James Elkins II tells through these poems the true story of how he was able to overcome and conquer a sordid past through the power and grace of Almighty God.

From “Shattered Dreams”, which describes the painful thoughts of a survivor after a drunk driving accident, to “What Can Faith Accomplish”, which describes the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable odds through the strength of faith, “Out of the Darkness” has something to say to everyone.

Although not all poems within this book are of a “spiritual” nature, they are all filled with beauty, love, and thought provoking imagery to help anyone find the glory of God in his/her everyday life.

If you have ever looked up and asked “Why?”, you may find an answer, or directions to the answer in these pages.

When you think there is no hope for you or your life, think again! These words were inspired by a deep commitment to the power and mercy of Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father.

Twenty-two years of living on the edge. Shaped into something he didn’t want to be by money, crime and violence. From a kind and caring youth into an adult ruled by hate and anger, the only way out was through. But he couldn’t do it alone.

As a last resort, he called on God to ease the pain and suffering. Although he had turned his back on the church over two decades before, God had never turned His back on him.

James Elkins II has turned his life around through the grace of the Lord, and has strived to become a blessing to others for the Glory of God. Through these poems, this is his story.

Shattered Dreams

Mesmerized by the embers, sparkling in the fireplace
flickering their soft highlights, upon your smiling face
Your hair reflecting the firelight, with a glow all of it's own
these memories are all I have, as I sit here all alone

The softness as you whisper, those words I loved to hear
our universe within the fire's light, immune to wants and fear
The sparkle of your eyes, made dim the fire's light
oh, what I would have done differently, had I known that night!

We shared our plans for the future, and discussed what it may hold
not knowing that making those plans, could be a step so bold
The secrets and love we shared, as I held you close by my side
we swore that our love could conquer all, no river was too wide

As the rain and mist reflected, the flashing lights of red and blue
denial was in my voice as I said, "It couldn't possibly be you!"
My hopes and dreams were shattered, as the first of many tears I cried,
the night a drunk driver stole my life, and with you my future died

What Can Faith Accomplish?

Casualties strewn over the field of battle
as David stepped forth with a sling
When by Goliath he refused to be rattled
songs of his faith they would sing

The unbeatable foe facing him that day
was laid low by a sling and a rock
Because David had his faith in the Lord
and the Lord would not be mocked

So much larger was David in faith
than Goliath in size and power
That when he called on the strength of God
over the might of Goliath he towered

Faith was Daniel's cloak of protection
when he was cast in the lion's den
God closed their mouths and kept him safe
and his accusers got theirs in the end

Moses had faith enough to be chosen
to lead his people out of slavery
It took about ninety-nine parts faith
only about one part was bravery

Then there was Noah who weathered
the flood, riding the ark high and dry
Because he lived the commandments
and found favor in his Father's eyes

I am sure there were those who laughed
at Joshua, and thought him be a clown
But the laughter came to a sudden stop
as the mighty walls of Jericho came down

These are but a fraction of the miracles
that God has done in the past
But His blessings on those who believe
are blessings that will always last

So when you are faced with a challenge
that puts your capabilities to the test
Put yourself in the hands of God
step forth and do your best