What's really most important in life? What do we spend most of our time in pursuit of throughout our days? Are we focused on storing up our treasures on Earth or in Heaven? This song expounds on all those questions and offers some things to think on as well. It's kind of inspired by Jesus' parables of foolish rich farmer and the Pharisee and the tax collector at the temple. It's also a reminder that we can't live for both God and money. We will never find satisfaction in seeking to satisfy ourselves. It's ultimately a reminder that we should live life all for Jesus and His glory above all. His words hit like a karate chop to remind us that a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. As Rich Mullins said, "the stuff of earth competes for the allegiance I owe only to the Giver of all good things." (One of my favourite lines in his classic song, "If I Stand".) By God's grace, let's confess to Him the idols we have made of money, fame and things and find the true blessings that come from walking humbly with The Lord. He is truly all we need.
"You're So Blessed"
(parody of "You're The Best" by Joe Esposito; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 1/14/2022)
(1 Timothy 6:6-12, 1 Timothy 6:17-21, Job 1-2, Psalms 2, Psalms 73:23-28, Hebrews 13:5, Romans 14:10, 1 Corinthians 3, Philippians 3:1-14, 2 Corinthians 8:9, 2 Corinthians 5:5-10, 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, Luke 18:9-17, Luke 18:18-34, Luke 12:13-34, Matthew 6:19-24, Matthew 6:33, Matthew 16:24-28, Matthew 7:24-29, Ecclesiastes 1:9, Ecclesiastes 2:11, Ecclesiastes 9:11, Ecclesiastes 2:25, Ecclesiastes 5:5-10, Ecclesiastes chapter 12, Amos 4:1-3)
Try to please Self
'Cause you only live once
Solomon's got a Word to players
Ecclesiastes
12- we're going to dust
For our God, He will judge- obey Him!
History repeats itself
Nothing new sun sees
Allies rout Napoleon
And you stand wavering
You're the best!
Around!
Nothing's gonna ever keep you down
You've been blessed!
And how!
Nothing's gonna ever sweep you now
You're the best!
For now!
Someone's gonna one day beat you out
Midas, my friend
Pause your life for a min.
All the things that you have define you
(Of) what you got, you're so proud
Storing up- what about
When Lord God calls today? Read 12 Luke
Time and chance still whip us all
And one day fire will tell
1 Corinthians 3- Christians there
Unbelievers are in Hell
You're obsessed
With clout!
None of that will even mean squat now
You invest
Cash cow!
Money's got your heart- it's fleeting now
Hedonists
Will bow
Something's humbled Epicurus now!
Job was best
Around!
Satan wanted to just bring him down
So he'd test
Him out
Nothing that Job had couldn't leave him now
He confessed
Faith now
Nothing come in or we'll leave with now
Christ said life's not
All made up
Of your stuff
Don't thrill to greed- keep guard! (Yikes!)
Pull the thread, camel (Eye!)
Rich men- Who'll save soul?
Forgive your sins?- Leave all to God
He favours meek, not proud
Beat your breasts!
And bow!
Nothing but a Pharisee, fat cow
4 Amos-
Read now!
Publican's cleared by Jesus now
Thorns were pressed
On crown
Blood has covered everything broke now
Lord Jesus
Paid out
Nothing's gonna ever keep us out
Just confess
Pray now!
Jewel's worth it-
Sell everything you've got
He's The Best!
I've found
Nothing but The Lord completes me now!
(See Exodus 20:25 NLT for the origin of the blog title.) "My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for The King; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer." (Psalms 45:1) [If the last part of that verse is true for me, it's only because of Jesus in me. He's my only good. I am nothing without Him. He must increase and I must decrease.] "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalms 19:14)
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
You're So Blessed (Song)
Glory of God (song)
..
As part of a leadership training program at work recently, I was asked to write my personal mission statement. In thinking upon this directive, I wrote down the main goals I have long held dear. These are still my guiding principles for all of life and I want to be doing them all the more each day. Ultimately, as Colossians 3:1-4 talks about, my life is hidden with Christ in God. I wanted to present my personal mission statement here because it is a good summary of what this song is about as well. Though I wrote the parody song a few years ago in 2021, it lines up nicely with the statement I wrote towards the end of July 2024. It's essentially my personal mission statement in song form. Here's the one I wrote recently in prose form first though.
"I want to live my life for the glory of God above all. In doing this, by faith in Jesus Christ's death and Resurrection for salvation from sins and Hell, and through the power of The Holy Spirit, I seek to obey Christ's commands summarizing The Law.
Love The Lord thy God with all thy heart, mind, soul and strength. And love thy neighbour as thyself. I want to also always be speaking The Truth in Love. Thus, I am bold in being a witness for Christ in both how I speak and live and I share Truth with love and grace."
Certainly, there are many other commands in The Bible that could be listed, along with warnings, admonitions, promises and so forth, et cetera. Yet Jesus summarized all The Law and Prophets with those two commands, so I just seek to hold to Him and ask His help in fulfilling His top two commands that govern our relationship with God and with man. Like Peter said in John 6:68, where else can we go? Jesus alone has the words of eternal life. And as I cling to Him for life in both this life and the next, I want to do it all for the glory of God.
