Tag Archives: the choice is yours

Tony Funderburk Posted on by

So, I’m sitting at my desk. And I found this in-depth review of my website. Part of it said:

Tony Funderburk’s website paints a picture of a man who is:

  • Boldly Convicted: Unapologetic about his Christian beliefs, he uses his platform to proclaim his faith and values.
  • Creatively Versatile: As a writer, musician, and illustrator, he blends media to craft a unique, engaging experience.
  • Emotionally Authentic: His heartfelt content reflects a genuine desire to connect with his audience.

In short, https://www.TonyFunderburk.com is a cozy, faith-filled corner of the web. And a space where Tony, the “#1 Righteous Rhymester,” shares his preacher-poet perspective through rhythm, rhyme, and relatable stories. Made for those who enjoy God-centric content with a playful twist.

Yeah, that defines why I’m at my desk alright.

Because I care about YOU. And I care about what’s gonna happen to you. Not just today. Every day. And that includes all the days that flow into an endless future. Because you DO have an endless future. And eternal life and death are yours for the choosing. So, I suggest this:

Choose Life

Well you hid your heart in a so-called safe place,
And you locked your love in a big, black box,
And you had no hope,
But you built your brave face,
And you ran your rat race…through the tics and tocs.

Well, the bluebells bloomed in ideal intentions
As you tilled the truth into lifelong lies,
And you dug in deep making many mentions
Of your pretty pensions…always alibis.

You can’t run away from real truth.
And every word of truth is a knife.
A captivating voice might pigeonhole your choice,
Cut free…and choose life.

When your daydreams die and you feel half-hearted,
And your love is lost in a soulless sky,
Try to train your thoughts when your brain’s bombarded
By the stuff you started, learn to love the lie.

Choose life…choose life…choose life  © 2013

If you wanna talk about it, I’ll probably right here at my desk. Email me.

Speaking of email, your email address is all it takes to get encouraging, regular issues of my Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional. It comes directly to your inbox so you spend your valuable time reading instead of searching. And, to show my sincere appreciation for your time and attention, I’ll send you download links to 2 of my Christian books for kids and 2 songs, right away, that grownups AND kids can enjoy.

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

I know it’s not the “in” thing to say. But I don’t believe “everything happens for a reason.” And I don’t believe everything that happens is “part of God’s plan.” Yeah, I know I’m going against the grain on this. But, from what I’ve read, I don’t believe I’m going against God on this. Because He says some things happen by chance. And He’s mentioned how some things we humans have done never crossed His mind.

What?!

Don’t take my word for it. But “by chance” is in THE Word.

So, here’s the deal. Accidents happen. Not for some predestined or preordained reason. But simply because of an oversight. Or neglect. Or even forgetfulness. And sometimes no one actually knows how an accident happened. There just isn’t a logical reason for why or how it could have happened.

But that’s not the time to say something silly like “God is taking you through something.” Or “Well, we can’t explain it. So, we just need to trust God’s plan.”

And yet, those kinds of thoughts flood the social media platforms from well-intentioned (I hope) Christians. But they disregard the fact that God says things can happen by chance. And He says YOU are responsible for your choices and decisions. But why would He say those things if you’re just doing what He predestined you to do?

Short answer? He didn’t predestine your daily To-Do list. You can disagree with me if you like. But you’ll also be disagreeing with what God says. And if you’re comfortable with that, so be it. I hope you’re not.

Oddly enough, I’m sharing this with you because of a very cool picture a friend of mine shared on social media. It’s an old pickup truck abandoned out in a field. And the sky is overcast by an approaching storm. The pickup is very rusty. But it’s not totally falling apart. In fact, all the windows and even the headlights are still intact.

My last post talked about patina. And here I am talking about it again.

But I guess it’s because I can relate, on a certain level, to the pickup in the picture. It’s the picture, you see through my blue glasses, that goes with this post.

