Song Lists

We live in a world often shrouded in darkness; a realm of uncertainty, pain, and seemingly insurmountable challenges. Yet, amidst this backdrop, the lyrics of "Light Of The World (Sing Hallelujah)" by We The Kingdom reverberate like a beacon of hope. This song offers a powerful reminder that even in the midst of the darkest nights, the brilliance of God's love shines brightest. 1. Beginning and End: The lyrics initiate with an acknowledgment of Jesus as the 'Light of the world', a 'treasure of heaven'. This speaks to the eternal nature of Christ, present before the creation and persisting beyond the end. Despite the tragedies of time, despite human frailty and failure, the love of God remains undiminished. 2. The Humble Birth: The juxtaposition of a 'crown in a manger' encapsulates the profound humility of Christ's incarnation. The King of the universe, the Creator of galaxies, chose to be born in a humble stable. This wasn't an accident or a backup plan; it was a deliberate choice to showcase that the grandeur of God's love can be found in the simplest places. 3. Salvation through Sacrifice: "Born for the cross, to suffer, to save" - this line embodies the core of the Gospel. The Light didn't just shine to expose darkness; it penetrated the darkness to bring salvation. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross paved the way for humanity to step out of darkness into His marvelous light. 4. Anticipation of His Return: The song doesn't stop at the cross or the resurrection but catapults us forward in time, reminding us of Christ's promised return. And with that return comes a future where darkness is a distant memory and where God Himself is our light. Drawing inspiration from our key scripture in Isaiah, it's evident that a day is coming where the natural sources of light we've grown dependent on — the sun and the moon — will pale in comparison to the radiant glory of God. His light will be the only source we need, both illuminating our path and filling our hearts. When life seems overwhelming, when the shadows seem to grow longer, and the night darker, let's anchor our hearts to this truth: The Light of the World has come, and His radiance dispels all darkness. And not only has He come, but He promises to return, bringing an end to all sorrow and establishing an eternal day under His benevolent reign. Today, let's choose to step into this Light. Let's bask in the warmth of His love, let His truths guide our path, and let His promises uplift our souls. And as we do, may we join the chorus of believers across the ages and "Sing hallelujah to the Light of the world."Isaiah 60:19-20 - "The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. Your sun will never set again, and your moon will wane no more; the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end."

Shake off your captivityToday is the day we shall be freeBye bye bye byeBye bye bye bye Babylon Early on in the Old Testament, the Israelites were no strangers to captivity. They were captives in Egypt and were later held captive in Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. For years, God used Babylon as a way to correct the Israelites when they had turned from Him. They had seen God do many miracles in their lifetime, and still they would rebel against Him. They were convinced that they knew best. Only in captivity in Babylon did they start to see the truth: Babylon wasn't just a place, it was a perspective –– a state of mind. They had been “free” before their captivity, but it hadn't been true freedom. Instead, they had chained themselves to sin and had chosen self-sufficiency. The king may have held them captive, but it was in this captivity that they learned real freedom is found, not in their circumstances, but in their relationship with God. It would only be once they came out of captivity with this new perspective that they could truly rejoice. For us today, “captivity” can look like trying to handle and manage life on our own. How many times have we looked at our situation and thought we were trapped? How many times have we felt caged by our past decisions or failures? It's time to say goodbye to Babylon. It's time to acknowledge that true freedom and peace aren't always found in a new setting, but in a greater awareness of His presence. Only He can bring you out of Babylon. Only He can grant true freedom. Are you willing to carry the lessons you learned in this season and follow Him into the next chapter He has for you? Based on the song Bye Bye Babylon by Elevation Worship. Original post by Elevation Worship available on YouVersion based on the live album - LION.

