Nichole Nordeman

If you’ve heard Nichole Nordeman’s beautiful song “Every Season,” you might be surprised to learn the story behind it. The song was written about a friend’s wedding day and soon followed by the groom’s memorial service. Nichole first performed this song at this same memorial service.

In Nichole’s own words, “It was so overwhelming to have these two really heavy life moments, one overflowing with joy and one unbelievably wrought with grief and to somehow still be able to believe… to really believe that God is not God only in a summer season. That God is not God only when our life is good. And it was so much more of a challenge to say to God, ‘You are still here and You are still in charge and You are still full of goodness and mercy’ in the middle of winter. ‘Every Season’ was my way of saying ‘I’m not going to let God’s sovereignty be ruled by my emotions or circumstances or I’ll be all over the map for the rest of my life.”

It’s songs like “Every Season” that justify why Nichole often refers to herself as a “wrestling poet.” 

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Source: The Christian Broadcasting Network + Beliefnet.com + Gábor Juhász

Ralph Stanley

“Cry from the Cross” was released in 1972 with what many consider Ralphy Stanley’s best band during his lengthy career. These band members included singer Roy Lee Centers, fiddler Curly Ray Cline, bassist Jack Cooke, mandolinist Ricky Skaggs and guitarist Keith Whitley.

On this memorable album comes the hard-charging bluegrass number “I Am the Man Thomas,” written by Stanley and Larry Sparks. The tempo is fast and urgent with lyrics reflecting the words of Jesus as He greets Thomas, eight-days after the resurrection:

Oh, I am the Man, Thomas, I am the Man
Look at these nail scars here in my hands

They pierced me in the side, Thomas, I am the Man.
They made me bear the cross, Thomas, I am the Man

They laid me in the tomb, Thomas, I am the Man
In three days I arose, Thomas, I am the Man

This same Thomas, a disciple of Jesus Christ, gave birth to the term “Doubting Thomas.” Thomas’ made the infamous statement to the other disciples who had seen Jesus appearing first without him, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my fingers where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” A week later, Jesus re-appears to the same disciples and asks Thomas to put his fingers on his hands and into his side with the words, “Stop doubting and believe.” John 20:24-29

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Sources: Like the Dew + Bluegrass Today + Greg Rakozy

Lauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle delivers powerful vocals on “How Can It Be” with both a painful yearning and wonder for God’s all-sufficient grace. Both the song and Lauren’s album by the same name became RIAA Certified Gold.

This heartfelt praise was written by Paul Mabury, Jason Ingram and Jeff Johnson. Both Lauren as the performer and Paul as one of the writers found their inspiration for this song in the biblical story of grace that Jesus Christ showed a woman caught in adultery, John 8:3-12.

These verses describe Jesus stooping down on the ground when a crowd of men threw a woman at His feet and said, “Look at what she’s done, shouldn't we stone her? That’s what the law requires,” they said. Listening to their accusations of being a lawbreaker… for a sin that would require her death, Jesus demonstrates God’s perfect justice, love and grace for her.

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Sources: NewReleaseToday.com + Premier Productions + Mira Bozhko

Fanny Crosby & William Doane

“Draw Me Nearer,” is a classic hymn by what many consider to be the greatest hymn writer of all, Frances Jane “Fanny” Crosby and her collaborator William Doane. William J. Reynolds provides the context for the following composition of this hymn: 

“One evening she and Doane talked at length about the nearness of God in their lives. When Fanny went to her room, her mind and heart were flooded with ideas from their conversation. Before she went to sleep, the lines of “I am thine, O Lord” were in her mind... The next morning she recited the words to Doane, who wrote down the stanzas and composed the tune.”

The text appeared with the following inscription from Hebrews 10:22: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.” (KJV)

Fanny’s inspired revelation becomes clearer when reading the previous verses in Hebrews 10: 

“Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; and having a high priest over the house of God...” (KJV)

This hymn provides a timeless understanding of a heart’s desire for Christ’s grace and perfection.

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Source: Discipleship Ministries

Marley’s Ghost

“Sinner Man” is a gospel song of invitation from a Northern California band by the name of Marley’s Ghost. It’s a traditional a cappella Appalachian folk song, previously composed and performed by Ralph Stanley. Not to be confused with the well-known “Sinnerman” spiritual, recorded by a host of artists, including the 10-minute-plus definitive version by Nina Simone. 

I’ve long enjoyed this particular song for the straightforward simplicity of its message.

