A Poem by Any Other Name

Lazarus’ Prayer

2012-01-29T16:56:00.000-08:00

God’s love for you is certain

His love cannot be measured by time

Your prayers will be answered

His blessings will be made visible

In a package well-disguised

In God’s perfect time

by Susan Wachtel

January 28, 2012

Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”

When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.”

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.” John 11:1-7

You Shall Call Him Jesus

2011-12-21T10:29:00.000-08:00

Mary, a virgin conceived a Child

By the power of the Holy Spirit

Joseph a righteous and compassionate man

Decided to end their betrothal privately

Then an angel of the Lord appeared

Commanded Joseph to fear not

Take Mary as your wife

That which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit

She shall bring forth a Son, you shall call Him Jesus

For He shall save His people from their sins

In this, the Lord fulfilled the prophesy of old

Isaiah 7:14

A virgin shall conceive a child, and bear a Son

His name shall be called Immanuel, God with us

Then Joseph awaken

Did as the Lord commanded

He took Mary as his wife and did not know her

Until after the birth of her firstborn

The virgin born Son, conceived of the Holy Spirit

His name is Jesus for He shall save His people from their sin

by Susan Wachtel

December 21, 2011

18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. 20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”

22 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

24 Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. - Matthew 1:18-25

The God Margin

2011-12-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

It’s time to step out
Face impossible circumstance
Dare to be out numbered 450 to 1
Stand and see what the LORD will do
When the trumpet blows
Enemies will flee and victory is certain
In the God margin

by Susan Wachtel
December 11, 2011

So Gideon and the hundred men who were with him came to the outpost of the camp at the beginning of the middle watch, just as they had posted the watch; and they blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers that were in their hands. Then the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the pitchers—they held the torches in their left hands and the trumpets in their right hands for blowing—and they cried, “The sword of the LORD and of Gideon!” And every man stood in his place all around the camp; and the whole army ran and cried out and fled. When the three hundred blew the trumpets, the LORD set every man’s sword against his companion throughout the whole camp; and the army fled to Beth Acacia, toward Zererah, as far as the border of Abel Meholah, by Tabbath. –Judges 7:19-22

Daughter of the King

2011-12-03T23:14:00.001-08:00

My precious one
You are a daughter of the King
Too often you forget Whose you are

I bought and paid for you
With the precious blood of My Son
Adopted you as one of My own

When you go out into the world
Remember you are My ambassador
To a lost and dying world.

Go forth in My strength, not your own
Sow My peace where there is discord
Show My lavish grace and mercy to all, just as I did to you

When you feel overwhelmed
Remember you can do all things
Through Christ who strengthens you

I never meant for you to do this alone
That’s why I gave you a guarantee
The Holy Spirit of promise Who resides within you

Wash and nourish your soul each day
Through the reading of My word
Stay in constant communication with Me through prayer

Remember dear one
You are a daughter of the King of kings
A daughter of grace

Susan Wachtel
December 3, 2011

Dedicated to the sons and daughters of our heavenly Father who sometimes forget Whose they are.

What’s a devil to do?

2011-11-19T11:00:00.000-08:00

Their God calls them
To be a light on a hill, shinning in the darkness

Their Savior desires that all will know
They are Christians by their love

What’s a devil to do
To get the focus off of Christ?

Let’s use their natural sinful tendencies
Put the focus on themselves

Unforgiveness, you sow seeds of hurt
Bitterness, you come alongside and nurse a grudge

Before long anger and resentment
Will be able to slip in unnoticed

Gossip, your assignment is to loosen tongues
May the sparks of slander spread to all who have an ear to hear

Cause them to forget that their Savior died
And has forgiven the very one they won’t forgive

Their prayers will be rendered ineffective
When they are distracted by their feelings, instead of focused on God

My fellow demons, may the saint’s love for God
And for the brethren be rendered impotent

Sow the seeds of discord
That we may soon reap the fruit of division

by Susan Wachtel
November 19, 2011

For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder. – 1 Corinthians 12:20

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. – Colossians 3:12-14

At the Foot of the Cross

2011-11-12T20:13:00.000-08:00

It’s time to come
Lay your burdens down
At the foot of the cross

Repent
Receive forgiveness for your sins
At the foot of the cross

Be cleansed
By the precious blood of the Lamb
At the foot of the cross

Old man sin has gone
You’ve become a new creation in Christ
At the foot of the cross

Without Christ you can do nothing
With God all things are possible
At the foot of the cross

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 12, 2011

Michael…this is my prayer for you.

18 Inches

2011-10-12T07:16:00.000-07:00

He says he believes

Jesus Christ is Lord

Son of God, Son of man

Yet that belief hasn’t traveled

Or made its way

18 inches into his heart

There is no desire to know God more

No hunger read His word

Or commune with God through prayer

Obedience is lacking

Holiness is not increasing

The Holy Spirit doesn’t reside within

He continues on in his sin, just like before

No conscience to bother him

Or bring about repentance

He says believes Christ is Lord

His belief hasn’t yet traveled

18 inches into his heart

Susan Bunts Wachtel

October 12, 2011

But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? – James 2:18-20

The Gospel

2011-10-02T18:18:00.000-07:00

The Plan of the Gospel
The Grace of the Gospel
The Gift of the Gospel

The Faith of the Gospel
The Way of the Gospel
The Truth of the Gospel

The Repentance of the Gospel
The Wrath of the Gospel
The Payment of the Gospel

The Death of the Gospel
The Resurrection of the Gospel
The Satisfaction of the Gospel

The Peace of the Gospel
The Life of the Gospel
The Savior of the Gospel

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
October 1, 2011

The Word of God

2011-09-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

The Word of God
Creator of all things

The True Light
Rejected by His own

Receives children, born by the will of God
Those who receive and believe

The glorious Son of God
Christ Jesus full of grace and truth

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 18, 2011

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. – John 1:1-5

Little Do They Know

2011-07-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

My family laid my body to rest today
Little do they know
My soul will never find rest

I spent months fighting this wretched disease
On my death bed
Suffering day and night

They couldn’t take it any longer
Eventually they prayed
That I would suffer no more

They whispered in my ear
It’s okay, you can let go now
You are going to a better place

Little did they know
Where I would spend eternity
Now my soul will never find rest

I was never too religious
Thought that Jesus’ claim as being the only way to salvation
Absurd and narrow minded

Surely all roads lead to heaven, don’t they?
I was a good person, not perfect, but good in comparison to others
Don’t all my good works count for something?

Well, I was wrong, dead wrong
Not that it makes any difference
But I’m a believer now

If only I could send someone to warn them
Repent! Receive Christ for the forgiveness of your sins
Lest you suffer the same fate as me

Susan Bunts Wachtel
July 18, 2011

I had started this poem on July 16, 2010, but finished it a year later.

How many times have you heard people say when a loved one has died, “Well at least they are not suffering anymore.” While those words are meant to bring comfort, as Christians we know the truth that when an unbeliever dies their suffering has just begun and will last for eternity.

May we be unapologetic and bold in sharing the Gospel message so that our family, friends, co-workers and even strangers may have the assurance that their sins have been forgiven and that they will be in heaven for eternity, not suffering in hell.

