What Do You Know? – Musical Musings in March

 

When my granddaughter was much younger, I used to say, “well, what do you know Joe?” Her response was always the same. “My name isn’t Joe, it’s Joy!” She is one smart cookie!

 

IMAG1492I don’t claim to be a smart woman and what I do know, I give God the credit. My memory isn’t all that great and my ability to learn has slowed. But with God in the middle of my learning experiences, I am able to “know” just a little bit more each day.

 

So what do you know? Are you allowing God to help you when you don’t feel adequate? Are you seeking God’s guidance when you need to remember something? The greatest and best Tutor is at your fingertips. Why not learn to rely on Him in every area of your life…including remembering and learning.

 

Today’s blog post is a repeat from last year’s Musical Musings in March. Enjoy!

 

“I’m Amazed” – Musical Musings in March

 

There are some things in this world that amaze me. Like the fact that we had warm temperatures yesterday…in the 50’s. Then a storm from blew through and overnight we received an inch of snow! At least it’s not the foot or two they are getting in the mountains.

 

I’m amazed at technology. The things that someone thought to try (and in some cases tried over and over until they got it right). We’ve come a long way just in my lifetime. From typewriters to computers. From film cameras to digital phone cameras. From filmstrips to DVD’s. From record players to iPods.

 

I’m amazed that we’ve been able to send men and women into space. Some have walked on the moon. We even have a roaming robot on Mars!

 

God’s creation always amazes me. The beauty of nature. The unique features of our world. The abilities and instincts of the animal kingdom. The amazing inner workings of the human body.

 

I’m amazed at the kindness of people. My heart is touched when I see goodness. I find deep joy when compassion is shared between individuals.

 

But most of all, I’m amazed at what God has done for mankind. For me. He has redeemed us through His Son. When I was most unredeemable, God amazed me.

 

Yes, God’s love, mercy, compassion, and grace amaze me every day. I pray that I never take any of these for granted.

 

I heard today’s tune on the radio last week. I love the grandiose of the arrangement, the richness of the soloist’s voice, and the hundreds of voices that backed up that beautiful voice. But most of all, I was captured by the song’s lyrics.

 

I recalled feeling alone and empty. I recalled the times I chose to wander and go astray. I recalled living a life of weakness. And then I recalled how amazing it is to live in God’s love. Yes friend, it is amazing!

 

Maybe this is a song for you. Take a look at what you can find through God’s amazing love and grace. Then reach out to Him. And you too will be amazed at what He has done for you.

 

“I’m Amazed”

 

No one knew how alone I was feeling,

And the emptiness I tried so hard to hide.

Though I laughed and said my life was fine without You,

I was covering up the secret tears I had cried.

 

Then one day someone told me of Your mercy,

And the love you have shown on a hill call Calvary.

There You died and purchased my redemption,

When You broke sins power and set my spirit free.

 

Chorus:

I’m amazed that You love me,

I’m amazed how You care.

Through Your precious blood I found pardon.

And my sins are washed, they’re all washed away.

All my sins are washed away.

 

Yes it’s true, there’s been days when I’ve failed You.

Lord you know the many times I’ve gone astray.

But I’ve learned Your love is stronger than my weakness,

And Your ear is open every time I pray.

 

No one else has ever cared for me like You Lord,

Other friends could never be as close to me.

I’m not afraid to face the problems of tomorrow,

Knowing You are everything I’ll ever need.[i]

 

Jason Crabb joined the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir to record this song. Click here if you’d like to listen. (This is the only version I could find of this song…the original version has been removed…still, it’s a great song to listen to!)

 

Life is too short to wander this earth with unamazed eyes, ears and hearts. Take a look around you. Find something to be amazed at today. And please be sure to thank God for His amazing gift…abundant life!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “I’m Amazed,” words and music by Carol Cymbala, Carol Joy Music, 2005.

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“Hide Me Behind the Cross” – Musical Musings in March

 

You’ve probably been wondering what happened to me today. I know, it’s 12 hours later than I usually post. But I do have an excuse and I am sharing a great song with you today. So I’m praying you’ll give me a little slack.

