Hello my friend and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Jesus Loves the Little Children. Jesus would state, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." There is no doubt that Jesus did love the little children and he loves us big children too. If we will humble ourselves and become like little children, the blessings he has for us are immeasurable.
This is followed by The Chuck Wagon Gang with MyHome Sweet Home. This comes from their 1960 gospel album, Perfect Joy.
Afterwards is Tommy Overstreet with Blessed Assurance. This hymn came about when songwriter Fanny Crosby visited composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp. Knapp played a tune for Crosby and asked what came to her mind with that tune. Crosby said, "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!" She then immediately followed it with more lyrics that would be in the finished song. The song was published in 1873 and first appeared in a monthly magazine for which the editors were Joseph Fairchild Knapp and Phoebe Palmer Knapp (who were husband and wife). When it later appeared in 1887's Gospel Songs, No. 5 by Ira Sankey, this we lead it to greater fame as it would be commonly sung in the revivals of Dwight L. Moody and Sankey. By 1889, the hymn commonly appeared in Methodist hymnals.
Then comes Hank Williams and his wife Audery Williams with their 1948 recording of I Heard My Mother Praying for Me. This song was credited to being written by Audrey Williams, yet on an episode of the Mothers Best radio show a few years later, Hank Williams introduced the song saying he wrote it. Audrey was very adamant about wanting to record some religious songs with her husband and kept bringing it up to Hank until Hank finally agreed and then convinced his manager Fred Rose. Though Audrey often gets a lot of criticism for her singing voice, the truth is it is not too bad here and there two voice match quite well on this duet at least. This gospel songs the two recorded together were heavily inspired by the husband and wife evangelists that both were very familiar with.
Next is Tammy Wynette with a medley of Amazing Grace, I'll Fly Away, Will the Circle be Unbroken and I Saw the Light.
Then comes The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Power in the Blood. Though it may be simple doctrine that we have heard since Sunday school, I hope we never forget how much power there truly is in the blood of Jesus. No matter what temptations and struggles we may face in life, Jesus' blood spilled on Calvary's cross has overcome all of it. With man something may be impossible but with God all things are possible.
Today's musical selection ends with Johnny Cash performing How Great Thou Art on an episode of his TV show that aired on August 30, 1969. Here he is backed up by The Carter Family and The Statler Brothers, who were both staples of his TV show and concerts.
Now for the 7th episode of The Lone Ranger TV show.
Now for a message from the reverend Billy Graham.
Psalm 146
1 Praise the Lord.
Praise the Lord, my soul.
2 I will praise the Lord all my life;
I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
5 Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.
6 He is the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them—
he remains faithful forever.
7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed
and gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets prisoners free,
8 the Lord gives sight to the blind,
the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down,
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the foreigner
and sustains the fatherless and the widow,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
10 The Lord reigns forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the Lord.
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing The Lord is Counting on You. This song is directed heavily at the duo's younger fans and is about the importance of Sunday school. This is appropriate because Roy had long been an advocate for Sunday School. In the early 1940's the rules for the Roy Rogers Riders Club included "love god and go to Sunday school regularly." This rule is especially interesting considering that it was before Roy gave his life fully to the Lord. After that of course his support for Sunday school grew even stronger. One time when he and Dale were taking part in a rodeo at Madison Garden, Roy spoke to his audience, "I heard some kid say it is sissy stuff to go to Sunday school. Don't you believe him. Sunday school is for he-men."
This is followed by Patty Loveless' version of Working on a Building. This recording comes from her 2009 gospel album, Mountain Soul II.
Afterwards is the Monroe Brothers with Oh, Hide You In The Blood. They recorded this song on February 15, 1937, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Then comes Johnny Cash with The Mercy Seat. This is a cover of a song by rock and roll singer/songwriter Nick Cave. Nick released the song on his 1988 album, Tender Prey. Like with all of John's covers he made this song completely his own, when he recorded it on his 2000 album, American III: Solitary Man. In fact, John's cover was one of the highlights of that album. Nick Cave was a massive Johnny Cash fan. Nick was not only proud to have John cover one of his songs, but he also loved the cover version himself. With its commentary on prison and capital punishment as well as the Christian imagery employed throughout, this song perfectly fits into John's larger discography.
Afterwards is Hank Williams singing The Battle of Armageddon. Hank recorded this song in 1949, but it was not released until after Hank's death. The song was written by Roy Acuff (a legendary country singer in his own right) and Odell McLeod. However, the song truly has the feel of a Hank song. Though his best-known gospel work is the upbeat and fast paced, I Saw the Light, Hank recorded a lot of songs filled with dark and moody imagery based off the book of Revelation.
