You gave me a #sword – v3 #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 words of life fill me,
Your justice informs me,
steeling my spine to act…
I see my neighbor hurting
and I want to speak up…
 
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,
all my every effort outward…
Help me to trust You, Your justice,
for every harm against me,
to forgive as you command…
 
-----------
Edited January 26, 2026
You gave me a sword – v3
 
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,

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

You know me completely – 2 – v2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer #transparent

Before I was born, before Creation,
You know me completely,
my every thought, my every action,
every second of my life,
You know each moment,
even those I have forgotten
every butterfly effect
Ripples of my living…
Nothing is hidden from You,
my Savior, my Creator,
my Spirit Guide, my God…
 
Help me, today, Lord, to trust You,
to be honest, fully 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…

------
Edited January 26, 2026
You know me completely – 2 – v2
 
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, transparent,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #trust #faith #prayer #transparent

#Humility – 2 – v2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #relationships #childlike #humility #love #children #innocents

We must make a radical change,
to see Christ in our neighbors…
We must let go of hurt, of hate,
to see each other as children,
heirs with Christ, with one another,
beloved children of our Father,
Our Creator, our heavenly God…
 
We must be the Good Samaritan,
servant leaders, witnesses,
children of the promise,
putting on the apron as Christ did,
kneeling at His disciples’ feet,
humbly serving one another,
not warring, picking a fight…
 
We must see each other as God does
with humility and compassion…
We must wear our faith as a mantle,
into the breach against injustice,
But we must measure our own words,
our actions, thinking of others before us,
to model, to live as Christ…
 
-----------
Edited January 25, 2026
Humility – 2 – v2
 
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
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”
 
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

These #threads are #interwoven #God #poetry #Epstein #Georgia #Ukraine #Greenland #Minnesota #Russia #UnitedStates #Iran #empires #power #lies #propaganda #evil #truth #change #ICE #Trump #Zelenskyy #Putin #history #justice

Not an inflection point, but several,
Different strands within the same cord
The rise of authoritarians, their minions,
Jack-booted thugs, armed little Satans -
Just as we were warned by history -
The rise of violence against innocents,
Riots are rising, marching, children taken...
These threads are interwoven,
But like shoots grafted in the same vine,
We do not know the fruit they will bear…
 
Civil war, resistance against repression,
Brothers warring against brothers...
Cell-phone cameras of an army,
Believing in your eyes, not the propaganda,
Lies of those in power, shouting,
Demanding submission, uneven...
Every meeting, every statement
None alone unravels the system, but
Together they weave pressure across borders,
Over time, across pivotal junctures...
 
Change is upon us, titans -
An Age of Empires or Freedom -
Only time will tell, in its own time,
Change is never tidy; it is cumulative, building,
relentless, and ever-patient. People who endure,
who persist in speaking truth, are the ones
who bend the arc of history toward justice,
even when it feels invisible day by day.
Chaos and patience exist side by side —
Both are part of God's work...
 
-------
Edited/new name January 26, 2026
These threads are interwoven
 
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.
 
God, poetry, Epstein, Georgia, Ukraine, Greenland, Minnesota, Russia, United States, Iran, power, lies, propaganda, truth, ICE, Trump, Zelenskyy, Putin, history, justice,
 
#God #poetry #Epstein #Georgia #Ukraine,  #Greenland #Minnesota #Russia #UnitedStates #Iran #empires #power #lies #propaganda #evil #truth #change #ICE #Trump #Zelenskyy #Putin #history #justice

Repost: #Sing to me, #Taras – v4 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

O, Hear your people’s cries,
The devastation of this hour…
Their fight for victory has begun,
against the Tsarist horde,
the Evil you know so well…
 
O, Sing to me, Taras,
Songs of the Kobzars, of glory,
your ancient truths of freedom…
Breathe within my spirit, within me love,
for God, for my fellow man, for Ukraine…
 
O, Speak to me, Taras,
Be a clarion call to purpose,
in words of unity, of struggle, power…
Breathe ancient words of scripture, of truth,
and of your homeland, Ukraine…
 
O, Heal me, Taras, my muse,
Spirit speak right through me…
I too have been broken, imprisoned,
separated from my purpose,
from my one true calling in life…
 
