Nathan’s Rebuke #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

“You are the Man”

Nothing sugar-coated,
Speaking a righteous truth
The enormity of his sin,
“You are the man!”
 
A curse, a judgment,
On his king, his master,
Speaking the sentence of God,
“You are the man!”
 
Anger that had been kindled
In David’s heart
Directed at himself,
“You are the man!”
 
His secret exposed,
His rebellion against God,
In Nathan’s rebuke,
“You are the man!”
 
==============
January 6, 2026
Nathan’s Rebuke
 
written July 15, 2025
re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2
July 14, 2025, Large Group meeting
Talk, “Redeeming Reproof”
Based on Psalm 51:31-32
Based on 2 Samuel 12:7
Based on 2 Samuel 12:1-23
January 6, 2026
God is waiting - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/god-is-waiting-2.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2
small group meeting
about how God speaks to us through sermons and scripture
when we are open to His message,
when we show up for worship…
January 6, 2026
a casual suggestion – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-casual-suggestion-2.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2
small group meeting
July 15, 2025
a casual suggestion
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/07/a-casual-suggestion.html
Meeting John Cruice,
Pastor of Life Group Ministries,
one of the pastors at North Hills Church
at the Greenville Drive baseball game,
May 31, 2024,
which lead me to the Conquer Series group and
to the Re:generation 12-step program.
January 5, 2026
one singular psalm
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/one-singular-psalm.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, large group meeting
Based on Psalm 23
Based on the Lord’s Prayer
Based on John 10:1-18 (The Good Shepherd)
January 5, 2026
suffering in the flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/suffering-in-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
and sermon at Griggs Memorial Baptist 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, love, grace, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

God is waiting – 2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

God is waiting
for us to come
for us to show up
with an open heart…
 
God has a message for us
Wisdom to impart
when we show up
with an open heart…
 
God is not distant
He is waiting for us
for when we are ready
with an open heart…
 
==============
January 6, 2026
God is waiting - 2
 
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2
small group meeting
about how God speaks to us through sermons and scripture
when we are open to His message,
when we show up for worship…
January 6, 2026
a casual suggestion – 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-casual-suggestion-2.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2
small group meeting
July 15, 2025
a casual suggestion
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/07/a-casual-suggestion.html
Meeting John Cruice,
Pastor of Life Group Ministries,
one of the pastors at North Hills Church
at the Greenville Drive baseball game,
May 31, 2024,
which lead me to the Conquer Series group and
to the Re:generation 12-step program.
January 5, 2026
one singular psalm
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/one-singular-psalm.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, large group meeting
Based on Psalm 23
Based on the Lord’s Prayer
Based on John 10:1-18 (The Good Shepherd)
January 5, 2026
suffering in the flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/suffering-in-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
and sermon at Griggs Memorial Baptist Church
January 5, 2026
turn from this world
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/turn-from-this-world.html
written July 18, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die-to-my-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance
 

a casual suggestion - 2 #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit

a chance meeting
not at all random
divine appointments
to change our lives…
 
a casual suggestion
a new group forming
knowing God was working
in divine appointments…
 
precious moments
divine appointments
changing our lives
onto a new path…
 
a casual suggestion
a new group forming
knowing God was working
in divine appointments…
 
nothing random
in God’s timing,
divine appointments
to restore our souls…
 
==============
January 6, 2026
a casual suggestion – 2
 
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2,
small group meeting
about meeting John Cruice
at Greenville Drive game
last week of May, 2024.
January 5, 2026
one singular psalm
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/one-singular-psalm.html
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025, re:generation, large group meeting
Based on Psalm 23
Based on the Lord’s Prayer
Based on John 10:1-18 (The Good Shepherd)
January 5, 2026
suffering in the flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/suffering-in-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
and sermon at Griggs Memorial Baptist Church
January 5, 2026
turn from this world
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/turn-from-this-world.html
written July 18, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die-to-my-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
 
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, divine appointments,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit

one singular #psalm #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #Psalm23 #LordsPrayer #GoodShepherd

comfort, peace
We are Your sheep
You are our shepherd,
We rest in Your protection
in Your loving arms, oh God…
 
a singular psalm of David,
of assurance, protection,
We find rest in You
Oh God, our shepherd,
keeping us alive…
 
