“Who Is on the Lord’s Side?” – Musical Musings in March

March 7th, 2014 dsisler

Who is on the Lord’s side? That question has been asked through the years and has been answered in one of two ways.

 

IMAG1492Joshua made the call to Israel. In Joshua 24, the case was made to be on God’s side. Then Joshua posed the question. “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15 – NIV)

 

Later we see that the people made the right choice. They chose to be on God’s side. “We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.” (Joshua 24:24 – NIV)

 

But later in Scripture we see Jesus talking with a wealthy young man. He asked Jesus a question something like, “How can I get on Your side?” You know everyone wants to be on the winning side. Well Jesus gave this young man an answer, but he left Jesus’ presence sad…he wasn’t willing to do what was necessary to be on Jesus’ side (Mark 10:17-22).

 

The question must be asked of us today. Are you on Jesus’ side? Do you live your life so that others see whose side you’re on? I pray that you do. I pray that I do!

 

I recall singing this song a great deal through the years, but never really took into account all that it takes to be on the Lord’s side. Facing the foe. Leaving the world’s side. Bringing others to Jesus. Putting aside my personal preferences and desires. Being bold and true. That’s a lot to ask.

 

But when we make the choice as Joshua did, we are secure in our victory. Our triumph is sure. Joyfully enlisting in the army of the Lord brings blessings beyond our imagination. Why wouldn’t want to be on His side?

 

Today let’s look at the fierce battles we face as victories on the Lord’s side. Let’s look at the foe through Jesus’ eyes…defeated! Let’s rally together and heed the battle cry. Let’s say, “we are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!”

 

Will you join me?

 

“Who Is on the Lord’s Side?”

 

Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?
Who will be His helpers, other lives to bring?
Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?
Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?
By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Not for weight of glory, nor for crown and palm,
Enter we the army, raise the warrior psalm;
But for love that claimeth lives for whom He died:
He whom Jesus saveth marches on His side.
By Thy love constraining, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Jesus, Thou hast bought us, not with gold or gem,
But with Thine own lifeblood, for Thy diadem;
With Thy blessing filling each who comes to Thee,
Thou hast made us willing, Thou hast made us free.
By Thy grand redemption, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Fierce may be the conflict, strong may be the foe,
But the King’s own army none can overthrow;
’Round His standard ranging, vict’ry is secure,
For His truth unchanging makes the triumph sure.
Joyfully enlisting, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord’s side—Savior, we are Thine!

 

Chosen to be soldiers, in an alien land,
Chosen, called, and faithful, for our Captain’s band;
In the service royal, let us not grow cold,
Let us be right loyal, noble, true and bold.
Master, wilt Thou keep us, by Thy grace divine,
Always on the Lord’s side—Savior, always Thine![i]

 

If you’d like to hear a traditional version of this hymn, click here and listen to a grand choir singing this melody.

 

Want to hear a cool a cappella version of this hymn? Click here to listen.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “Who Is on the Lord’s Side?”, Words by Frances R. Havergal, Music by John Goss, Public Domain, 1877.

Share

“The New 23rd” – Musical Musings in March

March 6th, 2014 dsisler

Today’s melody is from another great song writer. Ralph Carmichael. It’s true that Mr. Carmichael is credited with some secular tunes (including the soundtrack to The Blob in 1958), he has been faithful to use his talent to bring others to Jesus through his music.

 

IMAG1492It’s been years since I’ve thought of today’s melody. I’ve read and re-read the Psalm it is based upon many times, but this song has been stored away in the recesses of my melodious heart. Now, however, the memories of this song are flowing.

 

It was popular when I was a child and it could be heard in church services or television programs (perhaps you remember some of those) or conventions. It was beautiful sung with full orchestration or a cappella. It was meaningful whether sung by a great choir or a soloist in the local church. And if given the chance, I’m sure it would be the same today.

 

You see, the message is timeless. Psalm 23 has been used throughout generations to comfort the hurting. To give hope to those who need a boost. To give guidance to those who have lost their way.

 

Today I pray that you’ll find what you need in this version of the 23rd Psalm. It has been especially meaningful to me.

 

“The New 23rd”

 

Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything that I need.

He lets me rest in meadows green and leads me beside the quiet stream;

He keeps on giving life to me and helps me to do what honors Him the most.

Even when walking through the dark valley of death, valley of death,

I will never be afraid, for he is close beside me,

Guarding, guiding all the way;

He spreads a feast before me

In the presence of my enemies.

He welcomes me as His special guest.

With blessing overflowing, His goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life

And afterward I will live with Him forever, forever in His home,

Forever in His home, forever in His home.[i]

 

Christine Wyrtzen’s version of this song can be heard by clicking here.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “The New 23rd”, Words and Music by Ralph Carmichael; based on Psalm 23, Lexicon Music, Inc., 1969.

Share

“I’m Amazed” – Musical Musings in March

March 5th, 2014 dsisler

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.

