Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Don’t stay in your head too long…

When I graduated high school, I had visions of being a serious writer. And by “serious”, I mean not kidding around. You know…serious. No jokes. Anyone who knows me now (and didn’t know me then) would probably never guess that about me. Now, I love to kid around, tell jokes, and look at the sunny side of life. Because since those “serious” days I’ve discovered it’s not a good idea to stay in your head too long. Let me explain…

Your own mind can turn on you without a strong moral compass. I write from experience. Mine has betrayed me more times than I care to mention. While that makes me human, it also embarrasses me. I don’t like to admit how I’ve done others wrong or how I’ve even done myself wrong. I’d rather only show you my good side. The side of me that loves to laugh, help others, and find the light to shine into the dark. But…

That wouldn’t show you why you shouldn’t stay in your head too long.

And if sharing some of my mistakes helps you to avoid making some of the same ones, then that’s an obligation I have to my fellow man. (that’s not leaving out women, by the way)

So, I’m gonna use some poetry to illustrate how diving deep in your head can sometimes go a darker way. Keep in mind, I wrote this when I was about 19 or 20. I was just finding my way around writing poems and lyrics. As I read this poem just a little while ago, I realized how I don’t much like it. It doesn’t dance to my rhythm. Or skip to my beat. It’s just too darn dark. And that’s because I was going against my own self. I was being “serious”. It was important to me to write deep…to pontificate. I recommend you avoid my mistake. Write in the light. Cheer yourself up and those around you, too. Where’s the beauty in darkness? What do you think?

The Mistress of My Fate

I live in my mind’s own cluttered mess…
An ember in a fire that’s almost out…
Waiting and wondering if life will clear up…
And swimming the wide sea of doubt.
I hate this rat-race of people’s mouths
Telling me the very thoughts I should think.
They’re placing my feet on every step,
And my patience is now on the blink.

Where are you now when I need you?
Have you let their ideas stampede you?
I need your hand, your kind words, your shoulder.
I need you now as I will when we’re older.
Don’t carry my heart on a plate.
‘Cause you’re the mistress of my fate.

The dreams, that I dream, recur many times.
That’s a world that can be erased,
But the world that I wake up to startles me…
So many woes to be faced.

(Yes, I think this room will do.
Haven’t got the rent for you.
But wait till next week…
Then my billfold will speak.)

Where are you Sunday? I need you.
Did the rest of the weekdays stampede you?
I need a rest day; you seem like the best day,
But you just last a day, then you’re gone…
Just like a newly-mown lawn.
Tell me that you’re here,
Or I’ll dive into a tear.
I’ll swim away
Maybe to Monday.
Yes, that will be great.
Monday will be the mistress of my fate.

© 1973-2017 Tony Funderburk

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

How’s this for a lingerie ad?

Right off the bat you might be thinking, “Tony, have you gone off the deep end? Why would you share a lingerie ad on your website that’s supposed to help Christians beat the world?” I’m glad you asked. First, let me say it’s not to make money. I’m not selling anything. And I’m not trying to trick you into anything. I’d just like you to watch this ad…

I don’t believe that Thai company intentionally made a pro life commercial. However, it’s a thoroughly pro life message. You’re not likely to find a lingerie ad in America with this kind of message. In fact, you’re not likely to find much more than pretty women walking or lying around in their undies. Certainly you won’t see a husband and wife struggling with giving birth due to a battle with cancer. That just wouldn’t be sexy.

This video proves a lingerie ad doesn’t have to be about sex to be effective.

Wouldn’t it be great if all ads could magnify life? Not just objectify it. And like this ad from Thailand, they wouldn’t have to intentionally be what you might consider “pro life”. In other words, I’m not saying all ads should always have a “pro life” message. But what’s wrong with thinking life is the most important thing we have? What’s wrong with showing how your products, services, and information improve the quality of LIFE?

I believe this video shows that being pro LIFE touches hearts, changes minds, and connects us to our Creator.

Stay tuned,

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Get on your cross-trainers and start…

The The Power of God's Love Podcast with Tony Funderburk - Episode 165

Click or tap on these links to the topics I talk about in this week’s podcast…

This podcast episode brings those topics together for those of you who’d rather listen than read. Thanks for tuning in. Use one or more of the links I’ve provided to share with anyone and everyone you know. Oh yeah, when you get a minute, please leave me a review on iTunes. Here’s the easy link. And don’t forget to get your free music and book if you haven’t already. Look over there in the sidebar .

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Doubt and Faith are mutually exclusive, but…

Even if you’re a Christian, I’ll bet you’ve experienced doubt and faith at the same time. It’s OK to admit it because it’s part of your human flaws. Yes, I said it…you have flaws. Everybody does. And those flaws can let doubt seep into your mind and affect your day, your decisions, and your dreams…even though you’ve expressed a true faith in the One who made you. I’m not talking about the skepticism kind of doubt. I mean the doubt you have in yourself or your future.