"Glory of God"
(parody of "Glory of Love" by Peter Cetera; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 9/28/2021)
(2 Peter 3:14-18, Jude 1:24-25, Philippians 1:21, 1 Peter 1:15-25, Colossians 3:1-4, Galatians 2:20, Romans 12:1-2, Hebrews 13:8-16, Philippians 4:4-13, Philippians 3:7-21, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Hebrews 13:5-6, Hebrews 11:1-3, Hebrews 11:6, Hebrews 11:13-16, Habakkuk 2:4, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10, 1 Corinthians 15:50-58, 1 Corinthians 9:19-27, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:23-24, Psalms 19:14, 2 Timothy 2:8-13, 2 Timothy 4:1-8, 2 Corinthians 7:1, 1 John 2:1-6, 1 Corinthians 1:23-31, Hebrews 12:1-15)
In life it's very clear that we're all dying here
There's so many things I want post-haste
(A) wife to always love true
(And) have a family of my own
My life's not over yet- past things I might regret
That make it hard to see new growth then
I don't want to lose time
Can't recover- wasted time's gone
I'm just a man saved by Christ through His offer
He died and He rose for misdeeds I'd done
We'll live forever- (but) now until Heaven
Grant I'd give my all for the glory of God
Philippians 3 calls all else loss for Christ's call
I'm pressing on then toward Heavenlies
I have all I need in Christ
I'll forever praise Him alone
2 Galatians- crucified with Lord Christ there
Go read what He wrote- Colossians 3:3, bud
He lives instead there- old man's no longer
My life's hidden with for the glory of God
I live for Christ but sinning harbours
Cumbersome vines that hold
Run for prize- lay aside all weights
Looking to my Saviour all by faith
12 in Romans- sacrifice for God's honour
Lord, keep me near You 'cause world leads me off
I wanna live for Jesus- only by His strength
19:14 Psalms- may I glorify God
I'll live for Christ- yeah- knowing that whether
Longings come or not- my life's work is for God
He gave His all for Love
I'm living all for God
City coming above
I'm living all for God
Friday, October 1, 2021
Lost People (song)
Sunday, March 21, 2021
Ever Read Ecclesiastes? (Song)
Meaningless! Everything is meaningless! Does the world ever feel that way? Do you feel driven to despair? Many have felt that way for a long time since things on Earth first fell apart so long ago back in Genesis 3, when sin made everything get hairy. When you get down with these blues and get down to kneel, son- remember to look up to God alone who brings order out of the chaos, adds Life to our days and makes meaning in the midst of mediocrity. Everybody's talking at you saying all kinds of things about how to make your life meaningful. In the middle of all your searching for significance, ever read Ecclesiastes? Listen to what The Lord has to say about life and follow Him and let Him give you eternal meaning and Hope.
"Ever Read Ecclesiastes?" (parody of "Everybody's Talking" by Harry Nilsson; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 10/17/2020) (book of Ecclesiastes; particularly 1:1-2, 1:9, 1:14, 2:9-11, 2:24-26, 3:1-11, 3:16-22, 4:9-12, 5:1-7, 5:18-20, 6:7-12, 7:1-4, 7:10-13, 8:10-13, 9:7-12, 10:1-4, 10:10-15, 11:1-7, 12:1-8, 12:11-14)
Everything's all vanity
Under sun there's no innovations
Go read Ecclesiastes 1:9
People shopping, striving
I can see they're chasing
Only the wind blows- passes them by
Ongoings have seasons and timing
That The Lord ordains
(We're) going to forever recompose
Breaking's hard for the cord of three strands
So fear God in utter awe please
When living's over we're going by His throne
(Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!)
All toiling under sun- keep smiling
Due to 5:18
Don't call old days better- dude, sin's old!
Banking all on The Lord brings wins
Assails us all- time, whimsy
Foolishness pours forth but wisdom's a stepping stone
Ecclesiastes 11:6 reads
Can't know what works- keep sowing
Only The Lord knows- (so) enjoy Life
Guys, don't let age leave Lord God behind
'Cause God will judge all deeds
(Whoa!)
Life's found in man's duty- keep God's commands!
Monday, January 18, 2021
Pride's Deceit- Downward Leads (Song)
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth- and things were good. Everything went downward quickly when humans chose to rebel against God. And though we bear our own blame for sin, there's one individual in particular responsible for putting all evil things in motion. He slinks around, prowling for prey like a lion. His pride drove him out from God's presence and he's been on the outs ever since, battling back in a war he'll never win all through the timeline from B.C. to A.D. and to eternity. Lo, his doom is sure- one little word shall fell him. The Lord will ultimately have the victory.
"Pride's Deceit- Downward Leads"
(Parody of "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" by AC/DC; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 8/21/2020)
(Proverbs 16:18, Romans 16:20, Isaiah 14, Ezekiel 28, Genesis 3, Revelation 12, Job 1-2, Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, Luke 4:1-13, John 10:10, John 8:42-47, Matthew 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24, John 18-21, 1 Peter 5:8-9, James 4:7, Revelation 20)
Is. 14- read; Trouble (in) Paradise began
He's given you all jewels
You want to escalate past God and ascend
How cut to ground are you!
Kicked out by God
Pride falls Day Star
Ezekiel line
Just read
Verse 12 in 28 (two eight) (to) finish- Hey!
Defeated by your pride
There in E-den - how sweet!
Holy scene- mountain peak!
Eternal peace- undone so cheap!
Dirty deeds- well, they're now your thing
Luke 10:18- you fell down (like) lightning
You came trawling- Genesis 3:1
New gods age garden plot
The devil's dealing lies as serpent
We sin; the teardrop start from that
Pick up in Job
O'er sphere, you roam
You make a social call
"Don't fence him in!"
Permits it- God's in
We'll have a test here, y'all
Tragedies come bring grief
Devil thinks Job will speak
Curse but he won't - just read
Verse 2:10, 1:21 - shift scene
Turn to Rev-elation 12- read
The dragon and lady that he wanted gone
'Cause her Babe's God Jesus!
Mike beat dragon and crew- Fight's end kicks
Demon crew out on butts
Picked up chase- Won't
Leave her alone
With Christ you faced off and
Your temptings
He slapped down- just read
In Matt. 4, man
Dirty deeds- God's Word beats
Verses repeat- Sword swings deep
Devil schemes- Son's defeat
Strike the heel- Enters Judas- sees priests, yeah
Thirty pieces (of) silver- one lost sheep!
King of Jews crucified on the tree
Come Day Three
Son's rise- come back- crush snake's head
Sinners redeemed!
Roaring beast
Who's a lying thief who wants our doom
John 10:10- read
Rev. 20
Your defeat
Burn eternally
Done- you're beat!
........................................
