Tony Funderburk

Posted on May 11, 2019 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Mother’s Day 2019

Each year I share a list of things moms do to earn their adulation on their special day. Mother’s Day 2019 is no different…except you can also hear the audio version of this on my The Power of God’s Love Podcast. Otherwise, thanks again Mom. And thanks again moms.

To all of you ladies who “took one for the team”as you”

Withstood the months of pregnancy
Withstood the pains of childbirth
Fed your babies when they cried at 3 a.m.
Fixed “boo boos”
Kissed away pain
Hugged away frowns
Cooked breakfasts, made lunches, and prepared dinners
Washed clothes even after laundry was all done
Taught truth, hope, and love”and readin’, writin’, and “˜rithmetic
Fought tangled hair, torn pants, and missing shoestrings
Remembered birthdays with just the right proportion of chocolate icing to vanilla ice cream
Listened to stories of triumph, tragedy, and utter despair (mostly from teenage girls)
Made or bought costumes for every goofy event imaginable
Went to plays, sporting events, and music presentations”cheering for that one child who was obviously the natural born talent
Brought the “something borrowed”or “something blue”to the bride-to-be just at the right time
Danced the mother/son dance with the groom who had been her dragonslayer only “weeks ago”it seems
Made special homemade desserts for the kids and grandkids when they came over for Thanksgiving
Brought an elegant grace to the process of aging
Made us believe there’s a forever, a God who loves us, and a knowledge that we’ll have eternity in paradise

Thanks moms, for everything you’ve done, you’re doing now, and ever will do to make sure your kids are loved.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on April 20, 2019 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Resurrection Day 2019

This episode of Rhyme and Reason is based on something I wrote back in 2017. And subscribers to the podcast will hear my Resurrection Day song called “The Way”. I’m including the lyrics below. In the recording I also acknowledged my buddy, Greg, and his reference to the zombie apocalypse that already happened. Tune in to get the Bible reference he shared to prove his claim.

And I sent a shout out to my cousin, Becky, in Oklahoma. Her mom, my aunt, died earlier this month. Becky sent me the nice memorial flyer which looked like quite the Funderburk affair. All the casket bearers were Funderburks, and even the pastor was a Funderburk. I’m telling you…you better watch out when you’re around Funderburks, souls could get saved and go to Heaven.

I hope you have a blessed, happy, and healthy Easter and thank you so much for tuning in to my Resurrection Day Rhymes and Reasons.

The Way

And it came to pass one day on a mountain far away
That a soul was taken and a life forsaken
Because someone had to pay

For the heart of all mankind.
There was no untarnished mind.
So one life was spent Who was innocent,
But He left His Word behind…

Forgive them for they know not what they do.
Redeem them and I give My Blood to You.
We can rise up
No matter how much the guilt might weigh.
He said…”I am the Way!”

Now so many years have gone
And we love with blinders on.
How we tolerate is a form of hate.
Where’s the Rock He stood upon?

For the Truth is absolute and it’s foolish to dispute.
It confounds the wise but it opens eyes,
And it saves the destitute

Chorus

Now don’t turn to the left don’t turn to the right.
Just run straight to Him with all your might!

inst…chorus to end

Stay tuned,

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Get my Podcast on iTunes – OR Google Play OR Player.fm
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Posted on April 20, 2019 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Your Creative Brain

Inspiration is a sneaky, little gremlin. It’s sleight of hand and fleet of foot. And if you’re not totally awake, or wearing your glasses, or in a quiet place all alone, it could dart in and out without you noticing. So, it’s important to realize you can’t rely on, trust, or expect inspiration to be there for you. But the good news is…you don’t need the little gremlin. You have something better. A creative brain from your loving Creator.

Yes, even YOU have a creative brain.

I’ve heard people say things like, “I don’t have a creative bone in my body.” And “I see people on TV come up with these creative things, and I try some of them, and it’s awful.”

Well, let me say this about that. First, being creative doesn’t require you to be like anyone else. And second, even if you haven’t found your specialty, yet, you DO have a creative brain. You just need to exercise it. And just just like exercising your body, exercising your brain can be tough at first. It might even “hurt” a little. But you know the overused expression, right? “No pain, No gain.”

Here’s some good news about exercising your brain. Even though I said it might “hurt” a little, the pain is only in changing your habits. Not actual physical pain. You’re not gonna bruise your brain. But your routine is gonna need to include some new habits. Reading. Listening to excellent music. (not rap, rock, or pop) Getting out into nature.

God’s creations stimulate your creativity.

When you pay attention to what’s constantly going on around you, you might soon discover your own special “thing”. You could turn on a switch inside your creative brain and discover your unique gift. And the more you focus outside yourself, the better your creativity. You might be surprised at how much more you’ll notice.

Like how grass isn’t just green. And the sky isn’t just blue. And how fast rabbits can chew. Or that funny way a dog’s nose goes from side to side even when its face isn’t moving. You might begin to notice the wide variety of bird songs in the early morning hours. And you’ll begin to appreciate things like the scent of the ground after a spring rain, the rainbows shining through cut glass and stretching out on the wall, even the feeling you get when Beethoven’s music glides from major to minor chords.

How do I know this works?

When I sat down in front of my computer to write, I didn’t have a clue what I wanted or needed to say. So, I wrote the first sentence: Inspiration is a sneaky little gremlin. And now, almost 500 words later, I’m thanking God for my creative brain. Now…I’ve gotta go read, write a book, and listen to Moonlight Sonata.

Stay tuned,

Posted on April 14, 2019 by TonySeptember 30, 2019

Who knows the secrets of men?