Why do you suppose that kind of uncertainty or insecurity creeps into your life? Could it be something you’re doing? Or not doing? I have a couple of points I’d like to share with you. First, I want you to know it’s not an unforgivable sin to have trepidation in your life. But it can grow when you focus on it instead of the solution. Second…

Doubt and faith are talked about a lot in the Bible.

Doubt is often referred to as fear, or a lack of courage, or unbelief. And whatever way it’s presented, the solution is always presented as faith. God wants you to have courage. He wants you to be powerful and loving. And He gives you the tool to get the job done…His word. His word is also called “the sword of the Spirit.” It’s not a visible sword made of brass, iron, or steel. It’s invisible…and yet it’s sharp enough to “divide soul and spirit.” Wow, you wouldn’t think that was even possible, would you?

OK…what does all this mean? Why am I talking about it…right? I just want you to know that if you find yourself bouncing back and forth between doubt and faith, it means you’re doing something wrong. Not evil, but wrong. You’re trusting in yourself. You’re leaning on your own limited understanding. And you’re not trusting in the Lord with all your heart.

You can have success in your life without trusting in the Lord. But what profits will you enjoy if you gain the whole world and lose your soul? Most millionaires and billionaires go to hell. I’m not picking on wealthy people because most poor people are going to hell, too. The point is…most PEOPLE are not going to Heaven. For one stupid reason. They choose not to go. If you have any doubt about where you’ll go if you die today, I suggest putting your faith in Jesus. Without Him, the most you’ll ever be able to do is make a series of…

False Moves

I seem to make so many false moves.
So many have misunderstood.
I guess I must expect the worst results,
And I’d deal with them, if I could.

False moves, like shadows, fall behind.
You might go look for them, but they’re difficult to find.
False moves, like liquor, bring a sense of doubt.
So hard to live with, and so easy to live without.

I always seem to see the empty spots
And fill them up with simple words,
But when I think I’ve got the right idea,
It disappears like Autumn birds.

I sit and dream of traveling so far,
And then I end up standing still.
Part of me says that I will make it.
Part of me says I never will.
False moves”

© 1978 Tony Funderburk

Since I referenced Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, I’m gonna share a link to my own lyrical perspective on that book of the Bible. It’s called “Rhyme and Reason in Ephesians.” Get a digital copy from your choice of stores:

https://books2read.com/u/baEaeP

Stay tuned,

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

If you’re living life alone after 50, read this.

In America, for the past few decades, many people have chosen careers and thrills over marriage. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with staying single. Let me say that right up front. As long as you’re living a life full of honorable pursuits, serving your fellow man, and keeping your focus off sexual urges, you can live a full, happy, healthy life. Those are difficult criteria to maintain over the long haul. But if you’re up to it, life alone after 50 could be awesome. I’ve never met anyone who could do it alone…and be happy. I know some who ARE doing it alone, but they’re not happy. Is that you?

If you find yourself, for whatever reasons, living alone in your middle to senior years, I have a couple of things I’d like to help you avoid because I’m confident you’ll be happier when you do. First, is a lack of focus. When you become reactive instead of proactive, you can quickly become at best a gossip…and at worst a vegetable. What I’m talking about is avoiding the temptation to simply kick your heels up on the coffee table at the end of each day to watch TV. You’ll tend to become a parrot. And parrots aren’t exactly thought leaders.

Next thing to avoid in your life alone after 50 is selfishness.

It can be a constant battle for anyone, let alone anyone over 50, to avoid the tendency to be selfish. We humans are born into a selfish nature. And it’s not natural to be unselfish. In fact, it’s basically impossible to be anything but selfish unless you get supernatural help. But you gotta ask for it. No one bops you on the head with a magic wand and endows you with selflessness. You gotta ask God to help you. When you do, He will. Pretty simple…right?

When you focus on serving others and asking God to help you be unselfish, you can avoid the void that haunts so many people in the world. Are you over 50? 40? 60? Lonely? Unfocused? Drifting? Whatever age, it doesn’t matter. If you’re living alone, follow these two simple steps and…

Avoid The Void

You say you live in a house that has no soul.
You feel your time has come and gone.
And so you begin to plan for the end.
And you hope that it’s better farther on.

You say your friends have gone their separate ways
And that they no longer know you exist.
Their progress was fine, but it never came to you.
Your watch is a handcuff on your wrist.

No, you can’t avoid the void”
The darkness wraps around your heart like a glove.
You can’t avoid the void.
Without God’s Love.

You sit and wait for the phone that never rings…
Then play your records from the past.
You did find some who shared romantic hopes.
But you never found love that would last.

chorus

So tell me what’s it gonna be?
Are you gonna give up”
Or let Jesus in”
And begin to live again?

instrumental”repeat chorus and end

© Tony Funderburk 1992

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Are you running away from problems today?