Speaking of Roy Acuff here is his 1958 recording of Where Could Go but to the Lord. This song was written in 1940 by James Buchanan Coats. He was standing beside a dying neighbor, an African American man named Joe Keyes. Coates asked Keyes if he knew where he was going after he died. Keyes responded, "Where Could I Go But to the Lord."
Next is The Charlie Daniels Band with Somebody Was Prayin' For Me. This song comes from their 1996 Christian album, Steel Witness. Charlie Daniels stated in his memoir, Never Look at the Empty Seats, that he took special care writing his Christian songs because in his younger years, though he believed in God, he did not fully understand what the Bible actually said and he wanted his band's Christian albums to speak to those who are like he was.
Today's musical selection concludes with The Sons of the Pioneers' 1937 recording of Leaning on the Everlasting Arms. At this time the group was made up of Bob Nolan, Tim Spencer, Leonard Slye (later to leave the band for a movie career under the name Roy Rogers), Lloyd Perryman, Karl Farr and Hugh Farr. This is personally my favorite line up for the band (though I love this band under any incarnation).
Now for the 12th chapter of the Buck Jones movie serial, The Red Rider (1934).
Now for a message from S.M. Lockridge.
Psalm 51
For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.
1 Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your unfailing love;
according to your great compassion
blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash away all my iniquity
and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I know my transgressions,
and my sin is always before me.
4 Against you, you only, have I sinned
and done what is evil in your sight;
so you are right in your verdict
and justified when you judge.
5 Surely I was sinful at birth,
sinful from the time my mother conceived me.
6 Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb;
you taught me wisdom in that secret place.
7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
8 Let me hear joy and gladness;
let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
9 Hide your face from my sins
and blot out all my iniquity.
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me from your presence
or take your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
so that sinners will turn back to you.
14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,
you who are God my Savior,
and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
15 Open my lips, Lord,
and my mouth will declare your praise.
16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart
you, God, will not despise.
18 May it please you to prosper Zion,
to build up the walls of Jerusalem.
19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous,
in burnt offerings offered whole;
then bulls will be offered on your altar.
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy Trails to you until we meet again.
Hello, my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection starts off with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing The Lord is Counting on You. This song was written by another legend of cowboy gospel legend, Stuart Hamblin, who also wrote This Ole House, It is No Secret (What God Can Do), and Open Up Your Heart (And Let the Sunshine In). Hamblin was also an actor and had played the villain in one of Roy's movies, The Arizona Kid (1939). This version of the song comes from Roy and Dale's 1959 album, Jesus Loves Me.
This is followed by Don Bester and his orchestra with their 1933 recording of The Last Round Up. Neil Buckley is singing lead on this recording.
Afterwards is Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard with Sing Me Back Home on a 1969 episode of TV's The Johnny Cash Show. This song was written by Merle and was based off a true story that happened while he was in San Quentin State Prison for attempted robbery. It was the title track of his 1968 album.
Next comes one of the most popular country gospel songs performed by the man who wrote it. The song is I Saw the Light and the singer and songwriter was Hank Williams. Hank wrote this song as he was heading home from a dance in Fort Deposit, Alabama. His mother was driving him home and told her son "Hank, wake up, we're nearly home. I just saw the light" (she was referring to the light near Dannelly Field Airport). Hank wrote the song on the rest of the way home. The song melody-wise strongly resembles Albert E. Brumley's He Set Me Free, but I Saw the Light has certainly taken on a life of its own apart from the earlier song, heavily through the powerful and inspiring lyrics that do what Hank did best as a songwriter, convey something powerful and moving in a way that seems so simple and unpretentious. Hank recorded this song on his first MGM recording session (April 21, 1947). However, even though he was the first to record this song, his version was not the first released. Producer Fred Rose gave it to two other singers (Clyde Grubbs and Roy Acuff), both of whom had their versions released before Hank.
Then comes Glen Campbell with I Surrender All. This song was written by Judson Van de Venter in 1896. A schoolteacher, who was being called to become an evangelist it took him five years to surrender and leave his teaching job for what was his true calling. This song reflects this brave and faithful action.
Now for The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1951 recording of The Lord's Prayer. The lyrics of this song come directly from the Bible (specifically Jesus himself). The music was written by Albert Hay Malotte in 1933.
Today's musical selection ends with Anne Wilson with Til the Road Runs Out. This song is from her 2025 EP God Story.
