Expressions of the Heart: Poems and Devotionals by Jeff Dalton

Chapter One ...

Expression of a Worshipful Heart

My Heart

If you were to ask anyone who knows me well—especially those who’ve seen me in church—and sat

down with them over coffee at Five Lakes (my favorite spot), and asked them to describe me in one word, most wouldn’t hesitate.

They’d say, “Worship.”

If you pressed for a second word, they’d likely add, “Passionate.”

Why am I so passionate when I worship? Why do I sing at the top of my lungs, sometimes dance, and yes—even get a little cray cray? (LOL)

The secret behind my passion is this:

Every time I go to God in worship, I strive to bring all of me to Him—not just part, but every piece of who I am.

When the church service begins, and the worship team starts to play, I close my eyes and imagine myself bursting into God’s throne room, crying out:

"Here I am, Jesus, to bring You the one thing You desire most."

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For Your Heart

Here’s a question for you:

What’s the most important thing God wants from you when you come to Him in worship?

Take a moment. Really think about it.

The answer can be summed up in one simple, yet profound word:

You.

Yes, you. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords—holy,

mighty, and deserving of all our praise—desires you

more than anything else.

Not just a polished version of yourself. Not the version

you think He wants.

But ALL of you.

Bring Him your mind—with its racing thoughts, both

good and bad.

Bring Him your heart—with its wide range of emotions,

from joy to sorrow, peace to frustration.

Bring Him your body—your energy and strength,

whether it’s loud like a roaring lion or quiet as a church

mouse.

So when you read the poem that follows, read it as worship to Jesus.

And don’t forget to bring the best offering of all:

YOU.

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As I Enter In

In the midst of the multitude,

patiently waiting for worship's prelude.

When the music swells, and voices rise,

I close my eyes, hands reaching for the skies,

an offering of self begins to flow.

My spirit erupts in grateful praise, a vibrant celebration,

released from sin's dark, binding incarceration.

I praise God now, from death completely free,

and hell's dominion holds no claim on me.

As I Enter In

Suddenly, my spirit nears God’s throne room,

I burst forth boldly, like an eager bridegroom.

My heart rejoices, my feet begin to sway,

before the One who makes me whole each day.

Time dissolves with every passing beat,

as my rhythmic dancing grows complete.

This is my moment, His dear face to see,

and in His perplexing grace, to simply be.

As I Enter In

Now I behold Him, who died there in my place,

His grace awakening this once cold, dead space.

His heart speaks gently, echoing in mine,

promising nothing will ever untwine.

A sweet reminder, clear and strong and true:

His words define me, not what others do.

In His gaze alone, my true identity.

As I Enter In

As the music fades, my spirit still takes flight,

for I have seen His face, felt His embrace, held Him tight.

Next week, I'll return to live it all again.

Copyright © 2025 by Jeff Dalton