Almost every day I see a video or movie, or read an article, or hear someone in person say something like, “I’m not judging you.” Or “Don’t judge me.” And of course, the ever popular, “You’re so judgmental.” The irony is, 99.99% of the people saying those things are judging somebody at the very moment they say the words. Most of the time, they’re basing their judgments on what a guy named Paul called the secrets of men. In other words, most people make judgments on things they can’t even see. And then they claim to be non-judgmental. There’s a word for that…

Hypocrisy.

If you’re a fan of language, not just talking to hear yourself talk, then that word, hypocrisy, might have a seriously harsh tone to it. And rightfully so. It’s not a complimentary word. You don’t use it to praise someone. Quite the opposite. Hypocrisy is the perfect word to describe people who judge the “secrets of men” while they carry those same secrets around.

And just in case you think I’m being harsh and judgmental right now, I’ll let you in on something about me. I’ve played the hypocrite, too. But don’t get on your high horse because so have you. Yes, YOU.

Just about every person on the planet, at least those who’ve been able to grow into adults, has played the hypocrite at one time or another. And that’s why the apostle Paul, in the New Testament, wrote such a straightforward letter to the Romans of his day. In the second chapter of that letter (scribes divided it into chapters…not Paul) he talked about God’s righteous judgment. That’s because…

Only God truly knows the secrets of men.

So, only God can judge your heart. We humans have to judge according to what we see and hear. But the first five words of that previous sentence are vital to understand. “We Humans Have To Judge”

The only way you can get through life without judging others is if you have no contact with others. None. Every day you have to make judgment calls, if you’re gonna be around or deal with other human beings. Judgments like:

Should he be telling another one of “those jokes”?
Is she right to talk about her co-worker behind her back like that?
I saw him take that money. Should I tell on him?
Is it OK for a married person to do that?
That politician is lying. Is it important for others to know that?

Here’s the main point I want to make. When it comes to being judgmental, don’t be a jerk about it. Be wise. And in order to be wise, read God’s word. It’s the only way you’ll ever be able to judge rightly. You can leave the secrets of men to God and trust His righteous judgment. But, if you’re a member of the Body of Christ, you should be doing the work of judging while you’re here on planet Earth. And you should be willing to be judged. At least by others who are wise and trusting…

The One True Way To Peace

Judge me, I need to be judged.
Correct me, whenever I’m wrong.
Save me from thinking my thoughts.
I’ve been in them way too long.

(hear the rest of the words in the Podcast version)

Stay tuned,

Posted on April 4, 2019 by TonyApril 6, 2019

You can’t hear this Ann Song

But I can. Sometimes I page through my old spiral notebooks and take a walk back in time. I see my words, the chord scribblings in the margins, and I can even hear myself singing some of the songs. Today was one of those times. As I looked at the lyrics to my Ann Song, I could see myself at the piano in the basement of my college dormitory.

My Ann Song wasn’t about anyone I knew.

I never dated Ann. In fact, I don’t recall ever truly knowing an Ann. My English composition professor in college was a young woman from England named Anne. But we never had more than a teacher/student relationship. So, I think maybe Ann because the subject of my song because of how I could punctuate the chorus with the sound of the name.

And I remember how enthralled I had become with minor chords. This Ann song was basically in the key of D flat minor. Looking at my chord scribblings, I see also A, A flat, and D flat minor 5th. But all that means nothing compared to the sounds in my head.

Those vocal echoes off the basement cinder block walls. The reverberation of the little upright piano. And the staccato pronunciation of Ann, Ann, Ann. I never dreamed, in those solo hours, how some day I’d be thinking way back to then. It was just my time to learn the piano and my new-found love for songwriting.

I won’t take you any further down memory lane on this. But I’ll share the lyrics to the Ann song, and you can get a glimpse into my songwriting origins…

Ann

The nights are long…the skies are dark,
But I find my way to her heart.
Her bedroom light is shining out
Onto my face…onto the ground.

Ann, Ann, Ann…dark and dreary.
Ann, Ann, Ann…sad and somber.
Why, why, why must you never see me?
Has someone else stolen you away?

Her shadow moves behind the window.
I fall to my knees and I weep.
For I’m so close and yet so far.
Without her love I’m so far.

(chorus)

Where would I be now, if I had never loved?
If I had lived my life alone,
Where would I be now?

Stay tuned,

Posted on March 31, 2019 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Did you know the beautiful
rings of Saturn are debris?

You’ve heard that old expression, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”, right? Well, how about one planet’s debris is another planet’s beautiful scenery? That’s exactly what happens when we earthlings gaze at the rings of Saturn through our telescopes. You might say those rings are some delightful dust bunnies. But then you might be embarrassed when people laugh at you for saying that…so maybe you better not. Anyway…

So, how are the dirty rings of Saturn good news for you and me?

Well, those rings actually prove Saturn is a young planet, not an old one like evolutionary scientists would have you believe. They’ve been saying, for years, those planetary rings around Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune are leftovers. Dust rings left over after those planets evolved from swirling gases and dust.

Silly scientists.

Here’s how the rings of Saturn and those other planets actually got there. “They form when a planet’s gravity captures material from a passing asteroid or material expelled from a nearby moon””by a volcano, a geyser, tidal effects, or the impact of a comet or meteorite.” (from Dr. Walt Brown’s book, In The Beginning)

By the way, that debris is called “ring rain”, and it can be seen falling to the planet’s surface “at a rapid rate” which proves the rings are young. In other words, the ring rain couldn’t have been falling at that rate for millions of years, or it would be long gone.