Now for the fourth chapter of the Buck Jones movie serial, The Red Rider (1934).
Now for a message from the Reverand Billy Graham.
Rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. Ephesians 6:7-8
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 1 Peter 4:10-11
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Colossians 3:13
Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times." Matthew 18:21-22
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans singing Sweet Hour of Prayer. Prayer is one of the important parts of a Christians life but it also something that many Christians don't spend enough time doing. I admit myself to having been guilty of prayer far less than I should. Yet talking to the God of the universe is an incredible privilege we have and one of the greatest blessings in our lives.
This is followed by Henry Burr with his 1918 recording of Softly and Tenderly. The song was written by an Ohio businessman named Will Thompson in 1880. As well as writing gospel songs Thompson also wrote quite a few secular songs and parotic songs. When the songs he wrote were rejected by publishers he created his own company, Will L. Thompson & Company. This company would not only publish music by sell musical instruments. Softly and Tenderly first appeared in 1880's Sparkling Gems, Nos. 1 and 2, a collection of songs from the company. When evangelist Dwight L. Moody was on his death bed he told the songwriter, "Will, I would rather have written ‘Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling’ than anything I have been able to do in my whole life." This was appropriate as Will decided to make songwriting his career while at a meeting held by Moody.
Afterwards is George Jones and Roy Acuff with their 1970 recording of Hank Williams' I Dreamed of the Great Judgement Morning,
This is followed by Gene Autry and Dinah Shore singing In the Garden. This song was written by C. Austin Miles. As well as a hymnist, Austin's hobby was photography. He wrote this song in 1912 while waiting some film to dry in a cold and leaky basement. Miles had discovered earlier that he could read the bible in the red lighting of his darkroom and often did. This day he was reading John 20. He read about how Mary went into the garden to see Jesus' tomb. Her heart was full of sadness, but when she learned that Jesus had overcome the grave she was moved to great joy. This passage moved Miles as he read it, and this song started to come to him. Miles originally intended this song to be an Easter song and for it to be from the point of view of Mary Magdalene. Miles would later say about this song, “This is not an experience limited to a happening almost 2,000 years ago. It is the daily companionship with the Lord that makes up the Christian’s life.” Learning this story has made this song all the more powerful for me and I hope it enhances the power of this great hymn for you as well.
Up next is Kris Kristofferson with In the News from his 2006 album, This Old Road. As a Christian, nothing makes me sadder than those who try to use the bible to justify their own hatreds and prejudices.
Then comes The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of Read the Bible Every Day. This song was written by Tim Spencer, one of the group's founding members.
Afterwards is Wayne Raney with When Heaven Comes Down.
Today's musical selection ends with RaeLynn with an acoustic version of Small Town Prayer. RaeLynn co-wrote this song with Drew Kennedy and Ben Stennis. About this song, the singer would state, "I know that all our prayers mean something to God, but to me, the simple ones from a small town hit His ears a little different. "
Now for an episode of the Red Ryder radio show.
Now for a sermon from Martin Luther King Jr.
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins. Isaiah 40:1-2
But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. 1 John 2:11
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt. Exodus 22:21
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with In the Sweet By and By. This song came about because of a friendship between composer, Joseph Webster and poet, Dr. Sanford Fillmore Bennett. One day Webster was depressed, and Dr. Bennett recognized this. Dr. Bennett asked his friend what was wrong. Webster replied, "Oh nothing. Everything will be alright by and by." These words brought up an idea in Bennett and he wrote down three verses and a chorus to this song as soon as he could. He handed it to his friend saying, “Here is your prescription, Joe.” Webster loved the lyrics and wrote music for them in practically no time at all. Dr. Bennett later said, “It was not over thirty minutes from the time I took my pen to write the words before two friends with Webster and myself were singing the hymn.” The hymn was first published in 1868 and went on to great fame since.
Afterwards is Henry Burr with his 1904 recording of Holy City. Though rather forgotten today, Burr was one of the most popular singers during the turn of the century.
Next is Hank and Audery Williams with their 1949 recording of Something Got a Hold of Me. This is definitely one of the more obscure hymns that Hank recorded and one that was fairly recent at the time he recorded it. It was written by Warren Caplinger and Andy Paterson, who were two thirds of the musical group Cap, Andy and Flip, a group that was very popular on radio in the 1930's. The writers never made an actual recording of this song, but country music fans might know that the Carter Family had recorded it in 1941. Hank and Audery most likely based the sound of this and other gospel recordings they made together off of husband-and-wife evangelists that they grew up hearing.
