicked flee when no one is pursuing;

but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

When I am a coward and engaged in sin
when I am in a place I never should’ve been
when I am the villain with evil intent
when I am the perpetrator with a wicked bent
when I am the murderer plunging the knife
when I am the abductor stealing away life
when in the dead of night with no one near
then I have nothing but everything to fear

When I am the conqueror overcoming sin
when I am in the place I always should’ve been
when I am the hero with righteous intent
when I am the warrior with a holy bent
when I am the martyr receiving the knife
when I am the defender vindicating life
when in the dead of night with no one near
then I have everything but nothing to fear

with peace and love to Brett Emerson

Future Boast

Future Boast
January 27
Proverbs 27:1
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.

A moment is all it takes for a future’s redefinition
‘cause all that you anticipate may never reach fruition
as you raise your glass to a future toast
put your glass back down for the future leaves
no room to boast

I’ve made plans and set the course my way
but I’ve seen such dreams wake up in one day
reality redefines how I thought I’d go
so now I try not to boast about tomorrow

One day at a time is just fine for me
I’m a man and I can’t tell one thing eternally
I leave that to the One who gives me all I got
and I know He’s watching over right here on this spot

This is made by Him this is His day
with my feet on the rock this is where I stay
I don’t know what will be I don’t worry what was

I don’t know what the future holds but I know Who does

Fool's Honor

Fool’s Honor
January 26
Proverbs 26:1
Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, so honor is not fitting for a fool.

I predict this summer that it will snow
and this winter I’m sure the sun will glow
as for common sense – why do we reserve it?
and give honor to those who do not deserve it

Why do we bestow riches on common fools?
but neglect the respect of those in our schools
when a celebrity shows up all foot traffic will stop
but we walk on by when we see a cop
why do we specialize in singers we think are good?
but fail to name one teacher that educates our neighborhood
we have sport teams TV shows and which ones we think are tighter
but we’d just as soon blow bubbles than honor one fire fighter

Our priorities are upside down
and it’s the same in every town
the fact is we need a new set of rules

so start respecting the heroes and stop honoring fools

Straight to the Top

Straight to the Top
January 25
Proverbs 25:6-7
Do not claim honor in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of great men; for it is better that it be said to you, “ Come up here,” than for you to be placed lower in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen.

All the Babel builders were humbled before the Lord
seeking His presence by what their strength could afford
thinking they could go straight to the top
but God had other plans so theirs were forced to stop

Men still rush to be in important places
they still attempt to seize ruler’s graces
they still seize power that is not their own
but they are still humbled by he who is on the throne

Instead of walking in like I own the place
I keep a humble heart which informs my face
If I rushed the top I would surely fall
so I take my place and wait for the King’s call

Even now that is what I do
for the top is so high it’s not even in view
I sit here content – this is not my final stop

for the King will call me and I’ll go straight to the top

Wisdom House

Wisdom House
January 24
Proverbs 24:3-4
By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

I’ve built houses based on my own good
single-handedly I’ve made a self-righteous neighborhood
looking great to others but inside dead
manifested by actions and not what I said

I’ve built houses of guilt and shame
sad shacks stacked with personal blame
feeling bad for the righteousness gone
but wallowing in self-pity still not moving on

All the houses I’ve built have never stood
whether guilt based or my own supposed good
the wind and rain destroyed my stand
just a foolish boy crying on the sand

But God let this house be wisdom built
let it not be based on my good or my guilt
let the winds and rain come and knock
and let them find that this wisdom house was built on the rock

Money's Mind

Money’s Mind
January 23
Proverbs 23:4
Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it.

How many people have you ever heard of
that work so hard to earn what they love
only to end up without a thing to show for
and opportunity of the past becomes a closed door

Or have you ever heard of someone who didn’t do a thing
only to turn around and be rich as a king
just sitting there wasting time
becoming wealthy though not earning a dime

Do not wear yourself out for financial wealth
for doing so could be hazardous to your health
money often has a mind of its own
and the way is unpredictable to make it your own

Money has wings and answers to no man
no matter how wise or elaborate his plan
seek wealth elsewhere then you will know indeed
the satisfaction of Him who provides every need

The Best Thing

The Best Thing
January 22
Proverbs 22:1
A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, favor is better than silver and gold.