What a blessing
to have You as our shepherd
sheep of Your flock
safe from the Enemy,
in Your loving arms, oh God…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
one singular psalm
 
written July 15, 2025
July 14, 2025 re:generation, large group meeting
Based on Psalm 23
Based on the Lord’s Prayer
Based on John 10:1-18 (The Good Shepherd)
January 5, 2026
suffering in the flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/suffering-in-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
and sermon at Griggs Memorial Baptist Church
January 5, 2026
turn from this world
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/turn-from-this-world.html
written July 18, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die-to-my-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
 
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, Psalm 23, Lord’s Prayer, John 10,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #Psalm23 #LordsPrayer #GoodShepherd

Despite Everything – v2 #poetry #fear #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Christmas #Kyiv #culture #joy #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava

Resistance, staring at challenges…

Courage in one door closing,

A turn of the calendar’s pages…

Resolve in the face of terror, evil,

Determination, disregarding betrayal,

Unified at all costs, rising as one…

A people, a nation together,

Despite everything, standing,

Knowing what they have faced,

Standing resilient because they must…

Clear-eyed about terror, this genocide…

Despite everything standing strong,

Determined to persevere, to achieve…

Hope in the struggle, the maelstrom,

Never backing down, defiant, resourceful…

Life continues always, together,

Standing, kneeling as one people,

United within their territory, their nation,

Until victory is won for their people…

Until a just peace rises like the sun...

---------------
Edited January 5, 2026
Despite Everything – v2
 
December 30, 2025 Instagram post by Oleksandra Matviichuk
https://www.instagram.com/p/DS7HP6aDOC3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
·         “@theukrainians proposed naming a word of the year, as leading dictionaries around the world do. Our word of 2025 is ‘despite everything’. It is about character.
Another year of a genocidal war in Europe, launched by Russia to destroy us, is coming to an end. Any illusions that the civilized world would be outraged by such injustice and decisively stop Putin’s imperial ambitions have faded.
Ukraine has found itself at the epicenter of events that will shape a new international order. And despite everything, people in Ukraine continue to fight for even the slightest chance — for themselves and their children — to have the freedom to live without fear of violence and to have a long-term perspective,” — @avalaina_ua head of the @center_for_civil_liberties.
«@theukrainians запронували назвати слово року як це роблять провідні словники світу. Наше слово 2025 року – це «всупереч». І воно про характер.
Закінчується черговий рік геноцидальної війни в Європі, яку розпочала Росія для нашого знищення. Якщо у когось й були ілюзії, що цивілізований світ обуриться такою несправедливістю та рішуче зупинить імперські амбіції Путіна, то вони поблякли. 
Україні випало бути в епіцентрі подій, які визначать новий міжнародний порядок. І всупереч усьому люди в Україні продовжують боротися за найменший шанс для себе та своїх дітей мати свободу жити без страху насильства та мати довгу перспективу на майбутнє», — @avalaina_ua голова @center_for_civil_liberties.
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 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, fear, courage, life, Ukraine, war, Christmas, Kyiv, culture, joy, resolve, New Year, Oleksandra Matviichuk, Christina Kydrava,
 
#poetry #fear #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Christmas #Kyiv #culture #joy #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava

suffering in the #flesh #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

suffering in the flesh
in our life on earth
for man or for the Gospel,
That is our choice…
 
turning from the world
to follow the Christ
healing in our turning
in starting a new life…
 
suffering as an investment
not a burden to carry
resistance of temptation
for our heavenly reward…
 
not earning salvation, but
storing up treasure in heaven
not living for the flesh
but following Christ Jesus…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
suffering in the flesh
 
