Only a Song Could Express | Previous Challenge Entry

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TITLE: Only a Song Could Express | Previous Challenge Entry
By Lauren Culley
03/13/07
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Songs are a wonderful way to be reminded of God's truth, what He has done, and to communicate what is in our hearts. I find that often a song says it so much better than I ever could! Especially in the past two years, when I have suffered from ongoing health problems, a song is sometimes the only way I can describe my joy and sorrow. There are countless times when I have felt discouraged and fearful, only to hear a song which reminds me of God's love and faithfulness; or when I am so overwhelmed with excitement that only a song could express that joy.

The first time that I recall a song speaking to my heart in such a powerful way was on October 29, 2006, when my family visited Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York City. That morning, I was feeling particularly upset and fearful about my health. I sat in my chair, thinking, God, what is going to happen to me? Will I be sick for my entire life? Will I die from this illness? Then these words reached my ears: "...for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee" (II Chronicles 20:12 KJV). I broke down crying. Later in the service we sang "Blessed Be Your Name," by Matt and Beth Redman. Since then, this song has challenged me to praise the Name of the Lord, not only "when the world's 'all as it should be,'" but also "when the road's marked with suffering." It has not been easy, by any means, but with the decision to praise God in my suffering came the assurance that the One who suffered for me would not leave me in my suffering. In the words of Natalie Grant, I learned "...what it means to be held / ...what it is to be loved / And to know that the promise was / When everything fell we'd be held."(1) I experienced the truth of that wonderful old hymn, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness." And when three months later I learned that my illness was one which could be treated, that I would be well in a few short months, my heart sang, "To God be the glory, great things He has done!"(2)

These songs continue to be a source of encouragement to me and a way to express what God has done in my life. When I forget to keep my eyes on God, they help me remember that He is in control and worthy of ALL my praise.

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(1) Natalie Grant, "Held."
(2) Fanny Crosby, "To God Be the Glory."

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