George Beverly Shea – Musical Musings in March

March 14th, 2013 dsisler

I’ve decided to write about a composer today. Oh, I could have chosen many for certain, but the two pieces of music written by George Beverly Shea are two of my favorites. So today we’ll take a look at both of them.

 

In my youth, I remember singing these two songs. And as I matured, so did my understanding of these two songs. It is difficult for us to understand how God could love us as much as He does, but believe it. God loves us!

 

And what could we possibly offer God in return for His great love? Our complete devotion. More than anything in this world, our love and desire for God should take precedence.

 

So today, “The Wonder of it All” and “I’d Rather Have Jesus” are my choices. One speaks of God’s love for me, the other speaks of my love for God. I pray that you know the wonder of God’s love for you and that you have chosen to love Jesus more than this old world.

 

“The Wonder of it All”
There’s the wonder of sunset at evening,
The wonder as sunrise I see;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is the wonder that God loves me.

Refrain
O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.
O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all!
Just to think that God loves me.

Verse 2
There’s the wonder of springtime and harvest,
The sky, the stars, the sun;
But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul
Is a wonder that’s only begun.[i]

 

Enjoy the Gaither’s version of this song by clicking on this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSYzJZml_jA

 

“I’d Rather Have Jesus”

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I’d rather be His than have riches untold:
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands.
I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand
(Chorus)

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause;
I rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame.
I’d rather be true to His holy name.
(Chorus)

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;
He’s sweeter than honey from out the comb;
He’s all than my hungering spirit needs.
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead
(Chorus)

Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin’s dread sway.
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.[ii]

 

Another great version of a great song! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u62uYEssk7o

 

The verse of Scripture related to this particular song is Philippians 1:21 (NIV). “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” I would rather have Jesus. How about you?

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] The Wonder of it All, George Beverly Shea, 1955

[ii] I’d Rather Have Jesus, George Beverly Shea and Rhea F. Miller, 1932

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“Let Faith Arise” – Musical Musings in March

March 13th, 2013 dsisler

I write today in memory of my grandson who is celebrating his 2nd heaven day today. I miss him and am saddened that there are not more “Baba/Archer” moments to treasure in my heart. I am blessed however, to be able to call him “grandson.” You will always be in my heart!

 

The song I’ve chosen to write about today is one that touched me soon after Archer’s death. I wrote about this time period last June, so I’m just going to share that post with you today. It’s different from what I’ve shared so far this month, but it fits in and it says what I’d like to say today.

 

 

 

Have you ever complained to God? I think we can answer this question with a unanimous “yes.” Complaining comes natural to us. When something isn’t right. If something doesn’t make sense. And that’s all it takes. The complaining begins.

 

I read through the book of Habakkuk yesterday. I found it quite interesting that Habakkuk had a couple of complaints for God. God answered each of Habakkuk’s complaints with words of encouragement.

 

First Habakkuk wondered why God was allowing Israel to continue in sin without coming to the aid of the prophet. Why God had not punished Israel for her transgressions. God answered Habakkuk. God told Habakkuk that He was going to do something. Something that Habakkuk would not believe even if he were told.

 

God was going to allow Israel to fall to the Babylonians.

 

And then Habakkuk wondered why God would allow a nation even more sinful than Israel to overtake them. Again God answered Habakkuk. God told Habakkuk that Babylon itself would fall.

 

In the end, Israel would receive correction for sin, Babylon would no longer be a threat to Israel, and God’s people would once again be restored.

 

Once God has given His answers to Habakkuk’s complaints, Habakkuk praised God for who He was and for what He would accomplish. Throughout his prayer, Habakkuk showed great faith in God.

 

God spoke of faith to Habakkuk in chapter 2, verse 4b (NIV). “…the righteous will live by his faith…” This verse is considered the main teaching of this book. Faith is the essence of who we are as Christians.

 

Dr. Halley shares some insight into faith and what it means. “Faith is the ability to feel so sure of God that, no matter how dark the day, there is no doubt as to the outcome.”[i]

 

I recall a time last year that was dark for me. I complained to God. He answered. I shared my despair with Him. He answered. Unfortunately, they weren’t the answers that I wanted.

 

Then came the moment when I surrendered my complaints and allowed my faith to take over.

 

A week into this dark period, I stood in a worship service. We sang a fairly new song. These are the words to the chorus.

 

“I lift my hands to believe again,

You are my refuge, you are my strength.

As I pour out my heart, these things I remember;

You are faithful God forever.”[ii]

 

If you’d like to listen to this song, please click on this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2_31DNGyxI

 

In that moment, my faith in God brought me to the point where I could get through the situation.