I know, from first-hand experience, how tempting it is to consider running away from problems. I’ve been guilty of it. I’ll bet you have, too. But what happened? Did the problems go away? Mine sure didn’t. The only thing that helps…or can ever do any good, when you’re face with life’s challenges…is to stand and face them.

For most of my life I’ve had a place I could go when I needed to drown out the world. Music. When I was 22, I bought a piano. Not an electronic keyboard. An actual, upright piano. It was a Rudolph Aeolian, and I was ecstatic. If I remember correctly, it cost me $400 or $500. I discovered it in the downstairs section of a used piano shop in Kansas City, Missouri. And I made arrangements with the owner for him to keep it and deliver it once I had it paid off. After a few months of applying all my “extra” income, I paid it off. And I had it promptly delivered to my little trailer home I rented for $75 a month in a little rural, Kansas town.

What does all that have to do with running away from problems?

I’m glad you asked. Oh wait, that was me who asked…but no matter. The point is, once I had my very own piano in my very own place…I had my very own escape route. And I could make my escape any time the world and its problems started closing in too much. Thankfully, that wasn’t often the case…and thankfully, most of the time I just wanted to play, get better, and write songs…hundreds of songs. Like I said…Music was my PLACE.

But a “place” isn’t the answer to life’s problems. If you’re running away from problems and thinking there must be a “place” where you’ll be safe, you’ll be disappointed every time. You can’t hide from the troubles of this world. Even if you found yourself on a deserted island, you’d have to deal with the thoughts in your own head. And despite what you might think to the contrary, having only your thoughts to deal with would not be a paradise.

Instead of a “place”, you need a person. The person? Jesus. The first person of the resurrection. The One who spoke words and the whole universe exploded into existence. Here’s something to ponder as you face life today. You were once a thought inside the mind of God. Chew on that, if you’re considering running away from problems. And if God created you, where do you think you can go where He won’t be able to find you? No “place”. The good news is…He only wants to love you and give you eternal life. He doesn’t want you to face life alone. So, if the day seems too much to bear, turn to your Creator. Don’t do like I did in these words…

Play Sweet Piano

To lie is such a foolish thing,
But I still do.
I try too hard to find a way
To make it true.
I’ll try to stand on the ocean,
If you will.
Let’s take a look at the sky.
I’ll try to be as calm as
I can be,
And there’ll never be clouds in our eyes.
To laugh is such an easy thing.
So why can’t I?
My face is strong, but that’s to hide
My empty lie.
Play sweet piano
And lose me inside you.
I know you will do that for me.
Let’s take a journey”we’ll fly,
And we won’t come back.
We’ll live in a sweet melody.

© 1977 Tony Funderburk

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Flip the Rhyme and Reason switch now…

Play

Get The The Power of God's Love Podcast Delivered to Your Device Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Android | Pandora | iHeartRadio | Podchaser | Podcast Index | TuneIn | Deezer | RSS | More

Click or tap on these links to the topics I talk about in this week’s podcast…

This podcast episode brings those topics together for those of you who’d rather listen than read. Thanks for tuning in. Use one or more of the links I’ve provided to share with anyone and everyone you know. Oh yeah, when you get a minute, please leave me a review on iTunes. Here’s the easy link. And don’t forget to get your free music and book if you haven’t already. Look over there in the sidebar .

Jump on the The TRUTH and be part of the growing band of believers who wanna show the world that life has Rhyme and Reason because God made us.

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

You’re not alone. Somebody is there.

Isn’t it comforting to know you’re not alone in times of trouble? Just knowing somebody is there can oftentimes make all the difference in how you get through it. Or even if you get through it intact. Can I get an amen?

In recent weeks I’ve been sharing a lot of my writings from way back in the 1970’s. I’m about to do that again to show you that just because I write about the courage and strength found in the saving grace of God doesn’t mean I don’t struggle too. All those years ago I was discovering how to trust God more. And back then a lot of my writing showed the insecurities and doubt I found in myself. I think it’s important for you to see that side of me, too. So maybe you can identify more. That’s my hope anyway.

Somebody is there for us at all times. Take that to heart.

That somebody is your Creator. Jesus made you in His image and likeness. Simply put…you came directly from the mind of God, AND, you even look like Him. Not exactly…just like you don’t look exactly like anyone else. But Jesus made a huge sacrifice for us when He took on human flesh because He took it on forever. In eternity past, He was spirit only. But now…He has a face you can recognize. Because it’s like yours. Two ears and eyes. A mouth and nose. Hair, teeth, lips, and so on. And He is not like false gods who can’t empathize with your pain. Jesus knows your pain…better than you know it yourself.

Here are the lyrics to a song I wrote about dealing with doubt. Do you recognize anything or anyone in it?

