Wise And Foolish Versions

I wish that I could understand why you must live in fear,
The very one who most convinced me God is really here.
But you must live convinced that He is captured in a book,
The one I've read too thoroughly in places you won't look.

You need to think that God is found by people writing tales
Of talking snakes and breaded rain and men who live in whales,
And seas that can be parted by the lifting of a rod.
You think that it is images like these that capture God?

When David stole Bathsheba and he took her to his bed
Do you believe the words inside the Bible you have read?
That God was very angry but with David reconciled...
But first He sent a sickness that would kill their little child.

The kind of God I read about is not a god for me,
And reading only what you want is called dishonesty.
"You've heard that it was said of old, but I say unto you."
When Jesus came the people found the truth was something new.

But no less now when honest souls have found a better way,
To seek the truth about the words that Christ would really say.
So I don't think He cursed a tree when figs were out of season,
Excuse me if I give my Lord the benefit of reason.

I tremble now no less under the power of Jesus name,
Don't say I'm not a Christian, but for me it's not a game.
No make believe that any group has captured all the truth,
I may have thought that once, but I have moved beyond my youth.

For me it's still in Jesus where the truth is to be found,
I'm looking for it differently but still on Holy ground.
My witness is my life for God and thanks for what He made,
Remember that when love is found you need not be afraid.

So speak to one who loves you, make your heart the one to choose.
Let go of what betrays you for it's only you who lose.
The truth will win because it has forever on its side.
I only want to share it, so I wish you wouldn't hide.

John H. Bidwell