Gifted Hands

2011-06-30T06:01:00.001-07:00

Called
Gifted
Hands used by God
An instrument of His healing

Equipped
Learned
A faithful steward
Of talents and abilities entrusted by Lord

Wisdom
Experience
Hands that bring healing
Skillfully guided by the Great Physician

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
June 4, 2011

This poem is dedicated to Dr. Tina Lin who will be performing my back surgery this morning and to Jesus Christ my Great Physician and Healer.

Thank you to the many people who have been praying. The Lord has been so merciful and good in answer your prayers. I have the peace of God that passes all understanding.

Words of a Gossip

2011-06-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Words of a gossip
Go down with ease
Taste sweet to the hearer delighted to partake

Pride
Arrogance
Judgment abounds

Two or three gathered together
Words said in a whisper
Lest anyone else should overhear

Ugly heart
Ill intentions
Calculated and designed to raise themselves up

Beware to the one who listens
Soon you will be the topic of conversation
Your name will be bandied about in a whisper

Instead step away
Shut your mouth
Lock your ears

Know there is One who overhears it all
He knows the thoughts and intentions
Of our sinful, wicked hearts

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
June 3, 2010

Oh how I hate gossip and know its destructive force. If find it amazing that people are so easily lured in to the conversation of a gossip. Do they really think that the person with whom they are conversing won’t do the same thing to them at an opportune time? If someone was gossiping about a loved one…how would they feel? Angry, upset over the injustice and judgmental attitude from the ignorant, wicked heart? There is nothing good about gossip!

12 Who is the man who desires life,
         And loves many days, that he may see good?
13 Keep your tongue from evil,
         And your lips from speaking deceit.
14 Depart from evil and do good;
         Seek peace and pursue it.
Psalm 34: 12-14

16 These six things the LORD hates,
      Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
       17 A proud look,
      A lying tongue,
      Hands that shed innocent blood,
       18 A heart that devises wicked plans,
      Feet that are swift in running to evil,
       19 A false witness who speaks lies,
      And one who sows discord among brethren.
Proverbs 6:16-19

And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. – James 3:6-9

The Bible

2011-05-29T17:03:00.000-07:00

Perfect
Complete
Infallible

Truth
Trustworthy
The Standard

Authoritative
Sufficient
Effect

God breathed
Inspired
Word of God

Susan Bunts Wachtel
May 28, 2011

Our Sinful Heart

2011-05-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

Our sinful heart

Willful unbending spirit

We refuse the offer of forgiveness

Found in Christ Jesus alone

Instead we worship gods of our own making

Drink water made from our own wells

We would rather thirst again

Then receive the living water from the Savior

Susan Bunts Wachtel

May 7, 2011

Justice Not Mercy

2011-02-16T19:02:00.000-08:00

There are crimes so horrific
My heart cries out for justice, not mercy

There are people so evil
The fires of hell don’t seem hot enough

There are hearts are so hardened and calloused
Eternity in hell doesn’t seem long enough

If Abel’s blood cried out to God
How much more so the blood of innocent babies slaughtered in the womb

Lord, I plead for justice
Both here and now and for eternity

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
February 12, 2011

The LORD said, “What have you done? Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground. – Genesis 4:10

After listening to Focus on the Family’s broadcast on 2/11/11, “The Value of Standing for Life”, I wanted to read the grand jury indictment for myself. Focus shared facts from the case in Pennsylvania in which an abortion doctor had been charged with murder. Babies from late term pregnancies were aborted, yet born alive, and they were then killed by severing their spinal cord.

Shows like “The Value of Standing for Life” are difficult to hear. Reading the grand jury transcript was graphic and horrific. My mind could not begin to grasp how one doctor and his associates could commit such evil acts at a Pennsylvania abortion clinic over a period of many years.

Our liberal society twists the taking of an innocent human life and calls it “a choice”.

That’s why I was amazed to read that this doctor had actually been charged with multiple counts of murder of aborted babies who were killed outside the womb.

I am so grateful for the grand jury and their dedication to wading through the facts of this case and having wherewithal to bring criminal charges against the doctor and his associates. I’m grateful that law enforcement and the legal system were able to shut down this abortion clinic.

I pray that police and the legal system will be able to shut down more clinics. I pray that this doctor and his staff will be judged by a jury of their peers and if found guilty be sentenced as severely as the law allows.

I know as a Christian I should be concerned for this man’s soul and pray for his salvation. After reading about the crimes he committed, the best I can do is committing him to the Lord’s will. God alone is holy, righteous and just. He alone can bring true justice both here and now and in eternity.

While I’m grateful for law enforcement and the court system in our nation, the true victory in abortion will only come by changing the hearts and mind of men and women through salvation in Christ Jesus.

Chris’ Prayer

2011-02-07T20:35:00.000-08:00

Oh Lord, You have burdened my heart for the lost
My heart breaks at the thought
Of their eternal separation from Your presence

Sin has a tight and powerful grip
Apart from you gracious work of salvation in us
Our eternal destination is sealed

I pray for stony hearts to be turned to flesh
For You to open their eyes so they will see their own sin
Cause them to cry out to You in repentance

A love so great that it moved You
To send Your own Son to die in our stead
A love so powerful sin loses its grip and we are set free

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
February 6, 2011

Dedicated to those who continue to pray for the lost, family, friends, associates, our nation’s leaders and even our enemies.

Lavish Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T07:46:00.000-08:00

O Lord
For abundant blessings
I give You thanks and praise

For the comfort of Your Presence
The gift of Your Son
Your Holy Spirit within

For the Bible where truth resides
The gifts of prayer and praise
Freedom to worship with Your saints

For the gift of salvation
Amazing grace which You lavished on me
Through Jesus Christ my Lord

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 19, 2010

I am grateful for so many things this Thanksgiving Day 2010. First and foremost I am thankful for my God and Savior Jesus Christ, the gift of salvation and God’s grace lavished on me through His marvelous incomprehensible plan. I’m grateful that God has sealed me with the Holy Spirit of promise.

I am grateful to live in a country where I am able to exercise my freedom to read the Bible, worship with the saints, share the Gospel message and pray.

I’m thankful to God for His provisions to my husband Chris and me…for family and friends, good health, a home, jobs, our beloved pets and so much more.

This year it seems more imperative that I give thanks to God for His abundant blessings. I’m mindful that it’s not because I deserve anything. Rather than focusing on the gifts, may I focus on the Giver. While everything else may fade away or be taken…my relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ can never be taken. I am firmly held in the grasp of His hand.

What about you? What are you giving thanks for this Thanksgiving Day and to Whom?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cutting Pain

2010-11-17T22:52:00.000-08:00

Each day she put on the mask of a smile
To hide the pain she bears

But if you look deeper
Her dark eyes reflect a bruised soul

Her pain is well disguised
Hope has all but disappeared

As she picks up the razor blade she reasons
Perhaps an outward cut will relieve the inner pain

Somehow a visible scar generates more compassion
Than the emotional wounds within

With each cut her inward pain is given a voice
If only someone will listen to her cry

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 17, 2010

Dedicated to those who are hurting, whose cries for help have gone unheeded.

He heals the brokenhearted
And binds up their wounds.