Thursday, December 24, 2020
Gloria in Excelsis Deo (song)
The wonder and mystery of the Incarnation is always so startling and overwhelming when I truly contemplate it. Romans 5:8 is a Bible verses that always blows me away when I consider its truth. "But God demonstrated His own love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." It's crazy to think that God Almighty Himself loves us all so much that He would deign to lower Himself in such great humility and strap on human skin and bones for 33 years! One of my favourite Christmas carols captures it well. "Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown when Thou camest to Earth for me. But in Bethlehem's home was there found no room for Thy holy nativity! O come to my heart, Lord Jesus! There is room in my heart for Thee." ("Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne" by E.S. Elliot) It's amazing to think that God would leave His throne and set aside His glory in Heaven and come to Earth for me! Thank You, Lord Jesus for coming to save me from my sins so that I could be born again! Thank You that are risen and returning as well! That kind of amazing love and grace drives me to sing with the angels, "Gloria!" All glory to Lord Jesus! Grazie, Signore!
"Gloria in Excelsis Deo" (parody of "Gloria" as performed by Laura Branigan; written by Umberto Tozzi, Giancarlo Bigazzi and Trevor Veitch) (copyright by Nathan Ludwick 12/16/2020)
(Isaiah 7:14, Micah 5:2, Genesis 3:15, Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-56, Luke 2:1-21)
Story of what took place with God's Son now
Coming after prophecy
Isaiah 7:14 (now)
1 Matthew's got this quote now
The Lord Himself foretold it
Virgin gets pregnant- forthcomes Babe out
So the angel said to Joseph
He nearly broke it off with her
But he stuck with Mary instead
And her Boy's God Incarnate
Called Emmanuel! God with us!
Going to save us from sin!
And Mary's God's servant- cool!
Got visit by angel Gabriel in
Luke in the first chapter
Read where she then magnified
Oh-oh-oh, Holy Lord our God!
Magnificat! (Background Vocals: Magnificat!)
Decree says go be numbered
(BGV: Go read up!) 5:2 Micah- birthplace (of) Jesus
(BGV: Word of God!) But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah
(BGV: You're little!) But you shall bring forth Israel's ruler
Joseph's from line of David
Got no choice 'cause inn's full- then- swaddling cloths, manger
Ah-ah-ah! Ah-ah-ah!
Glory of Lord our God- it shone 'round
Shepherds keeping watch that same night
Oh, still Bethlehem's 'bout to be loud!
Time's due- Mary births God's Son- read
Take a look there in Luke chapter 2
"Fear not!" angel said (to) shepherds who quake
"For all people, I'm bringing Good News!
Unto you this day is born a Saviour
Well, He's born in city of David
Christ The Lord- sign you'll get- swaddling cloths, manger"
Gloria (BGV: Gloria) Angel is joined by numbers
(BGV: Gloria) They speak to God these praises thus
(BGV: Gloria) Luke 2 verse 14- (thanks, Linus)
(BGV: Gloria) "To God glory in the highest
Peace on earth, good will to men
On whom God's favour rests"- calling Gloria!
(BGV: Gloria) (x3)
...............................................................................
Saturday, December 5, 2020
I'm Too Nerdy (song)
It's been said that sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me. This saying is really not true because words do hurt. The teasing and unkind words from others can really penetrate our thoughts and shake us from a place of security.
If you want a saying that is right said, Fred, try this one- "The evil men do lives after them." We can be crushed by the evil deeds other do to us- if we let them. When we ground ourselves in faith in Jesus though, we don't have to be shaken by the mean things others and say do to us. When we know our eternal worth in Christ and know His love for us, it doesn't matter. If God be for us, who can be against us? No one!
And even though I have been identified with the nerds and geeks quite often, I'm not bothered by it because I know who I am and Whose I am in Christ. And I am commanded to love my enemies and pray for them and that is what I strive to do. As 1 Corinthians chapter 1 tells us, God loves to use the nerdy and geeky people in the world to shame the popular and cool kids. I am thankful that even if the world thinks I'm too nerdy, God thinks I'm infinitely valuable and loves me just as I am.
"I'm Too Nerdy"
(parody of "I'm Too Sexy" by Right Said Fred; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/27/2020)
(2 Corinthians 12:9-11, Philippians 2:1-18, John 15:18-19, Matthew 5:10-12, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Romans 12:9-21, Psalms 139, Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Peter 4:12-19, 1 Peter 3:17)
I'm Poindexter- seem unloved
Who's President (of) Bug Club
Bugs never leave me
I'm too nerdy for these jerks
Assess me and my worth
So nerdy it hurts!
And I'm so nerdy- mow my lawn
Szalinski automaton
"You dork!" they deadpan
I'm too nerdy for their party
Poindexter throws own party
Yes, way I'm disco dancing
I'm Steve Urkel and though they're all mean
And they glued this little nerd to the toilet!
Yeah- want a prank war!
But I can't walk out
"Salute your shorts, you nerd, on the flagpole!"
I'm so nerdy that Picard, Spock, Kirk, LaForge, Riker
(Are) insects on ant farm!
And I'm obsessing on Screech's hat
For chess scene- need that hat
One from Violet Bickerstaff
I'm very model (of) modern major geek
I'm a Simon Seville nerd good with school work
Dilton the bookworm
Do jocks' homework, yeah
All A's in Calculus, Science, et. all
That nerdy, weird guy
Science geek Bill Nye
Tom Edison- smart guy
I'm Arvid Engen- you know IHP
And I do other cheek turn when they slap one
Yeah- in St. Matthew
5:39 (yeah)
Yeah, I'm saved by Lord Jesus- and I walk talk
Enemies in my prayers
For them I love and care
Jesus, He
Purposed me here
1 Corinthians in 1
God picks weak (to) shame the strong
Love's going to lead me
'Cause I'm eternally loved by God!