In the darkness we were waiting Without hope, without light Till from heaven You came running There was mercy in Your eyes King of Kings Words and Music by Brooke Ligertwood, Scott Ligertwood & Jason Ingram © 2019 Hillsong Music Publishing Australia & Fellow Ships Music/So Essential Tunes (admin at EssentialMusicPublishing.com) There is no doubt - we all began in darkness. In fact, the earth itself was covered in darkness, until the Creator came and spoke light and breathed life into His creation. Today, God is still breathing life into dead things. Our kind Saviour is still bringing light to dark places, hope to hopeless situations, possibility to impossible circumstances. But before we entered His light, we were in darkness. And before we knew true life, we were destined for death. And before coming awake, we were asleep. The Bible puts it like this: “You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins.” Colossians 2.13 (NIV) Earlier this year our Senior Pastor, Bobbie Houston, asked the question “Do you remember the day the lights went on?” What about you? Do you remember the day you found salvation, and the weight of sin lifted off you? The day that from heaven, Jesus came running with mercy in His eyes? Ready to awaken you to all of the hope, grace, peace and joy that is life with Jesus Christ. It is our prayer that you would remember that moment. That as you listen to the songs from this new album, the lyrics would remind you that you were once in darkness but have been brought into the light – illuminated now to illuminate others. Based on the song King Of Kings by Brooke Ligertwood, Scott Ligertwood, and Jason Ingrim. Original post by Hillsong Worship available on YouVersion based on the album - Awake by Hillsong Worship.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” was written by Charles Wesley, an English Methodist leader and hymn writer. He wrote over 6,000 hymns, with the goal of teaching sound doctrine to the poor and illiterate. His brother, John Wesley, a famous theologian and the founder of the Methodist movement, said that Charles' hymnal was the best theological book in existence. Let's take a moment to break down this theologically rich song. As the lyrics progress, we see three things: praise, presence, and promise. 1. Praise Hark! The herald angels sing Glory to the newborn King Peace on earth and mercy mild God and sinners reconciled The first response to the coming of Jesus is praise. Everyone is celebrating, because this means the atonement for mankind has arrived—our Redeemer has come! Jesus single-handedly defeats the power of darkness. 2. Presence Christ by highest heaven adored Christ the everlasting Lord Late in time behold Him come Offspring of a virgin's womb Think about it. Jesus, the Son of God, chose to leave heaven and come to earth for us! He left perfection for the imperfect, to be present with us. 3. Promise Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace Hail the Son of righteousness Light and life to all He brings Risen with healing in His wings The birth of Jesus was no small thing. It was the fulfillment of a promise awaited for thousands of years—a promise that brings new life and a new start for all who believe. Healing, peace, comfort, and joy all stem from this moment: the birth of our salvation. My hope is that as you hear this song you will not just hear a nostalgic melody, but you'll join with the angels and all creation in celebrating the gift of Christ's birth. May He fill you with His praise and His presence as you remember the great promise of our God fulfilled through the gift of Jesus Christ. Reflect How do you celebrate the coming of Christ? Is your heart filled with joy when you think about this season? What can you do today to align your heart more closely with how this song portrays gratitude and praise? —Stephen Cole Based on the song Hark The Herald Angels Sing Original post by Life.Church Worship available on YouVersion based on the album - Gloria by Life.Church Worship.

In Psalm 13, David is crying out to the Lord in anguish. He cannot feel God's presence. His heart is overwhelmed with sorrow and torment. You can sense the desperation in his voice. He's being honest with God about his feelings. God invites all of us into that same genuine relationship. It's important to see that David doesn't let his emotions determine his response. David keeps praying until he remembers and declares over his own soul what he knows to be true. He says, “But I trust in your unfailing love and my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord's praise for he has been good to me.” (NIV) With the blood of God's only Son, our sins were paid for and bought on the cross. When we remember what God has given us—His grace, His love, His sacrifice—we can't help but rejoice! David prays until a song of praise erupts from his mouth. “For he has been good to me!” There is power in speaking the truth of who God is, and there is power in speaking the truth of who we are. In order to do that, we must know what God says about us in His Word. Scripture says we are blessed and called! We are healed and whole! We are saved in Jesus' name! We are highly favored, anointed, and filled with God's power, all for the glory of Jesus! Based on the song God You're So Good. Original post by Passion Music available on YouVersion based on the album - Whole Heart by Passion Music.

