Joy of the Lord

For the past two days, I’ve just had no desire to pick up my Bible and read it, which is odd because since I’ve arrived home from Maryland, I haven’t been able to put it down. But, we all go through times like this. I’ve been sitting in bed for about an hour just listening to worship music and cannot help but deny listening to music praising Jesus not only allows us to reflect on Him but also brings us utter joy. 

One of my favorite artists is Bethany Dillon. I love her voice, it is so soothing and comforting and the way she talks about “her king” is so peaceful and true. Along with Bethany Dillon, I love Hillsong, the Bridge Band, Chris Tomlin and Tenth Avenue North. However, I’ve been becoming a huge fan of Casting Crowns. I just listened to “Praise You in This Storm.” The Lyrics:

“I was sure by now

God You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

And I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth.”

I can’t help but think of how often I try to control what happens in my life and fix it instead of letting my God fix it. God also works in His own timing and while I want my problems fixed, sometimes it still rains and those problems aren’t solved. This song is so real and allows me to praise God in that no matter what I’m struggling through, I will praise Him because He is with me every step of joy, pain, suffering, hurt, happiness, love, disappointment, worry, doubt, nervousness, etc. etc. How amazing is that?! I love the last verse…my help comes from the Lord, always.

God has restored my joy. Jesus’ sacrifice pierces my heart and reminds me of who I am. Jesus has allowed me the joy I feel from simply knowing who He is and what He has done for me…renewed peace and joy. I am so thankful for the cross and the meaning of true love. I have faith in my Savior and that faith gives me complete joy and peace as well as the best love story in all of existence! Praise Jesus if you haven’t today and just reflect on who He is, sit down and let your mind focus on Him, away from the distractions of this world and your life…you’ll be amazed.