Sunday, November 29, 2020
Sharing Lord Christ 'Til Heaven (song)
It's been said that everyone wants to go to Heaven but no one wants to die. Of course, death is the door to eternity. Sadly though, many will enter that door to eternal condemnation and suffering separated from God in Hell. Sadder still, there are many who think they will enter into eternal peace and rest in Heaven but they will find they are mistaken and are still on the hook because they put faith in someone other than Jesus. It is only through faith in Jesus' death and Resurrection that pays for all sins that we can escape the Hell we deserve and instead enter the Heaven we don't deserve.
The only Doctor who can give us the right medicine for salvation is Jesus Christ. There is no other way. We need to share this Healing Balm with everyone we can. One thing we can't do in eternity is share The Gospel with lost people. We must witness and share The Gospel with all people- that's our Great Commission from The Lord Jesus. So let's make the most of every moment because the days are evil and start sharing Lord Christ 'til Heaven.
"Sharing Lord Christ 'Til Heaven"
(parody of "Sharing The Night Together" by Ava Aldridge and Eddie Struzick as recorded by Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/25/2020)
(Romans 10:9-13, Revelation 20:15, 2 Kings 7:9, Acts 1:6-8, Matthew 7:12-23, Matthew 10:26-33, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 9:42-50, Luke 16, John 15:8)
You're looking at an unholy world
With your Bible unused as you walk through (Yet you claim Christ)
2 Kings 7:9- those dudes
Get a gold mine! Cannot sit on it- they've found food (Must share- Mark 9)
If Christ seems to come on too strong
Christ spoke The Truth- please understand
The lake burning- folks are dying and going
'Cause they don't know Jesus- but they can
That's if we try
Sharing The Light together- Oh yeah!
Sharing The Way to Heaven- Oh yeah!
Sharing Lord Christ
You should read all Christ's warnings, girl
In Luke 16- go Matt. 10
And on the broad road find many hell-bound
That there should change our bent
Matthew line
7:13- destruction! Oh yeah (Background vocals: Share about Christ)
7:14- To Heaven! Oh yeah (BGV: Share about Christ)
Heaven's through Christ
Well, Lord Christ commanded us, see, to go please
All nations- That's The Great Commission, dude
Matthew's last lines- 28:18-20, dude
Disciple and baptize
(In) Father, Son, Spirit Who are Three in One
Teaching them to obey Saviour
He's there with us always- behold!
So we won't be alone- no, never!
Eternal life's at stake so start sharing Lord Christ- (BGV: Share about Christ)(Repeat until end)- for Heaven's sake, yeah
Share that He died for sinners- Rose again
Trust in Lord Christ for Heaven
Romans 10:9 to get there
Sharing's too late in Heaven
(Keep) Sharing about Christ 'til Heaven
Saturday, October 3, 2020
From Heaven in Prophetic Dreams (song)
It's funny how we attach people with certain things in our minds. We do this with a lot of things too. There are some one-hit wonder bands out there that are always known for that one main song. They may actually have had other hits too but they will never be bigger than their one huge, worldwide hit. (For example, try to name a song by Rick Dees and his Cast of Idiots besides "Disco Duck".) The same happens with actors and actresses who get associated with a major role. No matter what else they do, everyone will always know them for that role. (For example of this- Christopher Reeve as Superman.) This happens sometimes with people we've heard about in The Bible too. We've all heard about Daniel in the lion's den in Sunday School. And we've probably heard about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego facing the fiery furnace too. And maybe we only know Daniel for his special diet and interpreting the writing on the wall and the king being made like a beast for a time before repenting. All those events only make up the first half of the book though! There are a lot of prophetic dreams and visions Daniel gets in the latter half of the book that we don't always hear as much about. Sometimes they can even be a bit hard and scary to read them. We need to read them and understand them though because all of God's Word is important and useful for teaching, instructing and rebuking- and we need to fill up on all of it, okay? This song does mention some of the more famous things Daniel's known for but it focuses in more on the messages he got from Heaven in prophetic dreams.
"From Heaven in Prophetic Dreams" (parody of "Together in Electric Dreams" by Philip Oakey and Giorgio Moroder; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/17/2020)
(the book of Daniel, Jeremiah 25, Matthew 24)
You only know Dan for a diet
Served Nebuchadnezzar's court
Telling his dreams- promoted
Friends won't bow- face flames (Christ preincarnate saves)
Palace to barnyard- king recognized
God rules as the Most High
Angelic tweet
Lions won't eat their prey
Yeshua- The Lord saves! (God always wins)
You ought to read next chapters
However hard it seems (From 7 to end)
Daniel and/or Belteshazzar
From Heaven gets prophetic dreams
Beasts- 4- first vision- that's explained
The Ancient of Days reigns
Shown next there's a ram and goat
Gabriel defines it's about end times
(Time to read Jeremiah)
Humble, confessing Daniel prays
Receives knowledge from Gabe
Then shown shiny guy
Daniel's terrified- he closed his eyes
(Loved one, now stand)
Angel says he's been held up
By Persia prince- Mike's on scene (God's angel's sent)
There's all these kings in days latter
A Southern and a Northern king
They'll align kingdoms together
However, falls- breaking
(Alliance ends)
Abomination desolate there
South and North- both kingdoms left fighting
Michael, rise- angel of Heaven
Now there's trouble, worst seen
(God's peeps delivered)
Well, all names in book written
Forever life or contempting
Daniel, you seal book for now
Knowledge runs far- increased
(How long 'til the end?)
Daniel's 70th. week
Shout out there- Matt. 24:15
All Through Jesus' Rule (song)
C.S. Lewis said in his classic "The Screwtape Letters" book that there are two errors people fall into about the devils. One is to disbelieve in them and the other is to believe in them with an unhealthy interest and obsession. The devil and his demons are equally pleased with both errors. Thus, it's important to maintain the right balance in our view of the spiritual battle that we are all in as followers of Christ. As Ephesians 6:12 tells us, we wrestle not with flesh and blood but with spirits, forces and powers in the heavenly realms! We don't have to be scared of them though and we don't have to let them push us around. Jesus empowers us to resist the devil and his demons. Through the power of Jesus' Name, we can even command demons to obey in Christ's Name. We need to be aware of the battle going on around us and be brave and bold in standing strong with the full armour of God on us. We only need faith the size of a mustard seed in Jesus to tell a mountain to jump into the sea- and it will be done! Stand strong in faith in Jesus. Do your devo in 1 John 4:4 and you'll find that the One who is in us is greater than the one in the world. He has won the victory!