Lyrics:

Sinner man, so discouraged
while traveling through this land, this land.
Oh, Lord, this land.

Come, let us have a little talk with Jesus
just to hear what He has to say.

(Chorus:)
My God Almighty spoke and He said,
"Go! And I'll go with you.
Open your mouth and I will speak for you."
For the Lord, tell me what to say,
they won't believe on me.

I would not be a sinner,
tell you the reason why:
'Fraid the Lord might call me
and I wouldn't be ready to die.

(Chorus)

Some say give me silver.
Some say give me gold.
I say, "Give me Jesus!
For He's precious to my soul."

(Chorus)

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Sources: Wikipedia + The Rainmakers + Andrew Neel + Jilbert Ebrahimi

Chris Tomlin’s Home

Chris Tomlin is a multi-platinum Christian singer, worship leader and songwriter from Grand Saline, Texas, who has sold nearly 30 million records. He’s known as one of Christian music’s biggest stars.

“Home” is one of the hits from his 2016 album, “Never Lose Sight.” About this song, Tomlin has said, “We all know this world we’re living in is not what it was meant to be. There’s so much fear, so much suffering, so much sorrow, so much pain, but the beauty that this song points to is that one day Jesus is going to make all things new. There will be no more sin, no more sorrow, the chains will be broken and we will see what it was all meant to be.”

For context, we only need to look at what the apostle John himself recorded in Revelation, ‘And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.’” — Revelation 21:3-4 ESV

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Sources: FREECCM + Wikipedia + Samantha Sophia + Ioan Schlosser

The Afters

Life can sometimes be overwhelming to us. We can feel weak, we can feel pain and we can feel sadness.

These are the feelings behind The Afters new song “Battles” off the album “Live On Forever,” released in 2016. For this song they gained inspiration from the hard times their friends were going through at the time. To quote one of the band members, “As we were working on the song, one of my closest friends from high school let me know that his wife was diagnosed with stage four cancer. They have two kids, and they are my age. I saw a post where they were going in for her chemo treatments, and the whole family puts on superhero costumes, wearing masks and capes. They went in knowing that God was with them in the fight. I admired the faith they had, facing cancer and trusting God and knowing that He is fighting alongside of them and fighting on their behalf.”

Now you might think “Battles” would be one super sad song, but you would be mistaken. The Afters crafted a contemporary Christian pop song filled with pure joy and hope. It’s the very same joy and hope offered to anyone who puts their trust and faith in Jesus Christ (John 16:33).

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Source: NewReleaseToday.com

Al Green’s Lament

The event that altered Al Green’s life as a famous R&B performer, began October 18, 1974. On this date Mary Woodson, a woman who had walked away from her family to be with Green, attacked him in his bathroom and in a fit of rage threw a boiling pan of grits on Green. She then shot and killed herself in Green’s Memphis home. During his long recovery from third-degree burns, Green fully devoted himself to his faith. After he recovered, he bought a church, the Full Gospel Tabernacle in Memphis and began leading services there.

Later, suffering a slight lull in his gospel career with 1984's “Trust in God,” Green reunited with producer Willie Mitchell to help re-energize his album sales. Even though, Mitchell admittedly preferred the secular to the religious music, Green remained unwavering in his faith. Together they worked on and published the gospel soul album “He Is the Light,” released in 1985.

“Power” is a beautifully heartfelt lament and worship song by Al Green and Willie Mitchell, released on this same album. While not typically remembered for its relevance to Easter, it still resonates with praise for Him who has the power over life and death (John 10:18). The only One who is able to change the hearts and circumstances of those whose trust is in Him.

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Sources: Biography + AllMusic + Jesse Dittmar

In The Sweet Bye and Bye

When Jospeh P. Webster (1819-1875) came into Dr. Samuel Fillmore Bennett’s (1836-1898) office one day looking a bit depressed. Bennett asked ‘What’s the trouble now?’ ‘Oh, nothing,’ Webster replied, ‘Everything will be alright by and by.’

Bennett then turned back to his desk where he mused “By and by.”  Thinking to himself, he said, “The sweet by and by,” that would make a good hymn.”

Webster, a musician by trade, hummed out a melody and in a few minutes Bennett had completed three verses and a chorus. With the help of Webster and some friends, who were also present, the hymn was set it to music almost on the spot. After one of the other men played the melody on a violin a few times. The small group of men sang the new hymn in Webster’s office for the first time.

