Only God Is Able

©Deborah Bolack 2003
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Emerald Stanley
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I search out pearls of wisdom, and gladly them impart,
praying I will find the ones to touch a heart.
Words that tell of Jesus, the way, the truth, and life,
in whom we have redemption; his blood has paid the price.
~

I take what I discover, and lift them to the Lord,
praying he will use them as a mighty sword,
for only God is able to pierce the heart within,
and use his holy word to turn man from his sin.

~
I search out songs of praise, and gladly them impart,
praying I will sing the ones to touch a heart.
Songs about the Saviour, who intercedes above,
and calls us to repentance by his redeeming love.

~
I take what I discover, and lift them to the Lord,
praying he will use them as a mighty sword,
for only God is able to pierce the heart within,
and use his holy word to turn man from his sin.

~

Only God is able to pierce the heart within,

and use his holy word to turn man from his sin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Often we will see a cartoon or a drawing of someone with a light bulb above his head. I don’t know where this originated, but I can’t think of a better illustration for that moment when one gets a bright idea or a thought. This may not be true for everyone who is born again, but I’ve talked to enough people to know that for many of us there has been that ‘light bulb’ moment. That sudden dawning of light within our hearts, when all of the information and knowledge we have been given about Jesus suddenly makes sense. For me it was the story of the ants. For my dad it was simply a particular scripture that just seemed to bring it all together. For my son, Lorne, it was the realization of how much God loved him. For a friend of mine it was coming to terms with the question of why God allows evil to exist.

When we are witnessing to someone and praying for them to get saved, we have no way of knowing what the switch will be that suddenly turns on that light bulb. Although I’m constantly seeking opportunities to share my faith, with lost loved ones, I know that it’s not my words that are going to penetrate their heart. It takes the word of God and the drawing of the Holy Spirit to show a sinner their need. All he asks of us is that we continue shining the light of his word and to trust him to illuminate the hearts of the lost. We never know when that bulb may light up as we’re sharing the gospel, but what a day of rejoicing when it happens!

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the father, but by me.

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.

Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemeth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who maketh intercession for us.

Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Ephesians 6:17,19 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

Jesus Alone

©Deborah Bolack 2003

Pianist Bethany Isaac

Soloist Emerald Stanley

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The world turned black at Calvary,

when God’s face turned away.
Jesus’ voice alone pierced through the dark,

as he bore my sin and my shame.
~

Jesus alone came to ransom me.
Jesus alone came as a light in the dark.
Jesus alone came to forgive and give life.
Jesus alone washed the sin from my heart.
~
Just like the thief at Calvary,

I’d longed for paradise.
Jesus’ love alone could lead me home;

forgive me and give me new life.
~

Jesus alone came to ransom me.
Jesus alone came as a light in the dark.
Jesus alone came to forgive and give life.
Jesus alone washed the sin from my heart.
~
God’s grace flowed down at Calvary,

to fill my empty heart.
Jesus’ blood alone had cleansed the stain

of sin that had kept us apart.
~
Jesus alone came to ransom me.
Jesus alone came as a light in the dark.
Jesus alone came to forgive and give life.
Jesus alone washed the sin from my heart.
~
Jesus alone washed the sin from my heart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jesus alone could save me, and when he was on that cross he truly was alone. Even his Father had to turn away as Jesus alone bore my sin. It’s only through the shed blood of Jesus Christ that I have access to heaven and have new life. Jesus alone can fill my heart and give me peace.

Luke 23:43-46 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise. And it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my Spirit; and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ. He is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Forgiveness ~ Ephesians 1:7

Forgiveness, precious gift of God.

Forgiveness, promised in his word.
Jesus paid the price, became the sacrifice,
when he laid down his life for me on Calvary.