I could buy corporations and capitols islands and nations
even the whole earth
but if I had all this and had a bad reputation then what is the price of a good names worth?
if I had an empire under me with endless men to direct
what would it be worth if I didn’t command an ounce of respect?

Have you ever been part of a big celebration?
but there was someone with whom you had a bad reputation
what would you give for that person to go away?
just so things would be so you could enjoy you day

A good name is the best thing you could ever ask for
for people to tip their hats and shake your hand
when they see you at the store
what a blessing what a good thing that would be
to have the respect of any man that you happen to see

That’s what I want though with some I never will
for I’ve permanently tarnished my reputation by all my committed ill
but from this moment may I seek to be honorable
not just for an outward show
and may men shake my hand with no reservation
and show me respect wherever I go

Sweet Fellowship

Sweet Fellowship
January 21
Proverbs 21:9
It is better to live in a corner on a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

You could live in the best neighborhood and have the best house
but it wouldn’t mean a thing if you have a hateful spouse
you could have all the money in the world
and appear to have a great life
but it would be rubbish if you had to share it with a stupid wife
you could drive the best cars and eat the best food
but you would hate it all if your husband always had a rotten attitude
you could climb the ladder of corporate success
but if the one you share it with gives you nothing but stress
you would know that riches really ain’t worth a rip
‘cause you can’t put a price tag on a tight relationship

When you’re happy with the one you live with not a thing do you lack
holding the hand of someone you love
you could live in a cardboard shack
you could sustain any loss or pain with someone by your side
when souls are united in intimate friendship
there is no overwhelming tide
the things that make men rich
are not found in dollars at the end of the day
but in the sweet fellowship of one another
which can never be taken away

Just Doesn't Work

Just Doesn’t Work
January 20
Proverbs 20:1
Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.


I can understand if you’ve ever felt so bad
that you had a beer with breakfast just so you wouldn’t go mad
I can understand waking up and feeling so low
that you needed to be medicated just so you could go
Your feet hit the floor and before you even begin
the day hits you square in the face and reality sets in
Hopelessness seizes you by the throat
and you know there’s no way you can stay afloat
So you reach for the only thing that puts things in perspective
and for a few minutes you have a peaceful directive

I don’t speak as one who shares this affliction
all the same I still know addiction
And whether mental chemical or however you attack
your troubles can’t be buried they’ll always come back
just telling the truth even if I’m a jerk
Cause peace through alcohol just doesn’t work

Imitating God

Imitating God
January 19
Proverbs 19:11
A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.

There is a satisfaction found in grudge holding
and there is happiness in giving a scolding
to put someone in their place when they’ve done us wrong
can surely lead to a contentment lasting long
haven’t you been there when someone hurt you bad
and just the thought of them made you mad
but then you were able to bring them to their knees
and listen to them grovel with sobbing pleas

Well, there is pleasure in paying back a scar
but the glory of forgiveness is better by far
it might seem upside down and you are free to doubt
but it’s so much better when other’s sins you forget about
no kidding, it’s fun sometimes to be the judge
and it might seem right to hold a grudge
overlooking a transgression may seem odd
but peace inevitably follows for we are imitating God

Air Head

Air Head
January 18
Proverbs 18:2
A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in revealing his own mind.

That dude would rant and ramble carry on and cut up
fuss fight argue and do anything but shut up
and I tell you what despite all the sent clues
he never caught on that nobody cared about his views
and though he thought he knew a little something
about everything under the sun
when airing his opinions only he was having fun
I wonder why he delighted in saying all that he thought?
I really hope the point we’re sending will be caught
‘cause my ears are hurting from his incessant chatter
what will it take for him to understand the matter?