Somebody Is There

Every time I float away
Somebody is there to tow me back home.
And every time I see the sun,
Somebody tells me the day is all done.
Sometimes I know there are things to be said.
Lately I find I am constantly losing my head.
I have thought about Alaska
Because it’s so far away.
But if I ever make my mind up,
It will probably be to stay.

Every time I find the sound
Somebody is there to put it back down.
And every time I find the word
Somebody says they never heard.
Sweet dreams, to me, are dreams that never were.
And sure enough, when I sleep they never are.
I have thought about the sunset
Because it’s so far away.
But if I ever make my mind up,
I will probably never stay.

Every time I float away,
Somebody is there to tow me back home.

© 1977-2017 Tony Funderburk

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A higher power with no on/off switch

When I was 22, I was still ridiculously naive. I believed Americans were all on the same side. Old people never did bad things. Pretty girls were all saving themselves for marriage. Yes. I believed those things. And I assumed most anybody would know I was talking about God when I wrote “higher power” in a song. Boy, was I wrong. And like I said, naive.

Fast forward a couple of decades and you’ll find a guy with a lot of naive notions dashed against the rocks. It was a good AND bad thing. Good because I had grown, matured, and discovered much more truth. Bad because my world wasn’t rosy anymore. Nor would it ever be again. And yet, that’s as it should be. I’m sure you have some sort of similar story you could share. Right? Where your hopes, dreams, and aspirations were crushed by reality? What do you do when that happens? Well, I can tell you what you don’t do…give up hoping for better things. They’re coming…for some.

The higher power that will save the world is coming.

That’s not a headline from a movie trailer. And I’m sure it’ll make unbelievers snicker and give them the urge to poke fun…all in the name of tolerance and celebration of diversity, of course. The Higher Power I’m talking about is the Creator of heaven and earth and the rest of the universe. I hope you’re not offended if I go ahead and mention His name. Jesus.

Going back to when I was 22…I wrote a song about about worry and not worrying. I’m gonna share the lyrics below, and I want you to see if you find yourself in either part…the worry, or not worrying. If you worry, do you understand why? And if you don’t worry, do you understand why not? Either way you choose to position yourself, there’s only one reason you’re even able to ponder the question. Because you were created with a brain in the first place. Any questions? Here are the lyrics to help you ponder…

The Power

If I sat down, and I took the time
To correct the lines and absorb them all,
I would sit in place for so long
That the hourglass would surely rust and fall.
But there is no need for me to worry.
I don’t need to see. And I don’t need to feel.
I might expect a change here and there,
But surely you must see,
Or at least you can feel
The power is higher and all we have to do is close our eyes.

If I stood still, and I counted days
And made up ways to collect them all.
I would never move
‘Cause there are no ways
I can save them all and take the time.
But there is no need for me to worry…

‘Cause the power is higher and all we have to do is close our eyes.

© 1977-2017 Tony Funderburk

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No-cost, low-cost, and premium ways you can help me spread the Word…

Tell everybody you know to subscribe to Tony’s Daily Devotional
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Get digital Bible stuff from the same company I do.

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Take time to open up a little

You’ve probably been in a relationship at some time or another where one person needed the other to open up and share what was on their mind. Right? Sure, we’ve all been there. Or if you haven’t, you probably will be some day. But have you ever thought about why we need people to open up to us?

The key word I used a little earlier was “relationship.” You’re designed to interact with other human beings. You need to be able to communicate thoughts, ideas, and yes…even feelings. Women are much better at this than men, but even they stumble at times for various reasons. (here’s a hint, men…it’s usually our fault…no, really)

Why do you suppose it’s so important to open up to others?

What could it hurt to keep all your thoughts and ideas and feelings to yourself? Well, I suppose it wouldn’t hurt a thing…if you lived on a deserted island by yourself. But barring that ever happening, you need to share what’s going on in your life with at least one other person. But why? Because it helps alleviate that persistent little minion known as selfishness. When you only focus on yourself, you can’t grow, mature, and contribute to this world. You’ll only have yourself to measure up to, and that’s the easiest thing in the world to do.

Here’s something even better you can do. Be ready and attentive when someone else wants to or needs to open up to you. It’s an awesome way to serve one another and do one of the two condensed commands of God: “love your neighbor as yourself.” You might be surprised…and you’ll certainly be better off for it…when you take time for someone else. And you might find it’s the most beneficial way to get them to do the same for you. Will you do it today? Here’s a rhyme to help you remember…

Open Me Up

Open up my eyes.
Let me out of this disguise.
Let me burn up like a candle in the sun.
I wish to smell a rose
And feel sand between my toes.
Let me leave and go and say what’s done is done.
I can’t say a single word that’s not been said before.
And I can’t sing one more song because there are no more.
I just hope there is no gloom
After saying I’m in bloom…
And that I wish…
Someone soon…
Would open me up.
Open up my eyes.
Let me see into the skies.
Let me fall into the ocean many times.
I wish to find a key
And then hope that it fits me.
Let me leave behind a poem with many rhymes.

