SHELF LIFE

by Mariane Holbrook

I’ve done it again, Lord; will I ever learn
That trusting should still be my greatest concern?

I chafe on this shelf, Lord, I want so to be
Used to bless others like You have blessed me.

I long to reach out, Lord, please help me I pray
To find ways to serve You, and not waste away.

So many are hurting, so many need love,
So many need You to reach down from above.

I chafe on this shelf, Lord, release me I pray
I can’t serve you here, I am too far away.

My child, now please listen, you’re not on a shelf;
Nothing has changed, dear, you’re still your sweet self.

I love you in spite of mistakes that you’ve made.
Your sins have been covered; the price has been paid.

I know of your pain and I know of your fears
For I am your Father; now dry all those tears.

And start praising Jesus, and then I will bring
Such joy to your heart that you’ll rise up and sing.

I’ll bring in your life those I want you to bless
And trust me, my child, I will do all the rest.

You’re not on a shelf, dear, you’re where you should be;
I want you to rest, not to fret, just trust Me.

My plans are not clear to you yet, but please know
You’re safe in My hands and I won’t let you go.

For a free, lovely laminated bookmark of this poem,
please send a #10 SASE to Mariane Holbrook.
209 I Ave, Kure Beach, NC 28449. Be sure to
put the name of the poem, "Shelf Life" on your 
request. One bookmark per person, please.