Thank You

Thank you, God, for everything today 
For giving me life, never being far away

I can never repay you for what you've done for me
Only spreading Your Love through Your Son that all may see

Your love transcends the sands of time
My love for you increases as I climb

One day, when I see you face-to-face
I will eternally Thank You for Your Saving Grace

November 12, 2023
MarkWaldrop

The more we need, the more we get

The more we need Him, the more He gives us
This belief  is based on His Love and our trust

His love cannot be measured
Only be felt and treasured

Giving my all to Him, He never fails in giving His All back to me
Finding Love greater than the deepest ocean and most expansive sea

Praises Forever and Forever I cast up to thee 
Thank You, God, for sending Your Son Jesus to set me Free

November 12, 2023
MarkWaldrop

Be not discouraged

Be not discouraged, for it lasts for only a short while
Be an encourager that will forever last with a smile

Discourage knocks you down
Encourage brings a rebound

Discouragement lasts only while on earth
Encouragement lasts forever, bringing 
 rebirth

Discouragement comes from evil
Encouragement comes from good
Being the Captain of your soul, sail where you would

A spark of fire causes much destruction 
A spark of hope and faith causes resurrection 

Be whom you may be
Encouragement lasts through eternity 

November 12, 2023
MarkWaldrop

248TH USMC BIRTHDAY

United States Marine Corps Flag
    248TH USMC BIRTHDAY

In the crucible of history, for 248 years strong,
Marines stand united, a legacy that's long.
From Belleau Wood's echoes to Inchon's shore,
In blood, sweat, and sacrifice, honor they bore.

Heroes like Woody Williams, Cafferata, and Daly,
In the heat of battle, their deeds spoke bravely.
Shoulders we stand on, their courage our guide,
Earn our title "Marine" with each rising tide.

From the Great War's trenches to battles untold,
Marines fought for freedom, courageous and bold.
In Korea, Vietnam, and the Middle East's call,
They answered with valor, they gave their all.

A life of service, of sacrifice profound,
In mud-covered uniforms, honor is found.
To be first to fight, the mission we embrace,
Choosing the path that others might not face.

In war's shadow, Marines relentlessly train,
Excellence our standard, to endure the pain.
From sea to land, we rise and return,
Our unique culture, a flame that'll forever burn.

Sergeant Major Ruiz and I stand with pride,
In this past year's feats, our strength amplified.
Every Marine, active, reserve, and vet,
Uphold our standards, a duty we won't forget.

Protect your kin, preserve the legacy we share,
Happy Birthday, Marines, in unity declare.
With "Ooh Rah" echoing, let our spirits soar,
For 248 years strong, and many more.

Taken from 
A MESSAGE FROM THE
COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE
CORPS
General Eric M. Smith

November 10, 2023
Created by
MarkWaldrop

A profound peace

In praise of God, our anxieties cease to be,
A soothing balm for our minds, our souls set free.
For in the act of appreciating His grace,
We find release from worries that we face.

Stress, a heavy burden we often bear,
In every aspect of life, it's always there.
But when we lift our voices in grateful song,
The Father's peace in our hearts is strong.

As the psalmist knew, in God we find our place,
A refuge where we pour our hearts with grace.
The burdens lifted, we gain a vital key,
To physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.

So let us appreciate God, in reverence and praise,
For in His presence, our worries we erase.
In that release, we find our souls set free,
A profound peace, a gift from the Almighty.

November 8, 2023
Created by
MarkWaldrop

Green Pastures

In pastures green, where waters flow,
The LORD, my shepherd, makes me know.
Beside still waters, my soul restored,
Guided on paths, for His name adored.

Through shadows deep, no fear I find,
With rod and staff, His peace entwined.
A table set 'midst foes unkind,
Anointing oil, my cup assigned.

Goodness and love, my constant guide,
In every step, by His side.
Through days and nights, through joy and strife,
In the LORD's house, I find my life.

November 8, 2023
Created by
MarkWaldrop

Shortcomings

I can't blame my shortcomings on what I don't have
Shortcomings come from within and how I behave

I can long for things of this world and covet others' possessions
Being content and calming my soul should be my mission

Quieting my soul and having peace within comes from knowing my maker
Not walking with Him, I will have no peace until I meet the undertaker

October 7, 2023
MarkWaldrop