O, Sing to me, Taras,
Songs of Ukraine, of glory…
Speak your universal call for justice,
the ancient truths of freedom,
and love for our fellow man…
 
--------  
Repost January 26, 2026
Sing to me, Taras – v4

a prayer to Taras Shevchenko
 
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, 202 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, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, pain, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

Repost: The spell has been broken – v6 #poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

(The prophecy fulfilled)
 
Their time of exile has been completed,
a judgment of God upon the people,
stuck between heaven and hell…
This prophecy fulfilled, completed,
lifting the curse over the people…
The spell has been broken, forsaken,
A light is now coming, rising, brighter,
The glory of Ukraine reawakened,
The Great Grave is being opened…
 
Fidelity to their nation, their homeland,
sacrificing for their nation, their freedom,
the Kozaks, the Hetman, the Kobzars,
memory of ancient glory, Ukraina,
to the cause of liberty, their songs…
Chains of the curse are being lifted,
their eyes open, united, together,
one chance for a future, a hope,
a return to their past glory…
 
High upon a mountain, a hilltop,
a tremor, above the mighty Dnipro…
We see the eternal Kobzar, the vanguard,
The Bard stirs in his tomb, restless,
For His is the Great Grave, where glory
was hidden, safeguarded, on the heights…
The glory of Ukraine has been opened,
together, Kobzars, black-haired maidens
all sing songs of their victory, triumph,
for their boundless love of Ukraine…
 
--------
Edited December 1, 2025
The spell has been broken – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-spell-has-been-broken-v6.html
after poem, “The spell has been broken”,
based on the poems, “The Great Grave”,
““To Marko Vovchok”,
about Maria Markovich,
and “Hosea, Chapter XIV”,
by Taras Shevchenko,
taking his poem into the Ukraine / Russia War
and the bravery of the people of Ukraine now
and the idea that the grave of Taras Shevchenko itself is The Great Grave...
 
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, Ukraine, God, prayer, war, terror, genocide, Russia, peace, victory, Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian, freedom, independence, history, glory, serfdom, muse, prison,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #God #prayer #war #terror #genocide #Russia #peace #victory #TarasShevchenko #Taras #Shevchenko #muse #Ukrainian #glory #serfdom #prison #freedom #independence #history

All of the #threads are woven together #God #poetry #Epstein #Georgia #Ukraine, #Greenland #Minnesota #Russia #UnitedStates #Iran #empires #power #lies #propaganda #evil #truth #change #ICE #Trump #Zelenskyy #Putin #history #justice

Not an inflection point, but many,
Different strands within the same cord
The rise of authoritarians, their minions,
Jack-booted thugs, little Satans -
As we were already warned by history -
The rise of violence against the innocents,
Riots are rising, marching, children taken...
All the threads are woven together,
But like new shoots grafted in the same vine,
We do not know the fruit they will bear…
 
Civil war, resistance against repression,
Brothers warring against brothers...
Cell-phone cameras of an army,
Believing your eyes not the propaganda,
The lies of those in power, shouting,
Demanding submission, uneven...
Every meeting, every statement
None alone unravels the system, but,
Together they weave pressure across borders,
over time, across pivotal moments...
 
Change is upon us, titans -
The Age of Empires or Freedom -
Only time will tell, in its time,
Change is never tidy; it is cumulative, building,
relentless, and ever-patient. People who endure,
who persist in speaking truth, are the ones
who bend the arc of history toward justice,
even when it feels invisible day by day.
Chaos and patience exist side by side —
both are part of the work of God...
 
-------
January 25, 2026
All of the threads are woven together
 
 
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.
 
God, poetry, Georgia,  Ukraine,  Greenland,  Minnesota, Russia,  United States, Iran, empires, power, propaganda, evil, truth, ICE, Trump, Zelenskyy,  Putin, history, justice,
 
#God #poetry #Epstein #Georgia #Ukraine,  #Greenland #Minnesota #Russia #UnitedStates #Iran #empires #power #lies #propaganda #evil #truth #change #ICE #Trump #Zelenskyy #Putin #history #justice

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