For those of us who love Jesus and trust Him to be the Creator of Heaven, Earth, and you and me, this is more good news. It helps prove the reliability of the Bible. It’s more evidence of things not seen.

The stars in the heavens
And planetary rings
Are more sparkling reasons
My hopeful, glad heart sings.

Stay tuned,

Discover my ebooks on Amazon.com or Smashwords
Get my Podcast on iTunes – OR Google Play OR Player.fm

Posted on March 30, 2019 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Based on the blog post written back in 2011 found HERE

Stay tuned,

Posted on March 24, 2019 by TonySeptember 30, 2019

Guilty people go to hell

There. I said it. That’s what happens to guilty people. Not jail. Hell. Sounds kinda bleak, doesn’t it? And even if you count yourself among the non-judging people, you probably have a few choice words for me right about now. It’s Ok. I’ve heard “˜em before.

Guilty people tend to know they’re guilty.

When I was probably around 10 or 11, and my brother and I were staying with my mom for the summer in Kansas, I remember mom babysitting some neighbors’ kids. The little kids were pulling out toys from the toy box in the playroom, when suddenly one of the was wailing like a banshee.

One little boy had decided all the toys were meant to be in his possession. And since he was little bigger than the others, he managed to hoard the toys and keep all invaders away. Of course, one of the others knew a way around his defenses. Cry out as loud as possible until an adult came to the rescue.

My mom sent me to see what was wrong, and I reported back to her what I just shared with you. And I noticed a curious thing about the little boy when my mom came to confront him about taking all the toys to himself. His face. He looked downright guilty. In fact, I could tell he KNEW he was guilty. And yet that didn’t stop him from hoarding all the toys.

How do you know you’re wrong?

If you’re just a collection of carbon matter, then there’s really no such thing as guilty people. Without a source of absolute truth, absolute right and wrong, actions just become a matter of opinion. Like I’ve said many times, “if matter’s all there is, then nothing really matters.”

But you’re so much more than a carbon footprint. You and I were made in the image and likeness of God. We know right from wrong because He wrote the truth on the tablet of our hearts.

If you’re like me, and if you’re human, you are…then you sin. And your guilt will either take you to hell or to Jesus. I recommend Jesus. He loves you. He’s the source and symbol of love. But He’s also just, righteous, and true. And He doesn’t play favorites. If you don’t want to live with Him forever, you’ve just made a horrible decision. But He won’t force you to change your mind.

If you think you can get to Heaven (you know, that “better place”they’re always talking about in movies) on your own, then you’ve got a lot of work to do. And I can guarantee you’ll never be able to get the work done. But here’s something you might not know…

Guilty people also go to Heaven.

There are no innocent people. So, it comes down to a choice. Life WITH God. Or death APART from God. You get to decide for yourself. Seems like a no-brainer to me. But most people don’t think like me. I know, on my own, I’m literally guilty as hell. And I know I’m not on my own. I chose to trust Jesus died for me, and that His innocence covers my guilt. Thank God.

Stay tuned,

Posted on March 10, 2019 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

When in Rome don't do like the local Romans do

When in Rome, what do you do?

You’ve probably heard that old expression, when in Rome do like the Romans do. It was apparently started by a guy named Ambrose, maker of fine scents…uh…saints. And he apparently thought it was a good idea to adhere to the local customs and practices when visiting another city or country. But two or three hundred years before Ambrose was another guy, named Paul, who took the opposite approach. I like his style.

Paul didn’t act like a typical Roman when in Rome.

He got right down to business when he visited, or wrote to, the Christians in Rome. Side note: Instead of giving a special label to certain people, Paul called them all “saints”.

Anyway…

When you read Paul’s letter to the Romans, which is no small feat by the way, you detect a tone of directness and urgency from the git-go. He doesn’t pull any punches, which was his style, and yet you can easily see how much Paul cares about these young (translate “new”) believers.

In the very first chapter of his letter to the Romans, Paul expressed his love for them AND talked about God’s wrath on the unrighteous. Yikes. Talk about fire and brimstone. Oops, sorry. I forgot we’re not supposed to talk about fire and brimstone anymore.

When in Rome (or Ephesus or Galatia or Corinth, etc.) Paul shared the Truth.

The Truth is…we humans do a LOT of despicable things. Just when you think you’ve heard the worst, scroll through your news app. Sure enough, someone just came up with a way to be even more vile, gross, and wicked.

What you see, when you read the first chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans, is how God won’t tolerate your rebellion against Him forever. He will give up on you if you decide you’d rather serve yourself than Him. And He WILL give you the death you prefer. Even though He prefers you to live with Him forever.

In the The Power of God’s Love Podcast version of this article, I share my reading of the first chapter of Romans. My hope and prayer is you’ll give it a listen and be blessed. Not because of my voice, but because God’s Word is Living Water. And faith comes by hearing.

And remember, when in Rome, be more like Paul…not the Romans.

That doesn’t mean you can go visit somebody’s country and try to force your own customs and traditions on them. But you certainly don’t have to do what the Romans do, when they’re doing what they shouldn’t do.

If they don’t serve coffee the way you prefer, don’t demand your brew. Or if their drinks don’t have ice, make some adjustments and drink in the atmosphere. But don’t give yourself over to any part of their dark side.

Remember what Paul wrote about that?

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 24, 2019 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

What’s a day without sunshine?

Of course, the comedic answer is…night. Or maybe you remember how the Florida Citrus Commission used to say “a day without orange juice is like a day without sunshine”Either way, can you imagine a day without the actual sun? That would be weird beyond words. But what if I told you there might be a time like that in your future. In fact, every day might be like that.

How about a day without sunshine forever?