Psalm 147:3

Slave

2010-11-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

I am a slave of Christ
Once on the slave market of sin

I was ransomed
By my Master’s own blood

Formerly held captive by sin
I’ve been set free to obedience

Chosen and purchased by the Master
I am not my own

He is the Sovereign Lord
My will conformed to His

I am a slave of Christ
Doulos now considered His friend

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 6, 2010

One

2010-10-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

Though near or far
Present or absent
We are one
Knitted together in the body of Christ

United in our worship of God
Hungering to know Him through His word
Desirous to love Him more
Eager to obey Him quickly and completely

Susan Bunts Wachtel
October 7, 2010

Gossip

2010-09-24T23:12:00.001-07:00

The words of a gossip should never be trusted
Today they are tearing someone else down
Tomorrow in front of a different audience
You will be the topic of conversation

Words spoken in a whisper
Are seldom shared face to face
The person held in judgment
Is never there to offer a defense

In the heart of the one listening
There is a nudge
A twinge of their conscience
The knowledge that gossiping is wrong

However any objection
Or the courage to speak up is stilled
As the listening audience
Is invited to join in the sin

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 16, 2010

Dead Man Walking

2010-09-23T22:12:00.001-07:00

He speaks of living according to his own free will
Yet he is walking in conformity to this world

Controlled by sin, deceived by satan
A son of disobedience

He lives according to the lust of his flesh
Follows every sinful desire of his wicked heart

This child of wrath
Is dead in his trespasses and sin

Thought he thinks he’s alive
He’s a dead man walking

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 23, 2010

And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. – Ephesians 2:1-3

Follow Me

2010-09-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

It’s not always an easy choice
When I hear God’s command
“Follow Me”

Further instructions are given only after I obey
No itinerary is laid out except the next step
“Follow Me”

The past bids me to stay
Attachments cause me to waver when I hear
“Follow Me”

Will I trust the One who calls
Or will I put others before God’s bid
“Follow Me”

Obedience is the key
Walking in His will the reward when He calls
“Follow Me”

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 20, 2010

Dedicated to those who have heard God’s call to “Follow Me”.

Thy Word

2010-09-02T23:15:00.000-07:00

Thy Word
Brings peace to my restless heart
Comfort to my hurting soul
Joy in the midst of sorrow
Lifts my head when I am downcast
Fosters courage when I am fearful
Strengthens me when I am weak
Instills confidence when I feel uncertain
Dispenses mercy when I deserve judgment
Gives grace to help me endure
Builds my faith when I am tempted to doubt
Brought life when I was dead in my sins
Is truth in a world filled with lies

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 2, 2010

Watered Down Gospel

2010-08-27T22:11:00.001-07:00

It’s a watered down gospel
Fit for the consumer

Methodology replaces theology
Polls determine what message is preached

Truth is couched in entertainment
To make it more palatable

The offense of the cross
Has strategically been removed

No mention of sin
Nor the need for repentance

Biblical faith is abandoned
In exchange for having ears tickled

Emotions are stirred
But lives are not transformed

Large numbers the reflection of God’s blessing
Popularity the measure of success

Focused on the breadth of ministry
They have forsaken the depth

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 26, 2010

Of No Consequence

2010-08-27T22:02:00.001-07:00

Irrelevant
Inconsequential
Of no eternal value

Distraction
Dissipation
Entertained by nothing that matters

Insignificant
Trivial
Time wasted on the unimportant

Squandered
Misused
On that which is of no consequence

Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 25, 2010

It’s so easy to waste time and pay attention on that which holds no value. How important it is for us to be mindful that one day we will give an account for every thought, word and deed. Am I approaching each day with eternal vision…or walking by sight focused only on today?

Rise Up?

2010-08-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

Will God’s chosen people
Once again rise up and stand strong
Defend themselves against their foe

Will they blow out the match
Which is poised and ready to light the fuse
On a weapon certain to bring great destruction

Will they turn a deaf ear
To criticism from a nation
Once considered a friend

Will they believe their enemy
Take them at their word
That if they have their way…Israel is doomed

A mad man does as he pleases
And the world just stands by and watches
What will it take for them to rise up and stand

Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 18, 2010

"I will make you into a great nation
and I will bless you;
I will make your name great,
and you will be a blessing.

I will bless those who bless you,
and whoever curses you I will curse;
and all peoples on earth
will be blessed through you."

Genesis 12:2-4

Under the Radar

2010-08-13T20:33:00.001-07:00

Disobedience here
O rebellious and fallen one

I have a deliciously bad report
About the saints who are the apple of our Enemy’s eye

While they will never join us in hell
We are able to render them powerless to an unbelieving world

They stand in their pews and sing loudly
About the wonder working power of the blood of the Lamb

They pray that God will forgive their trespasses
As they forgive those who trespass against them

All the while they hold on to unforgiveness in their heart
I especially relish their unforgiveness towards another saint

They read their scriptures
Assured that God remembers their sins no more

Yet they have a tally sheet of the sins committed against them
Their memories are like a steal trap

Their Father in heaven has put their sins
As far as the east is from the west

But they hold offenses close to their heart
Ponder them daily to justify their disobedience

My favorite is the saint who thinks they have forgiven
Yet refuses to fellowship with one whom they will spend eternity with

God tells His saints
That the world will know they are Christians by their love

God reminds them if they love Him
They will obey His commandments

Yet somehow the sin of unforgiveness
Slips under the radar

The command to forgive
Is easily pushed aside as they nurse an old wound

As such…unforgiveness is a marvelous tool
To render the saints witness ineffective

Well I’m off now…back to work
As I seek to steal their joy and peace

Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 11, 2010

Making Merry with the Devil

2010-08-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Deception reporting for duty
Greetings most vile and evil one

I have a grand report of success
As I strive to blind men to the realities of hell

I start with their natural sinful tendency
Encourage them to focus on self

Soon they forget about God and that one day
They will give an account to Him

I direct their thoughts
“Eat, drink and be merry”

Blind them to the warning
“For tomorrow you will die”

Before long the devil is innocuous
Someone to be laughed at and make merry with

Nothing but a comical character
Wearing red tights and carrying a pitch fork

The inescapable realities of judgment fade away
Hell is now seen as place of eternal partying with friends

They will never know until it’s too late
The painful, eternal reality of hell

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 9, 2010

At a Distance

2010-08-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

If feel a distance
A wall
Only silence

I know from Your word
You will never leave
Nor forsake me

Why then
Oh why
Can’t I feel Your presence

Is there sin in my life
Un-confessed
Without repentance

Have I failed to obey You
Put other gods before You
Do I have a haughty spirit

I feel as if I’m in a fog
Somewhere beyond the misty clouds
You are there

Like the sun
Piercing through a fog bank
I long to feel Your presence

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
August 4, 2010

Do you ever go through times…where you just don’t feel God’s presence?

That’s what I’ve been feeling for a little over a week and I’m not sure why? I know with absolute confidence that God is with me. He has promised to never leave nor forsake me. To quote the Psalmist, “If I make my bed in hell, Thou art there.”

While I wait to feel God’s presence once again, I examine myself…to see if there is anything in my thoughts, attitude or actions that are sinful and displeasing to the Lord. Something that has caused a break in fellowship. At times like this…I so long for and desire His presence. He is my life and my joy.