© 1977

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

This Week’s Podcast Episode Includes…

Yep, this is one of those episodes with a free song included. This song is called “How Long Can It Go On”, and it’s family-friendly. Here are the links to the topics I talk about in this week’s podcast.

This podcast episode brings those topics together for those of you who’d rather listen than read. Thanks for tuning in. Use one or more of the links I’ve provided to share with anyone and everyone you know. Oh yeah, when you get a minute, please leave me a review on iTunes. Here’s the easy link. And don’t forget to get your free music and book if you haven’t already.

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Things are bad. And how long can it go on?

You might have notice a couple of bad things happening in the past few years. Right? Yeah, a couple of bad things every second of every day. There seems to be no bottom to the abyss of evil people are willing to climb down into. Just when you think you couldn’t possibly hear anything worse…somebody comes up with something worse. There might not be anything new under the sun, but how long can it go on without the whole world being destroyed?

I don’t, for even a moment, believe we humans are gonna destroy our planet by messing with the ozone, throwing trash in the ocean, or even blowing ourselves to smithereens with nuclear weapons. And don’t get me wrong, I know we should live clean and live peaceably with our neighbors as much as its within our power to do so. But I know, that as long as the earth remains there will be everything we need to live. However…

…there will come a time when this world will end.

That day might be as close as your next breath. And it might still be many, many years away. But it will happen. Because we human beings are just plain despicable to one another, and one day God is gonna say “No more!”

That’s the bad, and sinister sounding, news. Are you ready for some good news? Here it is. You were created to be eternal. Your soul (and hopefully spirit) will last forever, and you have two eternal locations to choose from. You’ve heard the old real estate adage that says it’s all about location, location, location…right? Well, that’s even more true in the case of where you’ll live forever. One location won’t have any lights or even light switches. The other will be lit up gloriously and shine like diamonds and gold. Which will you choose? And don’t wait to choose because you don’t know when it’ll be time to go.

I wrote a song, back in 1990, and this topic, and it’s pretty sinister sounding. I’m inserting the lyrics below, and you can hear a motel room recording of it on this weeks The Power of God’s Love Podcast.

How Long Can It Go On?

There…you can see firsthand…
There’s a ship of fools
On a sea of sand.
There, on a tiny, blue ball…
They’ve got their universe,
And they’re the center of it all…the center of it all.

There…it’s a race against time
On a singular quest
For the omni-enzyme.
There…they can get what they need,
But their need turns to want,
And their want turns to greed…yeah, their want turns to need.

Play with toys that they can’t afford…
Get some more when they get bored,
And the sky grows dark…and the sky grows dark.

How long can it go on? (repeat 3 times)

There…in the land of law…
There are those who see
And don’t tell what they saw.
There…where they send their best…
The kettle’s brought to a boil,
And it’s too much to digest…to much to digest.

Play with lives they don’t even know…
Head’s above, but their brain’s below,
And the sky grows dark…and the sky grows dark.

How long can it go on? (repeat 3 times)

Save us from ourselves, great God way up high.
Help us help ourselves…don’t let our spirits die.

© 1990 Tony Funderburk

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

How can you fight the feeling
when it comes so naturally?

When I was in my early twenties I wrote lyrics to songs with hidden meanings. I can’t tell you why, exactly. Even if I told you, it probably wouldn’t make any sense to you. And as I look back into my old notebooks, I’ve gotta admit something to you…I hid the meaning to some of my lyrics so well, I’m not quite sure where it is. But that’s kind of cool in a way. It gives me the same opportunity I offered to everyone else back then…discover my own (or your own) meaning. These days I fight the feeling to hide things in the lyrics because I want my readers and listeners to get it. And I hope they can identify with it.

Fight the feeling - but how when it's so strong?

About 2000 years ago another writer was attempting to get his readers and listeners to identify with his words, too. And he talked to them about their probable struggles with sin. I know that’s not a popular word…sin. But just because it isn’t popular doesn’t mean it isn’t real. And the writer I’m talking about was a guy named Paul, a mighty smart guy. He was also known as the apostle to the Gentiles. (pssst…that’s you and me, too…unless you’re a Jew).

Paul wrote an amazing letter to the Romans about these struggles.

In it he described how difficult it was to fight the feeling “warring against the law” in his mind.  His description talked about how it was so difficult that “what I will to do, that I do not practice, but what I hate, that I do.” He went on for quite a few verses addressing the problem with the law not being able to save you from sin. Paul even used what appeared to be a self-describing strong phrase, “O wretched man that I am!” Looks like he wanted to emphasize the point using himself as one who needed help. Right after that, he wrote “who will deliver me from this body of death?” Yikes. Pretty harsh description…wouldn’t you say?