Imagine a pure “river of water of life, clear as crystal“. And then imagine a “tree of life”that yields twelve different fruits, one for each month. Wow. Cool stuff. You can probably sort of wrap your mind around those things. Especially if you’ve watched any superhero movies.

But it’s almost impossible to imagine a day without sunshine, much less an eternity without the sun. What in the world am I talking about?

Nothing in this world, actually. But I AM talking about the great I AM. And He says in Heaven there’ll be no need for the sun because He will be our light.

Just let that sink in.

That “day without sunshine”will be an age. A period of time without end. Also known as forever. And if you put your faith and trust in Jesus as Savior of Heaven and Earth, you’ll bask God’s own lightGod’s own light without the need for the sun. It’s gloriously unimaginable for our mere mortal minds. And yet, so cool.

And if you’d like to know more about it, click the links. A friend of mine, Cristina, wrote some lyrics about it. I added a little music and sang this song, which you can hear when you Get my Podcast on iTunes…

Shine In Your Glory

My love for You, Lord,
Is like a river.
Your love is like…the infinite sky.
You guide my steps
Through this worldly desert,
And I will hold your name most high.

And I will shine in Your glory…
And I will raise my hands to the sky…
And I will shine in Your glory…
And I will praise my Savior on high.

My joy is flowing out
Into your ocean.
Your grace rains down…in my open heart.
You take my hand
When the road is narrow,
And you’re my Light when things get dark.

And I will shine in Your glory…
And I will raise my hands to the sky…
And I will shine in Your glory…
And I will praise my Savior on high.

Shine in your glory… Shine in your glory
Shine in your glory… Shine in your glory

I hope you’ll be there with me to see those glorious sun-less, yet Son-filled days. If you don’t know how to get there, contact me.

Stay tuned,

Discover my ebooks on Amazon.com or Smashwords
Get my Podcast on iTunes – OR on your favorite player

Posted on February 19, 2019 by TonyFebruary 20, 2019

Humans Require Jazzy Love

I enjoy jazz. Not all of it. But then again, I don’t enjoy ALL of any kind of music. And there are plenty of kinds of music I don’t enjoy any of. (ended with a preposition on purpose) But one of the reasons I enjoy jazz is because of how versatile it is. Depending on the style you’re listening to, it can be completely predictable or totally unpredictable. Kind of like us humans. And that’s why I say we require jazzy love. Keep reading (or listening) and I’ll explain…

Jazzy love means: to love in spite of

That’s my own definition, and I’m talking about the ultimate love. No, not love with that celebrity you could have if only they’d give you a chance. True love. Straight from the source. Pure. Clean. Not unconditional, but not withheld when needed AND wanted.

That’s a description of God’s love for us humans. Jazzy love. He’s planned and improvised His love for us for six thousand years. It’s incredible how many key and time signature changes God has made in order for each and every one of us to have the best seats in the House. And so many of us would rather sit at the wobbly table next to the bathroom or double swinging door to the kitchen.

Have you ever listened to a jazz trio or jazz quartet in a live setting? The musicians like to take turns with leads and rhythms. Their improvisations don’t tend to be the exact same for every performance. Moods and emotions can change tempos. Enthusiast crowds can drive song choices. Even health can determine the quality of a show.

What’s all this got to do with love?

Nothing…maybe.

Then again…maybe everything.

When you read the history of the world, through the world’s best history book (the Bible), you discover the ultimate musician. He literally played His heart out for you and me and everyone throughout time. His songs were sometimes predictable, and other times based on the crowd participation of the day. Either way, they were all jazzy love songs. And He kept writing them for anyone who would listen.

What about you? Have you listened to God’s greatest hits? If not, check ’em out. You won’t be disappointed. Unless you prefer to make your own music your own way. But consider this…even if you sing, play instruments, and know how to record with the best of ’em, who invented music?

Hint: it wasn’t us humans.

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 14, 2019 by TonyFebruary 14, 2025

I guess Valentine’s Day (tomorrow, as I write this) has a lot of people asking that age old question: What is love? It’s only natural to ask, I suppose, since it’s not something you can see, smell, hear, taste, or hold in your hand.

What do I mean, when I say what is love…not a glove?

You can go just about anywhere, including online, and get yourself a good pair of gloves. And when you get a good fit, you won’t even think about it. You’ll just put ’em on, and they’ll fit…like a glove…so to speak. No second guessing. Certainly no hassles, unless you lose one.

But love isn’t like a glove. You don’t just fall in love and it fits. It needs constant adjusting and attention. Love has no “one-size-fits-all” option like some gloves do. In fact, you’ll discover, over the course of your life, how your love will go through many changes. Young love, for example, is full of emotional passion and is too often confused with and mixed with unrequited lust. Add some years to your life and you’ll notice you become much more focused and intentional about it.

As your time on earth shortens, you should begin to see, if you haven’t already, love is like the old song says, “a many splendored thing.” It’s kisses on your forehead when you’re sleeping. It brings you a bowl of hot soup when you’re sick. It lets you know when you’ve said more than you should. AND it cleans up the broken glass you dropped.

Love is an understanding ear opposed to a demanding mouth. It lifts up instead of lashing out. It’s a compliment instead of complaint. And it searches for solutions instead of pointing out problems. Love is found in kindness, not candy. And it endures, engages, and expects.

Love is the smallest, most gigantic force there is.

You wouldn’t exist it it weren’t for the love that flows from your Creator. So, you can’t believe in it, if you don’t believe in your Creator. And if that’s the case, no amount of candy, cards, romantic dinners, or romantic getaways will ever bring you love.

