Crystal Grant

Faith and Fiction

It's still Him

This is a trying time for all the God-fearing Christians all over the world. The vast majority are more interested in entertainment, tolerance and self-indulgence than making sure they're living right before God. Maybe this is why standards and beliefs have become molded by the world's influence. They want the best of both worlds: assurance of God's love and a place in Heaven; and lifestyle without restrictions. Many are even looking into, believing, claiming that there is another way into Heaven, another way into God's graces. "Just be a good person," they say. "God is a God of love." "We shouldn't judge." But the fact is, God hasn't changed, and His plan still stands; it doesn't matter if we want to believe it or not. He made a way of salvation through His Son Jesus. He's given us a guide in the Holy Spirit. He's provided us direction through His word, the Bible. End of story.

Too many people or claiming to be Christians, but yet they don't believe in God's plan or His word. They believe they'll go to Heaven, but they've never confessed that Jesus is Lord. Oh, if only they would realize that God's plan os salvation is the only way to Heaven! No one can work their way there, or use their charm or abilities to talk their way inside. It's either all or nothing. You believe Jesus died for our sins, that we are sinners and confess those sins before God, then strive to live according to His Word. Or you have nothing.

With all this in mind, I had a song that sort of came together in my mind one day. Now, I don't claim to be a songwriter. My dad has that gift in the family! But I was thrilled with how the words came together and the meaning behind those words. I hope it touches your heart as well.

It's Him

Verse #1

I've done a lot of good in this world, helped a lot of sweet boys and girls.

Made a big difference I know, touched a lot of sad, hurting souls.

Then I heard an old preacher say, it won't be enough on that day.

Tell me, how could this be, that He won't accept me? That...

Chorus

It's not anything I've done, but it's God's only Son.

It's not knowledge I've known, just the mercy He's shown.

Not my voice or my face, just that amazing grace.

It's not money or fame, but it's calling His name.

Not a song that I sing, but the King of all Kings.

It's not anything I am, it's the blood of the Lamb.

It's not  words, it's not works, it's Him.

Verse #2

But I've done so much in my life, eased a lot of heartache and strife.

Stepped in to help a neighbor or two. How can you say that won't do?

That I can't work my way there, that's it's more than deeds or prayers?

Cause He's done met the cost, paid the price on the cross. That...

Chorus

Verse #3

They say that God is all love, there's no need for the blood.

It's enough to do what we can to help our fellow man.

But if it's true what they said, then there's no reason He bled.

There's only one way inside, it's to believe that He died. I know...

Chorus

Bridge

I've been where you are now, believing that somehow

What you've done is enough, but it still takes the blood. Hear me...

Chorus #2

It's not anything you've done, but it's God's only Son.

It's not knowledge you've known, just the mercy He's shown.

Not your voice or your face, just that amazing grace.

It's not money or fame, but it's calling His name.

Not a song that you sing, but the King of all Kings.

No matter what the world claims, it's still the blood of the Lamb.

It's not words, it's not works, It's not power, it's not strenth,

It's not you, it's not me. It's Him. Just Him. It's still Him.

 

The Way of the Master

 In this day and age, it's refreshing to see someone who has had his share of fame using his life for God. That is what Kirk Cameron is doing. If you watched any TV in the eighties, you were sure to see this young, good-looking kid from a show called Growing Pains. He is now working with a program called The Way of the Master. He, along with minister and author, Ray Comfort, air this program weekly on the Family Network. They also have a website with advice on how to witness to others among other things. I really like what they are doing, so I am including a link to their website for anyone interested in seeing it. I also encourage you to watch their show, The Way of the Master, on the Family Network. They work through sometime complicated subjects with wisdom, caring, and even humor.

To find out more about their program, go to their website, www.thewayofthemaster.com . You are sure to be blessed to see this talented actor dedicating his life to the work of God.

Prayer Requests and Testimonies

   I love to hear from people, and I feel humbled and honored when someone confides in me. If you have a need you would like me to join in prayer for you, feel free to send it to me. Or maybe you have a testimony you want to share. There is nothing like hearing of someone else's victory to boost my own faith. Share your thoughts on this month's reflection. I always appreciate feedback.

   If you have a prayer request or testimony, my email is available and open. I do my best to respond to every message. Even more important, God hears every prayer and He has an answer, even if we don't always understand it. The Bible says that And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28) What a blessed promise!

cgrant@centurytel.net