When he has a party we hope he won’t invite us
when he’s with us we hope he gets laryngitis
when he’s around you want to go outside
when he starts talking you want to run and hide

Giving him attention can be so demanding
for he has no delight in understanding
he would claim to see though he is blind
for he only delights in revealing his own mind

Peaceful Spagettios

Peaceful Spaghettios
January 17
Proverbs 17:1
Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it than a house full of feasting with strife.

They sat down to spaghettios and kool aid for many dinners
but you would have a tough time convincing them they weren’t winners
‘cause though their portions were modest at best
they were able to realize the infinite amount they were blessed
for as they held hands in their studio shack
an inner peace assured them they had no lack
though others might not understand what it was they partook of
they both knew they were feasting on love

They sat down to surroundings both rich and fine
and consistently enjoyed the richest food and choicest wine
but despite the exquisite furnishings one must note
that she would just as soon put a knife to his throat
there was no peace in the house day or night
there was no limit to their ability to fuss and fight
on the outside they were perfect and life was a ball
but the inside was cold and barren and they had nothing at all

Commit These Works

Commit These Works
January 16
Proverbs 16:3
Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established.

If I’m honest with myself then this truth I can’t ignore
I don’t think I’ve ever done this before
‘cause if I had then these words would flow more free
but as it is this poem threatened to get the best of me
all the ones previous to this found easy ways to rhyme
but this one was much harder and took a longer time
I have to throw up my arms and admit that I just don’t know
and any words I could manufacture would be just for show
so the best thing to do rather than lie
is just to buckle down and give it a try
I’m tired of being shaken and swayed
of starting over and being delayed
in the past all my works have been committed to me
but if I’m to be established then this cannot be
it is Your glory I want to have in view
so breaking free from the past I commit these works to you

Wrath vs. Gentleness

Wrath vs. Gentleness
January 15
Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Wrath came in and started to fuss
raising commotion as he started to cuss
pushing everyone around ‘til he got his own way
robbing peace and disrupting the day

Hostility challenged wrath and they began to fight
round for round they boxed left and right
‘til wrath came out in first place
with hostility down flat on his face

Hatred came next and jumped right on wrath
destroying everything in his path
except for wrath who was too strong
so hatred’s defeat didn’t take too long

Last of all gentleness entered in
and wrath was ready to fight again
but gentleness walked right up and kissed wrath on the head
and wrath staggered and stumbled and there fell down dead

My Heart My Bitterness

My Heart My Bitterness
January 14
Proverbs 14:10
The heart knows its own bitterness, and a stranger does not share its joy.

I could tell you my story and carefully explain
just what it was like and how bad the pain
I could go over it and tell every detail true
and you could say the same thing happened to you
but you’ll never know just how I felt
you’ll never know the fire that made my heart melt
you’ll never know the intensity of my stress
for only my heart knows its own bitterness

You could tell your story and carefully explain
just what it was like and how bad the pain
you could go over it and tell every detail carefully
and I could say the same thing happened to me
but I’ll never know just how you felt
I’ll never know the fire that made your heart melt
I’ll never know the intensity of your stress
for only your heart knows its own bitterness

Hope - Bitter and Joyful

Hope – Bitter and Joyful
January 13
Proverbs 13:12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life.

There is a bitterness to hope that must be understood
that one has a desire for something good
but the pain that one cannot forget
is that the good thing one doesn’t have yet

The heart does hold on the will does stick
but as hope is deferred the heart grow sick
bones grow heavy optimism grows thin
because all the means never see an end

Ah but desire fulfilled is a beautiful thing
feet will dance and hearts will sing
when one’s desire reaches fruition
and one has rest from their own mission

To have hope and to see that hope come to be
is pure joy and also Life’s tree
then hope can be abandoned and so can demand
for what one desired is now in hand

Controlled Anger

Controlled Anger
January 12
Proverbs 12:16
A fool’s anger is known at once, but a prudent man conceals dishonor.

What advantage is there to having a short fuse?
when provoked and control you suddenly lose
everybody knows that your mood is bad
and look out everybody he sure looks mad

You idiot, wouldn’t it be better to sit down and think
about how to respond without raising such a stink?
wouldn’t it be best to let anger work for you?
so you’d be empowered to do what you want to

Any moron can throw a fit
but a wise man will take control of it
any fool can express aggravation
but a man of understanding controls the situation

Inevitably people will get under you skin
they’ll cut you off and shut you in
but if you hold on and seize the hour
you’ll find controlled anger has a lot more power

The Deceitful Fruit of Pride

The Deceitful Fruit of Pride
January 11
Proverbs 11:2
When pride comes then comes dishonor, but with the humble is wisdom.

When it all fell apart nobody knew
‘cause he kept it hidden from view
self assured that he could go alone
he white-knuckled his burden for his own

she had everything under control
with everything necessary to reach her goal
she did the work with no assistance
propelling herself with inner persistance

they tried to keep a lid on what took place
in order that they both might save face
but it’s impossible to resist the tide
when one’s motivations are pride

hidden shame and self assurance are surely dead giveaways
for they are not controlled but they have their own ways
no refuge do they offer so truth comes outside
and all that’s left is dishonor the deceitful fruit of pride

Proud Fathers

Proud Fathers
January 10
Proverbs 10:1
A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish son is a grief to his mother.

All sons want their fathers to be proud
they hunger for their praise spoken aloud
by the man whom they want to be glad
a wise son makes a pleased dad

All fathers want their sons to be wise
they yearn for knowledge in their eyes
they desire holiness in every part
and the love of God deep in their heart

All sons want their mothers to be proud
they hunger for their praise spoken aloud
by the one they regard as no other
a wise son makes a pleased mother

All mothers want their sons to be wise
they yearn for knowledge in their eyes
they desire holiness in every part

and the love of God deep in their heart

Give Up

Give Up
January 9
Proverbs 9:6
Forsake your folly and live, and proceed in the way of understanding.

The difference between what I gain and forsake
is the same as feces and cake
it is my folly I’ve been asked to give
a small price in order to live

Give up darkness receive light
give up blindness receive sight
give up sickness receive health
give up debt receive wealth

That’s all I hear that’s all He’s saying
patiently and carefully He’s been conveying
He’s calling me to receive His touch
and release the folly I love so much

Give up pain receive pleasure
give up stress receive treasure
give up restlessness give up strife
give up death and receive life

Wisdom Cry

Wisdom Cry
January 8
Proverbs 8:1-3
Does not wisdom call, and understanding lift up her voice? On top of the heights beside the way , where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gates, at the opening to the city, at the entrance of the doors she cries out.

Above the traffic above the street
through the walking and pounding feet
over the capitols and great halls
in the grocery stores and shopping malls
around the offices and people working high
above the buildings that scrape the sky
she is heard by all who pass by
wisdom raises her voice to cry

In the home at school or outside having fun
in the rain wind and lightning or under the sun
playing working talking and making future plans
greeting singing fighting or agreeably shaking hands
drinking coffee and eating carrot cake
braving a tornado or sustaining an earthquake
she is heard by all who pass by
Wisdom raises her voice to cry

Tablet of Your Heart

Tablet of Your Heart
January 7
Proverbs 7:1-3
My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. Keep my commandments and live, and my teaching as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart.

My son if you want to live then abide by this measure
let my commands be your treasure
keep my words ever nigh
and my teachings as the apple of your eye

Memorize metabolize and put them in motion
may they be your foundation in the midst of commotion
let them inform your sense of control
may they sink into the depths of your soul

Let them be jewelry to adorn your hand
fine rings of gold precious in this land
let it be said of all who know you
that my words in your heart are true

May they be as close as a friend
to walk you to your journey’s end
may they be with you now as you start

may they be written on the tablet of you heart

Against the Odds

Against the Odds
January 6
Proverbs 6:10-11
“A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest”— Your poverty will come in like a vagabond and your need like an armed man.

If there’s a will there’s a way
to do what I’m thinking and do it today
I know I can hence I may
get it done and not delay

I could do it later or even tomorrow
but since the light’s green I’m gonna go
I might trip and I might be slow
but I’m taking off so I won’t be low

You won’t see folded hands here
I won’t put it off ‘til next year
my resolution is crystal clear
I’ll say it loud so you can hear

I refuse to settle for less
let me give my resolution stress
against all odds I will press

my answer to going is absolutely yes

Yours Alone

Yours Alone
January 5
Proverbs 5:15-17
Drink water from your own cistern and fresh water from you own well. Should your springs be dispersed abroad, streams of water in the streets? Let them yours alone and not for strangers with you.

It is good to share, yes that is true, but not entirely so
for there are things which you posses that you should never let go
things that should remain your own
are best enjoyed by you alone

There are those who are less aware
of consequences suffered by those who share
those who share do so in vain
for sharing invites needless pain

Sharing with strangers is the thief of fun
I speak honestly for such I have done
seeking to capture an impossible prize
ignoring the facts before my eyes

It’s yours keep it do not give it away
it’s no one else’s please don’t try another way
enjoy what’s yours all on your own

No Harm

No Harm
January 4
Proverbs 4:14-15
Do not enter the path of the wicked and do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it; turn away from it and pass on.

I’m not going to open the door
‘cause I know what I’d be going for
I’m going to sit right here
where I’m content and have nothing to fear

Well maybe I’ll just open it but not go outside
I can look out there but I can within abide
no harm in looking as long as I don’t go out
I’ll stay here and look out there and not have to change my route

Well shoot there ain’t no harm in just stepping in the front yard
I’m getting kinda bored and staying here is just too hard
I can go outside but I won’t go far
and I sure won’t go and get in the car

Okay okay okay I’ll get in the car but I won’t go
I’ll just sit in it and listen to the radio
this will be a very fine day
and I know for sure that I won't drive away

Path Straight

Path Straight
January 3
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight

I trust myself I’m the captain of my ship
the Master of my destiny the director of every trip
it is I alone I determine my fate
but I’m having trouble getting my path straight

I trust you, you are the captain of my ship
the Master of my destiny the director of every trip
it is you alone you determine my fate
but for some reason you’re no better at getting my path straight

I trust no one there is on captain on my ship
there is no Master of my destiny no one directs the trip
there is no one to determine my fate
and by now I know that no one can get my path straight

No, it is You Lord, You are the Captain of my ship
You are the Master of my destiny You direct every trip
You are the one who determines my fate

‘cause You’re the only One who can make my path straight

Desire

Desire
January 2
Proverbs 2:3-5
For if you cry for discernment, lift your voice for understanding; if you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will discern the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God.

I want to discover the knowledge of God and discern the fear of the Lord
and my steps to be as His steps pleasing across the board
I want to know that I am pleasing to Him, yes, everyday
I want to give it all that I have and seek none of it halfway

Let it be said of me that not drugs sex or rock n roll
but rather discernment was the cry of my soul
let me be remembered not for materialistic demanding
but in the midst of a confused world I raised my voice for understanding

As men seek silver so let me seek to be wise
as men seek hidden treasure let understanding be my prize
knowledge wisdom and understanding will be my prize forever unsold
they will be my diamonds set in frames of gold

All for the sake of what I wish to uncover
all for the purpose of what I’m trying to discover
these are the things for which I yearn
for the fear of the Lord is what I want to discern

The Beginning of Knowledge

The Beginning of Knowledge
January 1
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction

High School Diploma BA MA PhD
all that man can offer at the most prestigious university
but if one thing isn’t present before the man’s eyes
he cannot be counted among any who are wise

A president a king a dictator or CEO
the most power you can wield the highest you can go
but without this one thing it is all mindless chatter
if you don’t have a handle on the most important matter

A Grammy or an Oscar even a Nobel prize
cannot indicate who is foolish or wise
the acquisition of wisdom lies not in award winning
but in knowing what needs to be to have a beginning

For beginning knowledge the point is quite clear
the beginning of knowledge is knowing whom to fear
no matter your past or how much treasure you’ve stored
the beginning of knowledge is the fear of the Lord