Here’s to a truly Happy Valentine’s Day.

Holding Out For The Dream

Smiling eyes and rosy lips
I’m waiting for the rhythm of those fingertips…through my hair.
Day and night I act it out.
No one else is sure of what I’m all about…but I don’t care…

Because I’m holding out for…I’m holding out for…
I’m holding out for the dream.

Violet skies and mountain tops…
I’m waiting for the kind of love that never stops…never dies.

A sailing ship; a crystal sea…
No one understands this inner part of me…this paradise.

I’m holding out for…I’m holding out for…
I’m holding out for the dream.

Sometimes the dream is the only thing…that sees me through.
Sometimes it seems it’s the only thing that I can do.

Quiet talk; a crackling fire.
I’m waiting for the kind of love that won’t expire…or fade away.

Instrumental…repeat chorus to end

Now, maybe you don’t know me well enough to buy something from me, yet. Ok, let’s change that. Get to know more about me and my worldview. Join the growing body of believers who’ve signed up for the Tony’s Daily Devotional . And bask in daily, delightful flashes of light from the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Posted on February 13, 2019 by TonyFebruary 14, 2025

Love Birds Songs

I love birds. Always have. And love birds songs. Love those, too. All the beautiful colors, the rustling of the wings, and certainly their ability to fly. Wow! Birds are amazing, sparkling creatures. God makes cool stuff.

Love birds, songs, candy, romance. Huh?

How did Valentine’s Day get to be a thing? I don’t mean the actual history of how it started? I mean, how did it get to be such a chocolate-filled, dining-out, romantic getaway thing?

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against buying loved ones special gifts to show your love. Far from it. But do we really need a “special day”for it? My postulation (which is correct, by the way) has always been that the essence of Valentine’s Day should be shared every day. Repeat…every day. Not the same way every day. But every day nevertheless.

“But Tony,” you say. “What does this have to do with love birds songs? “Well, in the first place…thank you for getting me back on track. And, in the second place…not much.

Except…

This week contains that infamous holiday, Valentine’s Day. So, I’m gonna share a song or two I sold on a CD compilation a while back: “All For Love.” But you’ll have to tune in to the The Power of God’s Love Podcast to hear ’em.

I wrote these love birds songs way, way back in my full-time musician days. And I remixed ’em, more recently, and served ’em up with an acoustic style. This first one is called…

All For Love

Sitting by the lake
Sipping on a drink
The wind is blowing by
And it makes me stop and think

A metaphoric day
And a melancholy night
I’m always in a battle
And I never win the fight

So why do I try? Why do I persist?
What could I be thinking of?
I’ll tell you why; it’s the reason I exist.
I do it all for love…I do it all for love.

All for love”
That elusive commodity
All for love”
That perpetual oddity.
I do it all for…I do it all for…I do it all for love.

Sitting by the fire
Staring at the stars
It’s pleasant times like this
That keep me up to par

But somewhere back at home
It’s another kind of night
Someone else is in a battle
And they seldom win the fight.

So why do we try? Why do we persist?
What could we be thinking of?
I’ll tell you why; it’s the reason we exist.
We do it all for love…we do it all for love.

Repeat chorus to end

Take a second and join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the Tony’s Daily Devotional . When you do, I’ll send you links to 2 songs and 2 books that adults AND kids enjoy right away. Then, I’ll send you flashes of light from the faith, hope, and the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 10, 2019 by TonyFebruary 24, 2025

Knowing right from wrong

Back in the 80’s, when I was a full-time professional musician in venues all across America, one of my good friends and I would go out to clubs and “check out the ladies”. By the way, my friend was an atheist (or agnostic depending on his mood), and didn’t think about things like whether what we did and said were right or wrong. To him, they were just what we did or said. Nothing more. And I, knowing right from wrong, didn’t press the issue. I just enjoyed our “guy time”and of course the babe watching. What can I say? The all-American-red-blooded boy ran deep through my veins.

Knowing right from wrong hasn’t always been my guiding force.

It’s sad how often Christians just let the world off the hook. We let things slide until they slide off a high cliff. And then we wonder how that cliff got there. Even though we’ve decided to trust God and the saving grace of His Son, Jesus, we don’t wanna “make waves”and lose friends.

Ironically, that’s the exact recipe for losing friends…forever.

I don’t remember how many times I’d let my friend express subtle (and not-so-subtle) innuendos about the beautiful women we watched…and simply go along with it. In fact, I’d add my two cents worth to it by figuratively drooling and making comments of my own.

And so my friend never felt guilty.

But one day I returned to my Christian principles.

After I’d been married a few, short years, my friend visited my wife and me in Colorado. And some of his atheistic/agnostic opinions popped into the conversation. But I didn’t let them slide. And I voiced my opposing opinion. Not surprisingly, he took offense, even calling me “arrogant”in my uncompromising view. (Even though his view was the uncompromising opposite)

Knowing right from wrong gave me the decided advantage, regardless of his refusal to concede any point whatsoever. For example, he (and another mutual friend) even found ways to defend the brutal rape of woman when I asked them if it would ever be absolutely right to do that.

Defended rape. Let that sink in.

When you don’t know right from wrong, you’ve already lost.

Why is any of this important? Why am I talking about it today? Because, when you have people you care about, you tell them the truth. So, it’s important to actually KNOW truth. And that makes knowing THE Truth, Jesus, your best resource for helping those you care about.

You might share truth and lose your friend forever…which I apparently did…at least so far. But if you don’t share truth, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll lose an unbelieving friend forever.

So, the results are worth the risk. Unless you don’t wanna make waves.

