Song Lists

Hymns withstand the test of time for good reason. “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” was written in 1758, but congregations around the world still sing it today. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love—lyrics that will always resonate with the heart of the believer and the age-old battle between our sinful selves and who we are in Christ: “For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.” (Rom. 7:18-19) As the hymn says, Jesus sought me when a stranger, wandering from the fold of God. Jesus came to us while we were still sinners (Rom. 5:8), not after we had cleaned ourselves up and gotten our acts together. He came right into the middle of our wandering, and that wasn't a one-time event. We are daily prone to wander, but scripture tells us his mercies are new every morning. (Lam. 3:22-23) His kindness continues to pursue us, in spite of us. How your kindness yet pursues meHow your mercy never fails me Because of this, we can tune our hearts to grace, rather than to fear or shame. In Christ, the song from our hearts sings of the kindness God has done for us, by no power of our own and by no performance or act that is worthy. We can rest in a Father who has taken our hearts and sealed them. We are his and no matter how far we wander, his kindness pursues us still. Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal itSeal it for Thy courts above Based on the song Come Thou Fount (I Will Sing) by Chris Tomlin. Original post available on YouVersion based on the album Never Lose Sight.

The Christmas story is a beautiful invitation. It's an invitation for all to come and see the love of God for people. When Jesus came from heaven to earth, a miracle happened that day. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. God became like one of us! The Creator stepped into creation. He stepped into the darkness and brokenness of the world so we could experience the light and life of God for ourselves. The night Jesus was born, the heavenly hosts went to the outskirts of town to let a group of shepherds know “a Savior has been born.” The angels marveled that Christ had come to rescue and redeem, and they lit up the skies with the thunderous praise of God. That night an invitation went out: go into Bethlehem to see the One who will bring peace to the whole earth. That same invitation has gone out to you. There is One who can bring peace to your soul. He came so you would not have to wander around blinded by sin and shame. He came to give you life and life to the full. In response to this invitation, we can bring our hearts and our lives as an offering to the newborn King. We can join the song of heaven. We can bring our highest hallelujah, our most sincere praise. Because Jesus brought heaven to us, we can bring our worship to Him. Based on the song Highest Hallelujah by Matt Maher, Jacob Sooter, Brett Younker, Stefan Cashwell. Original post by Passion Music available on YouVersion based on the album - Hope Has A Name by Passion.

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” - Lamentations 3:22-23 There's nothing like going to bed after a difficult day of stress or tragedy and waking up to what feels like a blank slate. But what's even better is when this happens to our souls. About four years ago, I went through a tragic experience that sent me into a multiple-month mayday. I vividly remember feeling nothing for the first time in my entire life. I was completely numb. Of course, I immediately ran to many vices in search of a cure. It's funny how in that moment, it made more sense to me to "amputate my own leg and replace it with a prosthetic" than to face the pain of the “bullets.” But the whole reason I was able to justify the "amputation" in the first place was so I could feel something. Anything. Even if it was only to convince myself that I was still alive. It didn't happen overnight, but somewhere along the way, something changed. I gradually became more and more aware of the pulse of my soul's heartbeat. The gift of life is like no other, but there is only one that supersedes it. That is the gift of salvation. It's one thing to wake up with breath in your lungs, but it is entirely another to wake up every single morning with a mercy that you've never met before. And there it is, waiting patiently for you when you wake up tomorrow. Based on the song Waking Up by Ed Cash, Scott Cash, Franni Cash, Andrew Bergthold, Martin Cash, Kyle Briskin. Original post by We The Kingdom is available on YouVersion based on the album Holy Water.

