I am repentant of my sins,
I believe Jesus is The Christ,
I believe I've been redeemed by Him,
I believe He paid the price.

 

But, I have this problem speaking out,
What do people want to hear?
Unless they directly question me,
I do not volunteer.

 

I hesitate to open up,
Of that, I am not proud,
I don't revel in my quietness,
But, why can't I speak aloud?

 

Am I ashamed of anything?
What keeps me from speaking out?
What do I fear from other folks?
What's my silence all about?

 

Are you disappointed, God?
I know that you must be,
I feel bad about it, too,
I pray you'll pardon me.

 

Give me courage. Give me strength,
I know what I should do,
Believe me, dearest Father,
I am not ashamed of you.

 

The shame I feel is for myself,
Forgive me. Hear my plea,
These fears to speak out that I have,
Are much too much for me.

 

But, how can you forgive me, God,
If I don't do my part?
I promise to try harder, God,
I love you with my heart.

 

Help me to speak in your behalf,
The words you want to hear,
Help me to speak of you - from love,
And not to speak - from fear.

 

Virginia (Ginny) Ellis
copyright 2001