Recently, I've heard great new worship songs and seen some in concert. Last Friday, I experienced Bethel Music at the Rock the Universe Festival in Universal Studios Florida. The set was led in part by worship leader David Funk, which made reviewing his new single, "Beauty," with the worship collective even more special. Also, Shane & Shane drop their new single, “All Sufficient Merit,” this week. But I thought I would discuss their other recently released single, “You’ve Already Won” instead.
I spend much of my life surrounded by young children, both family and others. When they get frustrated with family or friends, I like to remind them to “wiggle it out.” I encourage you to take part in the same exercise. Shake out your arms, take some deep breaths, and release the weight you carry from your shoulders. Jesus defines free, and if you come with arms wide open, He will show you His joy.
“You’ve Already Won” by Shane & Shane
"I’m fighting a battle That you’ve already won No matter what comes my way I will overcome"
I’m struck by the sincere lyrics and the vocalists' confident declarations. It's difficult to admit we don’t know what’s coming our way next—even though nobody does. Sentences like these evoke a sense of surrender to Jesus, as if control is being lost. “I don’t know what you’re doing/But I know what you’ve done” and that’s all the proof of provision I need.
Of course, it may take some reminding, as I’m a quickly forgetful person, even with the greatest gift of God’s love. He’s kind and graceful by removing our wrongs and revealing His rights. Even in the foggy state of early morning, when the rest of the day seems eerily unclear, know that He’s right there beside you. Oh, God, “You’ve already won.”
"Beauty" by Bethel Music
"Angels cry out this unending song Holy is the Lord God Almighty We all bow down in wonder and awe Forever we will sing of Your beauty"
The song's bridge I highlighted above isn't my favorite part of the song. It's the chorus that resonates with me because of its simplicity. Worship leader David Funk sings “Oh, You’re beautiful” repeatedly. And each time I hear it, I'm struck by his authenticity.
So often I hear, “your worship at church should extend that at home.” But I know firsthand how difficult that is to live out. At times, my worship at home involves repetitively expressing my love and gratitude to Jesus with phrases such as "I love you" or "thank you, Lord.” I may not initially recognize its significance until God reminds me that my praise is unique.
Think about that for a minute. God loves everyone, yes, but everyone worships God differently. Not only does this epiphany make me feel cherished, but it also gives others confidence if they choose to worship Him. No one worships like you. No matter what your worship looks like, if your heart is for Jesus, He adores your song.
The song's message has an admirable application. The lyrics aren't fancy, and the melodies don’t encompass every riff ever created. But, the heart of Bethel is for Jesus and this song reflects that, in its purest form.
Selena Schulz is NRT’s youngest staff contributor. She loves God, music, reading, and writing.
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