Then comes Chris Tomlin and Chris Lane with Gifts From God. This recording comes from Chris Tomlin's 2020 album, Chris Tomlin and Friends. With this album, this Christian singer performed songs with various popular country singers.
Afterwards is The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Sea Walker. This song was written by Tim Spencer, one of the group's founding members. Music was a major part of Tim's life from very early on. In fact, when he was only 3 years old, he was already singing at the church he grew up in. His love of things cowboy and western related also began very early as he had grown in awe of western movies and screen cowboys like Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson, William S. Hart and others were his boyhood heroes. With this it is no surprise that in 1931, he went to California to see how his talents could be used in Hollywood. Yet music always remained a major passion for him. As he worked in a warehouse, he would spend his weekends and time after working going around to all the country music radio shows, getting to know all the people he could. This is how he met fellow founding members of the Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Nolan and Leonard Slye (later Roy Rogers). The Sea Walker as well as being written by Tim also features him as the lead singer. The great Bass vocals in this song are courtesy of Hugh Farr.
Next is Rex Allen with his 1959 recording of The Little Old Church in the Valley.
Afterwards is Kris Kristofferson with Good Christian Solider. This recording comes from Kris's 1971 album, The Silver Tongue Devil and I.
Today's musical selection ends with Joey and Rory with The Old Rugged Cross. The song itself dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually, the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.
Now for a 1991 interview with Gene Autry.
Now for a sermon from the Rev. Billy Graham.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. Exodus 15:2
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. Jeremiah 32:17
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Near to the Heart of God. This hymn was written by Cleland McAfee, a pastor and choir leader at the Presbyterian Church at Park College in Parkville, Mo. This song came about after his two infant nieces passed away from diphtheria. His daughter recounted in her book, Near to the Heart of God, “The family and town were stricken with grief. My father often told us how he sat long and late thinking of what could be said in word and song on the coming Sunday.... So he wrote the little song. The choir learned it at the regular Saturday night rehearsal, and afterward they went to Howard McAfee’s home and sang it as they stood under the sky outside the darkened, quarantined house. It was sung again on Sunday morning at the communion service.... The hymn was first included in The Choir Leader, October, 1903.”
Afterwards is Vernon Delhart with his 1928 recording of Ring Dem Bells.
Next comes one of the most popular country gospel songs performed by the man who wrote it. The song is I Saw the Light and the singer and songwriter was Hank Williams. Hank wrote this song as he was heading home from a dance in Fort Deposit, Alabama. His mother was driving him home and told her son "Hank, wake up, we're nearly home. I just saw the light" (she was referring to the light near Dannelly Field Airport). Hank wrote the song on the rest of the way home. The song melody-wise strongly resembles Albert E. Brumley's He Set Me Free, but I Saw the Light has certainly taken on a life of its own apart from the earlier song, heavily through the powerful and inspiring lyrics that do what Hank did best as a songwriter, convey something powerful and moving in a way that seems so simple and unpretentious. Hank recorded this song on his first MGM recording session (April 21, 1947). However, even though he was the first to record this song, his version was not the first released. Producer Fred Rose gave it to two other singers (Clyde Grubbs and Roy Acuff), both of whom had their versions released before Hank.
Up next is Chris Tomlin, Russell Dickerson and Florida Georgia Line with Sing. This comes from Chris Tomlin's 2020 album, Chris Tomlin and Friends. This album featured the Christian singer performing various songs with popular country singers.
It is hard to believe that a song like The Man Comes Around was so late in Johnny Cash's career. Most of the time singer/songwriters don't release and certainly don't write their best music in their sixth decade, but as all music fans know Johnny was one of the rare artists with such a long career, who left this world at the top of his game musically. At this time John was on fire for the lord. No longer was he the wild crazy man he had been in the 1950's and 60's, instead by this time he had become a true man of God and wanted to do all he could for the lord before he passed away. He knew he had wasted too much of his life being controlled by sin and finally wanted to be a servant to God instead of to his own fleshly desires. At this time, he was also seeing a musically resurgence, where he was more popular than ever, and young audiences were embracing his new music just as much as they did any younger artist of their generation. What he wanted to do was to create a modern-day gospel song that would speak directly to this younger audience and The Man Comes Around more than fit that bill. Because this song was so near and dear to him, he spent more time writing it than any other song he had composed. In his book, Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon, Pastor Greg Laurie wrote "Personally I think it is the strongest song Johnny ever wrote. It is both biblical and personal, powerful and poetic."