Under the Overpass

2010-07-17T10:45:00.001-07:00

I am the nameless and faceless one
Whose eyes you seek to avoid
I make my home under the overpass

My very presence
Makes you feel uncomfortable
You don’t know how to respond to my plight

You’re not sure if I’m reaping the consequences
Of years of bad or sinful choices
Or if I’ve fallen victim during these tough times

Uncertain if you should give me a buck
Buy me a cup of coffee on that cold winter morn
Or if it’s all a scam from someone too lazy to work

When you see me fear runs through you
For I’m a reminder just how close you may be
To living under the overpass just like me

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
July 16, 2010

Sword of the Spirit

2010-07-17T10:24:00.001-07:00

She’s been equipped by God

With an effective and powerful offensive weapon

The sword of the Spirit…the word of God

Daily she takes out her sword

Polishes it, sharpens it

Then returns it to its sheath

She’s filled her heart and mind

With God’s word

So that she might not sin against Him

But in the heat of the battle

She fails to draw her weapon

The enemy has nothing to fear from an un-wielded sword

One day when she takes God at His word

When she believes and therefore speaks

That foe will retreat and by God’s power she will stand

By Susan Bunts Wachtel

July 16, 2010

Too often, as Christians, we are quick to memorize scripture…adding verse after verse to our memory banks. But until such time as we actually wield that mighty powerful sword of the Spirit…we will experience defeat. When we memorize scripture but fail to use it, it’s like us taking out the sword, polishing it until it looks bright and shiny, sharpening the blade only to return it to the sheath. When will we begin to take God at His word and wield the effective, powerful offensive weapon He’s given us? What will it take?

In Passing

2010-07-08T22:53:00.000-07:00

When you hear the news that I have passed from this life
Please do not grieve as those without hope
For I am truly home

My faith has given way to sight
That which was dim, I can now see clearly
What was once my hope, is now reality

Absent from the body, I’m now present with the Lord
From my Savior’s lips I heard the words I longed for
Well done good and faithful servant

I have now entered in to the joy of my Master
Where I am there is no more sin, sickness, sorrow or death
I’m forever more in the presence of Christ Jesus my Lord

Susan Bunts Wachtel
July 8, 2010

Death

2010-07-02T23:39:00.000-07:00

The inescapable reality of death surrounds me
When tempted to ponder why bad things happen to good people
I am reminded…all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God

Genesis 3:6...sin entered the world
Along with it…death
The track record is impressive…100%

Am I ready to I stand before God
Have my sins been covered by the blood of the Lamb
Have my sins been removed as far as the east is from the west

Or will I choose to given an account for my sins
Plead my case
Though I’m not perfect, surely I’m not as bad as some

Does God have a perfect standard or does he grade on the curve
Will He look on my outside appearance
Or will He examine the inward thoughts and intention of my heart

While I’ve never committed murder or adultery
In my heart I’ve hated my brother and lusted after another’s spouse
In me lies no good thing

I have put others before You Lord
Raised up idols disguised as wants and needs
Cursed You or casually tossed around Your name

Oh Lord, I am undone
At the thought of standing before the Holy & Righteous One
My lips will plead, “Guilty”

But in Christ I have an Advocate
My Defender will stand beside me
He will plead my case

“Father, she’s been redeemed
My blood was shed on Calvary for her
Her sins are covered and she’s been set free

My sin debt has been marked “Paid in Full”
The Father now sees me clothed in the righteousness of Christ
He will remember my sins no more

Susan Bunts Wachtel
July 2, 2010

May I Pray

2010-06-24T23:42:00.001-07:00

May I pray with boldness for that which seems impossible
May I pray knowing that You are able

May I pray and dare to take the risk that You’ll say yes
May I pray and not worry about Your reputation if You say no

May I pray with courage about the truth that sets us free
May I pray with compassion for those who are lost and in darkness

May I pray with eyes focused on You, not my circumstances
May I pray in confidence as I speak forth Your word

May I pray for that which is more than I can ask or imagine
May I pray with assurance that You hear me in the heavenly places

Susan Bunts Wachtel
June 24, 2010

Dedicated to Karla…a woman with a heart for the Lord.

Apostasy

2010-06-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

The Bible

Plus other scriptures

Other authorities

That contradict the word of God

Truth has been exchanged

Myths are believed

Outrageous lies

From the very pit of hell

Christ is not preeminent

Praise, worship and adoration

Prayer and petitions

Offered to another instead of the one true God

The sting of death

The permanence of hell

Has been removed

By offering an alternative

Anathema, you are considered damned

Excommunicated

If you dare to question

If you dare to expose man made doctrines

Christ is made subservient

He is there to answer our every wish

He is not our Lord and Savior

His will is conformed to ours

We desire salvation

The promise of heaven

Without giving an account

A reckoning to Christ

Susan Bunts Wachtel

November 5, 2009

A Little Bit of God

2010-06-19T00:47:00.000-07:00

Each day she wants just a little bit of God
Enough to make her feel good
And help her through the day

As she rushes out the door
She whispers,
“Bless me I pray”

She loves to hear a feel good message
From a smiling preacher
Encouraging her to have her best life now

Her Bible sits safely on the shelf
Untouched by human hands
Her heart untouched by God’s word

She faces each day
In her own wisdom and strength
Then wonders why she has no victory over sin

Susan Bunts Wachtel
December 31, 2009

As a writer, sometimes I go through prolific seasons only to be followed by a dry spell. During the busy seasons I write things…but don’t have the time to finish. Stumbled across this poem I wrote at the end of last year.

Celebrating What God Has Begun

2010-06-07T00:11:00.001-07:00

I celebrate the love you have found
Honor the marriage you will build
Support through prayer the hard work God has just begun

I pray that Christ will be the center of your marriage
May you seek His wisdom and strength
As you walk on the path He has set before you

May your marriage mirror God’s perfect design
A wife who honors and respects her husband as unto the Lord
A husband who loves his wife as Christ so loved the church

May you be unwavering in your commitment
Fervent in prayer and guard your hearts
Delight each day in the wonderful gift God has given

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
June 4, 2010

For Alyssa & Daniel

The Me Centered Gospel

2010-06-07T00:10:00.000-07:00

Messages from the Bible
Simplified
To make me feel better

Smorgasbord preaching
Topical
About what God is doing for me

Inoffensive preaching…making all
Comfortable
The sting of conviction has been removed

The Sword of the Spirit rendered
Powerless
Replaced with trite clever phrases of men

Good works expected…motives
Unexamined
No heart check required

The Gospel message
Lacking
There is no mention of sin

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
June 6, 2010

The Judgment Seat of Christ

2010-06-02T20:14:00.000-07:00

Whether you believe in the pre-trib, mid-trib, post trib-rapture

No matter if you favor a pre-millennial or amillennial reign of Christ

One thing is certain

The ungodly will be judged

Those who have died in their sins

Will be resurrected for judgment

They will stand before Him who is

Holy, Righteous and Just

Until that day, those who died without Christ

Those who declared their innocence

Rejected the free offer of forgiveness through the blood of the Lamb

Are bound in Hades...waiting to present their case

Before heaven and earth pass away

The sea will give up it’s dead

Graves will be emptied and the eternal souls of the ungodly

Will be summoned to stand before God for their final sentence

God the Father has given all authority

To Jesus Christ His Son

The ungodly have chosen to be judged according to their deeds

By the One who is Holy, Righteous and Just

God who is omniscient

Has kept a detailed, perfect, comprehensive record

He has flawlessly recorded every thought, every word and every deed

Omniscience has recorded it all

Mans works vs. God’s perfect standard

Be ye perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect

Be ye holy; for I am holy

God declares, “All your works are as filthy rags!”