Stay tuned,

Get Rhyme and Reason on your favorite podcast channel and on YouTube.

Posted on February 9, 2019 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Why current events just don't make sense

Current events – a bumpy ride

(video no longer available)

Back in 19(%*#) oops, sorry. My signal dropped out. Anyway, during my college days back then I remember an assignment in one of the classes where we were asked to write an article about a current events “issue”. We were told to “take a stand” either FOR or AGAINST the issue. I lived (and attended college) in Western Kansas, and an “issue” at the time was whether or not the state should require helmets for motorcyclists. I wrote about that.

Laws should not be based on current events.

When I wrote that last sentence, I almost wrote “made” instead of “based”. Then, I quickly remembered…human beings cannot make laws. So we certainly can’t (and shouldn’t) pass laws based on current events. True laws…the unchanging, moral code for human behavior…can only be “made” by God. The best we humans can do is provide explanations of those laws to people who haven’t read (or don’t read) what God says about life.

But to get back to my story…

I wrote an article against enacting laws to require motorcyclists to wear helmets. And my “stand” shared statistics like how the overwhelming majority of motorcyclists, who didn’t wear helmets, weren’t dying of head injuries. And I could share other stats, but that old article is not my point.

My point is…current events are like feelings.

Feelings change. Thank God. And so do current events. That’s why they’re called “current”. What happened last year, at this same time, might have nothing to do with what’s going on in your life today. And it’s vitally important to focus on the time you’re actually IN. NOW. Today.

Yesterday is a vapor whisked away by a whirlwind. You’ll never get it back. Don’t even try.

And attempting to “make” laws based on what happened yesterday is an exercise in futility. You can never “make” enough laws to make people do right.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. Don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

Posted on January 26, 2019 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Changes in attitudes
changes in platitudes

When I used to play music full time, a lot of my copy material was ideal for that “island feel”so many people like when they’re on vacation. As a matter of fact, my wife and I lived in Tampa, Florida for a year, and I had some regular bookings in Clearwater. Literally ON the beach. And, of course the tourists (and locals) loved when I sang “changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes”from one of Jimmy Buffett’s songs. I guess there’s just something about the salt air and the sound of the ocean waves that puts you in the mood to listen to those songs.

These days changes in attitudes could use a lot more salt air and ocean waves

I don’t know how many videos I’ve seen lately where people are beating each other to a pulp. Men beating up other men. Women beating up other women. Men beating up women. One race pounding another. Young pounding on the elderly. It’s an epidemic, and it seems to be getting worse daily.

Why is everybody so mad? (Hint: rhetorical question)

What could possibly help those people get some positive changes in attitudes? Or is it all hopeless at this point? (Again with the rhetorical questions)

The answer to all of life’s dark problems is the Light of the world. And, no, I don’t mean the sun-in-the-sky-of-a-benevolent universe. What a ditzy idea. I’m talking about the One who is currently the figurative light of the world…and will one day be the actual Light we’ll live under. Jesus.

Don’t follow your heart. Follow your heart’s Designer.

You hear it in so many movies. On TV. Over the airwaves. Even in commercials. Silly platitudes like: “Just follow your heart.” Or “Do what you think is right.” And maybe the worst of all: “The universe will show you the way.”

Seriously?

If you truly want good and lasting changes, don’t follow your heart. And certainly don’t hang around waiting for an inanimate object, like the universe, to bring you good stuff. Instead, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” I can’t guarantee those changes in platitudes will bring immediate changes in attitudes. But I CAN guarantee, you’ll be glad you did.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

Posted on December 31, 2018 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

New year resolutions And internal revolutions

Can you “make”
new year resolutions?

In January of this year (2018) I decided to keep my streak going of not making new year resolutions. I figure if “everybody’s doing it”, then it’s a good idea not to do it. But I did set 3 goals for myself, and this is to let you know…I failed those goals. Miserably. When I say “miserably”, I mean that figuratively and literally. Allow me to explain.

Life derailed my new year resolutions for 2018

Now, when I say “life derailed”, I’m not talking about the life I received from my Creator. I’m talking about the everyday circumstances of living in a fallen and broken world. And if you’re reading (or listening to) this right now, you’ve been derailed by life, too. No one can avoid issues. So, having “issues” didn’t make me special. This ain’t no poor, poor, pitiful me party.

By the way…I’m only sharing this with you to help you understand something important. New year resolutions can be pulled out from under you like a new rug on a freshly waxed hardwood floor. So, it’s vital to be flexible and durable instead of attempting to be invincible.

You’re only as strong as your weakest link.

Have you ever heard that? It’s a truism. Not a fast and hard rule. But in my case, this past year, it was true. And in the “spirit of transparency”, as so many book writers and online marketers like to say, my weakest link is my heart.

It was only fairly recently I discovered, through some seemingly unrelated medical tests, I have a “bicuspid aortic valve”in my heart. I’m not gonna bore you with the details. It just means the aortic valve of my heart has two flaps where it should have three. Apparently it’s a fairly rare thing. Only about 1-2% of the population deal with it.

For most of my life I didn’t know about my heart’s “condition”. So, I’ve oftentimes physically exerted myself above and beyond normal. Like hauling 1200-1500 bales of hay in the Kansas summer heat when I was a teenager. Or like when I used to load my Rudolph Aeolian upright piano into my pickup…alone.

According to tests and my recent research, as I continue to age I need to be much more aware of my health and not over exert my heart. A bicuspid aortic valve tends to get “leaky”with age and exertion. As that happens, the heart can’t move the blood and oxygen through the body as efficiently as it should. And that can cause fluid to back up and actually cause problems in the lungs. And that leads me back to my new year resolutions for this past year.

