Many Christian artists have released powerful songs during the first month of this year, so it was hard to narrow down what two songs to cover in this week's column. If January is any indication, the next 11 months also promise to deliver great music. Take a little time to reflect on your hope in God and maybe even dance a little (the first song is especially jam-worthy).
"This Is Our God" by Phil Wickham
"This is our God, This is what He does
He saves us
He bore the cross, beat the grave
Let Heaven and Earth proclaim
This is our God, King Jesus."
Contemporary artist Phil Wickham, a staple in Christian music, has released church hits, such as "This Is Amazing Grace," "Living Hope," and, more recently, "Battle Belongs." Now, he has dropped another Sunday-morning worship-worthy single titled, "This Is Our God." (The song is likely to be included in my 2023 Worship Highlights playlist.)
Phil speaks in relatable terms of God's grace, "Who pulled me out of that pit? He did, He did", while referencing the despair of his past. His fleeting approach to the theme makes it clear he has a new life in God. The lyrics serve as an inspiration to anyone going through a difficult season.
To clarify, following Jesus doesn't guarantee complete avoidance of affliction, but it does ensure a companion in the trials. Jesus isn't a genie meant only to grant wishes and rescue us from hurt. He's much more. The Son, who saved and still saves, does so at the perfect time as decided by the Heavenly Father. Those experiencing pain can find this truth difficult to accept--especially during that dark season. I pray for peace over you as you discover that "This is our God, This is who He is, He loves us."
"Halfway Empty" by Matt Redman
"Blessing
Wave after wave
Of Your blessing
Again and again,
Every day Your Mercy new
Oh what an amazing
God are You"
Upon seeing the song's title, it was uncertain where Christian contemporary artist Matt Redman was heading with it. But, he spun the title into a beautiful song that could be easily added to heavy rotation. Matt is the worship leader who penned "10,000 Reasons" and co-wrote Elevation Worship's "Do It Again" and Pat Barrett's "Build My Life." "Halfway Empty," a song thick with pure praise, shows that Matt's closeness to the Lord. And that reflection of personal worship is something I respect.
"My cup overflows, I have all that I need/still Your grace/is not even halfway empty."
At the song's end, Matt encourages listeners to rejoice for the "grace upon grace" that God lavishes on us. Sometimes, we need a reminder that we were made to worship God. So, harness the natural desire to praise God as you come to understand that there is still much of His goodness yet to come. It's a blessing that He gives "so lavishly" and yet His "grace is not even halfway empty."
Selena Schulz is NRT’s youngest staff contributor. She loves God, music, reading, and writing.
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