Now for a song that perfectly represents everything cowboy gospel music should be. So, enjoy Rex Allen singing The Range in the Sky.
Today's musical selection ends with the Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of The Touch of God's Hand. This song was written by one of the group's founding members, Bob Nolan. As is true of many of Bob's best songs, the lyrics here bring very beautiful and vivid images to one's mind. Though he often times doesn't get credit for it, Bob Nolan was one of country music's greatest poets. The group recorded this song on December 16, 1937. It features Bob Nolan on lead vocals, Lloyd Perryman and Karl Farr on guitar, Sam Koki on steel guitar, Pat Brady on Bass and Hugh Farr on fiddle. This recording was made shortly after Roy Rogers left the group for a solo movie career.
Now for a sermon from Martin Luther King Jr.
Up next is Roy Rogers appearing on Letterman on June 22, 1983.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. Psalm 119:50
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:26-28
Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted. Isaiah 49:13
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Sons of the Pioneers with The Mystery of His Way. This song was written by Bob Nolan, one of the founding members of the Sons of the Pioneers and one of my favorite songwriters. Though they have recorded this song multiple times before this version comes from their newest album, 2024's Campfire Spirituals.
Hank Williams wrote How Can You Refuse Him Now for his wife Audrey Williams, who recorded it in March 1950. However, he made a demo recording of the song also in 1950 and that is the version that is present here. Unlike his most famous gospel compositions (I Saw the Light being a prime example), this song is much slower paced and sung in a much more emotional style. However, this song contains the pure lyrical poetry that only Hank could master. This song makes us realize how much Jesus has done for us and how little he truly asks of us. With this in mind why would we refuse his extreme generosity and grace when it is given to us as a free gift.
Now for J.E. Mainer's Mountaineers with their 1938 recording of Just Over in the Glory Land.
This is followed by Iris DeMent with Leaning On the Everlasting Arms. This hymn began with a man named Anthony Showalter. As a fan of gospel music and an elder in a Presbyterian church, he held many "singing schools" at various churches in the south. One day he received two letters from former students who were struggling after their wives had passed. To respond to these letters, Showalter consulted scripture. He came across Deuteronomy 33:27, "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." After reading this verse lyrics for a song chorus went through his head and he wrote down, "“Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.” After using this in the letters to his former students he sent this chorus to his friend hymnist, Elisha Hoffman. In the letter he also wrote, “Here is the chorus for a good hymn from Deuteronomy 33:27, but I can’t come up with the verses.” Hoffman then wrote the rest of the lyrics to which Showalter put to music. The hymn was published in 1887. This version of the hymn comes from her 2004 album Lifeline.
Then comes Anne Wilson and Lainey Wilson (no relation) with Praying Woman. This comes from Anne Wilson's 2024 album, Rebel.
Up next comes Johnny Cash with Jesus Was a Carpenter. What I love about this song is that it takes about what happened back when Jesus was on Earth, but it puts it in a modern context even looking at many of today's political and social issues. This shows that the Bible is just as true today and that even after all these centuries we can still apply it to what is going on in our world today. The very idea of praising Jesus in socially conscious folk song, paints a great picture of what Johnny Cash and his music were all about. This recording comes from his 1970 album, Hello I'm Johnny Cash.
Next is Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Softly and Tenderly. The song was written by an Ohio businessman named Will Thompson in 1880. As well as writing gospel songs Thompson also wrote quite a few secular songs and parotic songs. When the songs he wrote were rejected by publishers he created his own company, Will L. Thompson & Company. This company would not only publish music by sell musical instruments. Softly and Tenderly first appeared in 1880's Sparkling Gems, Nos. 1 and 2, a collection of songs from the company. When evangelist Dwight L. Moody was on his death bed he told the songwriter, "Will, I would rather have written ‘Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling’ than anything I have been able to do in my whole life." This was appropriate as Will decided to make songwriting his career while at a meeting held by Moody.
Today's musical selection ends with Bonnie Owens with Where Could I Go But To The Lord. his song was written in 1940 by James Buchanan Coats. He was standing beside a dying neighbor, an African American man named Joe Keyes. Coates asked Keyes if he knew where he was going after he died. Keyes responded, "Where Could I Go But to the Lord."
Next is an episode of Roy Rogers' radio show.
Now for a message from Bill Graham.
