Songs
Song: “Fall Apart” by Josh Wilson
Sometimes it is easier to see the blessings and good in life when things are going well. The tough times can be difficult, however, in those times we may see greater healing, a deeper trust, and a stronger commitment to the one who holds our life in his hands. I heard this song several weeks ago and it has really made me think. Do I only worship and sing praises when my life it good? Or do I give Him all the glory even when I feel like my life is falling apart around me? He longs to hear from you both in the good and the difficult times. If you are going through a tough time right now I hope these words will be an encouragement to you:
Why in the world did I think I could
Only get to know You when my life was good?
When everything just falls in place
The easiest thing is to give You praise
Now it all seems upside down‘Cause my whole world is caving in
But I feel You now more than I did then
How can I come to the end of me
And somehow still have all I need?
God, I want to know You more
Maybe this is how it starts
I find You when I fall apartSong: “Give You Peace” by Echoing Angels
Over a year ago I did a Bible Study with some women in our church on Esther and one of the phrases that stood out to me during that study was “such a time as this”. I was placed on this earth for a purpose, to share the good news with those around me. Even though I may not know all the answers, at times I struggle with seeing my passion, and often I stumble through life I have peace in knowing the one who] holds my life in his hands put me here on this earth at this place and time to bring him glory. Isn’t comforting to know that He has a perfect plan for my life. Below is the verse that really stood out to me in this song:
For such a time as this I have you here
Chosen for the lost to show I’m near
Through your brokenness my glory shines
And through your frailty my strength will riseSong: “Better Is One Day” by Kutless
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kX8xlW04jQ
It is refreshing to know that life has a much deeper meaning when lived within the presence of the Savior. Even the best day on earth is nothing compared to our time with Him.
Better is one day in Your courts
Better is one day in Your house
Better is one day in Your courts
Than thousands elsewhere
Song: “Out of My Hands” by Matthew West
Our lives can revolve around schedules and being efficient, however, certain interruptions in life are outside of our control. It is tough loosening our grip on certain areas of our lives. We often struggle to take control of the situations in our world yet it is when we let them go that we allow you to perform the true miracles.
It’s out of my hands
It’s out of my reach
It’s over my head
And it’s out of my league
There’s too many things
That I don’t understand
So it’s into your will
And it’s out of my handsSong: “Through It All” by Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33aGaYAZvL4&feature=related
I am thankful that He never lets me go “through it all”. We all have seasons of happiness and challenges throughout our lives. Isn’t it wonderful knowing we don’t have to go through them alone.
You are forever in my life
You see me through the seasons
Cover me with Your hand
And lead me in Your righteousnessAnd I look to You
And I wait on YouSong: “Blessed Be Your Name” by Matt Redman
Just listening to this song reminds me of the many blessings I have in my life. Those blessings come from above. I am thankful for the many ways we are shown his goodness and love. It is a great reminder that no matter what circumstances we are currently facing we can still praise him.
Blessed be Your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your nameYou give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say:
Lord, blessed be Your nameSong: “Let It Go” by Tenth Avenue North
My intention was to share another great song by Tenth Avenue North when I was drawn to this one. After listening to it a couple times it stuck in my mind for several hours. How often in my life do I try to take control or at least want to feel like I am in control of my life? He wants me to just “let it go” and allow him to work in my life.
What do I love?
What do I hate?
What will I lose?
What will I gain?
How do I save my soul?
What if I bend?
What if I break?
What will it cost?
What will it take?
For you to save my soul.You say let it go, You say let it go
You say life is waiting for the one’s who lose control
You say You will be, everything I need
You said if I lose my life it’s then I’ll find my soulSong: “Stained Glass Masquerade” by Casting Crowns
Last week was a mixed of emotions….. One dear friend from church who had been battling cancer, lived a great life, and was an inspiration to many went home to be with her Savior. Another friend and business acquaintance who we hadn’t seen for several months took his own life which came as a complete surprise to our family. We received news about a couple other friends going through some tough times as well. The girls went back to school, work was busy, and many other activities filled the week.
As I was enjoying some quiet time today I decided to look through my journal of ideas, specifically the list of songs that caught my attention. When I came upon “Stained Glass Masquerade” by Casting Crowns I paused…..and thought about all the events throughout the week. How many of us live in some form of masquerade, we each have our own weaknesses yet we think it is not acceptable to discuss those fears and failures with others. When we look around us at our friends or acquaintances in church and in other areas of our lives everyone else seems to have their lives perfectly put together. How often do we chose to not reach out to someone because we are afraid of what they will think of us or how they will react when we can see that they are struggling?
Take a moment today to search your heart, confess your weaknesses to God and live the life that is meant for you. Find a prayer partner, or two, that you can be open and honest with and pray earnestly for each other. No one person can fill a void in your heart or life except Christ, however, having friends praying alongside you increases your chance of success and brings a lot of encouragement along the hills and valleys in each others journeys.
Song: “You Love Me Anyway” by Sidewalk Prophets
“You Love Me Anyway” is an encouraging song because nothing I do is good enough to earn salvation yet He chooses to love me despite all the mistakes I make . My attempts to do well are a far cry from perfection and some days I fail more then succeed at following Him. The following phrases of the song really stood out to me:
I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anywaySong: “Here I am to Worship” by Michael W. Smith
I am thankful for the opportunity to go to church and worship with other believers. Take time today to look around you and worship life, creation, nature, or whatever makes you appreciate your Creator. He brings blessings into our lives in many sizes and shapes!