 

But here’s the thing. I had to say it out loud. Sing it for others to hear. Profess that God was my refuge and my strength.

 

I also had to physically do something. I lifted my hands.

 

And then I believed again.

 

Oh, I have poured out my heart to God. Over and over again. But in the end, God’s faithfulness far overshadowed my complaints. God’s faithfulness stands forever. When my faith waivers, His faithfulness is rock solid.

 

Life isn’t fair. There will be situations that we simply don’t like. However, when we give all of our complaints to God, He will answer in His way. Have faith that God knows what He is doing. God has a plan. God wants to implement that plan. If we are patient, He will do His best work in our lives.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] Halley’s Bible Handbook, Dr. Henry H. Halley, 2000, Grand Rapids: Zondervan, pg.470.

[ii] Let Faith Arise, Chris Tomlin

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“Majesty” – Musical Musings in March

March 12th, 2013 dsisler

For over a decade, I played the organ or the piano for nearly every worship service on Sunday morning, Sunday evening service, and on Wednesday evenings if we sung a hymn or two. It was a large part of my life.

 

It was during this time that some of the great worship songs were introduced to us and to our congregants. Music such as, “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High,” “He is Exalted,” and “Awesome God.” And one that I still love to hear and sing, and that makes my list of favorite songs, “Majesty.”

 

This particular worship song praises Jesus through and through. There is no doubt to whom we offer our praise. And what are we praising Jesus for? His majesty, His power, His Name, His actions. We are praising Him for who He is.

 

So let’s take a look at the lyrics and if you choose, you can also listen to this worship song, “Majesty.”

 

Majesty worship His Majesty
Unto Jesus, be all glory,
Power and praise
Majesty, Kingdom authority
Flow from His throne,
Unto his own, His anthem raise.

So exalt, lift up on high
The Name of Jesus
Magnify, come glorify,
Christ Jesus the King
Majesty, worship His Majesty
Jesus who died, now glorified,
King of all Kings.[i]

 

My first encounter with this song was by a worship leader named, Ron Kenoly. I pray you will be inspired by his version of “Majesty.” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Qz3ZWIgxNk

 

Of course there are plenty of passages in Scripture that lead us to worship God and Jesus for their majesty. But the passage associated with this particular worship song is found in the Old Testament. Read through this text.

 

“Praise be to you, O Lord, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” (2 Chronicles 29:10-13 – NIV)

 

Perhaps this is a passage you haven’t noticed it before. I am not sure that I have paid much attention to it. King David, in addressing the assembly, spoke these words as worship to God.

 

It was a transition period for David. Solomon, David’s son, would become King of Israel and would build the great temple. But it brought joy to David’s soul. He was thankful for his part in the preparation, but he willingly gave the task to his son.

 

And knowing all of what was to be, David praised God.

 

King David certainly desired to build the temple of God, but it was not to be. God had a different plan. But David continued to praise God until his death.

 

Praising God in our own lives must never be squashed because of circumstances or situations we encounter. We must praise God through it all.

 

Our plans may not be turn out the way we’d like, but God has a plan and He is in control of that plan. Our role is to praise Him.

 

I pray that you are able to use music to lead you in praise. Whether you’re a vocalist or not, God loves to hear your voice lifting His Name in praise. So let’s crank up the speakers and sing “Majesty” one more time.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] Majesty, Jack Hayford, 1981

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“He’s Everything to Me” – Musical Musings in March

March 11th, 2013 dsisler

Today, I’m taking you back to 1964. I know I didn’t hear this song that year, but soon after. It became a popular song at camp, at youth group and as a special number in a worship service.

 

“He’s Everything to Me” not only had a wonderful melody that was easy to sing and calmed a spirit, but the words drew us into the message. God is a great big wonderful God. Yes, this is true. But until I was touched personally by this wonderful God, it really didn’t matter.

 

So take a look at the words and maybe listen to the song. “He’s Everything to Me” makes my list for all-time favorites.

 

“He’s Everything to Me”

 

In the stars His handiwork I see,
On the wind He speaks with majesty,
Though He ruleth over land and sea,
What is that to me?

 

I will celebrate Nativity,
for it has a place in history
Sure, He came to set His people free
What is that to me?

