Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong United

I have been deeply moved and comforted by this song more times than I can remember. The song draws from the story of Peter being called out on the water by Jesus in Matthew 14:22-36:

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. 

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” 

“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,”he said, “why did you doubt?”

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.

The song lyrics link the story of Peter to our own lives - to have faith in Jesus, even "when oceans rise." But, it's more than that. We are called to grow deeper in our faith:

Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior.

When we feel like we're drowning in life's storms (struggles / obstacles / trials), we are called to:

1. call upon His name,
2. keep our eyes above the waves (and on our Lord),
3. find peace and rest in His embrace,
4. remember that I am Yours and You are mine.

A Scripture verse that I personally feel a deep connection with is the story of Paul's thorn, in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10:

Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

It is in OUR weakness that HE is strong... His grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect. Now, do I always delight in my weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, difficulties? No, but I'm doing my best to be faithful in Him. To allow His sufficient grace to help me to grow my faith and trust in Him deeper, so that I can give all glory to Him... on the good days and the bad.

-----

I'm going to post the radio edition (4:15 minutes) and the full edition (9 minutes) - I'll also link to the Oceans Song Story, which has a discussion among the singers about the making of the song. 

Radio edition (4:15 minutes)

The entire song is great, though the part that always captures me is around 2:10-4:05.

http://youtu.be/N2PNTq_-mZs

 Full edition (9 minutes)

I know it's long, but it's worth it... the part that always captures me is around 3:40-7:45.

http://youtu.be/dy9nwe9_xzw 

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong United

You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep
My faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

Your grace abounds in deepest waters
Your sovereign hand
Will be my guide
Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me
You've never failed and You won't start now

So I will call upon Your name
And keep my eyes above the waves
When oceans rise
My soul will rest in Your embrace
For I am Yours and You are mine

[6x]
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior

I will call upon Your name
Keep my eyes above the waves
My soul will rest in Your embrace
I am Yours and You are mine

Oceans Song Story - Hillsong United

http://youtu.be/6zlbunWsV5A

Do Everything by Steven Curtis Chapman

I've heard this song before, but I listened to it this morning after reading a devotional, When Your Pain is Invisible (I wrote a blog post regarding that devotional: When Your Pain is Invisible: You Look So Good). It's a great reminder that we're called to do everything, from the mundane day-to-day to the big once-in-a-lifetime, for God's glory.

Lord, may everything I am and everything I do tell the story of Your grace and bring glory to You. Amen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEqdDdvFXZ0

Do Everything by Steven Curtis Chapman

You're picking up toys on the living room floor
For the fifteenth time today
Matching up socks
Sweeping up lost cheerios that got away

You put a baby on your hip
Color on your lips and head out the door

While I may not know you,
I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes, does it matter at all?

Well let me remind you, it all matters just as long

[Chorus]
As you do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you,
Cause he made you,
To do
Every little thing that you do
To bring a smile to His face
Tell the story of grace
With every move that you make
And every little thing you do

Maybe your that guy with the suit and tie
Maybe your shirt says your name

You may be hooking up mergers
Cooking up burgers
But at the end of the day

Little stuff
Big stuff
In between stuff
God sees it all the same

While I may not know you
I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes, does it matter at all?
Well let me remind you, it all matters just as long
[Chorus]

Maybe your sitting in math class
Or maybe on a mission in the Congo
Or maybe your working at the office
Singing along with the radio

Maybe you're a down and out rock star
Or feeding orphans in the Myanmar
Anywhere and everywhere that you are

Whatever you do
It all matters
So do what you do
Don't ever forget

To do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you,
Cause He made you
To do
Every little thing that you do
To bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace

[Chorus]

In every little thing you do
In every little thing you do

Whom Shall I Fear by Chris Tomlin

I absolutely love this song! It really touches my heart, and fires me up. "The God of Angel Armies is always by my side." Wow! What a powerful image this invokes. Our God is one with incredible resources, and He surrounds us with powerful and plentiful strength.

In 2 Kings, Elisha and his servant are up against an enemy king's huge military force.

