#RejoiceInHope: Brand New Start

BRAND NEW START
By Andy Smith

I lacked all hope. Was full of fear.
Could never grasp that God is near.
My arms were tense. My back was turned.
Too many times, I had been burned.
I locked my heart. Was conned by pain.
Could not see that His love is gain.

I laughed at faith. Was dead in sin.
Could not accept God’s heav’nly spin.
My brain was washed. My conscience seared.
So, thoughts divine seemed way too weird.
I loathed the truth. Was such a fool.
Could not bow to His righteous rule.

I lived a lie. Was wracked with guilt.
Could never walk the path God built.
My ears were shut. My eyes were sealed.
Was too cut off to e’er be healed.
I loved the dark. Was clothed in shame.
Could not repent and praise His name.

Then grace broke through. I saw the light.
I cheered the dawn and quit the night.
Joy lit my face. Love filled my heart.
Peace calmed my mind. A brand new start.
For rays of hope, sent from His Son,
Called out, “You’re God’s, an honored one.”

Andy Smith has served as an OMF International missionary in the Philippines since 1989. His books with OMF Literature include Majesty of Jesus, Meaningful Evangelism, and Bible Activity books for Hiyas.