**I Thought That I Was Strong**

I thought that I was strong, because I could lift myself back up. But the past kept pulling me back down.
I thought that I was strong, because I hadn't cried in days. But at night I fought back the tears before going to sleep.
I thought that I was strong, and I was ready to move on. But the struggles were there holding me back.
I thought that I was strong, because I wanted to be strong. But I was weaker than ever.
I thought that I was strong, but despite my many efforts I was proven wrong.
Then things began to change...
I thought that I was strong, because I had been lifted up, and the past had been erased.
I thought that I was strong, because the tears were finally gone, and I didn't have to fight them back.
I thought that I was strong, because I had moved on, and the struggles were forgiven.
I thought that I was strong, because I wanted to be strong. But I was still weaker than ever.
That's when I realized I wasn't strong. It was Him all along.

**AMANDA**

**Helplessly Broken**

Helplessly broken before my God.
Begging for Mercy, though none should be shown.
Crying out from within, needing only to be saved.
You are the only thing that keeps me here, on my knees.
Turning to your Word, for insights and Grace.
Praying to you, Father, you are my desire.
Tears I've cried bring back haunting memories.
Still I push them aside, and call out your name.
Love me! Help me! Use me!
This tangled mess begins to let me go.
I'm helplessly broken before my God.
It's time to let go of things I cannot change.
Forgive me, and purify me. I cannot be the same.
I love you, and I desperately need you.
Stir up inside of me, a passion for all you have done.
Be my sheild, and strong tower of refuge and strength.
Show me the way to life everlasting.
I'm helplessy broken before my God.
But He is showing me the way.

**AMANDA**