Anyway…

I’ve noticed a lot of people sharing similar pictures of old pickups. And regardless of how many times I see them, I still believe it’s a coincidence. And I believe that coincidence happens because so many people get a kick out of looking at, and sharing, pictures of old pickups.

All that being said, here’s the rhyme I wrote to go with the rusty pickup picture:

The sky approached, with bubblewrap, the overgrown arena.
And there a truck, from yesteryear, with rusty orange patina,
Sat silent in the tall, green grass in glass-eyed meditation
On bygone days and country roads, a faded consolation
For time so full of memories and miles recorded each year.
How could it be? Just as you see. By chance it ended up here.

If you enjoy my rhymes and reasons, be sure to share them with others. In fact, they might make an awesome Christmas gift for someone you care about. By chance (NOT) here’s a link to lots more:

(https://www.amazon.com/stores/Tony-Funderburk/author/B008R08LUG/allbooks)

Stay tuned…

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Here’s the cold, hard truth. You have no choice. You MUST believe in the God described in the Bible. No other option is available, viable, or reliable. So, give up. And give in. Resistance is futile.

Oh wait. That’s The Borg.

So sorry. My mistake. And I’m so embarrassed.

Except, I’m not. Because I’m making a point. Something I often (almost always) do here on TonyFunderburk.com And the point is…

You don’t have NO choice.

And I know a double negative is improper grammar. But that, again, is to emphasize the point. When it comes to the God of the Bible, you are NOT forced to choose Him or love Him. And you don’t even have to believe in Him. Because He knows that, in order for love to be real and true, it must be freely given.

So, why would a living, loving God of creation give you no choice but to love Him? Short answer: He wouldn’t. He didn’t. And you are free to even hate Him. As I alway say, I don’t recommend that choice. But you have your own will. Your own mind. And, as a result, you can even freely decide to make the ultimate bad choice.

But for those of us who understand that ideas have consequences, the Truth is unavoidably compelling. To be compelled is to be A: forced or B: obliged. So, the compelling feeling I have falls under the obliged column.

Because God made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure I could live forever, it’s almost like I have no (wise) choice. I…

Have To Believe

I can hear my heart, but I just can’t feel my life.
I can feel You cut, but I just can’t see the knife.
You slip Yourself inside of me
To show me what I’m meant to be;
Unlock me with Your golden key;
Protect me from the wizardry
Of this world far below.

I can feel Your love; though I never see Your face,
And whenever I’m alone,
You still fill the empty space.
I never have to reach for You.
You always seem to pull me through.
You do the things that I can’t do;
Not even if I wanted to…not even if I tried.

And I have to believe…You did everything for me.
‘Cause what I have to believe
Is the truth that sets me free (repeat)

You must know my dreams
Because you’re making them all come true.
I know that You’re the One
Because no one could but You.
Your steady hand is always near.
With perfect love You conquer fear.
You brush away the dark veneer,
And suddenly it’s all so clear which way I should go.

Chorus

Well, I’m not sure if I deserve it.
I’m lighter than air and soaring like a bird,
And if I can love You any better…just say the Word!

Repeat Chorus to end

© 1996

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

As I started typing, at 3:30 this morning, I wasn’t sure what I would say. It was another physically challenging night. But I know how writing almost always revives my brain and keeps me going. So, I opened the computer, logged into my WordPress admin area, opened a “new post” and started writing. And just like it almost always goes, rhymes began to float to the top of my mind.  

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Almost always word plays through the maze light a blaze

And just like almost always, the rhymes head toward Heaven.

Of course, it makes total sense when you think about it. I mean, what could be more important than sharing a message of eternal hope with people? Right?

And if it’s not true, if I’m wrong, have I harmed anyone by sharing a message of eternal hope? Even if there’s no hope…even there’s only empty darkness when you die…what’s wrong with having hope until then? Because hope is often the only thing that helps humans through their dark days.

“But Tony, if there’s really no hope of eternal life, aren’t you deceiving people with a message of hope?”

Nope.