 

???????????????????????????????After my husband went to work early this morning, I napped. However, Mom woke me up with the news that she thought she needed to go back to the emergency room. After talking with her doctor, we headed to the hospital. At the end of a long day, all I can tell you is that we are heading to Ohio on Tuesday. Mom will see her doctor next week and a plan of action will be set in motion.

 

When we arrived back to my house, I asked Mom what her favorite song was. Her all-time favorite is “Pieces of April” by Three Dog Night. But she knew I wanted something to write about here, so added that her favorite religious song is “Hide Me Behind the Cross.” I had heard her mention it before, but never followed through with listening to it.

 

After listening to this song, I am embarrassed to say that I should have long before today. It’s beautiful. The lyrics. The melody. The harmony. It is a song that should be my favorite song. So I’m not going to say any more. Just share this beautiful piece of music with you. Enjoy my Mom’s “favorite” song.

 

“Hide Me Behind the Cross”

 

Lord as I seek to serve You,

May You find in me what’s pleasing to Your heart.

I leave my will at Calvary,

Taking on a nature humbled by Your scars.

 

For I know it’s only through Your love,

That who I am is hidden by Your grace.

Let my desires be overshadowed,

As I recall the purpose of that place.

 

Chorus:

Hide me behind the cross,

Where my gains become as loss.

And only Your glory is in view.

Your power will be revealed.

The more that I am concealed.

Hide me behind the cross,

So the world sees only You.

 

If I rely on my strength

To be a source of hope for those in need,

The only profit I would gain

Would be the empty honor of my deeds.

But with all of self behind Your cross,

The splendor of Your love stands free to shine.

Illuminating with Your power,

Reaching souls so You alone are glorified.

(Chorus)[i]

 

You really must listen to this one. Please click here to listen to Gold City’s version of “Hide Me Behind the Cross.”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “Hide Me Behind the Cross,” Words and Music by R. E. Patton

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“There is None Like You” – Musical Musings in March

 

I have found that there is an abundance of music for me to choose from for my musical writings. I have also found that I’m amazed when I realize I haven’t written about specific songs that have touched me deeply through the years. Today’s song is one of those songs.

 

0005030206R-849x565I am coming to a close in my Bible study of Gideon and while I was very excited for the possibilities of Gideon and Israel, I was disappointed that in the end, the Hebrew nation returned to their idol worship. But, I knew better. I’ve read Scripture. I’ve studied the Old Testament. I knew Israel continued in their cycle of following God and turning from God. But I thought this time, just this time, they would have understood.

 

You see, Israel searched and searched for what would satisfy their spiritual longing. They worshiped all of the idols their pagan neighbors worshiped. All the while, the One they were looking for was right in front of them.

 

I realize that I do the same thing in my life. I search and search for the one thing to satisfy me…and all the while my Creator who created me to crave Him and Him alone, stands before me.

 

Perhaps you do the same thing.

 

So what are some of the idols we exalt in our lives instead of God? Possessions, passions, goals, hobbies, habits, entertainment, eating, desires, a person. This is the short list. But you and I know that any one of these things can and will take priority over God if we allow it in our lives.

 

When we are convicted by God’s Spirit that we have an idol to remove, it’s time to toss it out to the curb. No questions. No excuses. No deals.

 

Israel had many opportunities to follow and serve the One True God. My friend, we do too. As today’s song says, “we can search for all eternity Lord, and find, there is none like You.”

 

Nothing will ever be able to take the place of God in our lives. So isn’t it about time we stop trying? Please don’t let another day go by without making God the Lord of your life…all of your life. Perhaps you can begin by singing this song.

 

“There is None Like You”

 

There is none like You,

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.

 

There is none like You.

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.

 

Your mercy flows like a river wide,

And healing comes from Your hand.

Suffering children are safe in Your arms,

There is none like You.

 

There is none like You.

No one else can touch my heart like You do,

I can search for all eternity Lord

And find, there is none like You.[i]

 

Click here to spend a few moments in worship.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “There is None Like You,” Words and Music by Lenny LeBlanc, Integrity Music, Hosanna Music, 1991.