 

IMAG1492I’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 me 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 loved 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 will do 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. The beautiful photos in this version are worth the look too!

 

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.

Share

“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – Musical Musings in March

March 4th, 2014 dsisler

Fanny Crosby was such a dear soul. This gifted songwriter, known as the “Queen of Gospel Song Writers, wrote over 8,000 hymns in her lifetime. So I can pretty much guarantee that you’ll be seeing a few more of her melodies this month.

 

IMAG1492“Praise Him! Praise Him!” was one of her hymns and it has always been one of my favorites. It’s lively. It has a fabulous message and it gives praise to Jesus.

 

I recall trying to play this hymn during worship services like some of the piano greats of the past. I was never quite able to do so, but still, it is a fun song to play as well as sing.

 

If you are feeling the least bit overwhelmed by the cares of this world, this hymn will probably pull you out of that pit. Why? Because He has carried our burden to the cross and He is victorious! He also asks that we give Him our daily burdens as well.

 

Your heart will be full of praise, your face will take on Jesus’ countenance and your toes will be tapping as you listen to this hymn of praise. You might even move around a bit…I can’t guarantee that you’ll sit still.

 

So enjoy today’s melody… “Praise Him! Praise Him!”

 

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O Earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! Hail Him! Highest archangels in glory;
Strength and honor give to His holy Name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children,
In His arms He carries them all day long.

 

Refrain:
Praise Him! Praise Him! Tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! Praise Him! Ever in joyful song!

 

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! Hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong.

 

Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever;
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming! Over the world victorious,
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong.[i]

 

I love the version of this hymn (you can access it by clicking here) because of the Scripture they intertwine with the hymn. How can we cease to praise God when He’s done so much for us? I don’t believe it’s possible.

 

Today, let’s praise Jesus for who He is and for what He’s done. And let’s praise Him ever in joyful song!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “Praise Him! Praise Him!,” Words and Music by Frances Crosby, Public Domain, 1869.

Share

“Go Light Your World” – Musical Musings in March

March 3rd, 2014 dsisler

Maybe you know today’s tune. I was introduced to it years ago through Kathy Troccoli’s music. Her deep, rich voice brought music to life for me. And if it was in her “key,” it was my “key.” This song was one that I sang often and it still holds a special place in my heart.

 

IMAG1492“Go Light Your World” was Jesus message in Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV). Jesus said, “You are the light of the world…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

 

Peter praises God because He has called us “out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9 – NIV) When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are to be different in this world. We are to be a light. We are to be a beacon. And we are to share this Light with others.

 

In the song “Go Light Your World,” there are several scenarios given. Men and women who have tried alternate light sources to find fulfillment. The hopeless, confused and torn. People living in darkness. Those who live in darkness need to see the great light (Matthew 4:16).

 

As a believer in Christ, you may be the only light they see in their dark world. If so, be the light. Point them to the True Light. Share the hope you have in Jesus Christ with them.

 

I’ve recently been given the opportunity to shine for Jesus yet again in SE Asia in June. For the moment, we are working to build a team. If you have ever wanted to shine brightly for Jesus on a service trip, perhaps you might be interested in joining me. If so, please let me know. I’d be happy to share more details with you.

 

Yes, there are areas of our world that need to see Jesus’ light, but perhaps there is someone in your neighborhood or even your own home that needs to see His light as well. Are you the one to bring that light to them? I would say “yes.”

 

So enjoy “Go Light Your World” today. And then, get out there in your world and be the light. Share the Light. Live the light.

 

“Go Light Your World”

 

There is a candle in every soul
Some brightly burning, some dark and cold
There is a Spirit who brings a fire
Ignites a candle and makes His home

Chorus

Frustrated brother, see how he’s tried to
Light his own candle some other way
See now your sister, she’s been robbed and lied to
Still holds a candle without a flame

Chorus

Cause We are a family whose hearts are blazing
So let’s raise our candles and light up the sky
Praying to our Father, in the name of Jesus
Make us a beacon in darkest times

Chorus:
So Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world[i]

 

While I love Kathy Troccoli, I thought I’d share the song writer’s version of the song. Chris Rice’s version of this song can be heard here.

 

Go light your world!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] “Go Light Your World,” Words and Music by Chris Rice, 1993, BMG Songs, Inc.

Share
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

  • Subscribe by Email

  • About Me

    "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe." Ephesians 1:18-19


    I am a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. I lived in the beautiful state of Colorado for 20 years where I found great inspiration for my novels and devotional writings. Currently living in southwest Ohio.

    I am passionate about helping women find their way to Jesus through Bible study, teaching, speaking, inspirational writing and creative Bible journaling.

  • Bible Studies & Other Happenings

    Bible studies I’m currently leading:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    In September 2012 I went to SE Asia on a service trip. For more information, check out preachitclearly.blogspot.com.

  • Categories

  • Recent Posts

Visit Us On TwitterVisit Us On FacebookVisit Us On PinterestVisit Us On Linkedin