God will bring to light that which is hidden in the darkness

He will expose the motives of men’s hearts

By their own words they will be condemned

The Charge: All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God

Rather than plead guilty and receive a pardon through Jesus Christ

The One to whom they must give an account

Those who plead innocent

Have chosen to face a tribunal before God

Each punishment will be unique

Torment will come from a conscience that cannot be silenced

The Sentence…GUILTY

The Punishment…eternal suffering in the Lake of Fire

By Susan Bunts Wachtel

June 2, 2010

It seems as if my prayer list for salvation has grown exponentially. Knowing the reality and the permanent eternal consequences of rejecting the offer of forgiveness through Jesus Christ…I am compelled to pray.

This poem was inspired by our Kindred’s Berean Bible Study on Sunday morning and John MacArthur’s sermon on Revelation 20:11-15.

The Forgotten God

2010-05-30T23:18:00.000-07:00

He is the Forgotten God

Oft thought of as “It”, rather than He

In today’s church He bears little resemblance

To the Holy Spirit’s work in New Testament believers

Do our lives reflect the work of the Holy Spirit

Or do we desire to experience more

He is the promised Counselor and Comforter

Our bodies are His temple and He resides within

The Holy Spirit has been unleashed

He is available to all believers

He empowers us with supernatural gifts for the brethren

Through Him we can put sin to death in us

Our lives can be radically different

Won't you yield to the Holy Spirit’s active work within?

by Susan Bunts Wachtel

May 21, 2010

This poem was inspired by Francis Chan’s new book “The Forgotten God”.

Sight Walking Faith

2010-05-19T20:06:00.001-07:00

Oh the error
Of sight walking faith

Instead of believing the Lover of my soul
I believe the one who seeks to steal, kill and destroy

I surrender certain victory in Christ
For continuous daily defeat

I swap the strength of the Lord
For my weakness

I exchange the truth of God
For a lie

I trade the peace of God that passes all understanding
For worry, anxiety and stress

I substitute praying to God in faith
With meditating on my problems

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
May 18, 2010

The Power of Praise

2010-05-14T10:28:00.001-07:00

It’s through praise and worship
I’m ushered into Your presence Lord Jesus

When I glorify Your holy Name
Life comes into perspective

As Your power and strength are manifest
My problems and concerns diminish

The One who is mighty to save
Is able to deliver me from all my afflictions

The cares of this world fade away
As I behold Your glory

It’s through the power of praise and worship my soul is strengthened
My heart and mind are stayed on Thee

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
May 11, 2010

Seeds of Discontent

2010-05-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

Each program intended to build up and edify
Instead sows seeds of discontentment
Bringing a bountiful harvest of discouragement

Discussions on what a perfect marriage and family should be
Serve as a reminder
That reality often differs from the ideal

Examples on how to be a better husband and wife
Instead highlight imperfections
In the spouse that God has given us

Perhaps the better route is to read the manual given by our Creator
Let God guide and direct us through His word
Speak to our hearts through prayer

We’ll likely find God requires us
To remove the beam from our own eye
Before removing the speck from our spouse’s eye

Marriage a tool in the hand of God
Used to buff out our sin nature
Make us more like Christ

God cares more about our holiness than our happiness
But we can achieve both
When we yield to the hands of the Master

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
May 11, 2010

Do you ever listen to Christian radio programs about marriage and family only to find yourself discouraged because your life is not quite the ideal that they are portraying? Sometimes I’ll be listening to a list of things that my husband should be doing, according to the resident expert, and realize that Chris is not living up their checklist. According to their list…I’m falling far short of what it is to be an ideal wife.

I have no doubt…that we are both a work in progress. That God is in the process of forming and shaping us and using our spouse as a tool. Sometimes it’s a painful process.

Perhaps it’s time for me to fast from a few of the marriage and family programs. Instead, pick up God’s word to see what He requires of us. Take up the challenge to pray for my husband, instead of comparing him to someone else’s checklist. Ask God how I might encourage Chris in his quest to be the man and the husband that God wants him to be. Read what God requires of me as a wife and seek God’s help to walk according to His plan.

Cry Out to God

2010-05-01T09:17:00.000-07:00

In your deepest valley
During your darkest night
When facing the fiercest storm
Cry out to God

During your busy day
In the midst trying circumstances
When faced with overwhelming demands
Cry out to God

While standing on the mountaintop
When all seems right with the world
When your heart overflows with joy
Cry out to God

He comforts us in our deepest sorrow
He meets us in our pressing need
Shares in our heartfelt joy
Cry out to God and let Him meet you there

Susan Bunts Wachtel
April 27, 2010

Missing You

2010-03-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

The silence is piercing
It bears witness that you are no longer here

The bed that once held you stands empty
The blanket that comforted you, brings comfort no more

Everywhere I look
There are memories of you

The house seems a little too quiet
Our home a little too empty

My heart is a little bit broken
My smile seems a little bit sad

Everywhere I look
There are reminders that I’m missing you

by Susan Bunts Wachtel
March 27, 2010

Enough?

2010-03-12T22:23:00.001-08:00

Reeling from the sting of rejection
I cry out to the Lord
He answered me
Is My love not enough for you?

In whose eyes do you see yourself
Is it in the eyes of sinful man
Who will falter and fail
Or is it in the steadfast love of the Lord

You are accepted in the Beloved
Redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb
I will NEVER leave, nor forsake you
My love will never fail you

Is My love enough for you?

God's Will

2010-02-28T20:23:00.000-08:00

Oh how the enemy robs me
When I fail to yield to God’s will

When I want what I want…in my timing
Unwilling to wait upon the Lord

When I plan my ways according to my will
But the Lord directs my steps elsewhere

Then anxiety fills my heart and mind
The peace of God evades me

When I try to manipulate circumstances
Unwilling to admit they are far beyond my control

When I stand in judgment of people
Who just don’t cooperate and mess up my plans

Then frustration and anger reigns
Consumes my every thought

When I don’t trust that God is good
Unless He answers my prayers in the manner I deem best

When my prayers are orders
Instead of a humble petition to omnipotent God

Then I raise myself up
In place of God

Oh Lord, give me the mind of Christ
Help me to die to self daily, pick up my cross and follow You

Put me in the refiner’s fire
Consume any wicked way that remains in me

Help me to wait upon You Lord
With confident assurance all Your ways are good

Susan Bunts Wachtel
February 26, 2010

Recently I was reminded of a time in my life…when I wasn’t yielded to God’s will. Some of that struggle went on after I became a Christian. Praise God…He keeps on whittling away at my sinfulness and conforming me into the image and likeness of Christ. It’s an ongoing work this side of heaven.