First…the evidence to support my claim of hope is overwhelming. At least to anyone willing to see or hear it. And second…it’s more deceitful (and harmful) to regurgitate a hopeless message.

But if you don’t want to see or hear this Christian good news message I’m always singing and talking about, tune out. Stop reading or listening to me right now. And as Fleetwood Mac sang, “go your own way.” And don’t let the digital door hit you on the backside as you leave. I won’t chase after you begging you to please understand.

You’re a big boy or girl. And your Creator has given you a will of your own. So, it’s important to know, and remember, it’s YOUR choice where you’ll spend eternity. So…

Be sure you’re good to go with it.

Some words that swirl around inside my head
Might live on long after I’m gone.
Because my thoughts of love become the words
To form a final denouement.
And who knows who might find the saving Truth
In words I was willing to share?
It would be awesome to find out one day
I helped a few, from here to there,
To understand the one Way life makes sense
And what their part is in the plot.
So I’ll keep sowing my small seeds of Life.
They might grow into food for thought.

© 2020 Tony Funderburk

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Tony Funderburk Posted on by

I need mercy on me. How about you?

I’ve lived an interesting life so far. I’ve already lived longer than my Dad and his two brothers. And it’s already longer than several other relatives and friends I’ve known. But I don’t know if it would have been this long if it wasn’t for God’s mercy on me. I don’t want to imagine the hopelessness I’d feel if I didn’t have my Creator to lean on, trust in, and talk to. Even if I lived to be 100, I’d still know that it was gonna come to an end and then where would I be?

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Have you ever thought about why you’ve lived as long as you have? Well, I think about those things. And I know life’s not an accident. Or a set of processes none of us have control over. You and I were put here on purpose. Who did it? And why? Does it even matter? Should you try to figure it out…or just live your life the best way you can?

Here’s why the mercy I mentioned matters…

You and I do things we shouldn’t do. If I were to make a list of the things I’ve said or done that I shouldn’t have, I’d have to dedicate every article I write and every podcast episode I record to those things. But here’s the ultimate cool thing that trumps all those other things on my “bad” list: God’s mercy on me. He is able and willing to wipe my bad slate clean, and all I gotta do is humble myself, ask Him to, and trust that He will.

It’s important to know God isn’t making you and me do the bad things we do. Even though we’re here on purpose, we’re not robots. And God hasn’t planned our lives for us. He doesn’t work that way…in spite of all the weak messages to the contrary you might hear from televangelists and churches. Instead, here’s what God does for you…He gives you a brain and a soul. And He wants to see what you’ll do with them. You’re free to use them for God…or against Him…to a point. Talk about taking risks?!

God’s mercy on me gives me more time to make a difference.

My mission, in this life, is to use the gifts of words and music God gave me to share the faith, hope, and love available to anyone who wants it. Anyone who’ll ask for it.

Since I didn’t receive what I deserve a long time ago, I’ve been able to grow and learn more about my Creator. That has given me much more knowledge and wisdom to share with anyone and everyone who’ll listen or read. And that word…anyone…is important because it’s both plural and singular. Any is synonymous with all. One means only one…for example, you. You’re one of the any.

So, anyone means every person in the world. You’ll find the spirit of that word in one of the most famous Bible verses. John 3:16. Click that link and read it. I’m sharing a song about God’s love and mercy in the Rhyme and Reason Podcast  version of this message. Lyrics are below.

Do you know the mercy I’m talking about? Have you experienced it? Or are you struggling with doubt and fear about where you’ll be forever? Either way, write to me and let me know. I’d like to help you see how life makes sense.

Give Me What I Deserve

You gave me life…
Gave me love, and gave me freedom.
You took my sins…
And You nailed “˜em, and You beat “˜em…

“˜Cause this person who you bought never had the nerve.
So I’m glad that you did not…
Give me what I deserve.

You gave me hope,
Gave me bread and living water.
You gave your blood…
When I led you to the slaughter.

But you never even fought or let your focus swerve.
And I’m glad that you did not…
Give me what I deserve.