When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. (2 Kings 6:15-17).

Elisha's servant got a glimpse of God's Angel Armies. What a sight!

God is our ever-present defender, our refuge in time of need. He is all-knowing. He loves us unconditionally, and He is in control. So, whatever trial or challenge you face, take heart... the God of Angel Armies is always by your side!

http://youtu.be/qOkImV2cJDg

Whom Shall I Fear by Chris Tomlin

You hear me when I call
You are my morning song
Though darkness fills the night
It cannot hide the light

Whom shall I fear

You crush the enemy
Underneath my feet
You are my sword and shield
Though troubles linger still

Whom shall I fear

[Chorus]
I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

The one who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

My strength is in Your name
For You alone can save
You will deliver me
Yours is the victory

Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear

[Chorus]

And nothing formed against me shall stand
You hold the whole world in Your hands
I'm holding on to Your promises

You are faithful
You are faithful

And nothing formed against me shall stand
You hold the whole world in Your hands
I'm holding on to Your promises

You are faithful
You are faithful
You are faithful

[Chorus] (repeat)

The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

Overcomer by Mandisa

So, I had my first round of Botox today for my chronic migraines, and this was one of the songs that played during the treatment was. It truly blessed me today, and I wanted to share it here.

This song is a beautiful reminder that God has already overcome and won the battle on our behalf... all we have to do is to "just hold tight, fix your eyes on the one who holds your life [because] there's nothing He can't do."

http://youtu.be/ut8W3V0B9MY

Overcomer by Mandisa

Staring at a stop sign

Watching people drive by
Got so much on your mind
Nothing's really going right
Looking for a ray of hope

Whatever it is you may be going through
I know He's not gonna let it get the best of you

[Chorus]
You're an overcomer
Stay in the fight ‘til the final round
You're not going under
‘Cause God is holding you right now
You might be down for a moment
Feeling like it's hopeless
That's when He reminds You
That you're an overcomer
You're an overcomer

Everybody's been down
Hit the bottom, hit the ground
Oh, you're not alone
Just take a breath, don't forget
Hang on to His promises
He wants You to know

[chorus]

The same Man, the Great I am
The one who overcame death
Is living inside of You
So just hold tight, fix your eyes
On the one who holds your life
There's nothing He can't do
He's telling You

[chorus]

Forgiveness by Matthew West

What an amazingly beautiful song this is! Forgiveness can be such a difficult thing to do - forgiveness of ourselves and others. But, our God has already forgiven us, and it is by His grace that we can forgive others.

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:12-13)

http://youtu.be/h1Lu5udXEZI

Forgiveness by Matthew West

It's the hardest thing to give away
And the last thing on your mind today
It always goes to those that don't deserve

It's the opposite of how you feel
When the pain they caused is just too real
It takes everything you have to say the word...

Forgiveness
Forgiveness

It flies in the face of all your pride
It moves away the mad inside
It's always anger's own worst enemy
Even when the jury and the judge
Say you gotta right to hold a grudge
It's the whisper in your ear saying 'set it free'

Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness, Forgiveness

Show me how to love the unlovable
Show me how to reach the unreachable
Help me now to do the impossible
Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Help me now to do the impossible
Forgiveness

It'll clear the bitterness away
It can even set a prisoner free
There is no end to what its power can do
So let it go and be amazed
By what you see through eyes of grace
The prisoner that it really frees is you

Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness, Forgiveness

Show me how to love the unlovable
Show me how to reach the unreachable
Help me now to do the impossible
Forgiveness

I want to finally set it free
So show me how to see what Your mercy sees
Help me now to give what You gave to me
Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness

Audience of One by Big Daddy Weave

I've been listening to inspiring music today, and while many songs have touched me, this song jumped out to me. I think it's a beautiful (and timely) reminder that it is to our Lord that my life is devoted... He is my audience of one. I long to live a life that brings glory to His name, and sometimes I need to be reminded of what is most important in my life.