My weakest link became my strongest foe.

I’ve always been a doggedly determined guy. I wasn’t always the strongest, or smartest, or wealthiest. But I WAS almost always the most determined. That’s what kept me going during those 18 hour hay-hauling days. And that’s what gave me the strength to lift a piano by myself.

But in January of this year (2018) I caught a cold.

Or, so I thought. It felt like a cold. It acted like a cold. And I kept working as though I’d just eat right and drink plenty of fluids and I’d be over it in a few days.

Wrong.

I’ve literally been sick for all of 2018.

This negatively affected my three main goals for this year: to write an article a day, a song a week, and a book a month.

None of that happened. Fatigue and focus don’t mix.

Elgielene and I have been working on getting me well. Don’t misunderstand. I haven’t been bedridden or lying around on a couch watching Netflix while eating soup and crackers. Far from it. I’ve been working every day. And some of that work probably contributed to my ongoing inability to overcome my “cold”. (That’s another story)

No rest for the weary.

In all of 2018 I’ve probably only had about two full nights of sleep. And most nights I wake up after only about 3 or 4 hours of sleep. Lately I’ve been able to go back to sleep for a couple more hours after being up for an hour or two. But the point is…I haven’t been getting enough rest.

As an example, just last night, I couldn’t get to sleep until about 12:45 because my lungs were being noisy bedfellows. And I woke up at 4. So, coffee has been a consistent companion.

Again…let me emphasize…this isn’t a pity party. Just sharing information I basically never share. Because I’ve “dropped out”a few times over the past year. No articles, or songwriting (with one exception) or book writing. My attention span was short and focused on finding out what’s wrong with me so I can know how to fight it.

So far, the educated guesses (and that’s what they have to be since no one has cut me open to take a look inside) point to “pulmonary edema”brought on by “congestive heart failure”or CHF.

Sounds worse than it is.

Those terms simply mean my lungs have too much fluid in them because my heart isn’t pumping blood and oxygen as well as it should be. While it has been a struggle to breathe properly this year, the good news is…the heart is a muscle. And it can be strengthened.

So, I have some awesome heart supplements coming today. (Thank you Amazon Prime 2-day delivery) That way I finish this year and start the next on a positive, heart-building note. And I have an awesome wife (who’s also a health coach) helping me stay focused on getting well.

And most importantly…I have a living, loving Creator I can turn to and talk to. Knowing Jesus will never leave me nor forsake me is the ultimate healthy heart remedy. He is my strength, my light, my salvation. And if I make any new year resolutions for 2019, the main one will be to avoid being a weak link to God. That’s my prayer for me…and for you.

Who’s with me?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

Posted on December 27, 2018 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Above imagination where there's so much fascination

Reporting from somewhere
high above imagination

In 2011 I began work on my second collection of original lullaby songs for kids. (psst…adults love ’em, too) Several people who bought the first collection, Lullabye Bye, asked me to write some with a country and western “feel”. And while I’m not a fan of what passes for country and western these days, I AM a fan of the true western “feel”. Think Roy Rogers, Sons of the Pioneers, and even Michael Martin Murphy. So, I decided to go west(ern) and high above imagination to a Dreamland for little buckaroos.

So…what’s above imagination?

As I started dreaming up lyrics for the title song, Bedtime Buckaroos, I thought about some essentials for western music. You know…cactus, ponies, ropes, and rodeos. And I began to visualize taking the listener where only imagination go. Into the starry sky and beyond.

Since it would be a collection of lullaby songs, I knew the rest of the songs would be in that same western world of imagination.

Here are the lyrics to the title song. And listen to (better yet, subscribe to) the The Power of God’s Love Podcast to hear the song. If you have kids (or you’re one at heart), let it take them (and you) high above imagination to a place where cosmic cowpokes sing around the campfire.

Bedtime Buckaroos

Bedtime Buckaroos When you close your eyes
Under dark blue skies
And you see there’s no more time to borrow,
Rope the Milky Way”
Let the ponies play,
And tonight will turn into tomorrow.

Hi yo…in your midnight dream rodeo
You win, there’s no way that you could lose.
Ki yi…keep that twinkle in your eye.
Drift off””˜cause it’s bedtime, buckaroos.

When your dreams begin,
You’ll be free again
To ride high above imagination.
Cactus silhouettes
Practice pirouettes
What a night of fancy fascination.

Chorus”

oo…ah-oo…ah-oo
Chorus to end.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

Posted on December 26, 2018 by TonyMarch 2, 2025

Do it yourself. Talk about attitude!

I’m guessing most of the guys in my generation were raised like me when it comes to being a gentleman. I don’t know that for sure, so I’ll just speak for myself. I was taught to open doors for ladies. Let them lead the way to the table in a restaurant, but the gentleman leads the way to the transportation and helps the lady in to be seated. There’s a fairly long list of courtesy tips, but let’s just say the whole idea is to treat the lady with TLC. (no, not Tony loves cantaloupe…although that’s true) Tender loving care. So, why in the world would I write a song telling the “weaker sex”…the “ladies fair”…the “femme fatales” to do it yourself?

Good question.

Back in the late 80’s I was a full-time road musician, and I attempted to show courtesy and respect to ladies as much as I possibly could. But it seemed like, even then, women were starting to not appreciate it so much. One young woman, in particular, became downright impossible to deal with. So, as I’m prone to do in such circumstances, I wrote a song about it.

I think it expresses my sentiments at the time quite nicely.

