I think back to my childhood days,
Remembering the many ways
That Mom and Dad instructed me
In how to live and what to be.
They warned of dangers veiled by charm
And pleasures that could lead to harm.
They taught me that I must beware
Of pleasant strangers, seeming fair,
Who would offer sweet delight
Disguising dangers hid from sight.
They said, "Don't take candy from strangers."
I'm older now; I'm open prey
To those who would confound my way.
My Lord says that I must not heed
The strangers who sow worthless seed,
Enticing words for itching ears
To charm and shush my human fears
And sugared words in much fair speech
So cleverly designed to reach
My fickle heart with quick delight
To lead me downward into night...
The price of candy from strangers.
My soul needs nourishment to live.
I search God's Word, and He will give
Milk and meat to feed my soul,
Food prepared to make me whole.
When my weak heart begins to stray,
I hear the Holy Spirit say,
"Don't take candy from strangers."