Giving Up

I struggle with my religion. I struggle with right and wrong. I struggle to see clearly when every broadcast, ad, politician and teacher is trying to pull the wool over my eyes. I become confused sometimes and loose my way. Below is a conversation I had with God put to verse. I call it. . .

Giving Up

I have a closeness to you Lord but not in every way.
There are things that I withhold, that plague me still today.
I don’t know why my heart strains itself to keep
the sin and darkness that runs within so deep.
I don’t really want them but they seem to define
the person that I really am; my soul, my mind.
When you call I look up and see everything I need.
From the holes in your hands every blessing bleeds . . .

In My presence is freedom from sin.
In My presence is the strength to win.
In My presence you can be yourself.
In My presence you will find true wealth.
In My presence is Love and light.
In My presence you will win the fight.

But Lord! Weakness marks the man that I am.
Lack of vision and will, do what no sin can.
I have not because I ask not, I should blame no other.
Yet I criticize, condemn and hate my brother.

In My presence is the fire to cleanse.
Only My blood can make amends.
So give up those things that hurt you so
They belong to me now, you should know.
Our covenant is clearly written.
For your sake I was smitten.
All of your burdens belong to Me.
I love you enough to set you free.
So give up, give up, give up I say,
those things that bind you everyday.
The life I planned for you is glorious,
so take this crown and live victorious!

Change I must and change I shall
But change O’Lord, please show me how!
How do I loose my inner grip,
and from hearts fingers let weakness slip?
How my Lord and what should I do,
when I really don’t know how to follow you?

I left a trail in the sand for you to follow;
a spot of blood in every hollow.
Within my footfalls
my passion calls
and every step will show you.
How to wear my cloak, put on my yoke and spread our Father’s virtue

I give up!
I believe!
I beseech and I receive.
It’s just that easy now I see
Because your blood has set me free
Though I break and though I fall
And though I’m capable of nothing at all
Your grace is perfect and complete
My only job is to be like you, and walk on wounded feet.

Copyright 2007, Russell Johnson, All rights reserved.