"All Through Jesus' Rule" (parody of "Through Being Cool" by Devo; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/15/2020)
(1 John 4:4, Revelation 20:10, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, 2 Corinthians 10:1-6, Mark 16:14-20, Matthew 12:22-32, Matthew 12:43-45, Matthew 17:14-21, Luke 11:14-26, Luke 10:17-20, Romans 16:20, Ephesians 6:10-20, 2 Timothy 1:7)
We're through being cool
We're through playing cool
Eliminate the lily-livered bits
You wanna barge ahead?
We're gonna need Jesus!
Christ will show those evil spirits He's God
When one leaves from a fallen house
Returns, brings in seven more too
Want these parasites to be cast out?
Matt. 12- it declares- Look through 29
Luke too- 11 find
Plan strong man to bind first- by Jesus!
Time to clean some house!
Indeed plunder the house!
Waste then is laid to a divided house!
Even if you lack big faith
Only factor's in Whom it's found
Faith of mustard seed-sized grain
Throws mountains all around
Even if you lack big faith
Mighty plants form from seeds now
Faith of mustard seed-sized grain
Throws mountains all around
Corinthians, 2
Look to 12:10, dude
Depend of Grace- Power perfected in weakness
Lord, the demons obey!
We can tread on snakes!
Rejoice that Christ picked our souls to be saved
6 Ephesians- as Paul found,
The fight's unseen- in Heavenly realms
Like Alien, chests that burst out
They're there in the air
We're through being fooled
We're through being tools
2 (Two) Timothy 1:7 verse it says
We're not fear-imbued
Accrued Spirit's tools
Power, love, self-driving through Jesus
Trust Him!
Stand firm! Jesus rules!
We're fueled by Him too!
Vine Song (song)
Confrontations come so often in life and oftentimes they leave us responding in a totally unloving way. We hear someone challenge us on something and we just can't seem to control ourselves. "Them's fighting words!" the refrain goes. We try to flatten the curve of the vicious barbs we let loose, but it's too late after the words are spoken. In James 3, The Bible talks about the vast destruction a small part of the body can bring- the poisonous tongue that sets forests ablaze. Yet the same mouth is praising God one minute and then cursing brothers and sisters the next! That should not be so. What's the cure? Stay in the Vine. He who abides in Jesus and He in them will bear much fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing. We have to stay in Christ and lean on Him for strength to have the victory in the battle over not only controlling our tongue but the rest of our bodies as well, so that everything we say and do is for His glory.
"Vine Song" (parody of "Fight Song" by Rachel Platten; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 7/6/2020)
(James 3, John 15:1-17 [particularly verse 5], Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25, Philippians 4:13)
Like a small helm
On the ocean
Sending ships large
Into motion
Like with a single word
Of great things tongue's boasting
Just like (it) only takes one match
To set ablaze forest with poison
Wish all bad things I wouldn't say
Wrecking balls in life- 3 James
God will screen them out if I
Will adhere to His voice through Christ
(Chorus 1)
This is my Vine song
Make branch abide song
Through 15:5 John
Christ's power's turned on
Stay in Christ now 'cause He's strong
I'm weak; my Vine's strong
If He don't see fruit bear, it's to the fire-
(the) rest He leaves
'Cause it thrills God- shows Christ's disciples to be
Pruning buds- God is shaping me
I'm abiding and He abides in me
John 15
Says I'm fruit-bearing (all through Jesus)
There's nothing I do; Jesus my Lord
Does the entire working- I'm anchored
He's in me
Yeah, I'm in Jesus
And all good things I'll get in faith
Seventh verse- abide and pray
In all things, God's glorified
He will steer word choice this time
(Repeat Chorus 1)
And God through Christ strengthens me!
Christ has calmed boats
And His bros, son
When He bid waves,
wind- "Cease motion"
Right now my sinful words
Just break His heart- so then
My might's always badly outmatched
But Christ can make right words flow then
(Chorus 2)
This is Christ's fight, son
Make branch abide, God
Through 15:5 John
Christ's power's turned on
Stay in Christ now 'cause He's strong
I'm weak; my Vine's strong
If He don't see fruit bear, it's to the fire-
(the) rest He leaves
'Cause it thrills God- shows Christ's disciples to be
4:13 Phil.- Go through all when Christ strengthens me.
Saturday, September 26, 2020
Sin Man (song)
What do you get for the God who has everything? What can we ever give Him that didn't first come from His hand? Well, the one thing we can give Him that He won't force is our love and devotion. And all we have to bring Him, even the righteous things we think we've done on our own, are no more than filthy rags in His sight. (Isaiah 64:6) As Jonathan Edwards said, the only thing we bring to our salvation is the sin that made it necessary. And when we give those sins over to Him, His grace forgives us through faith in Christ's death and Resurrection and removes our sins as far as the east is from the west. We're saved by grace and not by works. (Our good works done after we're saved demonstrate our faith though.) God took care of all our sin, man! Praise The Lord for His gift!
"Sin Man"
(Parody of "Tin Man" by America; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 6/24/2020)
(James 1:17, 1 Chronicles 29:14, 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, Ephesians 2:8-9, Titus 3:4-7)
(Verse 1)
One in James verse 17- all good things are the gift of God- read it yourself
Chronicles- first book- Dave prays to bless God- 29:14- comes from Himself!
(Chorus 1)
Oh, God never did get nothing but our sins, man
That He didn't, didn't already have
And 'cause Lord Jesus defeated all our evils
On the cross and returned from the dead
His peace believers receive
(Verse 2)
Then in 2 (Two) Corinthians 5 down- it's found
For our sake Christ bore our
Sin and so sinless becomes sin
so we'd be Christ's righteousness
(Oooh! Oooh!)
