From time to time, I want to talk about the music I am listening to that is really making an impact on my life. I have to confess that I always have a song in my head. I love everything about music. Most often I can express myself through song better than with words. Especially if I am speaking to someone face to face. So, I am always looking for new artists or new sounds. I listen to everything from classical music to rap so I can find something interesting. I also plan on recording videos that teach songs I am using in worship right now. Since it is Thanksgiving break I should be able to post one of those videos this week!
What’s New
The sounds that are making an impact on me right now are the musical stylings of one Ellie Holcomb! The picure above is her newest album Red Sea Road. It is not exactly new, in fact, it released in January of this year. I just haven’t been able to stop listening!! Listen to one of my favorites Wonderfully Made on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrwSvQx3Xqs
I can’t stop listening to this album for two reasons. The first reason is because her voice is so very unique. I love a good low timbre like my own voice. It makes it easy for me to sing along with her in the car. Yes, I am that girl singing at the stop light. If you see me just smile and wave.
Psalms the Music of the Bible
The next reason is because Ellie has a talent with words. She is often taking scripture and putting it to song. One of my most favorite songs on the album is called Wonderfully Made. Here is a portion:
[Pre-Chorus] What if I saw me, the way that You see me?What if I believed it was true?
What if I traded, this shame and self-hatred?
For a chance at believing You [Chorus] That You knit me together
In my mother’s womb
And You say that I’ve never been
Hidden from You
And You say that I’m wonderfully
Wonderfully made
The chorus comes from Psalms 139:13 – 14 “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”
Right now, the Lord has me in a season of growing and stretching. You see, I have learned that God is a patient Father. He pursues our heart more and more every day. He does this so that we can be in his complete protections. We (I’m speaking for you too, is that ok?) need to ask ourselves the question, “What if I saw myself the way that God sees me?” and “What if I believe that what He says as truth?” What happens if we trade shame and self hatred for trust in the Father that loves us?
If you are interested in hearing more about Red Sea Road by Ellie Holcomb, Annie Downs (also a favorite of mine!) has a podcast episode where you can learn more. http://www.anniefdowns.com/2017/03/02/that-sounds-fun-podcast-episode-27-ellie-holcomb/