“In The Sweet Bye and Bye” was popularized by The Salvation Army and has often been sung at Army funeral services.

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Sources: Plymouth Brethren + Popular Hymns + Artem Kovalev + Rodion Kutsaev

The Doxology

“The Doxology” is an expression of praise to the Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. First published in 1709 by composer Thomas Ken, this short hymn of praise is one of the most well known in Christian worship.

Thomas Ken was orphaned in childhood. It’s interesting to note that he was raised by his older sister, Ann, and her husband, Izaak Walton, noted for his classic “The Compleat Angler.” Ken would eventually become Bishop of Bath and Wells in 1684, where he spent most of his life intertwined with both College and Cathedral in Winchester.

Lyrics:

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

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Source: Christianity Today

Praise Him! Praise Him!

A classic hymn of praise written by Fanny Crosby in 1869 with music by Chester G. Allen. 

Even though Crosby was totally blind from early childhood, she is widely recognized as the most prolific writer of hymns, songs and poems since the writing of hymns began. And this is even more amazing, considering she only started writing hymns at age forty-four. 

Wonderful repeats, in her lyrics, tell us to praise God for His “excellent” greatness. While reminding us that Jesus, like a shepherd, will guard and carry His children in His arms all day long. So let us, who believe, honor Jesus Christ by singing His praises with our full heart and soul.

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Source: Popular Hymns

Southern Journey

This work was inspired by the traditional old-time gospel version of “Beulah Land” from Alan Lomax’s “Southern Journey Vol. 1: Voices from the American South.” It’s the result of two different recording trips to the Georgia Sea Islands during the ’50s and ’60s and is one of the essential documents of American folk music. From an original performance by the Georgia Sea Island Singers with the drum, fife, banjo and delightfully syncopated hand clapping, all led by John Davis with Bessie Jones as 2nd lead.

If you’re interested in the foundation from which nearly all American music originated, then hearing the “Southern Journey Vol. 1: Voices from the American South” is recommended.

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Source: Bluegrass Messangers

Personal File

Johnny Cash’s “Personal File” album was released on a two-disc set in 2006. The first contains some originals plus lesser-known folk songs about the family, which he loved to sing. The second contains songs that were nothing short of a testament to the depth of Cash’s faith. 

“Wildwood in the Pines” is a song on the second disc of this album, a gospel song performed by Cash and written by one-time son-in-law and friend Rodney Crowell. Crowell recounts his inspiration in writing this particular song for his mother, who told him… son, God blessed you with the ability to write songs. So you’d better write a sacred song for Him. You can hear Crowell and Johnny’s son John Carter Cash narrate the history and selection of songs for the “Personal File” album at PRX.org.

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Sources: PRX.org + Luca Bravo

William Charles Fry

“The Lily Of The Valley” is a Christian hymn written by William Charles Fry for the Salvation Army on December 29, 1881.

Fry found his inspiration in writing this hymn after reading these words. “‘I am the rose of Sharon, And the lily of the valleys.’ Like a lily among thorns, So is my love among the daughters. Like an apple tree among the trees of the woods, So is my beloved among the sons. I sat down in his shade with great delight, And his fruit was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banqueting house, And his banner over me was love.”
— Song of Solomon 2:1-4 [NKJ]

To Fry, Jesus was both the “beloved” in Song of Solomon, as well as, the lily of the valley. He wrote this hymn while being employed by the Salvation Army. The tune was later adapted from the son “Little Old Log Cabin” and composed by William Hayes.

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Sources: Diana Leagh Matthews + Flickr - Jesewg

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)

The song “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)" was written by Matt Crocker, Joel Houston and Salomon Ligthelm with lead vocals by Taya Smith. It was released on 10 September 2013 as Hillsong United's second single from their album, Zion and became the longest-running No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Christian Songs chart. Billboard later named it as the No.1 song on the Hot Christian Songs chart for 2014.

Hillsong’s arrangement is quite different from the majority of contemporary Christian songs. Its orchestration slowly builds in both ambient and expansive sound. The symbolic lyrics define the desire for a stronger faith, one described as trust without borders. A real faith for all who call and hope upon their saviour.

The biblical description of this type of faith is contained in Matthew 14:23-33. By faith, Peter moved beyond what would seem possible for anyone on the water.

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Sources: Wikipedia + Metro Youth Network + Hillsong Movie + Unsplash - Caleb Georg

Zack Williams’ Story

Zach Williams was in college before he learned how to play any music. He taught himself how to play his college roommate’s guitar. Only after he had been laid up in his room with a bad ankle injury. From that point on he immediately fell in love with music.