Overriding Love

2010-02-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

It was the day
God’s love overrode His righteous wrath
Against sinful man

Where He offered me a sinner
Mercy, grace and forgiveness
Called this enemy, His friend

But God’s wrath towards sinful man
Was poured out in full
Against the only begotten Son of God

The innocent Lamb of God
Put on my sin
So that the wrath of God would be satisfied

The Word of God
Fulfilled Scripture that day
Submitting Himself to the Father’s plan

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
February 23, 2010

San Juan Memories

2010-02-16T17:05:00.001-08:00

I nearly choke back tears at the thought

Your feet may have strode upon the blue cobblestone bricks

That my feet tread upon today

Did you sit under a starry midnight sky

With a warm gentle breeze blowing

The sound of waves breaking on a nearby beach

Did you enjoy Sunday afternoon in the park

Teaching your two little brown eyed boys

To fly a kite high in the sunlit sky

Did your eyes gaze upon the azure blue sea

Watch the waves break

Taste the salty spray in the air

Can it really be nearly 50 years ago

A young wife became a mother

Made San Juan, Puerto Rico her home

by Susan Bunts Wachtel

February 16, 2010

Dedicated to my mother Gayle Merriam Johnson Bunts Lorenat

Hair Dryer Revelations

2010-02-04T22:55:00.001-08:00

As I started my day I was overwhelmed
Feeling defeated by the mountain of responsibility that stood before me
Downcast at the prospect of walking through a dark valley
While drying my hair…God met me in my weakness

God assured me that He did not bring me to this mountain
So that I would be overwhelmed by my inability
But so He might come alongside me
Walk with me and strengthen me so that I can overcome by His power

God did not bring me to the valley
That I might be overwhelmed with despair
But that He would meet me there
Walk with me and bring me through the valley in His presence

Oh Lord, may I hold fast to You and remember
You are well able to handle all that concerns me today
May I find encouragement when facing a mountain or valley
Know with certainty that You are with me and will bring me through

Susan Bunts Wachtel
February 3, 2010

Chosen

2010-01-25T21:29:00.001-08:00

When I suffer trouble or hardship
May I recognize I have been chosen by God
Not picked on

May I be willing to suffer affliction
As a tool and an instrument
In the hands of the Master

Confident that God will use all difficulties
To help build a solid faith on the firm foundation of Christ
Not a faith founded on the shifting sands of circumstances

Knowing that He has entrusted me with troubles
So that my heart might be made tender
To the hurting souls around me

So those who lack outward beauty
Won’t be invisible to me,
May I be focused more on them, less on me

May the reproach of this world
Hold little sway or weight
Compared to the approval of God

May I take that which troubles me
Thoughts and attitudes that tempt me to sin
Lay them down at the cross

May I let go of my false beliefs and misperceptions
Tainted by this world of sin
Instead saturate my heart and mind with God’s word

My I recognize my unbelief is not harmless
But a sin against God
Calling into question His motives and character

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
January 14, 2010

Sometimes I find myself tempted to ask “Why me God?” when I encounter seasons of prolonged difficulties. But I must say that God is so good and faithful to use difficult circumstances, trials, temptation and pain to prepare me to reach out to others. He is so faithful to redeem my dark days by allowing me to come alongside people and encourage them or testify to the faithfulness of the Lord.

An Inconvenient Life

2010-01-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

The abortion industry thrives on despair
Prospers on lies and deception
But the truth is
It’s a baby, not just a fetus
A child, not tissue

A mother’s womb
So perfectly designed by God
To nourish and protect
Nascent human life
Has become a chamber of death

They say it’s just tissue and won’t feel a thing
But he is already fully formed, all organs in place
With arms and legs, hands and feet
And a beating human heart
Knit so perfectly together by God in the hidden place

This wee little one…does he feel anxiety
As adrenalin courses through his mother’s body
He’s resting, protected within his mother’s womb
Until a probe enters in
And pokes him in the side

He has no knowledge of what it is
He only knows it hurts
His arms and legs flail
He tries in vain to move away
But there will be no escape

In a matter of seconds
A beating heart is stilled
His body is mangled and torn apart
As it silently slips away through the hose
His life and death invisible to all but God

The mother who was to give birth
Sentenced her child to death
The one who pledged to protect human life
Now extinguishes life for profit
Parents who desire to have a babe in their arms must wait a little longer

An inconvenience, a consequence
Soon to be swept away by a “simple procedure”
But this child will never be forgotten
Reminders surround his mother…even haunt her
It’s everywhere…the smile of a child or a date on the calendar

But there is healing and forgiveness to be found
Confession
Repentance
Salvation through Christ Jesus the Redeemer
Adoption by the Lover of her soul

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
January 21, 2009

This poem was inspired by Abby Johnson, former Planned Parenthood director, turned Pro Life when confronted with the undeniable truth…it’s a baby growing within a womb. To hear her story log on to Focus on the Family and listen to the shows from January 21 and 22, 2010.

The Gift of Discouragement

2010-01-18T20:51:00.001-08:00

Oh lowest and most evil one
I have a delicious, delectable bad report
Of inroads made into the hearts and minds the enemy’s saints

God gives the gift of, dare I say, encouragement
But I’ve been able to successfully supplant it
With the gift of discouragement

Aided by pride and feelings of self righteousness
The unsuspecting saint didn’t have a clue
Of the exchange made while sitting in the church pew

The overflow of their heart
Spewed forth criticism and condemnation
Aimed squarely at a fellow believer

Unaware of the opportunity God presented
To pray for, encourage, and build up one another
I was able to come alongside and whisper in their ear

Out of their mouth came words I effectively used
To tear down, discourage and cause division
With one they call brother in Christ

As they sat in church
Feelings of superiority took hold
While they focused on the faults and failures of another

All the while
I was able to distract the one who was hurt
With hurt feelings, anger and un-forgiveness

The real victory was won
When I distracted both from hearing the pastor’s message
The Word of God was falling on deaf ears and distracted minds

I predict continued success
So long as they fail to take every thought captive
Or resist offering forgiveness for an offense

I dare say we may take even more of the enemy’s ground
If we can light a fire and watch it spread throughout the congregation
Fueled by pride and self-righteousness

Susan Bunts Wachtel
January 18, 2010

Another

2010-01-15T21:43:00.000-08:00

Another store front went dark today
Another business locked their doors
Another owner won’t be collecting rent for their property

Today, countless employees joined the ranks of the unemployed
More people were given bad news
You’re dismissed, turn in your keys and go home

An application for unemployment
Worry sets in
How long will it be?

Another resume submitted
The waiting begins
Finally a call comes in and an interview is scheduled

Another offer…with wages so low it won’t even pay the rent
Another email, “I’m sorry but…we’ve selected another candidate.”
Another day goes by...no news and nothing on the horizon

I’m sorry, you are overqualified
We can’t pay you what you’re worth
If we hire you, surely you won’t stay

There’s a knock at the door
It’s the superintendent coming to collect rent
Shhhhh...be quiet…maybe he’ll go away

Please just give me a chance
I’m desperate to put food on the table and pay the rent
I have a wife and children at home…I don’t want them to go hungry another day

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
January 14, 2010

This poem is dedicated to the many people on my prayer list who have lost their job and to Jesus Christ…the One who is faithful and true. May His mercy and grace abound as He brings you through this difficult season.