©Deborah Bolack 2000
(instrumental)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

©Deborah Bolack
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Emerald Stanley
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Forgiveness, precious gift of God.
Forgiveness, promised in his word.
Jesus paid the price, became the sacrifice,
when he laid down his life for me on Calvary.
~
For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.
But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.
When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,
I found forgiveness and now have peace within.
~
Forgiveness, precious gift to me.
Forgiveness, God’s love pardoned me.
Jesus cleansed within, my heart so stained with sin,
when I reached out and took the gift he offered me.
~
For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.
But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.
When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,
I found forgiveness and now have peace within.
~
Forgiveness, precious gift to share.
Forgiveness, answer to my prayer.
Jesus gave to me, such joy, such victory,
when I learned to forgive as he forgiveth me.
~
For so long I’d spurned God’s grace; hiding from his face.
But in his mercy he opened up his arms and drew me in.
When I was lost, undone, with nowhere else to run,
I found forgiveness and now have peace within.
~
I found forgiveness and now have peace within.
~~~~~~~~

Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.

Luke 7:47a Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven;

Psalm 86:5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.

Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

God Didn't Have To

©Deborah Bolack 2004
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Emerald Stanley
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
God didn’t have to send down his Son.
He could have found another way,
than the shedding of Jesus precious blood .
I’m not worth the price he paid.

God doesn’t have to love me but he does.
He doesn’t have to care but he does.
He doesn’t have to be merciful, gracious, and kind.
But he is because God is good.
God didn’t have to give me new life.
He could have left me as I was,
just to fumble my way through life alone.
Going to Heaven was more than enough.

God doesn’t have to love me but he does.
He doesn’t have to care but he does.
He doesn’t have to be merciful, gracious, and kind.
But he is because God is good.
God didn’t have to save me at all.
He could have left me in my sin.
All I truly deserve is death and hell, not eternal life in him.
God doesn’t have to love me but he does.
He doesn’t have to care but he does.
He doesn’t have to be merciful, gracious, and kind.
But he is because God is good.

God is so good, God is so good.
He didn’t have to do anything for me.

I don’t think we can ever fully understand why God chose to redeem us the way that he did. Being God, he has the right and the power to do anything he chooses. He also didn’t have to send his Holy Spirit to dwell in my heart and help me through this life here on earth. He could have just left me to figure it all out on my own, then taken me to heaven when my time came. In fact God didn’t need to save me at all! He could have decided to just pick and choose those he wanted, rather than giving each of us a choice. When it comes right down to it, God didn’t have to save any of us! None of us deserve what he has done for us. He doesn’t have to love us, or care for us. He doesn’t have to show us kindness and mercy. He doesn’t have to intervene in our lives. But he does, because he knows what each of us need. Because God is love, and God is good! His mercy endureth forever.

Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Psalm 106:1 Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.

He Will Make A Way

© Deborah Bolack 2007
Pianist S. Carlson
Soloist S. Muckle (4 part harmony)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you standing on the banks of the Jordan,
wondering how you will ever make it through?
Just stop looking at the depth of the water.
Put your eyes on the one who walks with you.
~
Step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’ll lead the whole way through.
Just as he’s done for others, he'll make a way for you.

~
When the Israelites came to the river,
God said he would make a way.
But God didn’t part the waters until they took a step of faith.
~
Step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’ll lead the whole way through.
Just as he’s done for others, he'll make a way for you.
~
Just step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’s waiting there for you.
~
Many times before, you've come to your Jordan,
but you’ve chosen to go another way.
Now you’re walking down a path filled with heartache.
Jesus waits by the riverside today.
~
Step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’ll lead the whole way through.
Just as he’s done for others, he'll make a way for you.
~
When you came to the banks of this river,
God said he would make a way,
but God doesn't part the water until you take that step of faith.
~
Step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’ll lead the whole way through.
Just as he’s done for others, he'll make a way for you.
~
Just step out in faith and follow Jesus, he’s waiting there for you.
~
Step into the water, he’ll make a way for you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 In a message during a spring revival, Pastor Rick Drummond asked the question, “Why did they wait on the banks of the Jordan?” He was referring to the account in Joshua 3:1 where the children of Israel came to Jordan, and lodged there three days before passing over. I’m not sure why they waited three days, but Pastor Drummond made an interesting application with the story. He said that if you stand too long on the banks of what God wants you to do, you will never cross over because sin enters in. It’s not the size of the Jordan that’s important, it’s who you’re trusting. The Jordan will always be there, even if you close your eyes. God opened up the Red Sea, and he can get you over Jordan, but the water won’t part until you put your feet into the water. 

 The first time we plunge into that water is when we get saved. But as we make our way along this journey there are so many other times that Jesus calls us to the water's edge, and says, “Just take the first step and I’ll part the water for you.” But how many times does our pride or our fear keep us from stepping out in faith to do something that the Lord has put before us? How often do we just camp out for a while until we spot a trail going off in another direction, and convince ourselves that this is the way God really meant for us to go? Sometimes God has to bring us back to that riverbank many times before we are willing to surrender our will, and step out in faith and follow him.

 I'm constantly amazed at how many times I've written a song or a devotion, only to find out, months or even years down the road, that it was written for me. I had no idea when I wrote "He Will Make A Way," that three years later it would speak to me! I suddenly realized that I'd been pacing up and down that river bank, waiting for the Lord to show up in a boat, put a life jacket on me and paddle me across to the other side! But that's not the way it works, and I knew that. So, I finally took the plunge...I didn't put my toe in to check the temperature, I didn't look to see if there were any sharp rocks, and I left my stack of life jackets on the shore! Was it easy? No. Had I made the right decision? Yes! The water was wonderful!