In a world full of voices, opinions, and shifting truths, the concept of authority often feels tenuous. Yet, Brooke Ligertwood's song “Authority” beautifully centers us on a truth that is both unshakeable and eternal: the authority of God. The song opens with the image of creation itself responding to the voice of God. This isn't just poetic imagery; it's a reminder of the power inherent in God's word. The same voice that spoke the universe into existence, that breathed life into dust, is the voice that commands all of creation. This is a voice that darkness fears, a voice that can push back even the longest night. When we face the darkness in our lives — whether it's fear, uncertainty, or spiritual warfare — we must remember that God's word has the power to change things. The chorus repeats a truth that we often need to hear: “One word from You, things change on Your authority. Your word, it's true, things change on Your authority.” God's authority is not just a distant theological concept; it's an active force that shapes our lives, moves mountains, and silences storms. The song moves into a declaration that our battles are not fought in our strength but are won through God's authority. “My fight is not my own, its end is in Your hands,” the lyrics remind us. It's easy to take on the weight of our struggles, thinking we must fight our battles alone. But the truth is that victory belongs to the Lord. Our response is worship, rooted in the confidence that all things must bow to His command. The bridge of the song boldly proclaims that heaven will prevail, strongholds will be moved, and spirits will be silenced. This is not wishful thinking; it's a declaration rooted in the unchanging authority of God. The forces of darkness have no choice but to bow to Him. When we stand in that authority, we can face our fears with courage, knowing that nothing can deny God the glory that is rightfully His. As you meditate on the lyrics of “Authority,” let them sink deep into your heart. Consider the areas of your life where you need to submit to God's authority, trusting that His word is powerful and true. Remember that you are not alone in your fight. The God who spoke the stars into existence, who silences the darkness, is the same God who fights for you. What have you to fear? Prayer: Lord, I thank You for the power of Your word and the authority that You hold over all creation. Help me to remember that my battles are not mine to fight alone, but that You go before me, silencing the darkness and commanding victory. Give me the courage to stand in Your authority and the faith to trust in Your unchanging word. May my life be a reflection of Your glory and a testimony to the power of Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen. Action Step: Take time today to speak God's word over a situation in your life where you need His authority to prevail. Whether it's a relationship, a fear, or a challenge, declare His promises and trust that His word will accomplish what He desires.

“Saviour I come, quiet my soul, remember.” Approach, posture, reflection. These three simple actions at the beginning of prayer have been hallmarks of my own devotional journey for decades now. Firstly, my choice to approach. As a recent paraphrase of Psalm 100, “the Lord is always good and ready to receive me," but I've learned it is still always my choice as to whether or not I will come to Him. Oh what a world of difference our lives become based on the choices we make. Secondly, my posture. A life of prayer means that I am invited into an ongoing conversation with the Father in whatever state I'm in. (Thank God!) Occasionally, I come to God bouncy and grateful, astonished in wonder and aflame with love. But often I come to God all bombastic and blustery, flustered, frustrated, mad, sad, indignant, any number of things – and that's actually wonderful – because the point is that whatever state I'm in, I've stepped “through the door” so to speak. I've come. And once I have, He has a way of sorting me out, calming me, helping me settle into the posture of quieting my soul, even if the way I've come in is anything but quiet, getting into a place where I'm ready to listen: “I'm here, Lord." Thirdly, remembering. Remembering who He is, tracing the lines of His faithfulness in my life, remembering the promises, power and hope that issue from the Father's supreme gift. His Son died on the cross for us. I fix my eyes on my Savior. I focus my heart and mind and soul and remember that I might press on with the right things in focus. Approach, posture, reflection and then, consideration. In the light of the cross, we can now rightly consider all that we would bring to the Lord in prayer. We can allow His love, grace, truth and mercy to teach, lead and guide us. I finish with the glorious consideration of Paul in Philippians 3. Philippians 3:7-14 “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ. 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Original post by Brooke Ligertwood available on YouVersion. A five-day reading plan exploring some of the Biblical perspectives that anchor Brooke's album, EIGHT. Enjoy devotionals that journey through themes like the fear of the Lord, postures in prayer, enduring in wilderness seasons, enjoying God, and choosing Him in response to His choice of us!, as well as featuring lyrics and music from songs throughout the Album EIGHT by Brooke Ligertwood.

Oh gosh, I love fall and pumpkin spiced lattes. I love the colors of our trees in the backyard, but it is a very different experience from the love I feel for my husband, children, and gorgeous granddaughter. Do you end calls with family with a quick "love you !" Or sign the bottom of birthday greetings the same way? Hear the phrases "love that new coat on you" and "loved that show on Netflix!" We have watered down what it means to love. What does it mean to you to love your neighbor? If I can't love my neighbor like I love myselfIf I won't move when my brother cries out for helpIf I'm too proud to forgive before the sun goes downThen this life that I've been living what does it mean now None of my love comes close to the love that God has lavished on us. We will continually fall short of this unrestrained expression of love while we continue to practice loving only those who are easy to love. Try working it out when the road is rocky, the other is difficult, and your strength is weak. See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And this is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 1 John 3:1 Something struck me listening to this song by Pat Barrett and Dante Bowe's "Nothing/ Something. " The back and forth sharing of the phrases reminded me that the invitation to love others is something I need help to do. I am not good at it on my own, and I don't have to look hard to notice some of you are not good at it either. Our love billows over when there is no risk, and it blooms easy. It is a whole other workout loving the people around us who are challenging. Maybe they masquerade as our neighbors, but they are often our siblings, children, partners, or friends. These relationships expose our incapacity to love well. Out of one corner of our mouths, we say as for me and my house, we serve the Lord...and then whisper words of judgment on our brothers and sisters. It is the kind of bait and switch that my non-Christian friends find disorienting with the church, seeing a love that looks sloppy and exclusive. I could say I love my neighbor, but it does not nearly shine as bright alongside the love I hold for my children. My love for my neighbor is dim at best. I hardly know my neighbor. With complete transparency, there are some neighbors I don't wish to know at all. And don't get me started on that one person (or two) who grate on my nerves, leaving me rigid from all the tongue biting I do around them. Show me how to love like YouCause if I don't have love it means nothing My love for people and how much I give depends on a few things. How they treat me and how invested I am in their well-being. If I am irritated, I have been known to withhold love, and I shut down, remaining emotionally disconnected. What is your modus operandi? We tend to have a predictable way of discrediting, minimizing or invalidating another's experience. Do you move away because, you know, they don't know the Lord like you do? Or, they don't have the education, experience, money like you do? What pattern do you choose when dealing with difficult people who don't think like you, dress like you or work as you do, so you do not have to love them? I don't want to sound like a crashing cymbalI don't want to be some empty noiseI'm down on my knees, Lord I surrenderJesus help me to love with a love like Yours My least favorite place to linger is a church foyer. The perfunctory meeting, greeting, and hand-shaking turns my insides like we are gearing up to head onto the main stage for a performance. One part of me wants to feel a part of the group and searches for someone I recognize to talk to; another part wants to make a beeline to my preferred seat in the auditorium to avoid making small talk with anyone. When I show up in a church foyer, my "on again off again" love dial switches on. I show interest, smile, ask you about the details I remember from last week. And we have this interaction that at the moment feels like we love one another, but at best, we are being kind. Kindness is love's cousin, for sure, but it is a part not the fullness of God's love. Foyer's are easy places to pretend we love one another. 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 For God so loved. He so loved. He doesn't love the world the way I love the changing colors of Fall, or a long walk along a riverbank. His love created. His love created all I know and hold dear. His love sacrificed comfort, set-aside fame, notoriety and chose a humble beginning with a horrific ending instead. His love did this for me. It was a profoundly personal, intimate act of love. This ending paid the highest price and bought my freedom for eternity-THAT is love. If I can't love my neighbor like I love myselfIf I won't move when my brother cries out for helpIf I'm too proud to forgive before the sun goes downThen this life that I've been living what does it mean now My prayer today as I recognized once again my ineptitude to love well: Jesus, loving the people you created is not a task I can do alone. Help me. Show me what You see. Fill me with Your love so I can do better. Your love is an indescribable gift, and I want to be ready to give it to others - even when it is a challenging task to do so. Tracey Dahl, M.A. is a writer and Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in Langley, BC (Canada). She is married to Ryan Dahl (Founder of PraiseCharts) and the mother of four grown children. Nothing / Something was written by Pat Barrett and featured on the Nothing / Something album.

We've been given an extraordinary word to express and call out the praise of God— Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! In Hebrew “hallelujah” is a sign of exuberance, a letting go of restraint and inhibition, which leads to complete surrender to God's control. It is an exhortation to praise! In Psalm 148 the psalmist writes, “Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Let the skies be filled with praise and the highest heavens with the shouts of glory! Go ahead—praise him, all you his messengers! Praise him some more, all you heavenly hosts! Keep it up, sun and moon!Don't stop now, all you twinkling stars of light! Take it up even higher—up to the highest heavens, until the cosmic chorus thunders his praise! Let the entire universe erupt with praise to God.From nothing to something he spoke and created it all.” (TPT) The chorus isn't complete until our voice is in it! We've been invited to join the sound of all creation, to come and praise the Lord. That's why we have breath in our lungs. It's what we were made to do. Songs of praise are the anthem and hallmark of a people who have been saved! It's remarkable to think about all Jesus has done for us. He rescued us from sin and shame. He has given us a hope and future, life and purpose. He is interceding for us and now we have the resurrection power of God at work in our lives! This is our Jesus! Based on the song Hallelujah (Our God Reigns). Original post by Passion Music available on YouVersion based on the album - Whole Heart by Passion Music.

I know Who goes before me. I know Who stands behind.The God of Angel Armies is always by my sideIn Exodus, Moses told the Israelites, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again.” (Ex.14:13)In Psalms, David says, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Ps. 27:1).In Luke, the angel says to Mary, “'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'” (Luke 1:30).In Hebrews, Paul says, “So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'” (Heb. 13:6).Notice a theme? Throughout scripture, we are told to not be afraid and to replace fear with the assurance of God as our helper. Moses, David, angels, Paul—those who we see as walking closely with the Lord in scripture often pleaded that we not fear. What did they understand about God that allowed them this strength? Three things: 1.) Our strength is founded in Him. 2.) We are saved by Him. 3.) Victory is His.My strength is in Your name for You alone can save. Yours is the victory.When we know that our strength is in God, we no longer rely on ourselves. We don't rely on ourselves for anything--not the work presentation we've been losing sleep over, not the big move we're about to make, not even the illness we've been diagnosed with. We apart from God do not have the strength to overcome obstacles. But if we believe God's strength is endless, we do not fear our own weakness.When we know that we are saved, we don't have to strive to be good enough. We often fear we are making too many mistakes and our sin is too big. But if we believe we are saved and that our salvation is always there, we do not fear our own inadequacy.When we know victory is His, we do not have to fear evil. In those times when we fear being at the mercy of evil in the form of an abuser or a terrible circumstance or a corrupt leader, we can take comfort in the fact God has already won and this temporary evil is just that: temporary.God knows our tendency to fear. That is why his Word is full of reasons not to. Based on the song Whom Shall I Fear by Chris Tomlin. Original post available on YouVersion based on the album Burning Lights.

“Does not all nature around me praise God? If I were silent, I should be an exception to the universe. Does not the thunder praise Him as it rolls like drums in the march of the God of armies? Do not the mountains praise Him when the woods upon their summits wave in adoration? Does not the lightning write His name in letters of fire? Has not the whole earth a voice? And shall I, can I, silent be?”-Charles Spurgeon. To ”bless God" is a phrase that some might find strange or counter-intuitive, as we are perhaps more familiar with the idea of blessing being something that comes from God to us, perhaps not as much so the other way around. But to bless God – to exalt, praise, magnify Him – becomes a habit – a first response - in the lives of those who have let themselves receive the love of the Lord. To bless God is really the only appropriate response to the realization that the only reason that the possibility exists of making the choice to bless Him is because He has first so richly blessed us. When we "bless God," we are not adding anything to God or giving Him something He lacks, because our Triune God is utterly complete. Rather, when we worship Him, when we declare that He is worthy to be praised, we are aligning ourselves with the truth of His worthiness of all praise and honor, we are rightly seeing the true order of things – you might even say we're aligning ourselves with reality. And when we align ourselves with reality by declaring His reign and His worth, bringing Him worship and sacrifices of praise, we're also entering into communion with the Father and participating in the relationship we were born for. Blessing and glorifying God is a pathway to the gift of His presence, the preciousness of His nearness, and the unspeakable treasures of the joy therein. C.S. Lewis expressed it this way:“The Scotch catechism says that man's chief end is 'to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.' But we shall then know that these are the same thing. Fully to enjoy is to glorify. In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us to enjoy Him.” We bless God because we're made to. We bless God because we need to – I need to. We bless God because scripture invites us to, encourages us to, and commands us to! Psalm 150:6 “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." Original post by Brooke Ligertwood available on YouVersion. A five-day reading plan exploring some of the Biblical perspectives that anchor Brooke's album, EIGHT. Enjoy devotionals that journey through themes like the fear of the Lord, postures in prayer, enduring in wilderness seasons, enjoying God, and choosing Him in response to His choice of us!, as well as featuring lyrics and music from songs throughout the Album EIGHT by Brooke Ligertwood.

For many, the holidays are the most heartwarming, comforting time of the year. We're reminded of what matters most as families and friends gather, reconnect, and spend quality time with one another. For others, though, this season reminds them of what they don't have. It highlights the fact that their family isn't close anymore, that loss is real and present, and that they feel alone when it shouldn't have to be that way. You may find yourself in this position where everyone else seems happy and filled with holiday spirit, but for you, life feels a little bleak and cold. Let me remind you that even in the bleakest moments, even when life feels heavy and dark, Jesus is the light and the warmth you need in every moment. If you stop and draw near to Him, He promises to draw near to you. When the things of this world cease to satisfy, He gives a peace that will never, ever leave you, and it's only found in daily relationship with Him. Challenge Whether life is good or it feels a little bit bleak, pause and draw near to Jesus. Cry out to Him, and be reminded of the peace that you have in Him alone. —Stacey Willis Based on the song Midwinter. Original post by Life.Church Worship available on YouVersion based on the album - Gloria by Life.Church Worship.

I don't know about you, but I have an innate and compulsive ability to complicate the simplest things in life. It's a gift that I'm not proud of, but I am truly, and regrettably a master of the craft. I think the simple things can raise our suspicions because oftentimes they seem too good to be true. And if we're not careful the idolization of complexity can become the very framework of our thinking, and dangerously — that framework can find its way into our relationship with God. You see, when I let the lens of complexity frame my relationship with God, things get out of perspective really quickly. The beautiful simplicity and sincerity of His presence is replaced by a series of hoops I have to jump through, feelings I should feel, or standards I must attain to. But the longer I've followed the Lord, the more I am convinced that He doesn't dwell in the temple of complexity. He isn't looking down from an ivory tower checking our prayers against a formula. On the contrary, His open-door presence is flung wide, ready and waiting for us to rush in with security, simplicity, and wonder. His invitation isn't to a public spectacle; it's to a secret place. He's not looking for impressive; He's just looking for authenticity. He's not afraid of our questions, our anger, or our doubting. He keeps things simple — you are welcome here and you don't have anything to prove. I'm sure I'd be mortified to know how much time I've spent trying to semantically move God's ear when He's always been more of a “God have mercy on me, a sinner” kind of guy (Luke 18:9-14). And to think that even when I have no words at all, the Holy Spirit steps in to intercede on my behalf (Romans 8:26). And if that all sounds too good to be true, then do I have some news for you — it isn't. God really is just that good. He really is that kind. His presence is your home country. You belong there. So our prayer is that the song, “Secret Place” ministers to you, to that end. And that maybe, just maybe, it helps lead you along the path to the open doors of your loving Father and all that He has for you. As the song says, “it's an open invitation, no words you have to say, if you want it, you can get there…” In Jesus' Name. Reflection & Application: Today I'd like to encourage you to take a few moments, or a few hours, and seek God. Our prayer is that you discover the path to the loving arms of your Father and all that He has for you. Think of a time and place where you can meet with God—just you. It can be any time or any place, but intentionality is key. Come near to Him and He will come near to you. Written and based on the song Secret Place by Chris Davenport. Original posting by Hillsong Worship available on YouVersion from the album These Same Skies.

In the mosaic of life, where diverse experiences, voices, and circumstances often shape our self-perception, it's essential to anchor our identity in an unchanging truth. The song Who You Say I Am by Brooke Ligertwood powerfully redirects our focus from external labels to the eternal words of our Creator. "Who am I that the highest King Would welcome me? I was lost but He brought me in Oh His love for me Oh His love for me! Who the Son sets free Oh is free indeed I'm a child of God Yes I am!" These poignant lyrics encapsulate a journey from feeling lost and unworthy to a profound realization of divine love and acceptance. They mirror the transformative truth found in our key scripture from John: in Christ, we are truly free. Reflecting on "Who You Say I Am" and John 8:36, several foundational truths come to light: 1. Freedom in Christ: One of the song's core declarations aligns perfectly with our key scripture: "Who the Son sets free, Oh is free indeed." This freedom is multi-dimensional. It's freedom from sin, from the bondage of past mistakes, from societal labels, and from the weight of others' expectations. In Christ, we are free to be who we were created to be. 2. Identity as God's Child: The world may assign numerous labels to us, some flattering and others not. Yet, the most significant identity we can hold is that of being a child of God. The song's chorus emphatically states, "I am who You say I am." This understanding roots us in love, grace, and purpose, ensuring that we're not swayed by fleeting definitions of worth. 3. The Depth of Divine Love: The lyrics ponder, "Who am I that the highest King Would welcome me?" It's a reflection shared by many in scriptures, like King David in Psalms. This marveling at God's love underscores the depth and breadth of His affection for us. Despite our imperfections and irrespective of our past, we are welcomed, cherished, and loved by the Creator of the universe. Today, as the melodies and messages of "Who You Say I Am" resonate in your heart, consider the voices and labels that have tried to define you. Are they in alignment with God's words about you? Remember, the world's definitions are often transient and shallow, but God's words about you are eternal and profound. If you've felt chained by past mistakes, societal expectations, or feelings of inadequacy, let today be a turning point. Embrace the freedom that Christ offers. Recognize and relish your identity as God's beloved child. Bask in the profound love He has for you, knowing that you're not defined by worldly measures but by divine declarations. In moments of doubt, let the words of "Who You Say I Am" echo as a reminder in your heart. And with every beat, may your soul grow more anchored in the unchanging truth of your identity in Christ, leading you to live with confidence, purpose, and unwavering joy.John 8:36 - "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Our God is a God of life and victory. Even though this is absolutely true, it can be hard to believe it when there is so much hurt and brokenness in the world. All of us face an enormous amount of pressure in life. Chances are you have been pressed by your job, finances, relationships, or the onslaught of disappointment that comes at us on the news every single day. Even in the midst of hardship, God can break through and help us transcend the moment we are in. Psalm 118 is a psalm of victory. It's a psalm that recounts that faithfulness of God to save and to deliver. Oftentimes when we look back on how God has worked in our lives, it will embolden us to keep moving forward in faith, even while suffering. In verses 5-7, the psalmist writes, “When hard pressed, I cried to the Lord; he brought me into a spacious place. The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.” He says that I remember the time when God delivered me to a spacious place. So even now, I don't need to be afraid. Because He was faithful then, I can look ahead in triumph. In verses 13-14, he goes on to say “I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” Our God is a savior. This is in His nature. He wants to defend and protect His children. We can trust in the goodness of our God! Worship is always the right response to the gift of God's salvation. “Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous: 'The Lord's right hand has done mighty things! The Lord's right hand is lifted high; the Lord's right hand has done mighty things!' I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the Lord has done.” (v15-17). We can trust that God will lead us through whatever we are going through. The purpose of it all is to bring glory to Jesus. In the end, God wants to be the Lord and King over every area of our lives. Anything else we would choose to give our hearts to will ultimately fail us and entrap our souls. God has sent Jesus to save us and give us a new song of praise on the earth. Today, let's declare who He is over our lives. “You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you.” (v28). Let's move anything that is less than out of the center of our affection and put Jesus in His rightful place. Let's step into the triumph of the victory He has given us through His death and resurrection. Based on the song You Are Our God by Brett Younker and Passion. Original post by Passion Music available on YouVersion based on the album - I've Witnessed It by Passion.