A Beacon on a Hill

2010-01-04T20:31:00.000-08:00

Their little church

Became a beacon on a hill

A shinning light

Bidding all who want to follow Jesus

Come…follow Him

From humble beginnings

A group of people

Who loved God’s word

Studied the scriptures diligently

That they might accurately divide the word of Truth

Though their shepherd was struck

They kept their eyes on Christ

Called out to God

That He might bring another pastor

Faithful to preach the full counsel of God’s word

In His perfect timing

God brought His servant

A man ready to preach

In season and out of season

Teaching sound doctrine to equip the saints

God continues to bring them

From far and wide

Those who are unwilling to have their ears tickled

But would rather be reproved, corrected and instructed

So they might be thoroughly equipped for every good work

God is growing His church daily

Knitting each one perfectly into the body of Christ

The saints are not ashamed of the Gospel

For they know personally, it is the power of salvation

For all who believe

By Susan Bunts Wachtel

January 4, 2010

The Bridegroom

2009-12-30T19:39:00.001-08:00

Just as the bride waits and longs for
The Bridegroom’s soon return
So my soul longs for You oh Lord

Surely, You’ll return any day now
You’ve been gone nearly 2,000 years
Preparing a place for me

With each passing day, I long to be in Your presence
Not to escape the un-pleasantries of life
But to behold You in Your glory

Thank You for all You’ve given me this side of heaven
For entrusting me to care for Your people and creation
But this place is not my home

My prayers for salvation for those who don’t know You
Grow more intense with each passing day
That they might be spared the pain and judgment to come

Oh Lord, when You come to take me to home
May I be found faithful to the end
Looking up…waiting for Your soon return

Susan Bunts Wachtel
December 30, 2009

Broken and Contrite Heart

2009-12-23T21:32:00.000-08:00

Oh God
May I come to You
Not with a prideful, haughty spirit
But a broken and contrite heart

Humbled
Knowing that Jesus’ blood was shed
Not only for my sin
But all who will receive Him

When I see those engaged in sin
May I not condemn them
But be broken over that which breaks Your heart
May I be moved to pray fervently and unceasingly

For the unbeliever
Who has no knowledge of God
May I be ready to share
Salvation is found in no other name than Christ Jesus

For those who say they believe
But their lives are no different from unbelievers
May I point them back to Your word
You alone are able to judge their thoughts and intentions

When I see Christ followers, following at a distance
May I encourage them to partake in the joy and peace
That comes from abiding and remaining in Christ
To receive His strength and not be conformed to this world

May I be mindful it is by grace alone, through faith alone,
I stand forgiven at the cross
It is through the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit within me
That I can abide, remain and am sanctified daily

Susan Bunts Wachtel
December 23, 2009

The Hard Thing

2009-12-10T10:10:00.000-08:00

It’s harder to forgive
Than to hold on to a hurt

It’s harder to pray
Than to whine and complain

It’s harder to bring everything by prayer and petition to God
Than to go to a friend and gossip or lament

It’s harder to give thanks in difficult circumstances or in pain
Than it is to grumble and complain

It’s harder to restrain my mouth and just plain shut up
Than it is to freely speak my mind

It’s not just harder
It’s impossible to take back a word spoken in anger

It’s harder to be disciplined and make time to study God’s word
Than it is to waste time on worthless things

It’s harder to make time for family and friends
Than to let my time be driven by pressing but inconsequential things

It’s harder to take every thought captive
Than it is to let my imagination and thoughts go wild

It’s hard to do what is right before God
When I’m feeding my mind and heart with the things of this world

Oh Lord, may I choose to do the hard thing
Not by might, but by Your Spirit

May I remember when I am weak
Then I am strong in Christ

By Susan Bunts Wachtel
December 2, 2009

Thanksgiving….Much Better Than I Deserve

2009-11-25T18:20:00.001-08:00

I would be remiss
If I failed to bow my head and give thanks
For the many blessing
From my heavenly Father above

First and foremost
Salvation found in Christ Jesus alone
For His sacrificial atoning death on the cross
So that my sins, which are many, are forgiven in full

For the Holy Spirit
Who dwells within me
For His comfort and conviction
Daily sanctifying and cleansing me

The Bible
The very Word of God
Solid truth in a world filled with lies and deception
A light unto my path in a very dark world

The Father’s plan of redemption
Put in place before the foundations of the earth were laid
My loving Father is looking and waiting, arms open wide
For this prodigal to come to her senses and return home

I am included in the body of Christ
Called to a church named Kindred
Surrounded by those who faithfully serve
Motivated out of love and obedience to Christ the Risen Lord

For a country founded with a purpose
A place where we might be free
A foundation built on principals
Inalienable rights granted by our Creator

Abundant blessings flow
From the Father’s hand
I can truly say
I’m doing much better than I deserve

My husband Chris
The one for whom I prayed many years
He loves the Lord with all his heart
By God’s grace he just happens to love me too

A home we call our own
With much more than I can ask or imagine
A fireplace to sit by on a cool autumn evening
A backyard, my retreat to enjoy God’s creation

Family and friends make each day richer
Filled with grace, mercy and love
They share in the laughter and joy of the moment
Then come alongside to help lift the burden of a heavy load

Work…a means by which God provides
A place to use the skills, talents and abilities
Gainful employment means much more these days
When so many are still seeking a job

This is just a start
Of the many things for which I give thanks
You can truly see
I am blessed far beyond that which I deserve

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 25, 2009

God Colored Glasses

2009-11-17T20:23:00.001-08:00

Daily I put on
God colored glasses
My heart fully open and surrendered to Him

Conscious of God’s presence
In all areas of my life
God is the filter through which every experience passes

In good times
When blessings flow from God’s hand
I offer praise, adoration and thanks

When tempted by sin
I confess, repent and pray
Equip myself with the full armor of God

In the presence of evil
I pray righteousness will triumph
Where inequity presently reigns that it will be crushed

When God is dishonored
Where His name has been besmirched
I am grieved and pray that He will vindicate Himself

When people are in distress
I come before my Father and pray
God be honored and glorified through their deliverance

In all things, through all things
May I set the Lord ever before me
See everything through my God colored glasses

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 17, 2009

Burdened

2009-11-16T20:34:00.000-08:00

Today I awoke downcast
As though I was grieving
Profoundly sad
For no explainable reason

Then my path crossed
With those who bear a heavy burden
Whose tear stained face
Bears the marks of grief, pain and fear

Those who lost a loved one
A life cut down at such a young age
Family and friends who had no time to grasp the enormity
Before they stood at their loved one’s grave

Or the one who received a bad report
Without warning, in an instant
Life had changed
Each day recognized as a gift, not a guarantee

Then there is the one who suddenly
Finds themselves unemployed
In stiff competition with untold others
Praying that someone will just give them a chance

God did you burden my soul
Give me a small picture of their pain
That I might be compelled
To plead for them before Your throne

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 16, 2009

Love Letter

2009-11-10T19:35:00.001-08:00

We both wept as you read
A love letter
Written from your heart

Recalling God’s providence
His miraculous work
In bringing us together

How He overcame obstacles
Combined our broken pieces into one
Smashed the word “impossible”

God has perfectly balanced our differences
Out of the ash heap of our weaknesses
He brought forth strength

He continues His work today
Turning us from blinding fear and unbelief
To unwavering faith and knowing that He is able

God has enabled you
To look beyond the surface
Love from the depths of your heart

Beloved, may I always remember
That you are God’s gift to me
From our heavenly Father above

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 9, 2009

Dedicated to Chris Wachtel…my beloved husband.