http://youtu.be/EFxVfAZj5Q0

Audience of One by Big Daddy Weave

I come on my knees
To lay down before you
Bringing all that I am
Longing only to know you
Seeking your face
And not only your hand
I find you embracing me
Just as I am

And I lift these songs
To you and you alone
As I sing to you
In my praises make your home

[Chorus]
To my audience of one
You are Father, and you are Son
As your spirit flows free,
Let it find within me
A heart that beats to praise you.
And now just to know you more
Has become my great reward
To see your kingdom come
And your will be done
I only desire to be yours,
Lord

So what could I bring
To honor your majesty
What song could I sing
That would move the heart of royalty
And all that I have
Is the life that you’ve given me
So Lord let me live for you
My song with humility

And Lord as the love song
Of my life is played
I have one desire
To bring glory to your name

[Chorus]

And we lift these songs
To you and you alone
As we sing to you
In our praises make your home

[Chorus]

Beautiful to Me by Kerrie Roberts (Easter Sunday)

Today is Easter Sunday. A day of celebration. Jesus' death on the cross revealed the depth and the magnitude of His love for us. His resurrection of Easter morning reveals His mighty power. There is nothing that can separate us from our Father's love.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39)

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16)

Christ loved us so much that He sent His son to die, so that we could have eternal hope! Hallelujah, Christ is risen! Thanks be to God!

"The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay" (Matthew 38:5-6)

Blessings on this glorious Easter Sunday!

http://youtu.be/IyI_duB-k-s

Beautiful to Me by Kerrie Roberts

So much I don't understand
That I’d change if I wrote the story
How pain can heal and death bring life
How defeat can bring such glory
You didn't hold back one breath
You even gave Your last one
So I’d live

[Chorus]

It's beautiful to me
Your holy mystery
I'm standing here in awe
Of how you make everything
So beautiful to me
Someday I will see
How You hold this wounded heart
And make it perfect and complete
And it's beautiful to me
Beautiful

I don't deserve Your suffering
I should be the one who's bleeding
But Your broken body gives
This broken spirit what it's needing
You reach through time with Your sacrifice
Your wounded hands holding this fragile life

[Chorus]

This ache, this longing
This heart that I've been searching
In this moment while I'm breaking
Show me
Your plan, Your promise
A pain that has a purpose
I let you in to use it

And just like Your hands built heaven’s hall
You’re making me so beautiful

[Chorus]

Beautiful, beautiful
Beautiful to me
Beautiful to me

The Wonderful Cross by Chris Tomlin (Good Friday)

Today is Good Friday, the day that Christians commemorate the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ at Calvary. It is a day often filled with fasting, prayer, repentance, and meditation on the agony and suffering of Christ on the cross. The biblical account of His crucifixion, His burial, and His resurrection are found in the 4 Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) - Matthew 27:27-28:8; Mark 15:16-16:19; Luke 23:26-24:35; and John 19:16-20:30.

The hours from noon to 3pm are often observed on Good Friday with a period of silence because it was during these last three hours of Jesus' suffering that darkness fell over the land. There was an earthquake, tombs broke open, and the curtain in the temple was torn from top to bottom - "Truly this was the Son of God" (Matthew 27:45-54).

• Forgiveness:  "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34)
• Salvation:  "Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43)
• Relationship:  "Woman, behold thy son! Behold thy mother!" (John 19:26-27)
• Abandonment:  "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34)
• Distress:  "I thirst" (John 19:28)
• Triumph:  "It is finished" (John 19:30)
• Reunion:  "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit" (Luke 23:46)

I hope everyone has a blessed Good Friday.

http://youtu.be/9hGhrYnChkI

The Wonderful Cross by Chris Tomlin

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride

See from his head, his hands, his feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did ever such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

[Chorus]
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
All who gather here by grace draw near and bless
Your name

Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were an offering far too small
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all

[Chorus] (repeat)

It's the glory and the pain
Wonderful cross

[Chorus] (repeat)

Everything I Need by Kutless

This song has been on my heart lately (I've been hearing it quite often during the little bit of time I listen to the radio). It's so beautiful... and so true. I'm so grateful to have a loving Father that will carry me through, when I can't carry myself. Sometimes knowing that is what gets me through each moment.

http://youtu.be/4DPediW-W5Y

Everything I Need by Kutless

When every step is so hard to take
And all of my hope is fading away
When life is a mountain that I can not climb
You carry me, Jesus carry me.