For the rest of this story, you'll have to read my book!

Joshua 3:1, 13 And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over. And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of Jordan, that the waters of Jordan shall be cut off from the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand upon an heap.

2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

He's Strong When I Am Weak ~ 2 Corinthians 12:10

©Deborah Bolack 2005
Pianist/Arrangement S. Carlson
Soloist C. Towle
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

God gave his Holy Spirit the moment I was saved.
He touched my stony heart, and brought about a change.
And though I dwell in human flesh, my spirit has been renewed.
May I surrender all my will and members for his use.
~
My eyes can see more clearly the path that I should take.
My ears are tuned to hear his voice; my tongue sings out his praise.
My hands are moved to reach out and touch a heart in need.
I taste and see the Lord is good; he’s strong when I am weak.
~
God gives his strength to serve him when I seek out his face.
He feeds me with his word, and shows me daily grace.
And though I’m in this sin filled world, God’s Spirit restores my soul.
When I’m abiding in his will, I’m under God's control.
~
My eyes can see more clearly the path that I should take.
My ears are tuned to hear his voice; my tongue sings out his praise.
My hands are moved to reach out and touch a heart in need.
I taste and see the Lord is good; he’s strong when I am weak.
~
He's strong when I am weak.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This is another song that has no particular story behind it. In fact I don’t really recall writing it! I know that I did, because I found it in one of my many piles of partially written songs. The interesting thing is that this song was complete, except for the music. The only reason I know when I wrote the lyrics is that I have made it a habit to always date everything I write. What I do know about this song is that it contains a portion of one of my favorite verses: Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
The message of this song is a simple one, but one that I understand more every day. The moment I was saved the Holy Spirit came to dwell in me, and I became a new creature in Christ. Even so, I still live in my human flesh, in a world filled with sin. It’s only when I surrender my will to the Lord’s that he can use me. When I seek him through his word, and listen for his voice, I learn to depend on him rather than my own strength. That’s when he can take my human flesh; my hands, my eyes, and my tongue, and use them for his glory. And when I have no strength within myself, he shows me his grace is sufficient. That is when I taste and see that the Lord is good!

Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Psalm 138:3 In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.
2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
2 Corinthians 12:9a And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

By Mercy And Grace

 In a way, this song is a synopsis of many other songs that I’ve written, as a lot of the lines are actually taken from them. I wanted to write a song about this journey that began when I made a trip to the cross of Calvary, where Jesus saved my soul and set my feet on a new path.

 

©Deborah Bolack 2007

Pianist Susan. Carlson

Singers Brian & Deborah Bolack

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Along this journey I’ve come through some valleys,

and I’ve stood on some mountain peaks.

I’ve been led beside the still waters,

and lain down in pastures green,

Yet I’ve struggled up a rocky path,

'til I finally gave Jesus my load,

then been lifted up on eagles wings,

as the world disappeared down below.

~

But the trip I took to Calvary 

is where this journey began,

and though sometimes I lose my way,

Jesus always knows just where I am,

and by mercy and grace, I’ll finish my race,

knowing I’m safe in his hand.

~

I’ve had my share of the wilderness wanderings,

and I’ve camped by the river’s edge.

When I stepped out into the water,

Jesus took my hand and led.

Though I’ve stumbled through some fog and mist,

I’ve found shelter from many a storm.

And I’ve watched God roll the clouds away,

as the sun broke through in the morn.

~

But the trip I took to Calvary 

is where this journey began,

and though sometimes I lose my way,

Jesus always knows just where I am,

and by mercy and grace, I’ll finish my race,

knowing I’m safe in his hand.

~

Only by his mercy and grace I stand.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 This road from Calvary to Glory truly is an amazing journey, and many have travelled this path before me. Much like them, I’ve encountered the wilderness and I’ve come to some river crossings. Sometimes I seem to be trudging along a dusty trail and other times the Lord leads me beside still waters and through green pastures. Although the Lord has given me some mountain top experiences, they’re not a regular part of daily life. Most of my journey has been spent just walking down the road, trying to follow the direction the Lord is leading. Now and then I’ve stumbled when I’ve come to a steep hill or a rocky path, but when I reached out to Jesus I was able to keep on going, following the upward way that my Lord has set before me.

 Then there are the valleys. It seems that the Lord has to bring me through a valley before I can reach a mountain peak. Maybe it’s because coming through the valley makes me appreciate the mountain so much more. Those valleys come in many different forms; from wayward children to health problems, or financial struggles. Sometimes the circumstances that have taken me into the valley were out of my control, but often I end up there due to my own choices.

 The surprising thing about valleys is that God uses them to teach me, so they aren’t a completely negative experience. In fact I’ve come to realize that if I’m truly searching, I’ll find a river of living water in that valley.

 Some of the most memorable parts of the journey are the river crossings, such as the times when the Lord has brought us as a family to the water’s edge, and asked us to step out in faith and follow him. God parts the waters and more often than not we find ourselves on one of those mountain peaks, praising the Lord for his amazing grace and goodness. It’s only by mercy and grace that I can make my way along this journey, and one day finish my race. Amen!

Psalm 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Isaiah 25:4 For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against a wall.

Job 36:29 Also can any understand the spreading of the clouds, or the noise of his tabernacle?

Psalm 139:7,8b Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence….behold, thou art there.

John 10:29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

My Isaac

©Deborah Bolack 2007
Pianist Apryl (Penner) Jennings
Soloist Randy Penner
~~~~~~~~~

