Joyce E. Shafer

Pineville, LA

I have always found it much easier to express myself in writing. I wrote my first short story at age thirteen, as well as poetry. Currently I am working on a children's book. I have been published several times in The National Library of Poetry, as well as other anthologies. I coordinated a Children's Bible Club in my church, and do hospital visitation. Since retiring I have enjoyed traveling and working in various ministries. My desire is to live the balance of my life helping others, and pass on my Christian heritage to children in a stressful world.

God's Ways

God's ways are so mysterious
But His beauty you can see,
By the way He weaves a pattern
In the lives of you and me.

Oft-times the way seems weary
Seems more than we can bear,
But if you take your cares to Jesus
You'll find that He does care.

Many times we face our trials
So that in our faith we may grow,
For our Father watches over us
Because He loves us so.

He'll take that heavy burden
That's tearing at your heart,
Weave it into His pattern
And a building He will start.

He's walking there beside you
You'll find He's very near,
He'll help you make decisions
Make the answer very clear.

My Savior

A beautiful story I love to tell
Of when Jesus came into my heart,
He bathed me in His tender love
And promised He would never depart.

My life since then is a pattern
Woven by my Master's hand,
He guides me on daily adventures
And on His promises I do stand.

You can go to Him with small problems
Because He wants to be a part of your life,
To share your sorrows and heartaches,
He doesn't want you burdened with strife.

In Him there is peace and contentment
No one is ever the same,
He is there whenever you need Him
Just call on His Precious Name.