[Chorus]
You are strength in my weakness
You are the refuge I seek
You are everything in my time of need
You are everything, You are everything I need

When every moment is more than I can take
And all of my strength is slipping away
When every breath gets harder me
You carry me, Jesus carry me 

[Chorus]

I need You
You are everything I need
I love everything about You 

[Chorus]

Sex, Marriage, & Fairytales by Jeff Bethke

Here's Jeff Bethke's most recent video...

http://youtu.be/I4OK9DmLpCY

Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus by Jeff Bethke

I think this is a great video by Jeff Bethke... that speaks for itself...

http://youtu.be/1IAhDGYlpqY

Where's the Line to See Jesus by Becky Kelley

This song is simply AMAZING! I'll just let it speak for itself...

http://youtu.be/OExXItDyWEY

Where's the Line to See Jesus by Becky Kelley

Christmas time was approaching; the snow was starting to fall,
Shoppers choosing their presents, people filling the mall,
Children waiting for Santa with excitement and glee,
A little boy tugged my sweater, looked up and asked me,

Where's the line to see Jesus?
Is He here at the store?
If Christmas time is His birthday,
Why don't we see Him more?

As I stood in amazement at this message profound,
I looked down to thank him, he was nowhere around.
The little boy at the mall might as well have had wings
As the tears filled my eyes, I thought I heard him say,

Chorus:
Where's the line to see Jesus?
Is He here at the store?
If Christmas time is His birthday,
Why don't we see Him more?
Where's the line to see Jesus?
He was born for me.
Santa Claus brought me presents,
But Christ gave His life for me.

In the blink of an eye, at the sound of His trump,
We'll all stand in line at His throne.
Every knee shall bow down, every tongue will confess,
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

[Chorus]

Love Comes Down by Kerrie Roberts

I just thought I'd share a devotional that a friend had passed along to me a while ago... but, I think it's a good reminder for us all. I'm also sharing a song that I really enjoy, too.

Contentment
By Max Lucado

I have learned to be satisfied
with the things I have and with
everything that happens.
    ~ Philippians 4:11

What if God’s only gift to you were his grace to save you? Would you be content? You beg him to save the life of your child. You plead with him to keep your business afloat. You implore him to remove the cancer from your body. What if his answer is, “My grace is enough.” Would you be content?

From heaven’s perspective, grace is enough. If God did nothing more than save us from hell, could anyone complain?

Having been given eternal life, dare we grumble at an aching body? Having been given heavenly riches, dare we moan about what we don’t have?

http://youtu.be/yGk3JHiflWA

Love Comes Down by Kerrie Roberts

Weak and weary sinner
Longing for relief
You've been watching
As disaster steals another piece
Of all that you held so close
What you love the most
But you can never keep
And hope seems like a promise
Just out of reach
You'd die to feel alive again
You long to be set free

Chorus:
Then love comes down
When your heart is lost
When you've seen your whole world shattered
And your dreams just fall apart
So lift up your voice
Let Him hear your cry
When you've got nothing left to hold onto
That's when love comes down
Love comes down

If you could only know who loves you
Who feels your every pain
If you could only hear Him speaking
With the voice as sweet as rain
You'd know that He counts your tears
He holds them near
Not one will go to waste
And the sorrow that weighs you down
Will float away

[Chorus]

That's when love is stronger
Than any heartbreak
And you know every broken piece
Will be made whole

[Chorus]

When you've got nothing left to hold onto 

That's when love comes down

Holding On and Letting Go by Ross Copperman

So, I heard this song on CSI NY, and it definitely affected me. It's a powerful song and message. I keep listening to it... it's just one of those songs that touches your soul in ways you never expected.

