A Needed Break – Day 11

July 30th, 2016 dsisler

 

Another beautiful day to spend with family. Loving every moment. I pray that you are finding time to spend with your family this summer. There is nothing like it!

 

George Beverly Shea

 

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 here.

 

“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! Click here!

 

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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A Needed Break – Day 10

July 29th, 2016 dsisler

 

It’s wedding day! So happy for Kendra and Casey! May God pour abundant blessings upon your future.

 

Also fitting that today’s repeat blog post is about joy! Enjoy!

 

“Joy to the World”

 

???????????????????????????????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 here. For those who would love to hear a traditional version, click here.

 

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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A Needed Break – Day 9

July 28th, 2016 dsisler

 

One more day and the wedding will happen! I can’t wait!

 

“Majesty”

 

Double Rainbow

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.” Click here to have a listen.

 

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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A Needed Break – Day 8

July 28th, 2016 dsisler

 

Loving my time with family. Thanks for letting me take a break!

 

“Revelation Song”

 

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I cannot tell you the first time I heard “Revelation Song,” but what I do know is that every time I hear or sing this song, I am moved. With hands raised, inhibitions gone, I am in total worship of my God and King.

 

As a matter of fact, as I am writing this, the song is playing in the background and I had to stop for a little worship!

 

Perhaps it touches me in this way because of where the lyrics come from. Straight from Scripture and words spoken by the four living creatures around the throne of heaven. They never stop saying, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.” (Revelation 4:8 – NIV) Day and night, they never stop!

 

But this isn’t all that’s going on around the throne. While the four creatures are praising God, “the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say: ‘You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things and by your will they were created and have their being.’” (Revelation 4:10-11 – NIV)

 

The Apostle John offers this glimpse into heaven’s throne room. And what a glimpse it is! The throne of heaven. Someone seated on the throne in great splendor. A rainbow. The elders. Flashes of lightning. Rumblings and peals of thunder. Seven lamps. A crystal sea. Living creatures. Yes, this is quite a scene.

 

It’s no wonder worship was going on. The only One worthy of our praise was there in the midst of the scene. He is the same God we worship on weekends, throughout our weeks, and with our lives. We are to worship the Lamb who sits on the throne.

 

Now that you have the context of this beautiful worship song, let’s read through the lyrics together.

 

“Revelation Song”

 

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain
Holy, holy is He
Sing a new song to Him who sits on
Heaven’s mercy seat
(Chorus)
Clothed in rainbows of living color
Flashes of lighting rolls of thunder
Blessing and honor strength and glory and power be
To You the only Wise King

(Chorus)

Filled with wonder awestruck wonder
At the mention of Your name
Jesus Your name is power, breath and living water
Such a marvelous mystery

(Chorus)

Chorus:

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty
Who was and is and is to come
With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings
You are my everything and I will adore You, I will adore You[i]

 

For Phillips, Craig and Dean’s version of “Revelation Song,” click here and let’s worship God together!

 

Thank you God for musicians who can put words and music together into such a worshipful way. Thank you also that I am able to worship You whenever and wherever I wish. You are the Mighty God, able to save, and only You are worthy of my praise!

 

Now, we are about to head off into our world. We may be heading to work, the soccer field with your kids, or you may be staying at home. Wherever we’re headed, we must be part of it. So let’s go with this image in our minds. The Throne Room of Heaven. How glorious!

 

I pray that you’ve been touched by this series on music. I have looked forward to each day that I’m able to share a beautiful melody with you.

 

I certainly would love to hear from you. Can you choose a favorite psalm, hymn or spiritual song? If so, let me know. If you, like me, have a long list of songs that have touched you, I’d also love to hear about them.

 

Music touches our souls in a way that nothing else can. And that’s just the way God created us.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] Revelation Song, Jennie Lee Riddle, 2009

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A Needed Break – Day 7

July 26th, 2016 dsisler

 

Phew! Wedding is getting closer. Hope your week has been fantastic!

 

“Wonderful Grace of Jesus”

 

Today I’m taking you back to my college days. Music was all around and an impact on me, but if you were to ask other students, you’d probably hear the same. Chapel services with great hymns of our faith being sung. Christmas concerts. Choir tours. A stirring rendition of “Blessed Assurance” could even be heard in the classroom.

 

Yes, Cincinnati Bible College (now known as Cincinnati Christian University) was filled with music and musical memories for me. And the hymn I share with you today is one that rings loudly in my memory.

 

“Wonderful Grace of Jesus” isn’t just a hymn. It is a musical dance that leads partners in and out of proximity to one another. The scales run up and down. The tune heads in different directions. But when it complete, the message is told. Jesus’ grace is wonderful!

 

You see, the value of a piece of music isn’t just in the melody, the rhythm or the harmonies. It must hold its value in the message. For if the message does not lead a soul to Christ, then it is just a song. There are some great songs in our world, but those that lead others to Christ are truly valuable.

 

So today I share “Wonderful Grace of Jesus” with you. You’ll enjoy a version of the song by clicking here.

 

Wonderful Grace of Jesus

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, greater than all my sin;
How shall my tongue describe it, where shall its praise begin?
Taking away my burden, setting my spirit free,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me!

(Refrain)

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching to all the lost,
By it I have been pardoned, saved to the uttermost;
Chains have been torn asunder, giving me liberty,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me!

(Refrain)

 

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching the most defiled,
By its transforming power, making him God’s dear child.
Purchasing peace and heaven for all eternity;
And the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me![i]

(Refrain)

 

Refrain:
Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus,
Deeper than the mighty rolling sea;
Wonderful Grace, All-sufficient for me;
Broader than the scope of my transgressions,
Greater far than all my sin and shame;
O magnify the precious name of Jesus, praise His name!

 

Oh, we have so much to praise Jesus for! And grace certainly tops my list!

 

Were you able to pick out a few phrases that vividly depict Jesus’ grace? Greater than sin. Takes away burdens. Sets spirits free. Reaches the lost. Tears chains asunder. Gives liberty. Provides transforming power. Purchases peace and heaven.

 

Grace reaches me!

 

Jesus’ grace reaches you, too! Let’s see what God’s Word has to say about His grace and how it reaches us.

 

Paul shares these words with us in Ephesians 1:7-8 (NIV). “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

 

And again Paul speaks of God’s grace in Ephesians 2:6-8 (NIV). “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

 

We see from the Hebrew writer that we have confidence in the grace Jesus provides. “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 – NIV)

 

Through Jesus’ grace we find restoration, strength, solid footing, and a firm foundation. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10 – NIV)

 

When we are covered by Jesus’ grace, we are covered. Completely. Confidently. Covered. It’s up to you to accept His grace and allow yourself to be saturated with it.

 

Occasionally I hear this tune and I am immediately drawn back to my college days. I’m sure that will never change. But the most important thing is that this song reminds me of Jesus’ grace and I am never far from needing a good dose.

 

“Wonderful Grace of Jesus.” I pray that you are within His reach.

 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

 

Donna

[i] Wonderful Grace of Jesus, Haldor Lillenas, 1919

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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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