We heard the first notes of “Eye of a Storm” by Ryan Stevenson on the radio and I turned it up so my two oldest kids and I could sing along. Of course, the toddler in the back started her dance moves and hand claps.
“In the eye of the storm, You remain in control
And in the middle of the war, You guard my soul
You alone are the anchor, when my sails are torn
Your love surrounds me in the eye of the storm”
– From “Eye of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson
Then over the happy ruckus, my inquisitive 9-year-old Cate yells from the very back seat, “So do you like this song or ‘Chain Breaker’ more?”
I briefly turned down the volume and said, “I like them both so much!”
I turned the song back up, but the music didn’t drown out my thoughts. I thought about how songs accompany seasons in my life, and, really, that’s how dreams are too. Some songs don’t fit certain seasons, like some dreams are better left for later. Of course, there are the songs that fit perfectly with whatever you’re walking through as the dreams closest to your heart come alive despite circumstances.
“If you’ve got pain
He’s a pain taker
If you feel lost
He’s a way maker
If you need freedom or saving
He’s a prison-shaking Savior
If you’ve got chains
He’s a chain breaker”
– From “Chain Breaker” by Zach Williams
I’m the kind of person who puts songs on repeat and replays conversations in my head. I read the same scripture over and over before the light finally comes on. I need repetition for the truth to seep into my soul, and sometimes that means cranking up one of our many favorite songs when it comes on the radio.
As a momma, I hope and pray some of that same truth is seeping into my kids hearts too. Perhaps that’s really why my reaction is to turn up the volume – I just want to make sure they hear. Of course, I need the reminders myself.
Christmas has come and gone. And now, here we are, in the midst of a brand new year. Maybe you’ve made resolutions and already faltered from your own expectations. That’s okay. There’s still 11/12 of the year to go.
God can do a new thing regardless of the date.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:19
Ideally, it’s a time for a clean slate, but we bring so many scars and so much baggage from where we’ve been. Instead of letting the lies and discouragement repeat, let’s embrace the songs that remind us whose we are and what He’s called us to do.
And when it’s time to change the song, let’s be willing to do that too because it’s upon the truths we like to sing about that dreams are built.
That’s how I’m approaching 2017 and this fresh start. I hope you’ll join me – and bring your soundtrack with you.
(I’m always looking for new songs, so be sure to share in the comments what is on your current playlist.)
Shared by Kristin Hill Taylor
I’m thankful for your thoughts here, Kristin — it’s important that the words and music of our “soundtrack” reinforce the truth that we want to be living. I’m in the process of discovering the music of Ellie Holcomb right now.
Oh I love Ellie Holcomb so much! Thanks for being here, Michele!
Kristin, I loved this post because I so agree with your thoughts. Music has always played an important role in my daily walk with God. At this time, I am finding myself thrown back to an old favorite – Kathy Troccoli – and her greatest hits CD 🙂 Yeah, it has been on repeat these days and falls like a balm to my soul. Something about old favorites that brings me joy and comfort now and then.
I love music that has a special place in our lives. Yes, so comforting! Glad to see you here this morning, Joanne!
I love music. Thank you for the reminder I need more of it in my life.
You’re welcome! Thanks for being here!
I love this! Songs have played such a vital role in my faith and in my life! I’m so thankful that God speaks to His children through music! I’m currently loving Natalie Grant’s newest album. The song, “King of the World” is such a sweet reminder that He is in control.
Thanks, Jennifer! That’s such a good song packed with so much truth! xo
Hi Kristin! So nice seeing you here! I loved your reminder that sometimes there is a point when we’re supposed to change the song. That is where I can so easily get stuck.
Good to see YOU here too, Becky! I get stuck on admitting I need to hear a new message too.