It's everything you wanted, it's everything you don't It's one door swinging open and one door swinging closed Some prayers find the answer, some prayers never know We're holding on, and letting go. 

http://youtu.be/ebNDJF-LhUI

Holding On And Letting Go by Ross Copperman

Is anybody out there?
Is anybody listening?
Does anybody really know,
If it's the end or the beginning?

The quiet rush from one breath,
Is all we're waiting for
Sometimes the one we're taking
Changes everyone before

[Chorus]

It's everything you wanted, it's everything you don't
It's one door swinging open and one door swinging closed
Some prayers find the answer, some prayers never know
We're holding on, and letting go.

Sometimes we're holding angels,
And we never even know
Don't know if we'll make it,
Or we know, we just can't let it show 

[Chorus]

Yeah, letting go, oho

[Chorus]

Woa, woa......Woa......
Woa, woa......Woa......

[Chorus]

He Will Carry Me by Mark Schultz

My heart is aching. A dear friend of mine lost his son, only moments after he was born. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and emptiness of losing a child. And, yet, I mourn for the loss of a soul I never knew.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4)

I know that there are no words that can fill the void, but I hope they know that they are in my thoughts and prayers. I cannot know the pain they're experiencing, but I will be there for them any way that I can.

Lord, please comfort and keep this family, in this time of great sorrow. Wrap your loving arms around them, and let them know that you are with them... you, too, lost your son... you know what they need, and I ask that you provide for them. I pray all of this in Jesus' name, Amen. 

Thought That Counts

Often in times of trouble

we don't know what to say,

So we choose to say nothing,

and sometimes run away.

When friends are really hurting,

we don't know what to do,

So we offer weak excuses

or say we're hurting too.

It really doesn't matter
what kind of gift we bring;
We only need to be there
if we don't bring a thing.

It truly is amazing
what a hug can do,
When heartache numbs the senses,
and friends depend on you.

There's comfort just in knowing
that you are not alone,
When tears are overflowing,
and hearts are cold as stone.

It's the loving prayers of others
that balance our accounts,
For when we measure love,
it's still the thought that counts.

~ Clay Harrison

I Remember You

The world may never notice
If a rosebud doesn't bloom
Or even pause to wonder
if the petals fall too soon.

But every life that ever forms,
Or ever comes to be
Touches the World in some small way
For all eternity.

The little ones we longed for
Were swiftly here and gone.
But the love that was then planted
Is a light that still shines on.

And though our arms are empty,
Our hearts know what to do
Every beating of my heart says
"I Remember You"

~ Author unknown

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSFH6_IiOlw

He Will Carry Me by Mark Schultz

I call, You hear me
I've lost it all
And it's more than I can bear
I feel so empty

You're strong, I'm weary
I'm holding on
But I feel like giving in
But still You're with me

[Chorus]
And even though I'm walking
Through the valley of the shadow
I will hold tight to the hand of Him
Whose love will comfort me
And when all hope is gone
And I've been wounded in the battle
He is all the strength that I will ever need
He will carry me

I know I'm broken
But You alone
Can mend this heart of mine
You're always with me

[Chorus]
He will carry me

And even though I feel so lonely
Like I have never been before
You never said it would be easy
But You said You'd see me through the storm

[Chorus]
He will carry me
He will carry me

Teach Me To Breathe by Luke Cyrus

I heard about Luke Cyrus from another person's blog, and I feel that his music is worth sharing. His song, "Teach Me To Breathe," is so beautiful. Sometimes, it's difficult for me to remember that I'm not meant to know what tomorrow will bring. I'm to trust in God, and have faith that He will guide my steps. I pray that God will teach me to breathe.

You can check out more of Luke's music on his website:  http://lukecyrusonline.com/index.php

http://youtu.be/LOG1ktZV0AI 

Teach Me To Breathe by Luke Cyrus

What am I to do?

You know this is what I was created for

How will I know when to move

I'm waiting for some kind of open door

Well it's hard to trust when I can't see

What tomorrow will bring

[Chorus]

Teach me to breathe

Today's air

Teach me to see

Why you have placed me here not there

Teach me to believe

I place my worries into your care

Oh help me to trust in thee

Teach me to breathe

What will I become?

Father let your will be done

I'm nowhere feeling close to home

I'm nowhere near my comfort zone

Because it's hard to trust when i can't see

What tomorrow will bring

[Chorus]

What are the details of my future?

Oh give me a simple faith

They are not for me to know

What are the plans that you would have for me to do?

That I'd love one another

But most of all

To love you

[Chorus]

Today and not tomorrow's air

Teach me to see

Why you've placed me here not there

Teach me to believe

I place my worries into your care

Oh help me to trust in thee

Teach me to breathe

Clinging to the Cross by Tim Hughes & Brooke Fraser

I've never heard this song before, but I ran across (and liked) it. It reminds me of the hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross."

On the cross, Jesus paid the price for our defiance of God' law. He died in our place... paid for our sin... took our judgment on Himself. He died on the cross, so that we can live.

"God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21)

"For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit" (1 Peter 3:18)

The cross forever freed us from the fear of death. Through the perspective that the cross gives us, death is only gain.

"For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man" (1 Corinthians 15:21)

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16)

"I'll cherish the old rugged cross,
till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
and exchange it some day for a crown" (The Old Rugged Cross)

But, the cross also frees us from the fear of life. Before Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, man was living without power against the temptations that come with living in a fallen world. But, the cross of Christ allowed us access to God's power... enabling us to say "no" to sin. It's through Jesus' death that we are freed from sin's tyranny, and that we can pursue holiness and righteousness.

"For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin... For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace" (Romans 6:6-7, 14)

"Each moment of every day we choose whom we wish to follow. If it's the Savior, the benefits are many. If it is sin, the consequences are destructive and miserable. Before Christ, we had no choice. Sin was our one and only route. All of life was marked by unrighteousness. But once we came to the Cross and gave the Lord Jesus the right to rule our lives, we were granted a choice we never had before. Grace freed us from the requirement to serve sin, allowing us the opportunity to follow Christ's directives voluntarily" (Charles Swindoll)

Every time we are faced with temptation, we can find strength in Jesus. Perhaps this is one of the reasons we cling to the cross, as someone clings to a life preserver after falling overboard.

"Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:16)

The cross shows us that God has loved each of us "with an everlasting love" (Jeremiah 31:3) from the dawn of time.

So, we cling to and cherish the cross because we know that Jesus died on it for our sins, that it's through the cross that Jesus freed us from the bondage of sin, and that it's the clearest revelation of God's love. But, it's also an invitation to all to enter into relationship with Him. The cross invites each of us to turn from sin, and enter into a relationship with Christ. God wants to walk with us through life, guide us when we face tough decisions, bear our burdens, share our joys... God wants a relationship with each of us. 

"Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him" (John 3:14-17)

http://youtu.be/OV7oISJKbmE 

Clinging to the Cross by Tim Hughes & Brooke Fraser

My soul is weak
My heart is numb
I cannot see
But still my hope is found in You
I’ll hold on tightly
You will never let me go
For Jesus, You will never fail
Jesus, You will never fail

[Chorus]
Simply to the cross I cling
Letting go of all earthly things
Clinging to the cross
Mercy’s found a way for me
Hope is here as I am free
Jesus, You are all I need
Clinging to the cross

Even darkness is as light to You, my Lord
So light the way and lead me home
To that place where every tear is wiped away
For Jesus, You will never fail
Jesus, You will never fail

[Chorus]

What a Saviour, what a story
You were crucified but now You are alive
So amazing, such a mystery
You were crucified but now You are alive

[Chorus]

Stronger by Mandisa

What a powerful song! These are the words that I so badly need to hear and know. God has promised to always be with me... to never leave me. He knows that things will sometimes be tough, and that I am going to sin... but, He has promised to love me unconditionally and never to forsake me. It's difficult for me to wrap my mind around, so I must hold these promises in my heart.