Imagine this: it's Christmas Eve in 1906 in a small town outside of Boston, Massachusetts. The Canadian-American engineer, Reginald Fessenden, is sitting at one of his prized inventions—an electric device that can transmit sound through radio waves. He presses a thumb against his short, dark beard—thinking of a song—and then readjusts his thin, circular spectacles. Up until this point in history, the primary use of radio wave communication was for Morse Code—a language of monotone pulses. For several years Reginald had been employed by various companies to develop this new radio technology including working directly for Thomas Edison at his laboratory in New Jersey. Although he looked up to Edison, Reginald was his own kind of genius with over 500 patents to his name. It's on this frozen night in December that Reginald decides to try something that no one has ever done before—a radio broadcast of live music. Nearby is a Bible, opened up to the Gospel of Luke. Reginald looks at it and sees the words, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Then he picks up his violin, leans towards the transmitter, and begins to play a song. The melody of “O Holy Night” stirs the air, resounding in his ears and in the ears of those many, many miles away. For those who were listening—hearing live music broadcast for the very first time in human existence—it was as if the heavens had filled with angels once more—a song of praise appearing out of nothing. For both the ancient shepherds in the fields and the radio-listeners of 1906, the Christmas anthem arrived in similar fashion—suddenly and splendidly. The glory of God requires no prelude, no pre-show. It moves invisibly across the earth, awakening the souls of men and women who call upon His name. If only we would tune our hearts, we might hear the song of His majesty—carrying on the waves of radio, the waves of light, the waves of history—a song that arrived on Christmas—the night divine, the night when Christ was born. Based on the song O Holy Night by David Crowder, Adolphe Adam, Abe Parker. Original post by Passion Music available on YouVersion based on the album - Hope Has A Name by Passion.

The Bible is not discreet about our relationship with God. It is clear. God is our Father; we are His children. In fact, God is identified as our Father 265 times in scripture. Most of those are found in the New Testament because through Christ we have a new identity as an adopted child of God. Romans 8:15 says, “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.'” Galatians 4:7 says, “Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.” You're a good, good FatherIt's who You are, it's who You are, it's who You areAnd I'm loved by YouIt's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am The word “father” invokes up all sorts of images for people. For some, “father” is associated with warm memories, laughter, family trips, or long conversations on a front porch. For others, the word is associated with absence, rejection, hurt, or pain. At times, we have greatly distorted what the role of a father was intended to be. This is why it's so important to understand that God is not only our Father, but He is a good Father. You may believe you are a child of God, but do you believe, really believe to your very core, that you are loved by God? This can be a difficult truth to grasp, even for the most fervent believer. Guilt, shame, and sin can prevent us from believing in and experiencing the love of God. Bitterness and past experiences remain in our hearts and minds, and over the years we grab hold of a lie that He wants good for others but not for ourselves. Oh, I've heard a thousand storiesOf what they think You're likeBut I've heard the tender whisperOf love in the dead of nightAnd You tell me that You're pleasedAnd that I'm never alone This sort of thinking is counter to what scripture says about God as our Father. Think about how the Father figure of God is described and what this says about His character: He embraces the prodigal son, and the older brother—He is loving, accepting, and patient. (Luke 15) He takes care of the sparrows but says He cares much more for his children than the sparrows—He provides and is attuned to our needs. (Matthew 10) He goes after every single lost sheep until it is found—He pursues a relationship with us and doesn't ever get tired of looking after the lost. (Luke 15) The two truths that have the most transformative power in your life are that you are God's child and God is a good Father. Tell yourself that today, over and over. It's who you are, and it's who He is. Based on the song Good Good Father by Chris Tomlin, Anthony Brown, and Pat Barrett. Original post available on YouVersion based on the album Never Lose Sight.

The first Noel, the angels did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay In fields where they lay keeping their sheep On a cold winter's night that was so deep Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel Born is the King of Israel! They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east beyond them far And to the Earth it gave great light And so it continued both day and night Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel Born is the King of Israel! This carol was first published in 1823 by William Sandys in England. Since then, its melody and lyrics have grown more and more familiar to the Church, as have the stories of the shepherds and the wise men referenced by the song. The nativity accounts found in the opening chapters of Matthew and Luke were signals to God's people, Israel, who had been awaiting the arrival of a new king. Many of the signs surrounding Jesus' birth pointed back to the greatest and most respected king that Israel had yet known, King David: Shepherds: David is first introduced in 1 Samuel 16 as a young shepherd boy in Bethlehem. He was out keeping his sheep when the prophet Samuel arrived to anoint him king. Later, Micah prophesied that another ruler would come out of Bethlehem who would also shepherd God's people. Then in the book of Luke, the appearance of angels to shepherds near Bethlehem was an indicator that a major character in God's story of redemption had arrived. Wise Men and Myrrh: What would Samuel, a wise and respected leader, have used to proclaim David king after he was led on his mission to Bethlehem? According to Exodus 30, myrrh was one of the core ingredients used to make sacred anointing oil. And we read in the Gospel of Matthew that wise men are led to Bethlehem once again with gold, frankincense, and myrrh, this time as gifts for Jesus, our newborn King. The arrival of Jesus was deeply significant. It led a group of shepherds to tell many others what they'd seen and heard. It inspired powerful men to travel a great distance to bring gifts to the child of strangers. The arrival of Jesus matters. It changed everything for the shepherds and wise men, and it changes everything for us. We've seen their response to the arrival of the King. What is our response? Challenge As you hear this carol, I pray that your spirit is moved. I pray that you would not hold back in your response, whether it yields more passionate and authentic praise than you've ever experienced, or it gives you the courage to tell someone about Jesus. Maybe you've been on the fence about fully committing your life to Christ, or going to church. Whatever the response, He's worth giving your all. —Luke Guevara Based on the song Noel. Original post by Life.Church Worship available on YouVersion based on the album - Gloria by Life.Church 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.

Emmanuel, Emmanuel Heaven is with us now Glory is all around Emmanuel, Emmanuel Born to bring us to life Come lift His name on high Growing up in church, and now as a worship pastor, I have heard the word Emmanuel countless times. But in all honesty, I did not grasp the weight of it until recently. Emmanuel … God with us. God. With. Us. All of us go through seasons of life where we don't seem to feel God's presence. Difficult situations we face can leave us asking, “God where are You in this?” But did you know that the Word of God tells us over 100 times not to fear or be afraid, because He is with us? “So do not fear, for I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10 NIV God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 NIV I clung to these two verses in a time of fear, doubt, frustration, when I felt distant from God. A few years ago a very close friend of mine was in a car accident and was left with a severe brain injury that resulted in a coma. This friend had one of the most beautiful and joyous spirits. She loved God with her whole heart, and loved sharing His love with everyone she encountered. The years following her accident I had so many questions for God. Why her? Why this way? Why so soon? Throughout this tragedy I remember God so vividly showing up to remind me that He was near. He would show up through strangers, through His Word, and through stories told of my dear friend's life. He reminded me constantly that He was with me in my grief and in the middle of my questions, and more importantly, He was with her. Our God is not distant. He is closer than we know, and His love for each of us is deeper than we could ever imagine. He is Emmanuel. It is written throughout the entire Bible: a story of a God who found a way to conquer the separation caused by our sin, by sending His Son Jesus and then His Holy Spirit to be close to us once and for all. Let's Pray Father, thank You for loving us so much that You sent Your Son here to be with us. Thank You for being close and choosing to leave heaven to be with us here on Earth. Give us a desire to be close to You and Your heart. Comfort us in the good times and in the bad by Your Holy Spirit and the reminder of Your Son, Emmanuel. —Rhiannon Morlan Based on the song Emmnuel. Original post by Life.Church Worship available on YouVersion based on the album - Gloria by Life.Church Worship.

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."— Psalm 107:1 (NIV) Reflection:Gratitude is a powerful expression of worship, and it has the ability to transform our perspective on life. The Housefires song "Grateful" invites us to reflect on the countless ways God has been faithful to us, prompting a deep response of thankfulness. The first verse beautifully captures this sentiment: "If I could write down all the ways that You've been faithful, I'd run out of pages." This imagery reminds us that God's blessings and faithfulness are so abundant that they exceed our capacity to fully recount them. The chorus shifts our focus from what we might feel entitled to receive, to recognizing that every blessing is an act of grace. "Didn't owe me anything, but you gave it to me anyway." This is the heart of gratitude—understanding that everything we have is a gift from God, not something we have earned. When we realize that God's love and provision are not based on our merit but on His perfect love, our hearts overflow with gratefulness. In the second verse, the song challenges us to adopt a mindset of gratitude that transcends our circumstances: "I won't waste another day thinking bout what didn't go my way." It's easy to focus on what's lacking or what has gone wrong, but a heart of worship chooses to focus on God's goodness, even in the face of disappointment. This verse reminds us that God holds our future, and it's bright because He is in control. Application:As worship leaders, we have the privilege of guiding others into a posture of thanksgiving and praise. However, our leadership must be rooted in our personal walk with God. "Grateful" reminds us to reflect on the myriad ways God has shown His faithfulness in our own lives. How often do we take the time to acknowledge and thank God for His goodness? Let this song inspire you to make gratitude a daily practice. In the morning, at noon, and in the evening, let your heart be filled with thanksgiving. Whether in moments of joy or in times of challenge, declare God's faithfulness and let that declaration shape your perspective and your worship. The bridges of the song repeat the themes of God's faithfulness and our response of thanksgiving. These are not just words to sing, but truths to live by. God's faithfulness is constant—morning, noon, and night. And our response should be a continual offering of thanks, acknowledging His goodness all our lives. Prayer:Lord, we thank You for Your unending faithfulness and perfect love. Help us to live each day with hearts full of gratitude, recognizing that every blessing is a gift from You. As we lead others in worship, may our lives reflect the deep gratitude we have for all You've done. Teach us to be thankful in all circumstances, trusting in Your good and perfect will. Amen. Challenge:This week, make a conscious effort to start and end each day with a prayer of gratitude. Reflect on the ways God has been faithful to you, and let that reflection fuel your worship. As you lead others, encourage them to embrace a lifestyle of gratitude, reminding them of God's constant faithfulness and love. Let every song you sing and every word you speak be an expression of a grateful heart.

Scripture:"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."— Psalm 18:2 (NIV) Reflection:In a world where change is constant and uncertainty often surrounds us, there is a deep, soul-level yearning for a place of safety, stability, and unchanging love. The Housefires song "I'm Not Going Anywhere" speaks directly to this longing, reminding us that true refuge is found not in places or circumstances, but in the very presence of God. The repeated declaration, "I found my home in You, my refuge," captures the essence of what it means to be in Christ. It's a statement of belonging and security, a recognition that in God, we find the place we were always meant to be. This isn't just a temporary shelter; it's an eternal home where we are safe and sound. As worshippers, we often come before God seeking many things—answers, direction, healing, and peace. But what if the greatest gift He offers us is simply Himself? To be able to say, “I'm staying home with You” is to acknowledge that there is no better place to be than in His presence. It's here that we find rest for our souls and the unshakable assurance that we are loved, known, and held. Application:The repetition of the phrase "I'm not going anywhere" isn't just a lyrical choice; it's a powerful affirmation of commitment. It's a vow to remain in God's presence, no matter what life throws our way. When we declare this, we're saying that we trust Him with our lives and that we choose to remain close to Him, come what may. This is particularly meaningful for those involved in worship ministry. Leading others in worship is a sacred responsibility, but it also requires that we ourselves are rooted in God's presence. The song reminds us that our primary calling is to remain with Him, to make our home in His love, and to lead from that place of refuge and security. The final tags of the song, where it's affirmed that “You're not going anywhere, I'm not going anywhere, We're not going anywhere, 'cause this love is forever,” serve as a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness. No matter where we are or what we face, God's presence is constant. His love is unchanging. He is the rock that will not be moved. Prayer:Lord, thank You for being our refuge, our safe place, and our home. Help us to remain in Your presence, finding our security in You alone. May we be so rooted in Your love that we can confidently say, “I'm not going anywhere.” Strengthen our hearts to lead others into this same assurance, knowing that in You, we are forever safe. Amen. Challenge:This week, take intentional time each day to sit quietly in God's presence. As you do, declare, "I'm staying home with You." Let this be a moment of reaffirming your commitment to God, recognizing that in His presence, you have found your true home. Allow this truth to shape how you lead others in worship, knowing that your strength and stability come from Him alone.

“But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15 (NIV) In a world filled with countless voices, agendas, and causes clamoring for our attention, it can be easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The song “I Have Decided” by Housefires reminds us of the profound commitment we make when we choose to follow Christ. This is not just a fleeting decision but a lifelong dedication to raising one banner, declaring one anthem above all else. “I have decided, there's only one banner I'm gonna raise. I have decided, there's only one anthem I'm gonna say.” The decision to follow Christ is not simply about belief; it's about declaring, with our lives, the supremacy of Jesus. The banner we raise is the banner of His love, grace, and truth. It's a visible, unmistakable symbol of where our allegiance lies. The anthem we sing is one of unwavering devotion, proclaiming His goodness and sovereignty over our lives. “There's only one banner, there's only one anthem.” These words echo a single-minded focus. In a culture that often encourages us to chase multiple priorities and divide our loyalties, this song calls us back to the simplicity and purity of following Jesus alone. It's a declaration that no other cause, no other name, no other pursuit will take precedence over Christ in our hearts. “You are the banner I'm gonna raise, for the rest of my days.” This line is a powerful personal commitment. It's not just a momentary decision but a lifelong pledge. Raising the banner of Jesus means allowing Him to be the defining feature of our lives. It means that in everything we do, we aim to glorify Him, letting our words, actions, and attitudes reflect His love to the world. Application: Today, reflect on the banner you're raising in your life. What does your life declare to those around you? Are there other banners — of success, reputation, or personal ambition — that might be competing for your attention? Let this song inspire you to reaffirm your decision to lift high the name of Jesus, allowing His banner to be the one you proudly display in every aspect of your life. Prayer: Lord, I have decided to follow You. Help me to raise Your banner high in my life, that all may see Your love and truth reflected in me. May Your anthem be the song of my heart, guiding me in every decision, every action, and every word. For the rest of my days, I choose to glorify Your name. Amen.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV) Reflection:There is something beautifully nostalgic in the way we remember our childhood. For many of us, those early years were a time when life felt simple, and worries were few. In the first verse of “Lean On The Lord,” Housefires captures that sentiment: a time when the world made sense, and our biggest concerns were trivial. But as we grow older, life's complexities and uncertainties often lead us to question, to wrestle with things that are difficult to understand. The song speaks to this shift, reminding us that while the world may become more complicated, there is still a place of simplicity — found in leaning on the Lord. It's in those moments when life's questions overwhelm us, and we've tried every way to make sense of things, that we're called to trust in God. The Pre-Chorus of the song declares a profound truth: “I've tried to make sense of it all but I just can't. When I don't understand I lean on the Lord.” It's an acknowledgment that there are mysteries and challenges in life that are beyond our comprehension. But instead of being paralyzed by what we don't know, we are invited to lean into the One who does know. Application:What does it mean to lean on the Lord? It means placing our trust, our hope, and our very lives into His hands. It's a choice to rely on His wisdom instead of our own understanding, to draw strength from His love, and to find peace in His presence. In the Chorus, the song gives voice to this reliance: “Some things don't make sense, but one thing's for sure when I lean on You, Lord.” When we lean on the Lord, we find the strength to go on, even when life doesn't make sense. His love becomes the foundation that holds us up, His grace the cushion that catches us when we fall. The Bridge of the song reinforces this by reminding us of the pillars of our faith — His Word, His grace, and His strength. These are the anchors that keep us steady when life's storms rage. As we learn to lean on these, we find that God's faithfulness sustains us in ways we couldn't have imagined. Prayer:Lord, life often brings challenges that we can't understand. But in those moments, help us to lean on You. Teach us to trust in Your Word, to rest in Your grace, and to draw strength from Your love. May we always find our refuge in You, knowing that You will never fail us. Amen. Challenge:This week, whenever you face a situation that doesn't make sense or feels overwhelming, take a moment to pause and intentionally lean on the Lord. Trust Him with your questions and uncertainties, and let His love and strength carry you through.

Do you ever glance around the world searching for a reason to feel hopeful? Do you ever end up discouraged? Such a quest can feel like a flickering flame, threatening to extinguish in the slightest breeze. While driving through my hometown today, I passed by a row of small wooden crosses stationed along the side of the road, each adorned with toddler-sized dresses. My stomach churned, considering the horror represented by the roadside tribute to 215 children whose remains were found in an unmarked burial site. The unmarked graves discovered in multiple residential school grounds across Canada represent a generation of young people abducted from their homes who faced unknown horrors. If I'm honest, I feel angry and I'm unsure how to respond. Who holds our faith when fears arise? Who stands above the stormy trial? So what happens when in the face of human suffering, the fire of hope in eternity fades? What happens when the words of our worship songs sit like stones in our chest? A quiet hallelujah is barely uttered and the fiery darts of the enemy slide in behind our breastplate. Why do we endure and keep searching for some measure of hope? Because right there in the middle of our suffering is a promise: we will feast in endless joy. And what reward will heaven bring?Everlasting life with himAnd we will rise to meet the LordThen sin and death will be destroyed Maybe you face another kind of agony that is closer to home. Alzheimer's, dementia, ALS, Parkinson's, Cancer: these are the names of afflictions so distant for many and a real-life battlefield for others. When you are on the battlefield, it is easy to feel helpless, hopeless, and numb. Where is the hope in that? This is the plight of our human condition: everyone bleeds. Human suffering is unavoidable. No one escapes hardship -- in some form, at some time. We cannot look here for our hope. Earthly hope does not endure. It fades, disappoints, and dies. "Christ has been raised from the dead" (1 Cor 15:20). That is the only statement that can transform how we live each day and how we prepare for our earthly life to end. To find comfort in life, we must know how we can face death. Hope comes only in trusting the one who died to take the curse of death and who crushed the power of death by His resurrection. See Getty Music. We all experience suffering as our earthly bodies waste away, but we hold fast to a promise that is unfading, protected by the resurrection. One day, we will feast at His banqueting table. Can you feel that truth settling into your heart? Like a healing balm of comfort, God says, "take my gift and have endless joy." And the God of all grace, who called youto his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore youand make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:10,11 Don't sit in silence. Tell yourself both sides of the story. We will have suffering and there is a promise. Worship through the grief and find the promised hope. Breakthroughs come when hearts break open. 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. Christ Our Hope in Life and Death is a modern hymn written by Keith Getty, Jordan Kauflin, Matt Papa, Matt Boswell, and Matthew Merker (Getty Music). Words inspired by the Heidelberg Catechism.

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.

When God created Adam, he breathed into Adam's body, and the man came to life (Gen. 2:7). What an intimate picture: God's actual breath filling a man's lungs. The breath of life. We see elsewhere in scripture God's desire to fill us with his breath, even if we are technically already alive.One of the most notable places we see this is in Ezekiel. Ezekiel was a prophet handed the unfortunate task of telling the Israelites that, unlike what false prophets were promising, the Israelites would not be delivered from captivity for a long time. At the time, he and about 10,000 other Israelites were captive to Babylonia.But as the Lord gave Ezekiel this depressing message to share, He also gave him a promise. God gave Ezekiel a picture of a valley of dry bones--basically, a large pile of dead and fully decayed bodies. And He told Ezekiel: “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, O dry bones, hear the Word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live” (Ez. 37:4-5).Breathe on me, breath of God, breathe on me.I come alive, I'm alive when You breathe on me.We have all experienced, are experiencing or will experience a time of captivity. You have suffered loss, you're confused, depressed, captive to an addiction. Whatever it may be, when you are in the valley of dry bones, your thought is primarily what the Israelites' was: “Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are indeed cut off” (Ez. 37:11).The valley is a dark and hopeless place- which is why the Lord showed it to Ezekiel. He showed him the most hopeless and dead image and assured him He could breathe life back into it. Our God breathes life back into us and raises people from the dead. It's his specialty.And it is not a one-time thing. God continues to breathe into us as we need it, which is why we see that pattern so clearly in scripture.Know, then, that the promise of Ezekiel is the promise still: “you shall live, and I will place you in your own land. Then you shall know that I am the Lord; I have spoken, and I will do it” (Ez. 37:14). Based on the song Awake My Soul by Chris Tomlin. Original post available on YouVersion based on the album Burning Lights.