 

Till by faith I met Him face to face
and I felt the wonder of his grace
Then I knew that He was more
than just a God who didn’t care
That lived a way out there

 

And now He walks beside
me day by day,
Ever watching over me lest I stray,
Helping me to find that narrow way
He’s Everything To Me.[i]

 

If you click on the following link, you’ll hear a great version of this song. I have no idea what movie it was in, but it was so good, I knew it was the video I had to share with you. Enjoy! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S5AknvJAUU

 

Meeting Jesus face to face and feeling (knowing) His grace. Having a personal relationship with Jesus and spending time with Him. Allowing His Spirit to lead and guide us. That is what life is about. That is the message we are to share with others.

 

I’ve recently been pointed to a phrase in Colossians that has taken on new meaning for me. See if you don’t feel the same.

 

In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul shares some rules for holy living. The guidelines (or commands) he shares in this chapter set the boundaries for us. They tell us what is acceptable and what is not. If you haven’t read this chapter lately, maybe you should.

 

But what I want to share with you are the words found in Colossians 3:4 (NIV). “When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”

 

Jesus doesn’t just give meaning to our life. This verse tells us that Christ is our life. I’d say that constitutes everything, don’t you?

 

Is Jesus everything to you? Is He your life? Praise God if you said “yes.” If you said “no,” please let me share what it means for Jesus to be everything to you. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made.

 

We are at day eleven of Musical Musings in March. I have such a long list of song titles facing me each day that I am certain I could write April Arias, May Melodies, and June Jingles. But I will spare you. I promise March will be my musical month.

 

I still look forward to hearing of the music that has impacted your life. Don’t be shy. Just drop me a line. I really would love to hear from you!

 

Have a blessed Monday and work week. And keep on singing!

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] He’s Everything to Me, Ralph Carmichael, 1964

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“Joy to the World” – Musical Musings in March

March 10th, 2013 dsisler

As a reminder, I am sharing some wonderful psalms, hymns, or spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:19-20) that have had an impact on my life through the years. I’ve covered decades, even centuries with some of the music I’ve chosen. Today, let’s see how the Christmas carol, “Joy to the World,” has touched my life.

 

As I prepare to write about this great song of Christmas, I can see the results of the snowfall we had in Colorado yesterday. I am grateful that this storm didn’t turn out as they thought (8-14 inches predicted!). Instead, our grass is blanketed with moisture and tomorrow we are expecting a high of 60.

 

But this morning, there is snow! And Christmas and snow go hand in hand. So today, we’ll chat about Christmas!

 

“Joy to the World” has always been one of my favorite Christmas carols. It’s fun to sing. Enjoyable to play on the piano or organ. It’s upbeat. And it tells the story of Christ coming as a baby. It has been argued that it is actually speaking of the second coming, but traditionally it is a Christmas song.

 

When my granddaughter Joy was born, this became her signature tune. I found a little snow globe that plays “Joy to the World” and she played it continuously. That little globe was put away with the Christmas decorations that year.

 

We’ve sung this melody for Joy from the beginning and she thinks of it as hers. But in reality, the message is for the world. Christ, our Savior, has come to earth to save each of us from ourselves.

 

Jesus came as the great and mighty King and destroyed the curse of sin. He rules mightily and reigns over all creation. His love is wonderful and His blessings flow freely. It’s no wonder we rejoice!

 

So take a look and listen to this great hymn of Christmas. “Joy to the World.”

 

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

 

Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

 

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

 

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.[i]

 

I offer you two versions of this song today. The first one is a newer version that Chris Tomlin has shared with us. You’ll be able to hear it by clicking on this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLhb3qUA3uc. For those who would love to hear a traditional version, click on this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5iRUABBiko.

 

Joy, unspeakable joy!

 

Now you may not know this, but Isaac Watts (1674-1748) wanted to take the Book of Psalms and write hymns for the Christian living during his lifetime. “Joy to the World” was one of these songs.

 

Mr. Watts used Psalm 98 as the basis for “Joy to the World,” and as you read through it, see what phrases you recall from the hymn.

 

“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

 

“The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.

 

“He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

 

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

 

“Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.

 

“Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.

 

“He will judge the world in righteousness and the people with equity.” (Psalm 98 – NIV)

 

Joy, unspeakable joy! Yes, we have plenty to be joyful about.

 

As you attend church service this morning, I pray that you’ll keep this Christmas carol in the back of your mind. Praise God for what He has done for mankind. Thank Him for the gift of salvation He sent along with Jesus. Allow your heart to be filled with His joy and sing so that others will see His joy within you.

 

Peter expressed this joy well. “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:8-9 – NIV)

 

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come!”

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna


[i] Joy to the World, Words: Isaac Watts, The Psalms of Da­vid, 1719. Music: Low­ell Ma­son, 1836. Al­ter­nate tune: Thom­as Ha­weis, 1792.

 

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    "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.

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