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety. Psalms 4:8
But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31
The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. Exodus 15:2
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love. Ephesians 3:16-17
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with The Sons of the Pioneers with The Woodsman Prayer from their 1963 album, Hymns of the Cowboy. This song was written by Stan Jones. Stan is best known for writing the cowboy music classic, Ghost Riders in the Sky. He also wrote the theme song for John Ford's The Searchers (1956), which The Sons of the Pioneers sang in that film.
This is followed by Carrie Underwood singing The Old Rugged Cross. The song dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually, the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.
Afterwards is Connie Smith and Nat Stucky with If God Is Dead (Who's That Living In My Soul). This is from a 1970 gospel album the two country singers did together that is called Sunday Morning with Nat Stuckey and Connie Smith. This was the second album that the two made together. The first was 1969's Young Love. The idea to pair the two come from the record company, as both had recently had major hits and the company believed that their two voices would blend very well together.
Then comes Marty Robbins with There's Power in the Blood. This recording comes from his 1963 gospel album, What God Has Done.
Next is The Chuck Wagon Gang with their 1949 recording of Shall We Gather At The River? This hymn was written in 1864 by Robert Lawery. He described the writing of this song by stating “One hot afternoon in July 1864, I was resting on his sofa, visions of heaven pervaded his senses. I saw the bright golden throne room and a multitude of saints gathered around the beautiful, cool, crystal, river of life. I was filled with a sense of great joy. I began to wonder why there seemed to be many hymns that referenced the river of death, but very few that mentioned the river of life. As I mused, the words and music to Shall We Gather at the River came to his heart and mind.”
Then is Johnny Cash with Over There. It is important to remember that none of the hardships this world can give us can hold a candle to the joys of heaven. Likewise, none of the joys this world can offer us can compare to the joys of heaven. This is why no matter where we are in this world, we should always keep our eyes focused upon heaven. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, then this world is not your home. You are only passing through here on your way to the glories of heaven.
Afterwards is Hank Williams with his 1949 recording of The Battle Armageddon.
Today's musical selection ends with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with How Great Thou Art. In the book, Happy Trails: Our Life Story, Roy tells of a story that had to do with this song. "I'll tell you about one time we nearly got into a real war with the promoters: at the World Championship Rodeo at Madison Square Garden in 1952. During the first rehearsal I started to practice 'How Great Thou Art,' a religious song I wanted to make the centerpiece of our musical act. There's a line in that song that goes, 'Then sings my soul my Savior God to Thee...' Someone in the front office heard the rehersal and came to me that night to tell me I wasn't allowed to mention Christ at the rodeo. 'It might work for the kids in Houston, Texas' he told me, 'But this is New York. You can't preach to kids here.' I told him I wasn't preaching but that the Savior was a part of the song and I fully intended to sing that song in New York or anywhere else we performed. They suggested that I could change the words of the song so it didn't mention Him. I'm not one for grandstand plays but I told those fellas that if I couldn't sing 'How Great thou Art' just how it was written, Dale and I would pack up and leave town. The song stayed in the show. That year we did forty-three performances over twenty-six days and broke all Madison Square Garden attendance records."
Now for a message from Rev. Billy Graham.
Now for a 1951 episode of Gene Autry's TV show.
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love. Ephesians 3:16-17
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Discipline your body and make it your slave so that you will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:27
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here. 2 Corinthians 5:17
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45
But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby. Ezekiel 33:19 Sons Thank you very much for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1948 recording of Power in the Blood.
This is followed by Hank Williams and his wife Audrey with their 1948 recording of I Heard My Mother Praying For Me. his song was credited to being written by Audrey Williams, yet on an episode of the Mothers Best radio show a few years later, Hank Williams introduced the song saying he wrote it. Audrey was very adamant about wanting to record some religious songs with her husband and kept bringing it up to Hank until Hank finally agreed and then convinced his manager Fred Rose. Though Audrey often gets a lot of criticism for her singing voice, the truth is it is not too bad here and their two voices match quite well on this duet at least. This gospel songs the two recorded together were heavily inspired by the husband-and-wife evangelists that both were very familiar with.
Next is Billy Walker with Only One Prayer Away. It is always amazing to me that the God who created the universe is always there to listen to anything we have to say. No matter what we have done or how alone we feel, he is always there for us, ready to give us a rest and a peace beyond anything we could ever imagine.
Then comes The Sons of the San Joaquin with Lead Me Gently Home. This recording comes from the group's 1997 gospel album, Gospel Trails.
Now for Cowboy Copas with his 1953 recording of The Man Upstairs. If you haven't talked to the man upstairs recently, you really should. God always wants to hear from his children and he never once stops caring about us. Even with the little things that we sometimes doubt that he cares about, he cares more deeply than we'll ever know.