Eventually, Zach ended up in a Southern Rock band. Shortly after going into the studio to record the band’s first album, his career just seemed to take off. The band got a booking agent in Europe and booked a month long tour all across France, Belgium and Spain. Although with this seemingly desirable lifestyle, over time, came a lot of bad choices. 

In Zach’s own words he says, “Even though I grew up going to church every Sunday as a kid, even though I knew right from wrong and said I was a Christian, there was absolutely nothing about the way I was living that reflected these things. It took a trip to Europe in 2012 to stop me dead in my tracks and show me just how lost I really was.” Then, after hearing a song by Big Daddy Weave called “Redeemed,” Zach’s faith became real to him. He called his wife to tell her he was quitting the band and joining the church they had been visiting.

Out of his experience, four years later Zach crafted his first single “Chain Breaker” from his newly released self-titled album. It’s a real southern rock gem about what Jesus did for him and could do for you. One that you might find yourself singing along too.

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Sources: Zach Williams Music + Leero

Revelation Song

When I first heard Kari Jobe’s “Revelation Song,”  it was the live online version from the Passion 2013 conference in Atlanta, GA. It’s a song written by Jennie Riddle and subsequently included on Kari Jobe’s self-titled album.

At Passion 2013 Kari delivered both a powerful and uplifting performance of this beautiful song. Still, for me, the most moving part of this contemporary song has to be the simple lyrical phrases adapted from Revelation. Some of which included: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain / Sing a new song to Him who sits on / Heaven's mercy seat (Rev 5:9) / Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty / Who was and is and is to come (Rev 4:8) / With all creation I sing praise to the King of Kings (Rev 5:13 and Rev 19:16).

If you’re a believer in need of some encouragement, I’d recommend looking up this performance to witness an auditorium full of young people singing heartfelt praise together with Kari.

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Sources: Wikipedia + Littlefield Productions

Away in a Manger

This well-known song was first published in the late nineteenth century. While some consider it to be the work of Martin Luther, it is now widely believed to be a work of unknown origin.

Fred Gealy (1894-1976) writes that the lyrics were probably written in the mid-1800s by an anonymous American. The music was composed by a J. E. Clark. Afterward, the music director of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church, a man named Charles Hutchinson Gabriel, published a new version of the hymn that included the third verse.

Whoever may have written the original version, “Away in a Manger” remains to this day one of the most beloved Christmas songs for believers.

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Sources: Discipleship Ministries + Pexels - Rasmus Svinding

George Strait

“You’ll Be There” is a song performed by George Strait on his 2005 album “Somewhere Down in Texas.” Every time Strait performs this song he thinks of Jenifer, his 13-year-old daughter, who was killed in a tragic car accident. It happened late one night when the driver of a Ford Mustang lost control after taking a turn too fast and Jenifer, not wearing her seatbelt, was thrown through an open window. She died right where she fell.

In an interview with USA Today, Strait said, “I’m a religious person. I honestly believe we will see each other in heaven someday,” he says. “I wanted to do the song badly. The writer, Cory Mayo, held that song out because he knew I wanted to do it, and he waited until I had the chance. It was kind of him to do that.”

Now if you’ve ever lost a loved one, it would be hard for you, not to shed tears after hearing such a beautiful song.

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Sources: Jenifer Strait Memorial Foundation + Keith Carter + Martin Ezequiel Sanchez

Brooke Fraser

One of the highlights of “This Is Our God,” the seventeenth contemporary worship album from Hillsong Church, would have to be “You’ll Come” by Brooke Fraser. In 2008 it was recorded live in front of over 10,000 worshippers and opened at No. 2 Top 50 Albums in Australia.

New Zealand native Fraser based her song on Hosea 6:1-3, a story of those who strayed far from the Lord. Then in their despair resolve to wait on the Lord and his loving kindness, confident that He will indeed come and restore them. “You’ll Come” is the kind of uplifting praise and worship song that easily resonates with believers… worth hearing this Christmas.

Fraser doesn’t just sing about her faith. In 2006, she and her husband adopted a Rwanda orphan named Albertine, about whom she wrote one of her most popular songs. “Albertine,” the same titled album, went double platinum in 2006. In between concerts she still devotes much of her time to fund-raising for African children, displaced by genocide.

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Sources: SlideShare - John Wible + Scott Ligertwood + Unsplash - Heather Dou