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
and sermon at Griggs Memorial Baptist Church
Based on 1 Peter 4:1-6
January 5, 2026
turn from this world
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/turn-from-this-world.html
written July 18, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die-to-my-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
January 2, 2026
We must repent
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/we-must-repent.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 1, “Respond to God’s Grace”
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

turn from this world #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

turn from this world

from your old self
cleave to the Spirit
to God speaking within
turn from the flesh
return to God…
 
turn from this world
from your old self
turn from the flesh
return to God
to a place of holiness
trust in the Lord…
 
turn from this world
your passions, temptations,
put on Christ Jesus
abide in the vine
turn from the flesh,
return to God…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
turn from this world
 
written July 18, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
Based on Philippians 4:19
Based on 1 Corinthians 10:13
Based on Psalm 55:22
Based on Ephesians 4:22-24
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die-to-my-flesh.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
Based on Joel 2:12-14
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
 
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
January 2, 2026
We must repent
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/we-must-repent.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 1, “Respond to God’s Grace”
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

let me die to my flesh #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

let me die to my flesh,
to my desires, my passions,
May my fears no longer hold me,
let me walk in Your light…
 
help me, Lord, to turn,
to change my life completely,
Give me a heart to follow You,
to give myself to You fully…
 
make a new way for me,
help me to cleave to You,
May I take off myself
and put on Christ freely…
 
teach me, Lord God,
Your message to me,
Heal me as only You can,
Redeem me, I pray…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
let me die to my flesh
 
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 2, Day 1, “Personal Repentance”
Based on Ezekiel 36:26-27
Based on 2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/it-is-not-too-late.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
Based on Joel 2:12-14
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3
January 2, 2026
blot out my sin - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/blot-out-my-sin-2-poetry-god-christ.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
January 2, 2026
We must repent
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/we-must-repent.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 1, “Respond to God’s Grace”
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

Show me the #pearls #anger #poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit

breathe into me, Lord, God,
speak into my mind, my spirit,
in answer to whispered prayers…
show me the pearls, the glass shards,
grains of sand under scar tissues
into my mind, my consciousness,
ancient memories entwined,
rising, ascendant, shining,
real-time healing, building together,
answering the questions, “Why?”,
that were never spoken, hidden,
deep healing possible, real,
When I will listen to You…
 
scar tissue exposed, under the layers,
Beauty and darkness melded,
peeling the onion to its depths,
to find the lessons, the questions,
answers so deeply hidden,
what I have carried, heavy,
for all these many years,
my boundaries, my fissures,
cracks in identity, autonomy,
who I believe I am, the stones
I carry, heavy, unwanted,
that spills out as anger,
My need to be right…
 
-----------
January 5, 2026
Show me the pearls
 
preparing for re:generation program, beginning January 12, 2026
trying to get to the deepest part of my root hurts
maybe more than 55 years old…
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”
based on Matthew 18
(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, fear, courage, life, anger, bully, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, 1 Peter 5,
 
#poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit
 

show us the pearls #poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit

breathe into us, Lord, God,
speak into our minds, our spirits,
in answer to whispered prayers…
show us the pearls, the glass shards,
grains of sand under scar tissues
into our minds, our consciousness,
ancient memories entwined,
rising, ascendant, shining,
real-time healing, building together,
answering the questions, “Why?”,
that were never spoken, hidden,
deep healing possible, real,
When we will listen to You…
 
scar tissue exposed, under the layers,
Beauty and darkness melded,
peeling the onion to its depths,
to find the lessons, the questions,
answers so deeply hidden,
what we have carried, heavy,
for all these many years,
our boundaries, our fissures,
cracks in identity, autonomy,
who we believe we are, the stones
We carry, heavy, unwanted,
that spills out as anger,
our need to be right…
 
-----------
January 5, 2026
show us the pearls
 
preparing for re:generation program, beginning January 12, 2026
trying to get to the deepest part of my root hurts
maybe more than 55 years old…
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”
based on Matthew 18
(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, fear, courage, life, anger, bully, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, 1 Peter 5,
 
#poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit
 

it is not too late #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

drop your false gods
your idols of dust
turn from the flesh
altars that will rust…
 
stand upright before God
it is not too late
draw close to God
He will restore your life…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
it is not too late
 