Next is Johnny Cash with I Won't Have to Cross Jordan Alone. This hymn was written by Charles Durham. Durham's day job was as a postman, yet he found himself often moved by God and wanted to write down what God would speak to him. He carried a paper and pencil with him on each trip, in case a hymn would come to him, while he was on his route. It is believed that he wrote over 100 hymns this way. Later in life he would publish hymn books and organize gospel quartets. His first hymn was published in 1912. This hymn was published in 1934. John's version of the hymn comes from his 1962 album, Hymns From the Heart. This was his second full gospel album.
Then comes Chet Atkins with a 1962 instrumental version of The Old Rugged Cross. The hymn dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually, the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.
Today's musical selection ends with Roy Rogers and Dale Evans with Do What the Good Book Says. Jesus said, " If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other." There is nothing greater in this life than to call Jesus our friend and if we do what the good book says, this friendship only strengthens.
Now for chapter 2 of Gene Autry's movie serial, The Phantom Empire.
Now for a message from the Reverend Billy Graham.
And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. James 2:23
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2
A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might. Proverbs 24:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
Thank you for joining me. Come Back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection starts with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1937 recording of Lord You Made the Cowboy Happy. It is too often in life that we take the little things for granted. God has given us more blessings than we could ever count, and it is good to take a little time every day to thank him for those blessings.
This is followed by Hank Williams and his wife Audery Williams with their 1948 recording of I Heard My Mother Praying for Me. This song was credited to being written by Audrey Williams, yet on an episode of the Mothers Best radio show a few years later, Hank Williams introduced the song saying he wrote it. Audrey was very adamant about wanting to record some religious songs with her husband and kept bringing it up to Hank until Hank finally agreed and then convinced his manager Fred Rose. Though Audrey often gets a lot of criticism for her singing voice, the truth is it is not too bad here and there two voice match quite well on this duet at least. This gospel songs the two recorded together were heavily inspired by the husband and wife evangelists that both were very familiar with.
Next comes Anne Wilson with Hey Girl. This is what she calls her "Kentucky Version," and although all of her music is very country inspired, this version is even more country than the original version. Hey Girl comes from Anne's debut album, 2022's My Jesus.
Afterwards is Tennessee Ernie Ford with Blessed Assurance. This hymn came about when songwriter Fanny Crosby visited composer Phoebe Palmer Knapp. Knapp played a tune for Crosby and asked what came to her mind with that tune. Crosby said, "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!" She then immediately followed it with more lyrics that would be in the finished song. The song was published in 1873 and first appeared in a monthly magazine for which the editors were Joseph Fairchild Knapp and Phoebe Palmer Knapp (who were husband and wife). When it later appeared in 1887's Gospel Songs, No. 5 by Ira Sankey, this we lead it to greater fame as it would be commonly sung in the revivals of Dwight L. Moody and Sankey. By 1889, the hymn commonly appeared in Methodist hymnals.
Next is Glen Campbell with a song he wrote himself, Less of Me.
Now for Roy Rogers with Peace in the Valley. The hymn was written by Thomas A. Dorsey who later explained the origins of this song, “Peace in the Valley,” “It was just before Hitler sent his war chariots into Western Europe in the late 1930s. I was on a train going through southern Indiana and saw horses, cows and sheep all grazing together in this little valley. Everything seemed so peaceful. It made me question, “What’s the matter with mankind? Why can’t men live in peace?” Out of those thoughts came “Peace in the Valley.”
It is time to join Willie Nelson and his sister Bobbie Nelson with Are You Washed in the Blood. This comes from their 1996 album, Just as I Am. This was an album made up of old gospel songs that the two had grown up with since childhood.
Today's musical selection ends with the late Jerry Lee Lewis with My God is Real.
Today's movie trailer is for The Lone Ranger (1956) starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels. The 1950's Lone Ranger TV series was such a sensation that it spawned two full color theatrically released feature films. This is the first of those movies and it is simply a lot of fun. A couple of years later it would be followed by The Lone Ranger and the Lost City of Gold (1958). The Lone Ranger marks the last film appearance by Bonita Granville. My fellow B movie fans might know her from playing Nancy Drew in a series of four films. She also had a good sized role in the brilliant Bette Davis romantic film, Now Voyager (1942).
Now a message from Pastor Greg Laurie.