But thankfully, Paul answered that question in the same passage in his letter to the Romans. And the answer applies to you and me right here and now. Wanna know what the answer is? Well, it isn’t what. It’s who…”I thank God – through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Notice how that sentence also ends with an exclamation point? Jesus is the exclamation point to all our despairing exclamations. Why don’t you let Him help you fight any discouraged feelings you have today? He will.

Here are some lyrics with some of those hidden meanings I mentioned. See what you discover in them…

Fight the Feeling

The mirror’s getting nearer,
So we must protect our eyes.
The sounds are going farther.
You can’t hear the baby’s cries.
There are biscuits in the oven,
And our friend will come to call,
But I doubt if they’ll remember,
For there’s nothing there at all.

We’ve got to fight the feeling.
The feeling traps us in.
We can’t pile our world around us.
We can’t scratch the itchy skin.
We’ve got to fight the feeling.
It’s such an ugly thing.
We can’t make them all remember.
We don’t have the bells to ring.

The silence will be dimmer
In a better time of year,
But the stream will still flow slowly,
If the mirror is still here.
We’ve got to fight the feeling
And take ourselves inside.
We won’t be running from the facts.
We’ll merely let them hide.

© 1976 Tony Funderburk

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This Week’s Podcast Episode Includes…

The Power of God's Love Podcast 162 - watching time fly and embracing more choices

Yep, this is one of those episodes with a free song included. This song is called “Angel Café”, and it’s family-friendly.

This podcast episode brings those topics together for those of you who’d rather listen than read. Thanks for tuning in. Use one or more of the links I’ve provided to share with anyone and everyone you know. Oh yeah, when you get a minute, please leave me a review on iTunes. Here’s the easy link. And don’t forget to get your free music and book if you haven’t already. Look over there in the sidebar .

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P.S.  Share the rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. And let’s stay connected. Like this…

Join my Rhyme and Reason Club
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Get my Podcast on iTunes – OR Google Play
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Time flies away…no matter what

Yep, you can take good care of yourself, eat right, get plenty of exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. But no matter how healthy (or sick) you are, time flies away so quickly. There’s nothing you can do to stop it…or even slow it down. But there IS something you CAN do to make the most of it. Love.

That one syllable, four letter word…love. It’s incredible how much capacity humans have for love and yet still manage to muster so much hatred for one another. And why? To beat somebody at something? Or take something from someone else? Or how about trying to conquer the whole world and rule over everyone? How many times has that been tried? And it always fails. But you know what never fails? Love.

Time flies away so you’d better love today.

You might never see tomorrow. In fact, you won’t. Because tomorrow is a day that never gets here. It’s always out in front of you…out of reaching distance. Today is the only day you’re guaranteed. So, while today might be slipping away, you can do something to make it meaningful. Love.

What will you do today to show someone you love them? Could you make them a meal? Or at least take them a meal? A sandwich? Cup of coffee? How about handing out a free compliment? I promise…if you find a reason to not be too busy for just a few moments…and focus all your attention on someone close to you, the results you get could have eternal benefit. It’s that important. Love.

Here’s a song I wrote back in 1992 called “Angel Café”. Notice how it talks about not waiting too long to show love. You can hear it in this week’s The Power of God’s Love Podcast.

Angel Café

You’ve already been to the mountain,
And you’ve taken your slice of the pie.
You’ve had your cool dips in the ocean…
Tied the knot with a prominent guy.
You work for and live in the good life,
And you’re blessed with the ol’ Midas Touch,
But you’re not the girl I remember…
And I miss her so much.

You might recall all the tea and conversation…
Stayed up all night just to start it all again.
But now it’s all such a different situation.
You clocked me out just when you were clocking in.

Well, time flies away.
Don’t put off who you should get to today.
Time flies away.
Don’t you wait till we meet in the Angel Café.
Don’t you wait till we meet in the Angel Café.

I watched as your world got so busy.
I felt all the edges get rough.
Sure, I know you just want a secure life,
But, I ask, is it ever enough?
Is it worth just what it may cost you?
Are you willing to pay off the fine?
Just be wary of what you neglect here.
That’s my own bottom line.

© 1992-2017 Tony Funderburk

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Two choices are almost never the only choices

When someone says you only have two choices to choose from, take a little time to think that through. Very often, the reason they’re telling you that is simply because that’s what they’ve heard. And the people who told them that heard it somewhere else. And so on…and so on…and so on. Giving yourself only two choices on an issue, or a point of debate, or even a presidential candidate isn’t the best thing to do. And besides that…it’s not even creative or thoughtful. In fact, limiting yourself like that can lead to some terrible results.

