Oh Lord you know that there are times
When my heart is heavy and sad...
Because of things that others say and do
That sometimes will make me mad.
How insensitive are their words
Or how unloving their careless deeds;
Like some fiery dart from the pits of hell
They hurt me and make my heart bleed.
Sometimes I want to lash out in anger
And make them hurt so bad;
But, I know that would grieve Your heart...
Certainly making your own Spirit sad.
I know you’ve told me in your Word
That I’m blessed when I pray instead of retaliating;
So, I need your help on many a day
When words and deeds are so debilitating.
Too often I tend to harbor my hurts
And "tent” on my resentment;
Forgive me, Father, and wash me now
So I’ll be filled with your sweet contentment.
Keep me from bitterness and caustic words,
Or deeds that only divide...
For I know that it’s only when I follow Christ
That I’ll have Your peace inside.
Help me, O Lord, to lay aside my pride
That says, "But, they’re the ones that hurt me!”
Instead, may I completely do your will
By going to them in humility.
May I seek to forgive and ask forgiveness
As I seek true reconciliation;
For, if I don’t, how can I say
That I know your love and I’m on my way to Heaven?
by Tom Smith