(Chorus 2)
Oh, God never did get nothing but our sin, man
That He didn't, didn't already have
And John Edwards said the only thing we're bringing
To salvation's the sin that we have
Which makes it necessary
(Repeat Verse 2)
(Repeat Chorus 1- with last line changed to:
So please believe in Jesus!)
(Oooh! Oooh!)
Jesus Reinstates Me (song)
It's amazing how we can go from high to low so easily. We make bold declarations of faith and then soon find ourselves quickly abandoning them. Peter had a moment like that when he was lying and all about knowing Jesus, which he so wished he could take back later. And even though he was three times a traitor, he still repented three times and Jesus reinstated him. Peter went on to become one of the main leaders of the early church. Where sin ran deep, God's love ran deeper. Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
"Jesus Reinstates Me"
(Parody of "Three Times A Lady" by Lionel Richie and performed by The Commodores; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 6/22/2020)
(1 John 4:7-21, 1 Peter 5:1-4, Luke 22:31-34, Luke 22:54-62, John 21:15-19)
Crank out the sign that You've given me
The memories are all in The Bible
And now that it's come true
I'm in tears- the cock crowed
He's turning- Jesus saw me now
(Chorus 1)
I'm once, twice, three times a traitor
And Christ told me!
Yes, I'm once, twice, three times a traitor
Can You love me?
I snubbed You!
Betrayed then by me; my Lord's in pain
Betrayed Lord Christ just as He foretold
By the guy who would give his life away with Him
I'm in grief, bitterly moaning, crying too
(Repeat Chorus 1)
When we ate together
Restorement over fish
"Feed My sheep" three times imparts
"Do you love Me?" "You know I do."
"Follow Me- I'll lead you."
"You're still going to glorify God."
(Chorus 2)
God's love abides in Jesus my Saviour
Lord, I love You!
21 John- three times reinstated
Lord, I love You!
Yes, God's love abides in Jesus my Saviour
I love You!
He loves you!
Saturday, September 19, 2020
Isaiah: Mini-Bible (song)
As the first line in this song says, one book undertakes a gargantuan task in The Bible. Likewise, I undertook a gargantuan task in trying to sort of summarize this book in a short song. Hopefully, this at least gets across some of the highlights. Scholars have called this book a "mini Bible" because it holds a lot of parallels to The Bible, having 66 chapters, just like The Bible has 66 books. Isaiah is by far the most quoted Old Testament book in the New Testament, having been quoted 55 times! (You can read about numerous connections here- http://isaiahminibible.com/) Of course, if I was to try to give you a miniature version of The Bible, it would be the Gospel- The Bible is all about the Good News of Jesus. Our sins are like scarlet but He can make them white as snow when we put faith in the One who had all our iniquities laid on Him. It's no wonder Philip used Isaiah 53 to witness to the eunuch as he was already reading it. Even if he hadn't been, Philip probably would have pointed him there as it's one of the clearest pictures in the Old Testament of the sacrifice Christ made to save us- a prophecy made 700 years in advance! Read all about this and so much more in Isaiah- mini-Bible.
"Isaiah: Mini-Bible"
(Parody of "I Can't Drive 55" by Sammy Hagar; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 6/12/2020)
(Book of Isaiah; particularly 1:17-18, 2:4, chapter 6, 7:14, 9:1-7, 40:1-9, chapter 53, 55:8-11; also Luke 3:1-6 and Luke 4:16-21)
One book undertakes a gargantuan task- hey!
Well, the news is tragic- judgment's passed, yo!
Eyes are blind- won't just perceive the truth
Isaiah prophesied coming judgment of Judah's sin!
Gonna write it up- 1 through 39
OT's same judgment- similar vibe
Grace next 27- NT's vibe
Isaiah- mini-Bible! Oh yeah!
Uh!
So Isaiah is made up of chapters- 66, hey!
Yeah, it's just like books in God's Word
It's gonna blow your mind- all the book's retweets
Look- chapter 40 lines up with Baptist (in) Luke 3
He said good- Good News!
Evangelize- Is. 40:9
Scroll to place Jesus read Isaiah's lines
Luke 4 writes this- there're more times
Isaiah's in The Bible!
Quoted
How many times? 55!
How many times? 55!
How many times with this guy-
Isaiah? 55!
Uh!
Well- some lines to know- you know each part's revered
In Isaiah first part- 18- sin's washed here
Swords beat to make plowshares- verse 2:4 says. Huh!
In chapter 6, read how prophet saw The Lord- hey!
God sends sign (of) Messiah- 7:14 line
Show's Christ's traits- promised Son born in 9
Pay for all sins- 53 find
Isaiah- mini Bible
Oh! Oh! Oh!
God's mind's higher
(Isaiah 55!)
Point will drive
(Isaiah 55!)
(Isaiah 55!)
(Isaiah- mini Bible)
It's in Titus (song)
Everyone needs someone to help them in this life. No man is an island, as John Donne said. (Though I do still like to think of myself as an island mon, who is dependent on God and others. :-)) Some of the great heroes had sidekicks to help them. The Lone Ranger and Tonto. Batman and Robin. Paul and Silas. Of course, Paul had chosen Titus to help establish the church in Crete. And through the Holy Spirit's inspiration, he wrote a letter to help him with choosing qualified elders to help in the church and to assure sound doctrine was being taught and to be wary of false teachers. He also reminded Cretan believers that some of the top picks on the list of the best ways to live for Christ include living Godly, upright self-controlled lives so that others can see the grace of God through us. If you want help in God's Word in these things, pray and ask Him for help and read this letter- it's in Titus.
"It's in Titus"
(Parody of "Kiss on my List" by Hall & Oates; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 5/11/2020)
(The book of Titus; especially Titus 1:2, 1:15, 2:5, 2:10-14 and 3:5-7)
My friend, son of mine I call you
Paul's true child in common faith
Please don't be deceived; fakes lead some Cretans astray
Appoint elders- you need help; above reproach kinda guys of 1 wife
Bishops/overseers- not given to violence or pride
No greed to be rich, but holy, disciplined
Holds sound doctrine
So they can go show fakes Truth, rebuking them
Their minds' defiled- nothing's pure- to pure, all things pure
Read what Titus, Titus 1:15 prints
You must silence professing hypocrites
The false prophets teach Jewish myths but Jesus never lies!
Because Titus 1:2- it tells us this
From false prophets you keep social distance
Teach what keeps with all sound doctrine- then you'll turn down the lies
Well, God's grace has come bringing salvation for all the peeps
Live upright and wait up for Christ- gave His all to redeem
Sober minds, steadfastness in older men; In older women, reverence is sought
Train up girls when young to be pure, kind women of God
To husbands submit and love him and kids
2:5 Titus
If you want to know what the reason is
No one reviles word of Christ when our lives align
Likewise, young men- goodness is on my list
Teach with soundness- no one can condemn this
Because witness adorns doctrine of Jesus- 2:10 line
So bondservants submit in all Boss says
Pleasing service, not given to arguments
Because goodness is our witness we're reborn now in Christ
Now read Titus 3, babe
Because us kids were just all once foolish
Slaves to passions, malice, disobedience
But when goodness, lovingkindness of Jesus came- verse 5
We're saved because Your gift paid sins- His mercy's rich
Because our righteousness- it can't do this
Washed by Spirit- Grace justifies- we've eternal life!
You can trust this, Titus, on this insist
Because goodness profits Christians- ya dig?
Because foolish rifts, arguments are worthless and divide
Ohh- please come! Nicopolis- my snowbird nest
Zenas- please come!
Tuesday, August 11, 2020
Father & Son & Spirit (song)
One of the most basic tenets of the Christian faith is also one of the most incomprehensible to the human mind. "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, The Lord is one." (Deuteronomy 6:4) So states the Shema and it's certainly true. Yet The Lord reveals Himself in three Persons- God The Father, God The Son Jesus Christ and God The Holy Spirit (some translations would refer to the Third Person of The Holy Trinity as God The Holy Ghost.) The basis for belief in God as a Trinity is best evident from Jesus Himself, in the relationship He describes within the Triune Godhead in the Gospel of John, chapters 13-18. His Great Commission to us His followers in Matthew 28:18-20 also instructs us to baptize believers in the Name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.
While each member of the Godhead has different roles, all three are equally God, so everything is always even stevens. A leopard can't change its spots; it's always a spotted member of the cat family. You can try to change its name but it's still a leopard. Whether you call to The Father, Son or Spirit, you're always calling to God. And God is always one- and His plan of redemption has already won through Christ's death and Resurrection. As the Sandi Patti Christmas classic song "The Gift Goes On" says, "The Father gave The Son. The Son gave The Spirit. The Spirit gives us life so we can give the gift of Love. And the gift goes on!"
"Father & Son & Spirit" (parody of "Father & Son" by Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf Islam; parody lyrics copyright by Nathan Ludwick 12/10/2019)
(Deuteronomy 6:4, Acts 1-2, Philippians 2, Luke 12:40, Romans 11:29, John 8:12, Matthew 5:14, John 3:16-17, Galatians 4:4-7, John chapters 13-18, Romans 8, Matthew 28:18-20)
In God's time, the Saviour came
That's a fact- Galatians 4 read
He had to come- that's our fault
Check Jesus' most famous quote
God loved world- Son came down
Whoso trusts will not perish
3:16 John- it goes- live eternally!
God's own Son's likeness of man's found
-and He lowered from God's throne seat
To become Son of Man- Son's still fully God
To take our crimes to the cross
Dying for everything we've done
And He's real deal Man of Tomorrow 'cause Lord Jesus rose up!
How come Lord Christ's going away? When He just did a "There and Back Again"?
It's to our benefit that He is going
So The Holy Ghost could bring the whole world conviction
Counselor Troi cannot hold candle (to) Holy Ghost- no way!
Christ goes- sends Holy Ghost
In God's time, The Spirit came
14 down to 18- go read!
Gospel of John- (The) Master taught
We're not just orphans of God though
Tell the world Gospel now
In time you've got while Lord tarries
Luke 12:40- Christ foretold- that He's returning
Of the times, (in) Acts 1- Christ's teaching
Those aren't things for you to know
His charge: Witness! Start here- to all world then
Our Aid resides in you and me-
His gifts then- revoked? Can't be
So share our faith and we'll glow like 5 Matthew 14 says
Little Christs- that's the goal
Sunday, August 2, 2020
Nahum's Woe (song)
Just as it is dangerous to be full of yourself and be calling the game too early in sports, it is infinitely more dangerous to do so in the spiritual realm. Nineveh is a city that had been very wicked, but God had pity on them and sent Jonah to warn them. Half-hearted though it was, Jonah's message of warning got through (eventually- after a stay in an underwater motel inside a big fish) and the people repented and God stayed His hand. Unfortunately, the people of Nineveh in later years reverted to their former wicked ways and then God sent Nahum to let them know that His judgment was coming- and it wasn't going to be stopped this time. God always carries out justice. He is certainly long-suffering and wanting to extend grace, but when people reject His kind offer, there is no recourse left. Only those who take refuge in Him are safe. Learn from Nineveh's example and repent now while there is time. (2 Corinthians 6:2)
"Nahum's Woe"
(parody of "Sussudio" by Phil Collins; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 5/7/2019)
(book of Nahum [particularly Nahum 1:7], also see book of Jonah, 2 Corinthians 6:2)
There's this book that's been on my mind
Read its lines- Na- Na- Nahum, oh! oh! oh!
Now you know me from Jonah's fame
(It's) No Disney sequel- read just the same
Na- Na- Nahum, yo! oh! oh!
Well, God- He called me to go share
Destruction's coming- Nineveh, beware!
Last century- all was right
Appealed to God- now Nineveh reverts!
Na- Na- Nahum's woes! Just read The Word!
They're do- do- doomed, you know!
God knows those (who) take refuge in Him
With (a) flood brings foes to an end
Na- Na- Nahum 1:7
God's given command- 'cause you are vile
No more will Nineveh
Pass through Judah though- oh! oh!
Ah, get dressed- battle's here from scatterer
The chariots close in as they go through town
And race Ben-Hur rush style- faces grow pale
And they'll feel who don't listen- just take The word-
2:2 Nahum- Yo! Thus saith The Lord
No game like on Yu-Gi-Oh! Whoa!
Woe (to) city bloody- all full of lies
The wheels roll on of God's justice (in) The Word!
Read 3 in Nahum- Go!
The just prey unfurls
Oh - 3:1 Nahum - Woe!
They'll just say the words, "Oh, who- who- who will grieve for her?"
All stay away
3:7 Nahum- Woe! Oh, oh, oh!
Nineveh's burned!
God's justice undeterred- uh!
Just what's deserved
For Nin- Nin- Nineveh (oh, oh, oh)
So Na- Na- Nahum- go! (Go, go, go!)
Review with Nineveh (Woe! Woe! Woe!)
Your sins have doomed you all! (Woe! Woe! Woe!)
No soothing woes! (Oh, oh, oh)
All who hear news- woe! (Woe! Woe! Woe!)
Can't ease your hurt
Wish you had boohooed and turned! (Oh, oh, oh)
Prayed to The Lord, oh
"Please save us, Lord"
But must just say the word!
Friday, July 24, 2020
The Salvation That We Get (song)
"The Salvation That We Get"
(Parody of "The Impression That I Get" by The Mighty, Mighty Bosstones; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 5/7/2019)
(John 3:16-17, Romans 10:9, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Psalms 14, Psalms 53, Psalms 130, Matthew 5:48, Leviticus 11:45, Romans 3 (particularly verse 23), Romans 6, Romans 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 10:12, 2 Peter 3, Isaiah 2:22, Isaiah 64:6, Isaiah 53:6, Hebrews 12)
Have you ever friend zoned a (child) prodigy?
Wanda chose that fork- Doog's sad
Have you ever felt they're vain (and) infallible?
Hey, Vinnie- how do you match? Oh!
Well, they've never actually walked on water
But I know Someone who has
Which makes Him One above the rest
It means He's the One Direction
Everyone else- not so good
And I'm glad for Romans 5 and 6
Because though we're all nothing good
Justification is God's gift
Tall you may now stand but God's stacked up so high
Your puny strength won't pass the test
Or as Leviticus 11:45
You've got to be like our God- perfect! Yo!
Well, I measure up as not so good
And I know everyone is bad
It makes me wonder how we could
Put faith in blundering I-
There's the bad news- no one's good
And I'm sad some haven't read
Psalms- 53rd.- there is none good
With one Exception- God Jesus!
If God was counting our sins, no one would be standing
I'd like to thank The Lord Jesus He holds fast
Look at the text- 2 Peter 3- grow in grace of Christ
Might think you tower
Be afraid of that- you might fall down
(I've) never had to knock on wood
'Cause I know Romans 5 says
(By) His grace I stand here 'cause He's good
Amazing wonderful grace- (I'm) ever bad so God's my good
(In) resisting bad, I haven't bled
But rest assured He has withstood
The crucifixion I should get
Never sinned but our Saviour got on wood
'Cause you know Son of God Jesus
Replaced me on the cross of wood
He took my sin there and I'm reconciled through what the Saviour accomplished good
To restore us back to good
(He) took all bad and conquered death
That's the salvation that we get!
I Trust Myself (song)
"I Trust Myself"
(parody of "I Touch Myself" by Divinyls; copyright by Nathan Ludwick 3/13/2019)
(Romans 10:9-13, Luke 6:46, Matthew 7, Proverbs 16:18, Luke 18:9-14, Proverbs 14:12, Romans 3, Proverbs 6:16-19, 1 Corinthians 10:12, Deuteronomy 30:15-20)
Well, God Himself- He wants us to love Him
If I'm real now- I know He's above me
I search for help- I want Him to find me
But forget all that- Don't want you to remind me
Chorus 1:
I don't want anybody's help
All I think, say or do- I trust myself
Ooh, I don't need anybody else
Oh no, oh no, oh no
I'm the one who's made my own fortune
Favourite son- the nation's pride
Ascended how? By my bootstraps, then
I'm always self-reliant ('k)
I close my eyes- won't see Truth before me
Rather would die than choose Life that's before me
"A fool believes there's no God" - I ignore You
I'd get down on my knees if You'd send The Way to see You
(Repeat Chorus 1)
I love myself- I want folks to love me
When I look down, I can't see above me
In church with bells, all income I'm tithing
I fast as well- I thank God I'm not like thieves
Adulterers, unGodly evil
Well, I think I've got virtue- I trust myself!
Ooh- I'll tell God I'm righteous by myself
Oh no! Oh no! Oh no!
18 Luke
IRS agent by myself
Would not link eyes with You- I judge myself
To - ooh be- ee ah ah sin-ner ah!
I so want Holy God's help
When I think of bad I do- I beat my breasts!
Ooh, You're rich in mercy, God- please help!
Confessed humbly to You- I'm justified
-Exalt myself (Background vocals: I don't need)
Adjust that shelf (BGV: Anybody else)
Humbled instead (BGV: 1st. Cor. chapter 10:12)
So watch your step
Humble myself (BGV: I so want)
Adjust that shelf (BGV: Holy God's help)
Exalted instead (BGV: I'm nothing without You)
-It's honestly true!
-Exalt myself (Background vocals: I don't need)
Adjust that shelf (BGV: Anybody's help)
Humbled instead (BGV: 1st. Cor. chapter 10:12)
-It's honestly true!
Humble myself
Adjust that shelf
Exalted instead