As he walked down the road to Moriah,

he knew what he must do.
Though he couldn’t understand how God would work his plan,
he went on, determined to follow through.
But this was his Isaac, his son;

his hope for the future, the promised one.
He had to trust the Lord, or his faith would surely falter,
as he placed his beloved child upon that altar.
~

Lord, I need your strength, to give my Isaac up;

to lay all at your feet, to learn to fully trust.

Lord, I want your will no matter what it takes.
~
As God’s word pierced through my stubborn heart,

I finally saw the truth
I had failed to trust his hand, as he worked out his plan,
and I’d feared how he might choose to move.
Yes, this is my Isaac, I know;

the one thing I’ve held back, so hard to let go.
If I don’t trust my Lord now, my faith will always falter,
so I kneel at my Saviour’s feet before this altar.
~
Lord, I need your strength to give my Isaac up;
to lay all at your feet; to learn to fully trust.
Lord, I want your will, no matter what it takes.
~
Lord, I surrender all to your mercy and your grace.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

During our church’s camp meeting, Brother Sam Gipp preached a message called, “What Is Isaac?” He talked about what must have gone through Abraham’s mind when God asked him to sacrifice his son, Isaac. He had to travel three days to reach Mount Moriah, and though we aren’t given any details, he had to have agonized about what he was about to do. He must have wondered why God would ask him to sacrifice the son he had promised him; his hope for the future. But there is no indication that Abraham ever questioned God or tried to bargain with him. The only way he could possibly have carried through with it was by putting his complete trust in the Lord.

Although God has not commanded the rest of us to literally sacrifice our children, he does ask that we trust him to work his will and his way in their lives. Whether we are surrendering a wayward child to God’s mercy and grace, or a child who is ill to the will of God, there is nothing that comes close to the struggle this brings in the heart of a parent. As a mom, I want to protect my child from harm. Whether that hurt comes from their own disobedience or from life circumstances, none of us can bear to see our child hurt, and if we’re completely honest, we don’t want to experience the hurt ourselves; the hurt of losing a child to death, the hurt of a child rejecting the Lord, or what it may take to bring them back. But trying to stand between our child and God’s plan for their life only serves to distance us and our child from the very help we so desperately need. When we take that step forward and say, “Okay Lord, I don’t understand what you’re doing, or why this is happening, but I know you love this child more than I do, and I trust you to do what’s best,” and you place that child at Jesus feet, he’ll take the burden you’ve been carrying, and give you a peace that you’ve never before experienced.

Genesis 22:1-13….get thee into the land of Moriah...And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood.

Believe Only

©Deborah Bolack 2007
Pianist Apryl (Penner) Jennings
Singers- Deborah Bolack & Chantalle Penner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I read of the ruler who sought Jesus help

for his daughter who lay dying,
and how someone had said,

“Thy daughter is dead, trouble not the master.”
How those words pierced my heart

as I thought about my own.
I broke down and wept, “My daughter is dead,”

and I begged for the Lord to save her.
~
Then Jesus said, “Fear not; believe only, believe.
Your daughter will be made whole. Believe only, believe.
~
I knew that this promise was spoken to me,

and I claimed it for my own.
Now the burden was lifted, my daughter would live;

God would save her soul.
I was fully persuaded, God was able to deliver.
I cried out again, “Oh Lord I’ll have faith,

and I’ll trust in your promise to save her.
~

Then Jesus said, “Fear not; believe only, believe.
Your daughter will be made whole. Believe only, believe.
~
Just as my Saviour promised, though many years passed,
my daughter now lives, and I give God all of the glory.
~
Yes, Jesus said, “Fear not; believe only, believe.”
My daughter has been made whole.

I believe, yes I believe!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This song is based on the testimony of my sister in law; not of her salvation, but of a promise she received from the Lord one day as she was reading Luke 8. When she came to verse 49, and read, “Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master,” she suddenly thought of her own daughter, who was alive, but dead spiritually. She broke down in tears as she begged God to save her daughter. Later, as she continued reading, the very next verse said, “Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.” She was sure that the Lord had given this promise to her personally. Some time after this, when she became discouraged that her daughter was not yet saved, God directed her to the scripture in Romans 4 “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was also able to perform”. About five years later, she saw God’s promise to her fulfilled, when her daughter asked the Lord to save her!
What an example of that mountain moving faith I had just written about two months earlier! How often do we read a promise in the scriptures and discount it, thinking that it was just for the person we are reading about. Perhaps if we took God at his word, and claimed those promises for ourselves, we would see a few more mountains moved! There is nothing impossible for our God. Believe only, believe!

Luke 8:41,42a,49,50 And, behold there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus’ feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay dying.

While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler’s house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the master. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.

Romans 4:20,21 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

Be Of Good Cheer

© Deborah Bolack 2007
Pianist Mrs. Susan Carlson
Singers- Deborah Bolack & Cindy Towle
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When you’ve come to the end of yourself and your way,
Jesus offers forgiveness, and salvation by grace.
When you give him your heart, and hold tight to his hand,
he’ll lead you on to higher ground.
~
Be of good cheer, you’re sins are forgiven.
Be of good cheer, the Saviour is near.
Be of good cheer; Jesus is leading.
Be of good cheer; there’s no need to fear.
Jesus tells us to be of good cheer.
~
When you’re tossed with the waves in the midst of the sea,
Jesus walks on the water, and says, “Come unto me.”
When your faith is too weak, and you sink to your knees,
he’ll lift you up and restore the peace.
~
Be of good cheer, you’re sins are forgiven.
Be of good cheer, the Saviour is near.
Be of good cheer; Jesus is leading.
Be of good cheer; there’s no need to fear.
Jesus tells us to be of good cheer.
~
When he comes with a shout, in victory we’ll cheer!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Be of good cheer! In every circumstance this is Jesus’ answer. When we finally realize we can’t make it on our own, and we turn to the Lord in repentance, Jesus says, “Be of good cheer! Your sins are forgiven!” When we have a task before us, Jesus is right there standing beside us, just as he was for Paul. Be of good cheer! When we aren’t sure what the future holds, and things are looking grim, we can believe God and trust his word. Be of good cheer! When we’re in the midst of a storm, Jesus is right there, telling us to not be afraid. Be of good cheer!

Matthew 9:2 And, behold, they brought a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins are forgiven thee.

Acts 23:11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

Acts 27:25 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

Matthew 14:27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

On September 2nd, a Sunday morning, our Pastor preached a message called, “Why Should You Be Of Good Cheer?” We looked at several passages that used the words ‘be of good cheer.’ With each point, Pastor gave a scripture and a reason why we should be of good cheer: because our sins are forgiven, because there is no need to fear, because Jesus knows the outcome, and because Jesus is always near. By the end of the message I had an outline for a chorus and an ending for a song. Not that I was trying to write a song during church! It was just there, and I knew that I would soon be filling in the verses.

Sail On, Luke 8:22-25

( wait for playbar to load)

©Deborah Bolack 2007
Arrangement & Piano Apryl (Penner) Jennings
Singers- Jordan, Chantalle & Apryl Penner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When the disciples had entered the ship,

Jesus said, “Let's go to the other side.”
But as they sailed he fell asleep, and a tempest began to rise.
In fear they called out for the Master.
He rebuked the raging storm, and restored the peace and calm,
as their ship safely sailed on.
~

Sail on, sail on, Jesus said you'll reach the shore beyond.
Sail on, sail on, you can trust the Saviour’s word, sail on.
~
When Jesus tells you to launch forth your ship,
and you set sail for some uncharted land,
The storms may rage, but have no fear,

for the winds obey his command.
You can find peace and rest in the Saviour.
When the journey seems so long, he will give your heart a song.
With the Lord, you can sail on.
~
Sail on, sail on, Jesus said you'll reach the shore beyond.
Sail on, sail on, you can trust the Saviour’s word, sail on.
~
If the storm you are facing has blocked out the Son,
rise above all those clouds and sail on.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 If the Lord has called you to something, don't look at the storm clouds brewing overhead or the rough waters in front of you...just step into the boat. Jesus is already there; he already knows what's ahead of you. In fact he may have even planned a few storms to bring across your path!

If you're already in the boat, and the storms have been raging around you for just a little longer than you think you can handle, and you feel like you're getting nowhere fast, don't jump ship! Jesus is in the boat; he's not in the water. Stay where you are safe! If you're thinking of giving up,and turning back, just trust Jesus, and he will steer you through the rough water. Remember, Jesus said,"Let us go over unto the other side of the lake." He never said how long the trip would take, and he never promised it would be smooth sailing, but if Jesus said you're going to the other side, you can trust his word!
Luke 8:22-25 Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. But as they sailed, he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, Master, we perish. Then he arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was calm. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.

*Story behind the song

Pastor Wilbert Unger was visiting from Lambeth, Ontario, when he preached a message called “Keep Sailing”. He said he had been going through the book of Luke in his home church, so that is where he preached from. As he went along, we looked at a few stories that I had recently written songs about. Even my son leaned over and said, “That’s your song!”
Then he came to the story in Luke 8 where Jesus and his disciples had gotten on a ship, and Jesus said, “Let us go over unto the other side of the lake.” It always amazes me that I can read a story over and over and miss something that a preacher can make seem so obvious! Pastor Unger pointed out that Jesus had told the disciples they were going to the other side of the lake, so when the storm came up, they should have trusted what he had said; they would make it. Sail on! He went on to say that when the water coming in is more real than God’s word, go back to his word, and sail on! He asked if we had ever been to the place where we felt we couldn’t go on? His answer: Jesus said, “We’re going to the other side.” Sail on!
By the time Pastor Unger had repeated “sail on!” three times, I knew I had a problem. You see, I had just put together a collection of songs that I hoped to record. The main theme of all the songs was faith; believing the Lord, and trusting him in every circumstance. I already had over twenty songs, and now I knew I had another one to try to fit in! After all, how could I NOT write a song called “Sail on!”

Hannah's Heart; 1 Samuel 1:1 –1 Samuel 2:21

What a difference it makes when we just put our trust in the Lord, and realize, as Hannah did, that There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God! It’s only then that God can pour out his blessings upon our lives!

