"Never Had It So Good"
Larry Ray Hafley

"How're you doing, brother Long?"
I'd ask (as often we all would),
And he'd reply in a voice so strong,
"Never had it so good."

It didn't matter how bad was his pain,
Or how weak and unsteady he stood,
Still there came that steadfast refrain,
"Never had it so good."

We admired him and Ilene, his dear wife,
For their sober faith and dignity,
For despite life's anguish and strife,
They bore it all in truth with integrity.

JL Long had no patience for error,
And encouraged true Bible teachers
To fiercely attack and be a terror
Against soft "top water preachers."

He was a friend to every child!
They'd cling to him ?til he'd almost topple,
But with a warm, kindly smile
He received them as they shouted, "Papa."

Now, our father and friend in faith has gone
Where he will ever be young and strong,
Carried by angels to a victory won,
Where heavenly hosts welcome JL Long.

If somehow we could ask him today
How he's doing after all he withstood,
I'm sure, smiling, he'd cheerfully say,
"Never had it so good."