For example, during this past presidential election, once the two major parties had honed down their candidates to the two “finalists” I heard and read people saying something like “I’ll just have to hold my nose and vote the party choice.” That’s so ridiculous…and unnecessary. In that example, there was a clear third choice…neither candidate. And if you were one of those who “didn’t want to waste your vote”, then I’d have to question how you could have chosen to vote for either major party candidate. What a waste!

Two choices can lead down a dark tunnel of no return.

When you say you’ll choose the “lesser of two evils,” then don’t be surprised when it’s time to vote again that the quality of your choices has dropped even further. In fact, that’s the exact process that got America (and much of the world) to the condition it’s in right now. And if people would only refuse to choose something or someone simply because they “feel” they have no other choice, our world would benefit in ways you might only imagine right now.

Your personal life or your business can benefit from acting with courage and conviction, too. Refuse to accept only two choices when it comes to the decisions you make each day. Be creative. Get wisdom. And courage. Be the better man or woman your Creator has in mind for you. Ask God to help you trust Him for better choices. Following Him and His advice will never lead into dark places. In fact, following Him will make you a light in dark places. Ready to shine? Then stop learning those same ol’ lines…

Learn Those Lines

Back in nineteen seventy-three
I believed the whole world would be
Just as free as the dreams that dwelled inside me.
Maybe I was naive and young.
Maybe life was speaking in tongues.
I would say let the bells of freedom be rung.
But time can temper the freest of souls.
Life has ways of changing our goals.
If we play a part, who hands out the roles?

Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Let that little green monster tell you what to say.
Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Just remember what you do comes back to you someday.

Back in nineteen and eighty-four
We thought big brother was right at the door,
But he came in through the TV and stuff at the store.
Maybe I’ve grown older and fat.
Maybe I’m not the virginal cat
Who could sit on a side and be proud where he sat.
Now, we chase the innocuous cause…
Standing for and laying down laws.
Yeah, we walk like the cat, but we don’t have the claws.

Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Let that little green monster tell you what to do.
Learn those lines…everybody…learn those lines.
Just remember what you do is gonna come back to you.

We can’t go back…and we can’t stay here,
If we can’t throw away the fear
And changes those lines…those lines we learn.

© 1989-2017 Tony Funderburk

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Happy Resurrection Day 2017

For those of you who don’t follow the Christian faith and don’t understand the meaning of Resurrection Day 2017, let me say Happy Easter. If you do understand, I hope your day is blessed with loved ones, celebration, and a time to remember why we’re celebrating.

To outsiders, it sometimes looks like we’re celebrating a bloody murder. Nothing could be further from the truth, of course. Easter isn’t about death at all. Quite the opposite. Christians all around the world celebrate the fact (yes, I said “fact”) that about 2000 years ago God became man and suffered a horrible death in order to offer us eternal life. The man, Jesus, was mocked, ridiculed, persecuted, prosecuted, and executed by the very people He came to save.

It’s unimaginable the torment He suffered just so you and I could avoid eternal suffering. You can say it’s a fairy tale. But that doesn’t erase the Truth. You can say the story of Jesus was simply written by men with an agenda. But that only shows me you haven’t actually read the book. You can even say eternity doesn’t exist for anyone. But that reveals your personal agenda.

Resurrection Day is all about what happened after Jesus was killed.

He rose from the dead, and the Bible says He was the “firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” Simply put…that means He’s tip-top and no other name or person can be or ever shall be higher. And that means He can (and does) offer His eternal life to anyone who will follow Him.

Every day I more clearly understand why Jesus said to follow Him you must hate your “father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters” and even your own life. People will always let you down, but Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you. That “hate” isn’t the kind you’re seeing tossed around the internet and media. Jesus was saying your love for Him needs to be so full that anything else is hate in comparison. When you understand He is the only way you’re ever gonna receive eternal life…

I believe your love for Him will increase all the time.

So, don’t let the big, bad world…or even the people to your left or your right rob you of your joy and your celebration of Resurrection Day 2017. Or, for that matter, any other day of life your Creator has given you. Would you do me a favor and send me a story of how you celebrated the day? I’ll share it here and maybe on my The Power of God’s Love Podcast if you’ll let me. And until then, here’s an Easter rhyme for you…

Happy Easter Day

There’s a story you might know
Of a man who was killed some time ago.
He did nothing that was wrong,
But some people made Him suffer for so long.

Still there’s good news you can learn
‘Cause He died to give you what you’ll never earn.
He was nailed up on a cross,
But the people didn’t understand the loss.

Then they took Him to a tomb,
And they laid His lifeless body in that room,
But the story didn’t end there.
There would only be three days He would spend there.

Happy Easter day…He arose!

© Copyright 2007 Tony Funderburk

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Sacred Grounds: watch your step

Some time ago, in America, sacred grounds were a place where you buried your dead…or a special place where you go to connect with the history of your faith. Nowadays, “sacred grounds” is a nomenclature for issues of the day. And, in the case of many of those issues, you’d better watch where you’re stepping. Especially if you’re a Christian.