Now therefore, may it please You to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever before You. For You, O Lord God, have spoken; and with Your blessing may the house of Your servant be blessed forever. 2 Samuel 7:29
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. Isaiah 12:3
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18
But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13
Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. Job 5:17
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Matthew 6:25 Proverbs Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. Mark 13:11
Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Luke 12:24
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love. Ephesians 3:16-17
He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses. Proverbs 28:27
Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor. Proverbs 14:21
Thanks for joining me. Come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Hello my friends and welcome back for another service of Cowboy Church.
Today's musical selection begins with Charley Pride singing In Jesus' Name I Pray. This song comes from his 1976 album, Sunday Morning With Charley Pride (his second all gospel album). Up next is Johnny Cash singing All of God's Children Ain't Free. This song is from the 1965 album, Orange Blossom Special. In his Johnny Cash biography, The Man Called Cash, Steve Turner calls this "Cash's most folk-inspired album." This is no coincidence as John's heart was drifting heavily towards the current folk scene at this time. He had preformed at the Newport Folk Festival was spending much time with Bob Dylan, was recording songs by current folk songwriters such as Peter La Farge, and was addressing politics and social commentary in his music in a way he did much less often in the 1950's. This album contained three songs written by Bob as well as some more traditional folk music. This song (written by John himself) was a protest song of the type that was popular in the folk work at this time. This is followed by Mel Tillis singing How Great Thou Art. Around 1886 Swedish pastor, Carl Boberg is said to have been caught in a violent thunderstorm. When soon after he saw the sun return and birds singing, he fell to his knees in amazement of God's incredible majesty. He then wrote the words to this song as a poem. Supposedly serval years later he was surprised to hear a congregation singing his poem to an old Swedish folk melody. Its first English translation was in 1925 by E. Gustav Johnson. However this version simply never caught on and has faded into obscurity. In 1927 it received a Russian version by Ivan S. Prokhanoff. This version inspired English missionary Stuart K. Hine, who began writing his own version. When Hine returned back to England in 1939, he brought this song with him and it is this version that we know so well today. The hymn reached a new popularity with Billy Graham's crusades. George Beverly Shea later remembered, "We first sang in the Toronto, Canada, Crusade of 1955. Cliff Barrows and his large volunteer choir assisted in the majestic refrains. Soon after, we used it in the ‘Hour of Decision’ [radio broadcasts] and in American crusades. In the New York meetings of 1957 the choir joined me in singing it ninety-three times!" Next comes Roy Rogers singing Read the Bible and Pray. Though this song's advise may sound obvious, it is still something that even the most devoted Christians need to be remind of sometimes. The more time we spend in God's word and in prayer, the more we become in tune with the things of God. Yet when we skip or overlook these things our mind drifts away from the things of God. It is so easy to fall into this trap (I know I have), but by doing these two simple things we can avoid it and keep our minds set on the things of God. Afterwards is Hank Williams singing The Battle of Armageddon. Hank recorded this song in 1949, but it was not released until after Hank's death. The song was written by Roy Acuff (a legendary country singer in his own right) and Odell McLeod. However the song truly has the feel of a Hank song. Though his best known gospel work is the upbeat and fast paced, I Saw the Light, Hank recorded a lot of songs filled with dark and moody imagery based off the book of Revelation. This is followed by The Monroe Brothers with their 1936 recording of My Savior's Train. This is followed by The Charlie Daniels Band with A Day in the Life, an original song from their 1996 Christian album, Steel Witness. Today's musical selection ends with The Sons of the Pioneers with their 1947 recording of The Old Rugged Cross. The song dates back to 1913 and was written by evangelist, George Bennard. Actually the first verse was written in 1912. It was written while Bennard was a part of a series of revival meetings in Albion, Michigan. He was worried about the complete disregard for the gospel around him and wrote this verse as a repose. Of writing it Bennard said, "I seemed to have a vision ... I saw the Christ and the cross inseparable." The song wouldn't be completed for several months, when he was leading meetings at a local church in Pokagan, Michigan. He played it for Rev. Leroy (the sponsoring pastor) and his wife, Ruby Bostwick, both of whom found themselves moved to tears. It was then incorporated into a service at that church on June 7, 1913. The song has the same effect today as it must have back then.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:16-18
He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. Acts 16:30-33
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. Romans 10:9-10
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other. “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates me hates my Father as well. If I had not done among them the works no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. As it is, they have seen, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’ “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. John 15:1-27
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22
Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Philippians 2:14
And he believed the Lord and He accounted it to him for righteousness. Genesis 15:6
But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive. Genesis 50:20
Thanks for joining me come back next week for another service of Cowboy Church. Happy trails to you until we meet again.