Hannah's story is found here: 1 Samuel 1:1 –1 Samuel 2:21

©Deborah Bolack 2008
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Terry Neufeld
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hannah’s heart was grieved, as she prayed, and she wept sore.
Though in bitterness of soul, she trusted in the Lord.
Hannah’s heart poured out, as she asked God for a son,
Vowing she would give him back until his days were done.
Hannah’s heart was strong in faith,
for through her sorrow and her pain,
The Lord had taught her of his grace,
and how blessings come to those who trust and pray.
Hannah’s heart was calmed, and her face no longer sad.
She had lain her burden down, and left it in God’s hands.
Hannah’s heart rejoiced when God answered her request.
Soon the child, Samuel, unto the Lord was lent.
Hannah’s heart was strong in faith,
for through her sorrow and her pain,
The Lord had taught her of his grace,
and how blessings come to those who trust and pray.
Hannah’s heart had learned to trust and pray.

Hannah’s heart was broken. Though she longed to have a son, the Lord had shut up her womb. What made matters worse was the fact that Hannah’s husband had another wife who was able to bear children, and she took pleasure in Hannah’s heartbreak. It would have been easy for Hannah to become bitter and angry at God for allowing such circumstances, and for a while it does seem that Hannah is wallowing in self pity. But eventually, she realizes that her attitude is also hurting her husband. She remembers who it is that is in control of all things, and though she is still in bitterness of soul, she takes her petition to the Lord and pours it all out to him. After giving her burden to the Lord, her countenance is no longer sad.

What a difference it makes when we just put our trust in the Lord, and realize, as Hannah did, that There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God! It’s only then that God can pour out his blessings upon our lives!

Once again, I’m reminded that God’s plan, God’s way and God’s timing are always perfect. The Lord gave me three beautiful children through birth, then he shut up my womb. At the time, I accepted this as God’s will, but I had no idea what other plans he had for our family. How he has blessed us since then!

Jeremiah 17:7,8 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

How Could I Doubt? ~ Psalm 145:3-5

How could I doubt the Lord of glory, 

when all creation sings?

How could I doubt my precious redeemer, 

when my whole being is praising his name?

©Deborah Bolack 2002

Pianist Bethany Isaac

Soloist Emerald Stanley

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

From the opening bud of a fragrant rose 

to the face of my own sweet baby.

The stars in the heavens, the rising sun 

on a sparkling mountain stream.

As I ponder this awesome handiwork by the Lord of infinity,

I think of all he gave for man; how could I doubt God’s majesty?

~

How could I doubt the Lord of glory, when all creation sings?

How could I doubt my precious redeemer, 

when my whole being is praising his name?

~

From his heavenly throne, Christ came down to man,

as a servant, though he is King.

They beat him, and gave him a crown of thorns, 

then they nailed him to a tree.

As I ponder the depth of this sacrifice by the Lord on Calvary,

I’m humbled by all his wondrous grace;

how could I doubt God’s love for me?

~

How could I doubt the Lord of glory, 

when all creation sings?

How could I doubt my precious redeemer, 

when my whole being is praising his name?

~

I’ll never doubt my Lord and Saviour.

I’ll forever praise his name!

I'll forever praise his name!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

  These lyrics started out as a question to someone else, “How can you doubt God?” At the time, Daniel was a baby, and as I searched for words to describe God’s amazing creation, I couldn’t help but think of the face of my own sweet baby. I am truly in awe of the thought that God loved me so much that he sent Jesus down from the glories of heaven, to be born as a little baby and to grow as a man in order to be the sacrifice for my sin. How can anyone hear of the depth of that love and sacrifice, and still doubt God?

Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork.

1 John 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

Psalm 145:3-5 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour and majesty, and of thy wondrous works.

My God, My Strength, Psalm 18: 2,3

  I had been saved ten years when I took these words from scripture, and put them to music written by my daughter, Dana. That was the beginning of my writing songs for my Lord, and for his glory. Whenever I start to wonder why I keep writing songs and lyrics that may never be heard or sung by anyone outside my home, God reminds me that he hears them, and that’s all that really matters. They are, after all, written for him.

Your Stony Heart ~ Ezekial 36:26

Is there a corner of your heart that’s kept hidden from your view?
In the emptiness and the dark, is there a longing for what is true?
Perhaps in distant memory God’s love once touched your heart,
Before the pain of living turned it so cold and hard.