Almost every day I read another article or story about a Christian business owner forced to do or accept a policy he or she opposes for reasons of faith. And while that was once inconceivable in America, the country founded on religious freedom, it pales in comparison to the persecution Christians are facing around the world. All either in the name of “diversity and tolerance” or at the hands of ruthless, Godless regimes.

For people who hate God, issues like diversity, tolerance, and multiculturalism, have become sacred grounds. And if Christians don’t step lightly…or better yet, accept willingly…they’d better just watch out. That sort of hypocrisy inspired me to write this song. (I’ll be sharing it in an upcoming episode of the The Power of God’s Love Podcast

Nothin’s Sacred Anymore

Take the truth and lock it up, and throw away the key
Winds of change are blowing foul; a dance with destiny
Blur the face of love and sex and say it’s all OK
Tell the child it’s just a choice and melt her soul away

Nothin’s sacred anymore”
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core
Nothin’s sacred anymore”
And should we be surprised since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore

Cast your vote for social growth and then say yes to law
Keep the peace, divide the wealth; the vision Adolph saw
Hedge the bets and ride the fence; the middle road’s secure
Then one day you’re head to head with all you must endure

Nothin’s sacred anymore”
Can’t we learn from mistakes when they cut to the core
Nothin’s sacred anymore”
And should we be surprised”¨since we’ve opened that dark, wide door?
Nothin’s sacred anymore

More space and time”more would be sublime
Someone else can pay”long as I get mine today

Ain’t nothin’ sacred anymore

© 2002 Tony Funderburk

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This Week’s Podcast Episode Includes…

The The Power of God's Love Podcast with Tony Funderburk - Episode 161

Yep, this is one of those episodes with a free song included. This song is called “Island Day”, and it’s family-friendly.

This podcast episode brings those topics together for those of you who’d rather listen than read. Thanks for tuning in. Use one or more of the links I’ve provided to share with anyone and everyone you know. Oh yeah, when you get a minute, please leave me a review on iTunes. Here’s the easy link. And don’t forget to get your free music and book if you haven’t already. Look over there in the sidebar .

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P.S.  Share the rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. And let’s stay connected. Like this…

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I found Saturday blessings in a cup today.

When I was a young boy, Saturday blessings happened every week. That’s because it was the first day of the weekend away from prison…I mean…school. I don’t know about you, but there was something special about Saturdays. They were filled with endless possibilities and imagination. And once I was old enough to ride my big-boy bike, it felt like the sky was the limit. Then, more time passed, and school days were over, and Saturdays began to blur into the week.

For most of my adult life I’ve had to work on Saturdays. First, I had a job in a lumber yard in a small town in Kansas, and they were open for a half day each Saturday. So, I worked from 7:30 in the morning till 12:30. Then, I learned carpentry in Houston, Texas…and there were days I’d contract projects and work six days a week to finish faster. After a little time wielding a hammer and saw, my brother and I began to get regular bookings as a musical duo. That was awesome! Actually getting paid to play and sing. And I worked most every Saturday for the next 25 years.

So…the carefree Saturday blessings faded during those years.

In recent years, it’s been more of a mixture…many times working on Saturdays, and occasionally having the day free. Today was more on the carefree side. At least for the first half. My wife and I were invited, by our friend (I’ll call her Miss K) to join her for lunch at a restaurant with authentic Mideast cuisine (translate: straight out of Jerusalem). I won’t go through all the food and drink descriptions because this isn’t a restaurant review. But I had a sandwich called the Beefofel (pronounced beef-uh-fuel) and some Turkish coffee. Both were extremely high on the Yum Scale.

Our time together extended past the restaurant because we all decided to carry on with the get-together in a local Christian coffeeshop. We had Americanos and Baklava (to sort of keep the Mideast them going) and some nice, laid back conversations about current events. No one seemed in a hurry or too busy. Now, that’s a blessing.

What I’d like to know is…why does everyone feel the urgent need to power through so many Saturdays (and the rest of the week, too) without taking time to sit still and talk…really talk…with family and friends? What amount of money or acquisition of “things” could be more important than building and nurturing relationships? Are you one of those? Do you think Saturday blessings are a matter of making that sale? Or that next big deal? Or that awesome purchase?

Here’s a rhyme I wrote about this day of the week sometime ago…

Saturday Gladder Day

Throw the gloomy out today and just be glad today.
Saturday’s the very best day that we’ve had today.
You could choose to have a frown and make a sadder day
Or set free your smile and have a gladder Saturday.

As for me, I’m thankful there’s a shiny sun today
Even if I find out I’m the only one today.
All my needs are served up on a silver platter day
And that’s how I know I’ll have a gladder Saturday.

© 2013 Tony Funderburk

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