On stage (far left) with the BHOP team during this week's new student orientation for Bethany College of Missions.
I love worshiping the Lord together with this team and these young people!
It's been a week of wonderful highs and challenging lows... at every turn, in my spirit I've heard that whisper from the Lord: "Do you trust me? Do you really believe in Your heart that My leadership is perfect? You can trust Me; I want you to deeply love My leadership even when it hurts."
I went on a long run in the woods this afternoon to take some time to process and seek to get my heart right before Jesus. It was on this run that He reminded me of the gift He has given of having truth sung over my heart for many years, and in joining with others in singing and declaring it in the BHOP prayer room. There's something unique about music that takes words from the head to the heart like nothing else can! Music creates an inner receptivity within me and locks truth in. Then, in times of testing or blessing, highs or lows, these songs come to my lips and remind me of truth... an anchor for my soul. It is a beautiful gift!
As I ran, I said aloud: "Jesus, I do trust Your leadership, even if I don't understand it," and I was immediately reminded of a wonderful song that lifted my heart -- got my eyes fixed on Him rather than the circumstances. I believe it's the kind of song that all of us need cemented in our hearts to remind us to trust and love Him through the highs and lows of life.
"I'll Praise You Now" written by Tim Cone of the International House of Prayer in Kansas City.
When I'm on the mountain I will bow to honor You
When I'm in the valley I'll arise to worship You
Even when the rain comes and when the sun shines through
You'll have all my devotion, You will have the praise You're due
In every season of the soul
When You give and withhold
In every high and every low
I know You're in control
And I'll praise you now and evermore
Lord Your praise shall be upon my lips as long as I endure
You're always good, of this I'm sure
You're the same, You never change
Lord You are faithful and secure
As long as I have lived You have not forsaken me
When my feet had stumbled I did not fall utterly
When I was surrounded, Lord You came and rescued me
I am Your beloved, Oh how You delight in me
Lord with all my heart, I make melody...
I will always sing to You
I rejoice in Your goodness!
Let my whole being worship You...