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
Based on Joel 2:12-14
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/do-everything-for-god.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3
January 2, 2026
blot out my sin - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/blot-out-my-sin-2-poetry-god-christ.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
January 2, 2026
a quick fix
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-quick-fix.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2
January 2, 2026
to live in freedom
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/to-live-in-freedom.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2
January 2, 2026
We must repent
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/we-must-repent.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 1, “Respond to God’s Grace”
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

do everything for God #poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance

keep everything in perspective
don’t look for praise, for value,
for worth through your neighbors,
do everything for God…
 
seek not treasure here on earth
value from your neighbors,
store up praises in heaven,
do everything for God…
 
Only God is eternal
He alone is holy,
Focus on the eternal,
Do everything for God…
 
==============
January 5, 2026
do everything for God
 
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5, “Entirely Ready to Turn Toward a Good God.”
Based on Matthew 5:3-6
Based on Matthew 6:19-21
Based on Galatians 5:16-25
Based on 1 Corinthians 2:9, 14, 16
Based on Philippians 3:7-8
Based on John 10:10
January 3, 2026
abundantly
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/abundantly.html
written July 13, 2025
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 5
January 3, 2026
whatever the cost
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/whatever-cost.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4, “Consider the Cost of Following Jesus.”
January 3, 2026
Let me die
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/let-me-die.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 4
January 3, 2026
Trust Me
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/trust-me.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3, “The Way of Christ is Good.”
January 2, 2026
I have doubted Your Goodness
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/i-have-doubted-your-goodness.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 3
January 2, 2026
blot out my sin - 2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/blot-out-my-sin-2-poetry-god-christ.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2, “Redirected: Confession and Repentance”
January 2, 2026
a quick fix
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-quick-fix.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2
January 2, 2026
to live in freedom
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/to-live-in-freedom.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 2
January 2, 2026
We must repent
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/we-must-repent.html
Based on re:generation, Step 6, Repent, Week 1, Day 1, “Respond to God’s Grace”
 
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, sin, confession, repentance,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #sin #confession #repentance
 

A different year ended – v2 #poetry #fear #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Christmas #Kyiv #culture #joy #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava

A different year ended,
unlike a year ago, holding…
Changes on the battlefield,
their war footing as a nation…
The tide is changing, rising,
their own munitions production,
targeting oil infrastructure, power,
strikes the enemy cannot stop…
 
No longer defensive,
caught waiting, flat-footed,
with timid allies, frozen,
compromised by oil and gas…
Building their own security
their own native power…
Taking the fight to the enemy,
more than Russia can stop…
 
Momentum is changing in battle
redefining a war of attrition,
drones and intelligence,
matched by their boldness…
Deep strikes in their rear…
A rising tide of judgment
against their war crimes…
Timid allies galvanized
around Ukraine’s will to live…
 
---------------
Edited January 5, 2026
A different year ended – v2
 
January 1, 2026
A different year ended
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-different-year-ended.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.” And “
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, fear, courage, life, Ukraine, war, Christmas, Kyiv, culture, joy, resolve, New Year, Oleksandra Matviichuk, Christina Kydrava,

#poetry #fear #courage #life #Ukraine #war #Christmas #Kyiv #culture #joy #resolve #NewYear #OleksandraMatviichuk #ChristinaKydrava

A #lifetime of #struggle #poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit

A lifetime of struggle,
Autonomy, identity,
Intrinsic worth, value,
Rich gifts from God…
 
Constantly angry,
Insecure, attacked,
Unmoored from identity,
The love of God…
 
Bitterly lashing out,
Demanding submission,
Wanting approval, protection,
From my Father, God…
 
Anger defining, clouding,
All of my feelings, my actions,
Become a tyrant, a bully,
Under legalistic words…
 
A mirror too precise,
Crumbling self-image,
Remorse demanding,
A deep change within…
 
Asking for prayer,
His hands upon me,
Unsure of this journey,
But needing healing within…
 
-----------
January 5, 2026
A lifetime of struggle
 
Based on Matthew 18:1-9
Based on 1 Peter 5:1-11
and sermon, “Childlike Humility – 1”
part of sermon series, “Relationships”
based on Matthew 18
(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, fear, courage, life, anger, bully, God, Christ, Spirit, Matthew 18, 1 Peter 5,
 
#poetry #fear #courage #life #bully #God #Christ #Spirit