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“The Longer I Serve Him” – Musical Musings in March

 

I believe today’s song will strike a chord. There is just something about serving Jesus that makes life richer and fuller. And as this song states, Jesus grows sweeter as the years go by.

 

I found a touching version of this song. In this version, Danny Gaither is asked to sing a verse of this song. It really doesn’t sound that unusual until you know the background.

 

As a trio, Danny, Bill and their sister Mary Ann traveled as the Gaither Trio. Bill’s wife Gloria joined the group when Mary Ann left and then eventually Danny left as well to travel solo.

 

IMAG1489Due to the stress of touring, Danny lost his voice and was unable to sing. Later, Danny was diagnosed with lymphoma and after a five year battle, went home to be with Jesus in 2001.

 

How touching to know that Danny’s love of serving Jesus went beyond his physical limitations. His heart was filled with the love of Jesus and he was able to share that love one final time. This indeed was a special moment.

 

I have to ask you. Is Jesus sweeter today than He was when you accepted Him as your Lord Savior? Oh how I pray that He is. If not, why not take this moment to move in that direction? Why not read through these words and believe them?

 

I know for certain, Jesus is sweeter today than He’s ever been. I find an abundance of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) through Him. I cannot wait to see how sweet Jesus is when I’m 80!

 

Enjoy today’s song. Let’s make today a sweeter day.

 

“The Longer I Serve Him”

 

Since I started for the kingdom,

Since my life He controls;

Since I gave my heart to Jesus,

The longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows.

 

The longer I serve Him the sweeter He grows;

The more that I love Him more love He bestows.

Each day is like Heaven, my heart overflows.

The longer I serve Him the sweeter He grows.

 

Every need He is supplying,

Plenteous grace He bestows.

Every day my way gets brighter,

The longer I serve Him the sweeter He grows.

 

The longer I serve Him the sweeter He grows;

The more that I love Him more love He bestows.

Each day is like Heaven, my heart overflows.

The longer I serve Him the sweeter He grows.[i]

 

Click here to listen to this version of “The Longer I Serve Him.”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “The Longer I Serve Him,” Words and Music by William J. Gaither, William J. Gaither, 1965.

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“Me and My House” – Musical Musings in March

 

Who’s a fan of Joshua? I am! I am! If you know his story, you know that he was one of the spies who believed God could deliver the Promised Land to the Israelites. Joshua was one of the original Egyptian-freed slaves to enter into the Land of Canaan.

 

IMAG1492Joshua led the Hebrew nation across the flooded Jordan River to take the city of Jericho. Joshua fought beside the warriors of Israel to conquer the tribes inhabiting their land. But most importantly, Joshua followed God, Joshua believed God, Joshua served God.

 

At the renewing of their Covenant with God, Joshua gathered the entire Hebrew nation and they presented themselves to God. Joshua recounted the mighty acts of God since their freedom from Egypt was given. And then, Joshua spoke these powerful words.

 

“Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:14-15 – NIV)

 

These words of Joshua resonate with those who also choose to serve the Almighty God. These words call us to action. These words call us to service. These words call us to commitment.

 

How committed are you to the Almighty? What are you willing to give up in order to serve the One True God? Who is joining you along this journey?

 

I don’t know where you land. But what I do know is that I will serve the Lord. My household will serve the Lord.

 

Today’s song is just another reminder of Joshua’s words. I pray that you are willing to join me in singing “Me and My House.”

 

“Me and My House”

We stand here together as a family
We join hands together
Lifting praises to the father above
For sending His son

 

We’ve chosen together as a family
To serve Him forever
Knowing nothing else will matter in time
We made up our minds

 

Through the heat of the day
We will join in the fight
‘Til he takes us away
‘Til our faith becomes sight
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord

 

Chose you this day
Tell me who will you serve
Let nothing stand in your way
Give the praise He deserves
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord

 

We’ll serve Him
We’ll serve Him
We’ll serve Him
For He is worthy

 

Chose you this day
Tell me who will you serve
Let nothing stand in your way
Give the praise He deserves
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord[i]

 

The Heritage Singers have a great version of this song. Click here to listen.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] “Me and My House,” Words and Music by Tim Sheppard, Tim Sheppard Music Company, 1981.

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