Humbled

2009-11-09T22:46:00.000-08:00

He humbles me in every direction I turn
As I behold
The marvels of His creation anew

A sunset so brilliant and bold
No painter could begin to imagine
The colors, intensity and hues

Our Creator paints
A breathtaking evening sky
So that we might enjoy and proclaim His Excellencies

He creates with perfection
The humming bird that hovers above
A vision of beauty and delicate precision

Creation bears the mark of His perfect hand
But nothing in creation can compare
To humans created in God’s own image

Susan Bunts Wachtel
November 9, 2009

This poem is dedicated to Jun who inspired it by his reaction to an amazing sunset that captured our Creators marvelous work. Indeed Jun…God does humble me in every direction I turn. May you reflect on Him as you travel on the difficult road ahead…mindful that He is always with you.

Sinners & Saints

2009-10-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

Today I found myself
Overwhelmed with sorrow
As I witnessed sin and rebellion
Active and alive in both sinners and saints

I was grieved over the one called Christian
Who powerfully wields their tongue
Only to criticize and condemn
In pride, crushes the reputation of others

I wondered do I pray
For the salvation
Of the one who proclaims belief in Christ
But is walking with one foot in the world

What do I say
To the brother or sister
Engaging in filthy language and course jesting
In whom there’s little difference from an unbeliever

Oh Lord,
May my heart be burdened
For their salvation and Christian walk
May I be faithful in prayer for both sinners and saints

Susan Bunts Wachtel
October 19, 2009

Recently God has burdened my heart to pray for other believers. I’ve tried to very specific. That their words, the overflow of the heart, would be good and pleasing to God. That their words would be used to encourage and build up others in the faith. That their lips would praise and glorify God. That they would be humble before God, burdened for the lost and faithful in prayer. That their Christian walk would be blameless.

That’s why I experienced profound sadness when I found that those prayers have not been answered yet.

But tonight I experienced some peace when studying Beth Moore’s “Jesus The One & Only”. In tonight’s lesson she explained that some believers choose to sit by the word of God, rather than sit under the authority of the word of God.

That insight helped me to understand…that while what I’m praying for people is in God’s will…it’s not something that He will force upon them. Instead He desires that we willingly choose to obey Him.

When I love God and choose to walk in a manner that is good and pleasing to Him that is more desirable than having God force me to be good.

Though momentarily discouraged…I’m reminded that I need to continue to be faithful in praying for we are engaged in a spiritual battle…and I don’t want my fellow saints to fall prey to the enemy.

"Tude"

2009-10-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

I had a “tude” today
I could have given you a laundry list of everything that’s wrong
Lament about things that aren’t fair
Drone on about things that are just not right

I know that there is a fine line
Between a heart that is hurting, sadden and grieved
And spirit of grumbling and complaining against God
I crossed that line today

But my God was patient and gentle with me
I know that instead of whining and complaining
Against circumstances, people and God
That I should go before God with my cares and concerns

Today, He went before me
Offered grace and mercy when I deserved none
He heard my cry of pain
Thinly disguised as complaining

He worked out the circumstances of a busy day
Smoothed out the path before me
Allowed me to accomplish all that needed to done
Showed me that my fear was for naught

He led me to the healing balm of praise and worship
Through hymns, songs and spiritual songs
Reminded me of His sovereignty in all things
Assured me that He is working all these things for good

While I may not know His purpose
In allowing things that are wrong, not fair and just not right
He does have a purpose and a plan
None of it escapes His notice

At God’s appointed time
He will provide deliverance
Work through my circumstance
And bring much more than I could ask or imagine

Susan Bunts Wachtel
October 3, 2009

Yester day my attitude stinketh. I meditated on everything that wasn’t fair or right. I mulled over the things that are wrong in my life.

But I was amazed at how gently God dealt with me. I know that just like the Israelites grumbling and complaining as they walked through the desert was wrong and an offence to God…so too is my grumbling and complaining.

In the midst of my bad attitude day…God led me to put in a worship CD from Kristen and Keith Getty called “Awaken the Dawn”. Was a wonderful way to be reminded about the sovereignty of God! Of His tender loving care even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

In thinking about the sin of grumbling and complaining…I see that it is simply a manifestation of doubt and unbelief. It’s doubting God…doubting that He is who He says He is. Displaying a lack of confidence that He can do what He says He can do. It’s my failure to trust His goodness and character. It’s focusing on me. It’s wanting things my way, in my timing. It’s having no regard for God’s plan, purpose and timing.

Grumbling and complaining is doing the easy thing. It’s not disciplining my heart and mind to go to God in prayer and lift up what concerns me.

When I grumble and complain…there is no room for thanksgiving or prayer for others. Just as the Israelites complained about the manna that God provided…my bad attitude and grumbling was really a complaint against what God has seen fit to provide me.

When I grumble and complain, I fail to recognize that God is doing a greater work to conform me to the image and likeness of Christ.

Complaining make my heart hard and resistant to the hands of the skillful, knowledgeable Potter who seeks to form this pot as He sees fit. The hardness of my heart against my circumstances and God makes the work that God is doing in me, more painful than it needs to be.

Thank You Lord Jesus for Your mercy to me.

Eyes on Jesus

2009-09-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of myself
I have hope that does not fade

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of being overcome with fear
I stand firm in faith

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of my circumstances
I have a peace which passes all understanding

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of focusing on my enemies
I believe that He will deliver me

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead my weaknesses and limitations
I pray with confidence that He will do the impossible

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of remembering my sin
I have the assurance of God’s forgiveness

When I have my eyes on Jesus
Instead of the here and now
I have the promise of heaven that will never pass away

Susan Bunts Wachtel
September 23, 2009

Remnants of Sin

2009-09-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

The remnants of sin

In a life before Christ

Leaves ugly black marks

On the fragile human soul

A life spent in rebellion against God

Entangled by sin

Experienced momentary pleasures

Never thinking about the long lasting, devastating consequences of sin

Be it the woman who bought the lie

Gave herself freely

To any Tom, Dick and Harry

Now has trouble bonding to the one she’s committed her life to

Or to the man

Who experienced sensual pleasures

With numerous women who meant nothing at the time

Now memories of their faces invade his mind when he’s with his wife

Maybe it’s the woman

Who found herself pregnant by a man she did not love

Now each year a depression creeps over her

At the anniversary when that tiny life within was extinguished

Perhaps it’s a craving

For drugs or alcohol

Oh if only there was something to numb that pain

So deep inside that just won’t go away

Oh how effectively the enemy uses the past

We desire to counsel our children of the price they will pay

But he throws the past in our face

He shouts hypocrite, liar, sinner!!!

We waver in the temptation

To just shut up

After all…how do you tell your child

Do as I say, not as I did

Then the Holy Spirit reminds you

For your sins Christ died

That black stain of sin

Has been washed white as snow

As Christ’s blood flowed down Calvary’s cross

When He shouted, “It is finished!”

Your sin debt was paid in full

Nothing more must be done…only believe

That’s when the soul healing begins

With each accusation of the enemy

God reminds that you are a new creation in Christ

Sanctified, set apart, made righteous by the precious blood of the Lamb

By Susan Bunts Wachtel

September 22, 2009

This poem is dedicated to a dear friend…who now and again can’t seem to escape from the effects of sin and poor choices from earlier in their life.

I find myself getting so mad at the enemy. Not only does Satan deceive us…and lead us to follow him and rebel against God and His word…but then he turns around and accuses us after we’ve repented and are walking with the Lord.

If we knew back then how the choice to sin would impact our lives until the day we die...we would likely make different choice.

But praise God for the salvation that He offers through Jesus Christ and His attaining death on the cross. Have you received Christ’s forgiveness for your sins?