©Deborah Bolack 1999
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Emerald Stanley
~~~~~~~~~~
Is there a corner of your heart that’s kept hidden from your view?
In the emptiness and the dark, is there a longing for what is true?
Perhaps in distant memory God’s love once touched your heart,
Before the pain of living turned it so cold and hard.
~
There is a door to freedom, and Jesus holds the key.
From bonds that can’t be seen, he longs to set you free.
No one can break those shackles, but God and God alone.
He is the God of miracles, and he is still on the throne!
~
Do you hear Jesus? He’s calling; oh, don’t try to hush his voice!
He is loving you and he’s waiting for you to see he’s your only choice.
No matter what you’ve done; no matter where you’ve been,
God can change your stony heart if you’ll just let him in.
~
There is a door to freedom, and Jesus holds the key.
From bonds that can’t be seen, he longs to set you free.
No one can break those shackles, but God and God alone.
He is the God of miracles, and he is still on the throne!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Since my parents didn’t get saved until I was an adult, I didn’t attend church as a child, but it doesn’t matter where we live, or what our family circumstances are, there is no place that God’s love and forgiveness can’t find us. Even though I don’t remember hearing the gospel as a child, and God’s voice was but a whisper, I know that early on he was sending people across my path, and using situations to try to reach me. From a part in a country school concert to a pastor at a vacation Bible school, God was already at work in my life.

But my heart had grown cold and hard since those childhood days when I first heard of the love of Jesus, and I gave little thought to the things of God. But he hadn’t forgotten me. He was still there, waiting patiently for me to turn to him.

Later, when I finally began to hear his voice, he brought those times back to my remembrance. How thankful I am that my Lord never gave up on me. Through all the years of turmoil and confusion, his voice eventually broke through and became clear enough that it finally brought me to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come into him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

There's A Voice That's Calling

© Deborah Bolack
Pianist Bethany Isaac
Soloist Emerald Stanley
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There’s a voice that’s calling to a place of grace,
Bidding you enter, if you’ll trust now by faith.
Won’t you turn around from where you’ve been,
and let the Saviour lead you on in.
Oh, there’s a voice that’s calling, calling you in.
~

Listen to Jesus, he’s calling your name.
He’s awaiting your answer; don’t turn him away.
Listen to Jesus, and turn from your sin,
to the voice that’s calling, calling you in.
~
There’s a voice that called out from Calvary’s tree,
“Father, forgive them,” as he died to redeem.
Jesus shed his blood to ransom you.
The work is finished, the battle’s through.
Oh, there’s a voice that’s calling, calling to you.
~

Listen to Jesus, he’s calling your name.
He’s awaiting your answer; don’t turn him away.
Listen to Jesus, and turn from your sin,
to the voice that’s calling, calling you in.
~
There’s a voice that promised he would come again,
back down from heaven, to take up all the saints.
Now there’s just one thing for you to do.
Turn ‘round to Jesus, he’ll save you too.
Oh, there’s a voice that’s calling, calling to you.
~
Listen to Jesus, he’s calling your name.
He’s awaiting your answer; don’t turn him away.
Listen to Jesus, and turn from your sin,
to the voice that’s calling, calling you in.
~
Listen to Jesus, and turn from your sin,
to the voice that's calling, calling you in.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Until the day when Jesus finally calls us home, he will continue to call the lost to that place of grace, and he wants to use us to reach them. Just as he sent people into my life to give me the good news of forgiveness, he is also calling me to spread that message to those he brings across my path.

Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Luke 23:34a Then said Jesus, father forgive them; for they know not what they do.
John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Enter In, Psalm 100:4

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,

and into his courts with praise,

for he has poured us out a blessing.

He has saved us by his grace.

© Deborah Bolack 2004

Pianist Bethany Isaac

Soloist Emerald Stanley

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

God so loved the world that he gave 

his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him 

should have everlasting life.

Now there is no condemnation 

to all who will trust Jesus Christ.

He shed his blood to save us,

and in him we now have new life.

~

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,

and into his courts with praise,

for he has poured us out a blessing.

He has saved us by his grace.

~

Where two or three gather in his name,

our Lord's in the midst of them.

And we are called to worship and serve him,

'till Jesus calls us home.

He's given the words of life 

to take all around the world.

Bring good news to all nations.

His commission we must fulfill.

~

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,

and into his courts with praise,

for he has poured us out a blessing. 

He has saved us by his grace.

~

He has saved us by his grace.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name.

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: