from #sin to #servanthood #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents #servanthood

Father, change me within,
Change my neural pathways,
my pain, my ancient hurt,
the scars upon my spirit…
 
Change how I respond
to every sling and arrow,
help me to have mercy,
grace for my fellow man…
 
Help me to see each sinner,
through the eyes of Jesus,
to love my neighbor,
even those who hurt me…
 
Watch over my heart, Lord,
Soften my scar tissue,
Teach me to show grace
when someone harms me…
 
Teach me, Lord, speak to me, Spirit,
Change me from sin to servanthood,
to love as You love me,
Despite my fatal flaws…
 
I turn over my judgment
my desire for justice,
I give them into Your hands,
Help me to be Your servant…
 
-----------
January 25, 2026
from sin to servanthood
 
Samson Society meeting January 24, 2026
Based on Proverbs 3:5-6 and Matthew 18:1-9
sermons, “Childlike Humility – 1” and “Childlike Humility – 2”
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 25, 2026
You gave me a sword – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/you-gave-me-sword-v2.html
January 25, 2026
Humility – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/humility-2.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
Edited January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/controlled-by-snake-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 13, 2026
adopt a mantle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/adopt-mantle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, children, innocents, servanthood,

#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents #servanthood

You gave me a #sword – v2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents #servanthood #advocacy

Tooled in the fire of adversity,
unfair trouble, unwanted,
There was endless turmoil
within his spirit, his mind,
the boy I once was, a child...
 
Your word of life fills me,
Your justice informs me,
steeling my spine to act…
I see my neighbor hurting
and I want to reach out…
 
My spirit finds purpose,
quenching the fire of trauma,
You gave me a sword,
the gift of advocacy,
to speak for my fellow man...
 
But, Lord, help me to focus,
My every effort outward…
Help me to trust You, Your justice,
to forgive as you command,
for every harm against me…
 
-----------
Edited January 25, 2026
You gave me a sword – v2
 
Samson Society meeting January 24, 2026
Based on Proverbs 3:5-6 and
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
January 25, 2026
Humility – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/humility-2.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
Edited January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/controlled-by-snake-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
January 13, 2026
adopt a mantle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/adopt-mantle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, children, innocents, servanthood, advocacy,

#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents #servanthood #advocacy

You gave me a #sword #advocacy #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents

Tooled in the fire of adversity,
unfair trouble, unwanted,
Turmoil within his spirit,
the boy I once was...
 
Your word of life fills me,
Your justice informs me,
I see my neighbor hurting
and I want to reach out…
 
My spirit finds purpose,
quenching the fire of trauma,
You gave me a sword,
the gift of advocacy...
 
But, Lord, Help me to focus,
My every effort outward…
Help me to trust You, Your justice,
for every harm against me…
 
-----------
January 25, 2026
 
Samson Society meeting January 24, 2026
Based on Proverbs 3:5-6 and
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
January 25, 2026
Humility – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/humility-2.html
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
Edited January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/controlled-by-snake-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
Edited January 21, 2026
dig beneath the surface – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/dig-beneath-surface-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
January 13, 2026
adopt a mantle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/adopt-mantle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 5, 2026
A lifetime of struggle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-lifetime-of-struggle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, children, innocents,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents

Living in #God’s #forgiveness – v2 #poetry #God #confess #repent #forgive #prayer

I Walk forward boldly, unhindered, unafraid,
unburdened by ancient weights—
I am Freed from my chains,
They are Broken by Your infinite mercy,
Unbowed, steady beneath a sky still scarred…
I Live in God’s forgiveness
now and forever. Amen.
 
I Trust in God’s endless Goodness,
Grace that holds when the ground trembles…
Every sin has been forgiven…
No sin outlives His promise.
That is why Christ came –
to meet us in our brokenness,
when our night is longest.
 
I strive forward boldly, freely,
in a state of Calling, of Purpose,
My Salvation is a shield, armor,
Not a slogan, but my truth…
I let go of my grip on their necks,
those who wounded me, and pray
that every heart—friend or enemy—
finds the road home to You.
 
I now Trust in the Goodness of God,
in God’s saving grace that does not waver.
I Release every curse I carried into battle,
Every sin ever committed was
left nailed to the cross…
and I rise Forgiven,
Steadfast and Free.
 
====
Merged January 25, 2026
Living in God’s forgiveness – v2
 
January 20, 2026
Living in God’s forgiveness – 2 - Bohdana
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/living-in-gods-forgiveness-2.html
written by Bohdana Pavieska
on January 20, 2026
January 20, 2026
Living in God’s forgiveness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/living-in-gods-forgiveness.html
Written August 15, 2025
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 20, 2026
Wash my pain away – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/wash-my-pain-away-v2-poetry-god-confess.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
soften my heart - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/soften-my-heart-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 12, 2026
Softening scar tissue – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/softening-scar-tissue-v2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
I release to God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-release-to-god.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
living in agape love
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/living-in-agape-love.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 12, 2026
sacrificially humble
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/sacrificially-humble.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 11, 2026
forgive others - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/forgive-others-3.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 10, 2026
entrust your life
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/entrust-your-life.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 10, 2026
my heart shall not fear – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-shall-not-fear-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 1
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, grace, regeneration, confess, repent, forgive, prayer,
 
#poetry #God #confess #repent #forgive #prayer

Living in #God’s #forgiveness - 2 #poetry #God #confess #repent #forgive #prayer

I walk forward, unafraid,
unburdened by yesterday’s weight—
chains broken by mercy,
steady beneath a sky still scarred.
I live in God’s forgiveness,
now and always. Amen.
 
I trust the goodness of God,
grace that holds when the ground trembles.
No sin outlasts His promise;
this is why Christ came—
to meet us where the night is longest.
 
I step ahead with purpose,
salvation not a slogan but a shield.
I loosen my grip on old wrongs,
release even those who wounded me,
and pray that every heart—friend or foe—
finds the road home.
 
I trust the goodness of God,
the saving grace that does not retreat.
Every failure I carried into battle
was left nailed to the cross,
and I rise—
forgiven, steadfast, free.
 
====
January 20, 2026
Living in God’s forgiveness – 2 - Bohdana
 
written by Bohdana Pavieska
on January 20, 2026
January 20, 2026
Living in God’s forgiveness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/living-in-gods-forgiveness.html
Written August 15, 2025
Based on Mark 2:7
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 20, 2026
Wash my pain away – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/wash-my-pain-away-v2-poetry-god-confess.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
soften my heart - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/soften-my-heart-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 12, 2026
Softening scar tissue – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/softening-scar-tissue-v2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
I release to God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-release-to-god.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
living in agape love
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/living-in-agape-love.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 12, 2026
sacrificially humble
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/sacrificially-humble.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 11, 2026
forgive others - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/forgive-others-3.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 10, 2026
entrust your life
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/entrust-your-life.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 1, “Pray for a Heart of Forgiveness”
January 10, 2026
my heart shall not fear – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-shall-not-fear-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 1
Large group meeting
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, grace, regeneration, confess, repent, forgive, prayer,
 
#poetry #God #confess #repent #forgive #prayer

#seeing #God – 5 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #grace #light

in the morning light
in the river’s flow
in the courage of each child
seeing God
around us, within us
each of us
every soldier, every citizen
the hope, the steadfastness
of the Lamb, of love,
of God in heaven above…
 
seeing God
in the river
in each face
in each neighbor
worthy of mercy
worthy of love
in bravery and innocence
the face of Jesus
Our Risen Lord and Savior
within each one of us…
 
-----------
January 25, 2026
 
January 25, 2026
seeing God – 4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-4.html
written by Bohdana Pavieska
on January 14, 2026
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
and sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
part of sermon series, “Relationships”
Pastor Peter Hubbard
North Hills Church
January 5, 2026
A lifetime of struggle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-lifetime-of-struggle.html
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
Based on 1 Peter 5:1-11
See also Proverbs 3:34
Proverbs 3:32-35
and sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
part of sermon series, “Relationships”
(also ordination of new elders Sunday)
Pastor Peter Hubbard
North Hills Church
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, grace, light,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #grace #light

#seeing #God - 4 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #grace #light

seeing God
in the quiet of the night
in the prayers whispered softly
in the hands that heal and lift
seeing God
in the heart that forgives
in the soul that never yields
each of us
each act of courage
each moment of grace
a reflection of the divine…
 
seeing God
in the songs we sing
in the stories we tell
in the bond between brothers and sisters
seeing God
in every sunrise we face
in every tear, every smile
each life precious
each hope sacred
the spirit of love
alive within us all…
 
-----------
January 25, 2026
seeing God – 4
 
written by Bohdana Pavieska
on January 14, 2026
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
and sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
part of sermon series, “Relationships”
Pastor Peter Hubbard
North Hills Church
January 5, 2026
A lifetime of struggle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-lifetime-of-struggle.html
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
Based on 1 Peter 5:1-11
See also Proverbs 3:34
Proverbs 3:32-35
and sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
part of sermon series, “Relationships”
(also ordination of new elders Sunday)
Pastor Peter Hubbard
North Hills Church
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, grace, light,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #grace #light

#Humility – 2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents

We need to make a radical change,
to see Christ in our neighbors...
We need to let go of hurt, of hate,
to see each other as children,
heirs with Christ, with each of us,
beloved children of our Father,
Our Creator, our heavenly God…
 
We need to be the Good Samaritan,
servant leaders, witnesses,
children of the promise,
donning the apron as Christ did,
kneeling at His disciples’ feet,
humbly serving one another,
not warring, picking a fight…
 
We need to see each other as God does
with humility and compassion…
We need to wear our faith as a mantle,
to step into the breach against injustice,
but to measure our own words, our actions,
thinking of others before us,
to model, to live as Christ…
 
-----------
January 25, 2026
Humility – 2
 
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
Edited January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/controlled-by-snake-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
Edited January 21, 2026
dig beneath the surface – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/dig-beneath-surface-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
Edited January 19, 2026
Protect the children – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/protect-children-v2.html
January 13, 2026
adopt a mantle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/adopt-mantle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 13, 2026
the hiss of the serpent’s question
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-hiss-of-serpents-question.html
January 13, 2026
seeing God - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/seeing-god-3.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 2”
January 5, 2026
A lifetime of struggle
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-lifetime-of-struggle.html
sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, relationships, childlike, humility, love, children, innocents,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents

A decisive year beginning – v2 #poetry #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Kyiv #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava #EricaKabaeva #MykhailoFedorov

We see decisive actions, momentum,
something in the air, the water,
a change in the balance of power…
The tide of the war is shifting,
perhaps almost imperceptibly,
But nonetheless real…
 
Asymmetric war, innovation,
a different year ended, turning,
a decisive year beginning, unfolding…
Quickly seeing the fruits of their efforts,
The resolve of their partners,
Ukraine’s will to survive, to adapt…
 
General Winter is attacking, General Frost,
Russia’s size has become its weakness…
Their power is muted by Ukraine’s strength…
Homegrown weapons are so effective
destroying strategic targets
Their Achilles Heel…
 
Asymmetric warfare, drones, and missiles,
Hunting on their homeland, unprotected…
They will be defeated in attrition,
vulnerable in their vastness,
a field rich with targets
Too many to protect…
 
---------------
Edited January 25, 2026
A decisive year beginning – v2
 
Based on my post to Mykhailo Fedorov on LinkedIn,
“In the poem below, I called 2025, "A different year ended"; but that makes 2026, "A decisive year begun". I pray this is the year for Ukraine to achieve victory and a just and lasting peace. ”
Edited January 5, 2026
A different year ended – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-different-year-ended-v2.html
Inspired by post of Christina Kydrava, December 31, 2025,
https://www.instagram.com/stories/kydrava_/3799867793609373927/
reposting her post of December 31, 2024
https://www.instagram.com/p/DEQD199tBfb/
“There will be no results, only conclusions: the struggle continues.”
 
I replied: “Another year ending but different than last December 31. This year ending was like 1942/1943 in the United States, where military production and attacks on Japanese positions began after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The parallels aren't perfect, but Ukraine is now producing more of its own weapons and taking the fight to Russia. 2026 will be decisive for Ukraine’s victory.”
Edited December 31, 2025
Despite everything
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/despite-everything.html
December 30, 2025 Instagram post by Oleksandra Matviichuk
https://www.instagram.com/p/DS7HP6aDOC3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Edited December 27, 2025
Courage to Step Outside – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/12/courage-to-step-outside-v3.html
Images and videos of Christmas celebrations and parades
In Kyiv and other cities of Ukraine and
Erica Kabaeva post on Instagram November 4, 2025
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, courage, life, Ukraine, war, Christmas, Kyiv, resolve, New Year, Oleksandra Matviichuk, Christina Kydrava, Mykhailo Fedorov,
 
#poetry #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Kyiv #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava #EricaKabaeva #MykhailoFedorov

Controlled by the #snake – v2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer

We are controlled by the snake,
overcome by an amygdala hijack…
Our snake brains rise, react,
an instinctive response, primitive,
unconsciously acting, primal,
no rational thought, no control,
not a reasoned course of action…
 
We pick up our battle ax,
Forgetting to put on our armor,
not scanning for danger, aware of the lies,
but rushing headlong into the storm,
even when the attack is imaginary,
a fiction of the Devil, fighting
even when the battle is won…
 
We see injustice, sins against us,
perception becomes our reality,
reputational harms, injury,
attacks of the bullies, anger,
failing to see nuance,
another hill to die on
another storm to fight…
 
------
Edited January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake – v2
 
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
Based on Psalm 39:2-3
Based on Psalm 39:1-13
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 23, 2026
God wants to heal you
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/god-wants-to-heal-you.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 23, 2026
the next right step – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-next-right-step-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 27, 2025
the next right step – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-next-right-step-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
Edited January 21, 2026
dig beneath the surface – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/dig-beneath-surface-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
mining deeper
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/mining-deeper.html
re:generation, Groundwork, page 4
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
January 12, 2026
soften my heart - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/soften-my-heart-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 12, 2026
Softening scar tissue – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/softening-scar-tissue-v2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
I release to God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-release-to-god.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, trust, faith, prayer,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer

Bring Your #whip, #Lord #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #John2 #Messiah #Jesus #Logos #Word #temple #moneychangers

Bring Your whip, Lord,
Overturn my tables…
Enter my courts,
the recesses of my heart…
 
Tear apart my lies,
any scheme of the Devil…
Clear away the unholy,
my hidden sins…
 
Clear my Temple,
any whiff of Satan…
Cleanse me fully
of all my wickedness…
 
Refill me, Lord,
with You only…
Enter in Spirit,
Make me like You…
 
=============
Edited January 24, 2026
Bring Your whip, Lord
 
Based on John 2
John 2:13–22
Matthew 21:12–17
Mark 11:15–19
Luke 19:45–48
Men’s Thursday Morning Bible Study
North Hills Church
January 15, 2026
I have seen the Christ
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-seen-christ.html
Based on John 1
Men’s Thursday Morning Bible Study
North Hills Church
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, John 2, Messiah, Jesus, Logos, Word, temple, money changers,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #John2 #Messiah #Jesus #Logos #Word #temple #moneychangers 

Controlled by the #snake #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer

Controlled by the snake,
an amygdala hijack,
snake brains rising, reacting,
an instinctive response, primitive,
not rational thought,
a reasoned course of action…
 
Picking up a battle ax,
not looking for danger, rushing,
headlong into the storm,
even when it is imaginary,
a fiction of the Devil,
even when the battle is won…
 
Seeing injustice, harm,
reputational harms, injury,
attacks of the bullies, anger
failing to see nuance,
another hill to die on
another storm to fight…
 
------
January 24, 2026
Controlled by the snake
 
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/flying-into-each-storm-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
Based on Psalm 39:2-3
Based on Psalm 39:1-13
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 23, 2026
God wants to heal you
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/god-wants-to-heal-you.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 23, 2026
the next right step – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-next-right-step-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 27, 2025
the next right step – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-next-right-step-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
Edited January 21, 2026
dig beneath the surface – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/dig-beneath-surface-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
mining deeper
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/mining-deeper.html
re:generation, Groundwork, page 4
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
Edited January 20, 2026
Wash my pain away – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/wash-my-pain-away-v2-poetry-god-confess.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
soften my heart - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/soften-my-heart-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 12, 2026
Softening scar tissue – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/softening-scar-tissue-v2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
I release to God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-release-to-god.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, trust, faith, prayer,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer
 

flying into each storm – v2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer #anger

reflexively acting, headlong,
flying off the handle,
flying into each battle
unproductive, exhausted
at my wits’ end…
not trusting, not waiting,
not at peace within God’s
assurance, His protection
His hand in each storm…
believing I am in charge
that I am the one in control…
 
not thinking, not conscious,
a visceral reaction, instinctive,
tension in my spirit, of fight or flight,
jumping in without a plan…
believing I must fix whatever it is…
not trusting, not believing
in the sovereignty of God…
angry at each injustice
controlled by emotion
no faith, not believing fully
in the goodness of God…
 
------
Edited January 24, 2026
flying into every storm – v2
 
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 3, “Surrender the Storm.”
January 24, 2026
my heart grew hot within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/my-heart-grew-hot-within-me.html
Based on Psalm 39:2-3
Based on Psalm 39:1-13
re:generation, Second Large Group meeting
January 23, 2026
God wants to heal you
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/god-wants-to-heal-you.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 23, 2026
the next right step – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-next-right-step-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 27, 2025
the next right step – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-next-right-step-v2.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
January 21, 2026
deep down within me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/deep-down-within-me.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
Edited January 21, 2026
dig beneath the surface – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/dig-beneath-surface-v3.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 2, “Your Struggle Is A Symptom.”
January 17, 2026
release me from my response!
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/release-me-from-my-response.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 1, Day 3, “Sober 24 Hours.”
January 15, 2026
mining deeper
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/mining-deeper.html
re:generation, Groundwork, page 4
January 15, 2026
hurt and angry
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/hurt-and-angry.html
re:generation, 1^st and 2nd sentence of Groundwork, page 4
Edited January 20, 2026
Wash my pain away – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/wash-my-pain-away-v2-poetry-god-confess.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
soften my heart - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/soften-my-heart-2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
Edited January 12, 2026
Softening scar tissue – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/softening-scar-tissue-v2.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”
January 12, 2026
I release to God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-release-to-god.html
re:generation, Step 8, Forgive, Week 2, Day 2, “Whom and What Do I Forgive?”

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, trust, faith, prayer, anger,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer #anger

You know me completely – 2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer

Before I was born, before Creation,
You know me completely,
every thought, every action,
every second of my life,
even those I have forgotten
every butterfly effect
the ripples of my living…
Nothing is hidden from You,
my Savior, my Creator,
my Guide, my God…
 
Help me, Lord, today, to trust,
to be honest, transparent,
Lead me to lay down my life,
to be open, to be courageous,
to tear the veil of my secrets,
even the sins I have forgotten…
Reveal them unto me, oh God,
so I may find healing,
that I may heal the damage,
I have caused the hurt…
Help me to be Your witness.

------
January 24, 2026
You know me completely – 2
 
Based on #1John1:8-10
Based on #Psalm139:1-16
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 5, “Rigorous Honesty.”
January 23, 2026
God wants to heal you
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/god-wants-to-heal-you.html
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 23, 2026
the next right step – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-next-right-step-v3.html
Based on #2Corinthians9:8
re:generation, Groundwork, Week 2, Day 4, “What to Do When You’re Stuck.”
Edited January 27, 2025
the next right step – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/01/the-next-right-step-v2.html

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See my poems at
www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com 
Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, trust, faith, prayer, Psalm 139, 1 John 1,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer