songs in the night He giveth
/I have always thought that there is power in the skilled combination of words and music, but never more than in this long winter's night.
When God feels unreachable in the choking darkness, truth put to music cuts through like a shaft of His light, and I feel I can find my way again.
So it was on Thursday as I numbly followed my grandmother's casket out of the church, and heard the introductory notes of "How Great Thou Art" ring out. I couldn't stay lost or numb or forsaken while the truth of God's immensity washed over me in song.
Though my life will never be the same, still He will never change.
So it was all day yesterday while I searched desperately for hope, and heard the chorus of "Naomi's Song" by my friend Kirsten. I couldn't stay hopeless or searching when the truth of God's goodness and purpose confronted me head-on.
Though my hands may be emptied, still He will fill them up with His presence and His love.
So it was late last night while I tried to breathe and not think too much, lest I never find sleep, and heard the verses of Audrey Assad's "How Can I Keep from Singing." I couldn't stay fearful or ungrateful when the truth of God's boundless grace pierced my heart.
Though the darkness gather round, songs in the night He giveth.
And so it was this morning when I awoke with the same heaviness on my chest, and my brother invited me to sing a worship song with him before he left - "Blessed be the Name of the Lord" by Matt Redman. And I couldn't stay self-focused while singing the truth of God's worthiness, a truth that never changes - regardless of my circumstances.
Though He takes away, even still, He gives.
“Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart, in the company of the upright and in the assembly. Great are the works of the LORD; they are studied by all who delight in them. Splendid and majestic is His work, and His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonders to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate. He has given food to those who fear Him; He will remember His covenant forever. He has made known to His people the power of His works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His precepts are sure. They are upheld forever and ever; they are performed in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.”