'Cause if He started this work in your life
He will be faithful to complete it
If only you believe it
He knows how much it hurts
And I'm sure that He's gonna help you get through this

We have such an amazing Lord! May we each remember His promises. Thanks be to God!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:6)

"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" (Hebrews 13:5)

"'So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'" (Isaiah 41:10)

"Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory." (Psalm 73:23-24) 

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)

"Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever." (Psalm 41:12)

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." (Psalm 139:7-10)

http://youtu.be/emgv-VRtMEU

Stronger by Mandisa

Hey, heard you were up all night
Thinking about how your world ain't right
And you wonder if things will ever get better
And you're asking why is it always raining on you
When all you want is just a little good news
Instead of standing there stuck out in the weather

Oh, don't hang your head
It's gonna end
God's right there
Even if it's hard to see Him
I promise you that He still cares

[Chorus]
When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
And things can only get better
Believe me
This is gonna make you stronger
Gonna make you stronger, stronger, stronger
Believe me, this is gonna make you stronger

Try and do the best you can
Hold on and let Him hold your hand
And go on and fall into the arms of Jesus
Oh, lift your head it's gonna end
God's right there
Even when you just can't feel Him
I promise you that He still cares

[Chorus]

'Cause if He started this work in your life
He will be faithful to complete it
If only you believe it
He knows how much it hurts
And I'm sure that He's gonna help you get through this

When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
In time it's gonna get better
Believe me
This is gonna make you stronger

Blessings by Laura Story

Every time I hear this song, I get goosebumps. It's an absolutely beautiful reminder of God's amazing love for us. When times are difficult, it's human nature to wonder "why?" and try to make sense of it. Asking "why?" doesn't mean that I don't trust Him, or love Him any less in the difficult times of life. Through my doubt, my faith is seeking understanding - it's not weakening, it's trying to grow stronger.

God knows what we need before we ask Him (Matthew 6:8). Especially in the midst of trials, though, it's difficult to consider that they're "mercies in disguise." But, God places the trials and obstacles that we need in our paths, so that we can grow and become the people He calls us to be. Sometimes He may overwhelm us with trials, so that we realize that we cannot do it all on our own, but must lean into His grace. 

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me" (2 Corinthians 12:9). It may be of some comfort to know that it's in the moments you feel weak and vulnerable that you're most ready to receive God's wisdom, peace, understanding, and strength.

There's an interesting article that I ran across that's called Don't Lose Heart by Cliff Young (it's a bit of a read, but I think it's worth it). He starts the article with a quote by Soren Kierkegaard: "Prayer does not change God, but changes him who prays."



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGniRk_GcLs

Blessings by Laura Story

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things

Chorus:
'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

[Chorus]

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise

Behind the Scenes by Francesca Battistelli

This song is simply amazing! I feel like it's so true in so many ways for me. I've always tried to have everything at least look like it's okay... even if things are anything but... Those that are the closest to me know that about me, and I love that they look past my mask.

Since my accident, everything has been in such turmoil. But, as the song says, "things aren't always what they seem, you're only seeing part of me"... and even I'm only seeing part of me. "There's more than you could ever know behind the scenes"... I know that God is doing amazing things in my heart and in my life, but it's so hard to trust and have faith in such difficult times. The lines of this song, "when it's hard to find hope in the unseen, I have peace in knowing it will find me" reminds me of how full of love and grace our God truly is. Thanks be to God!




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc2XCkJX6c0

Behind the Scenes by Francesca Battistelli

You may think
I’m just fine
How could anything
Ever be out of line?

I take my time
To set the stage
To make sure everything
Is all in place

Even though I’ve got the lines rehearsed
A picture only paints a thousand words

Chorus:
Things aren’t always what they seem
You’re only seeing part of me
There’s more than you could ever know
Behind the scenes
I’m incomplete and I’m undone
But I suppose like everyone
There’s so much more that’s going on
Behind the scenes

Sometimes I can’t see
Anything
Through the dark
Surrounding me
And at times I’m unsure
About the ground
Beneath my feet
If it’s safe and sound

When it’s hard to find hope in the unseen
I have peace in knowing it will find me

(Chorus)

You may think I’m just fine
How could anything ever be out of line?

(Chorus)