Lord, don’t give me…what I deserve.
If I stand in the middle of the road,
Nudge me to Your side.
Lord, don’t give me…what I deserve…
“˜Cause I’m the reason and the cause
Why Jesus died…But then He rose again!

You gave me joy…
Gave Your word you’d leave me never.
You gave Your life so that I could live forever.

And on this earthly azure dot I can choose to serve.
So I’m glad that you did not…
Give me what I deserve.

© Copyright Tony Funderburk 2010

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Love God And Live Longer

Tony Funderburk Posted on by

So…here’s my 1 step plan to a longer, richer life. Ready? Got a pen and paper or computer handy? Here goes. Love God and live longer.

Whew! Are you tuckered out? Yeah, I know…it’s a pretty grueling regimen. But you know what they say…no pain, no gain. So, if you truly wanna live a longer life, you’re gonna need to open your heart and let your love flow to God. That might be more painful for some than others.

But here’s the payoff, when you love God…

…eternal life.

And here’s a key point I’m always sharing here in my letters as well as when I’m talking to people in person…

…you get to choose. Exercising your body keeps you healthier, but you have to decide to do it. You choose. In fact, until you choose, you won’t see any positive results. It’s completely up to you. And eternal life with God in His Heavenly paradise is completely up to you, too.

But maybe you don’t think God, the God I’m talking about, exists. Or maybe you think He doesn’t love you. Or maybe you think you couldn’t love a god who would allow you to have the unfulfilled life you’re living. Or maybe you have some other stubborn reason for choosing yourself over God.

I’d like to suggest you give up those reasons. Give up the need to BE a god. Give up the desire to be served and start looking for ways to serve. Maybe you could start by simply serving your family or friends. You might be surprised at how much better you’ll feel when you take the focus off you. And I wouldn’t be at all surprised to hear that you decided to take your love to the next level. In fact, I’d get to rejoice with the angels when I get to hear you’ve decided to love God and live forever.

When you do, let me know. Seriously.

Stay tuned,

Tony

The End of Life Is Not The End of Living

Tony Funderburk Posted on by

What do you suppose happens when you reach the end of your life? Well, for most, the worst is yet to come. But for some (millions), the end of this life isn’t the end of living. It’s really a matter of where you put your faith. Where is yours? In dirt? Or in God. Can I make a recommendation?

Dirt will always keep you down and dirty. God will lift you up higher than the universe. He’ll show you eternal love and give you eternal life. But…

…not if you don’t want it. Why would you want to serve yourself for all eternity? Why would you want to be alone with your thoughts for all of eternity? Why would you ever want to be your own god? Why? Why? Why?

Sorry, but why? is not my favorite question. In fact, I prefer to think about the solution. Give up wanting to be god. Let God have that title. Show Him the respect He deserves for creating all living matter. You might just enjoy eternal life in paradise with Him. But if you think you wouldn’t, you certainly can make sure the end of your life is the end of living. It’s up to you…

The Living End

How can I explain the numbers in the rain?
I’d like to help illuminate the pathways to your mind.
But I am just a man; I’ll do the best I can
I’ll show you where to look, and I’ll tell you this:
It isn’t behind…

It’s a firecracker and a windchime
It’s a loudspeaker and a street mime
It’s the friction of invisible wind…It’s the living end

I should write a book; give back what I took
It’s the kind of thing that multiplies
When you give it away
The knowledge and the lack;
The rails that make the track
Tend to open doors and open hearts
To what they can say…

It’s a sand pebble and the fired glass
It’s a skyscraper and a mountain pass
It’s the friction of invisible wind…It’s the living end

Oh, and I’m sure I can’t make you believe
If it’s not within your will
Oh, and it’s been around since Adam and Eve
And it never stood still

How can I extol the matters of the soul?
I was never one to shake my fist and preach in the square.
No, I just always knew that faith would lead me through,
And there has to be a larger life that lasts forever out there

(repeat 1st chorus)

© 1992 Tony Funderburk

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