Do It Yourself

So many times I have opened your door
And hoped you would care
So many times I have ushered you in
And pulled back your chair

And then there were times I would fill up your car
And go to the store
So many times I would do what you want
But not anymore

Now you can do it yourself
See if you know what you’re missing
You can do it yourself
I can always find hugging and kissing
If you just want a pet..I think it’s time to forget
And learn how to do it yourself

So many times I would meet you at work
And take you to eat
So many times I would put you to sleep
Just by rubbing your feet
So many times I have wanted the same
But you couldn’t see
Now all the times I was thinking of you
I’ll be saving for me”.repeat chorus

You know where I am if you ever change your ways
You may not like my stand, but that’s how passion plays

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on December 22, 2018 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

Christian music artists sing messages about nothing.

Where are the whole Jesus
Christian music artists?

I just watched part of a Hillsong “praise music” song included in a video news clip and I just about got a toothache from the sugar-coated message. Before I explain, I’d like to point out the vocals were very good. And the singers looked sincere. Raised up arms and hands. Swaying back and forth in time to the music, etc. So, I’m not questioning or judging their hearts. But as I’ve noticed with so many Christian music artists, their song’s message lacked the actual manly power of God. And our Creator is the most manly man ever, so to only sing about peace, love, and joy is to rob the world of the whole Jesus. [update: this is the Christmas episode of the Rhyme & Reason Podcast]

Christian music artists used to sing about God’s might, strength, and judgment.

Now the message is so watered down even the most anti-God atheist wouldn’t feel uncomfortable singing along. So many “praise and worship” songs sound like any other love song on top 40 radio. And if your Christian music never makes anybody uncomfortable, you’re replacing the meat with sugar.

Today’s popular “Christian songs” simply leave out the I-wanna-do-it-all-night lyrics and replace them with something less secular. But many of them are so secularized they might as well be sung by Justin Bieber or Arianna Grande…or fill in the blank with a celebrity singer du jour.

A friend of mine recently posted, on social media, how “wimpy praise music” has replaced the “onward Christian soldiers” Christian music of the past. And I’ve seen her ask “where are the real Christian men?”

She knows they’re out there. But she and I both know their numbers have sadly dwindled in the past two or three decades. Christian music artists on the radio, and in churches, seem to prefer to sing only the “safe messages”. The messages about peace, love, joy, and beauty. And while Jesus is the source of all those, there is SO much more to Him.

When Jesus returns, it won’t be for a group hug.

The Bible says Jesus will rule and reign for a thousand years…and with a “rod of iron”. Does that sound like peace, love, and joy? It doesn’t even sound nice.

But I thought God is the God of love?! Isn’t that what Jesus taught?

Yes, And no. Love is not the whole message. And love is not the only emotion your Creator feels. Gasp! How dare I say that in this day and age?! How I dare say it is based on what God tells us about Himself in that famous book He wrote. The Bible shows the whole Jesus. And, as one of those Christian music artists I keep talking about, I say it’s important to sing and write songs about the whole Jesus.

So come on, Christian singers and songwriters. Let’s work a lot more on transforming the world…and a lot less on being conformed to it.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind The TRUTH today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Stay tuned,

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Or how about some music for believers, dreamers, and thinkers

Mother’s Day 2019

Resurrection Day 2019

The Way

Your Creative Brain

Yes, even YOU have a creative brain.

God’s creations stimulate your creativity.

How do I know this works?

Who knows the secrets of men?

Hypocrisy.

Only God truly knows the secrets of men.

The One True Way To Peace

You can’t hear this Ann Song

My Ann Song wasn’t about anyone I knew.

Ann

Did you know the beautiful rings of Saturn are debris?

So, how are the dirty rings of Saturn good news for you and me?

Guilty people go to hell

Guilty people tend to know they’re guilty.

How do you know you’re wrong?

Guilty people also go to Heaven.

When in Rome, what do you do?

Paul didn’t act like a typical Roman when in Rome.

When in Rome (or Ephesus or Galatia or Corinth, etc.) Paul shared the Truth.

And remember, when in Rome, be more like Paul…not the Romans.

What’s a day without sunshine?

How about a day without sunshine forever?

Just let that sink in.

Shine In Your Glory

Humans Require Jazzy Love

Jazzy love means: to love in spite of

What’s all this got to do with love?

What do I mean, when I say what is love…not a glove?

Love is the smallest, most gigantic force there is.

Holding Out For The Dream

Love Birds Songs

Love birds, songs, candy, romance. Huh?

All For Love

Knowing right from wrong

Knowing right from wrong hasn’t always been my guiding force.

But one day I returned to my Christian principles.

When you don’t know right from wrong, you’ve already lost.

Current events – a bumpy ride

Laws should not be based on current events.

My point is…current events are like feelings.

Changes in attitudes changes in platitudes

These days changes in attitudes could use a lot more salt air and ocean waves

Don’t follow your heart. Follow your heart’s Designer.

Can you “make” new year resolutions?

Life derailed my new year resolutions for 2018

You’re only as strong as your weakest link.

My weakest link became my strongest foe.

No rest for the weary.

Sounds worse than it is.

Reporting from somewhere high above imagination

So…what’s above imagination?

Bedtime Buckaroos

Do it yourself. Talk about attitude!

Do It Yourself

Where are the whole Jesus Christian music artists?

Christian music artists used to sing about God’s might, strength, and judgment.

When Jesus returns, it won’t be for a group hug.

Did you know the beautiful
rings of Saturn are debris?

Changes in attitudes
changes in platitudes

Can you “make”
new year resolutions?

Reporting from somewhere
high above imagination

Where are the whole Jesus
Christian music artists?