http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=WL67YLNX

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TItyYhfwClM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv55FMjeMV0&feature=youtube_gdata

Singing with the kids just now . . . as I look out over the hills this morning.

Each song holding words that take my wounded heart and point it to the Healer, Comforter, Father, my Savior.

Have you been betrayed? Used? Lied about? Turned against? Ignored? Unloved or unaccepted? Have you hurt? Have you cried out, seemingly unanswered, the darkness feeling thick?

Maybe fearful or abandoned? Maybe stolen from or just plain meanness from someone? Maybe slighted, bullied, torn down, trampled on, deceived? Maybe just exhausted or tired, burned out, broken, or battling unbelief? Maybe the mind is full, fuddled up, pre-occupied with things and people that are merely a distraction from your purpose in life and your REAL life in Jesus Christ? Maybe your heart is overwhelmed and lacks peace. Panicky, maybe guilty and shameful. Empty. Faking who you are and you know it deep inside but you don't know how to stop. Maybe sorrowful from loss, maybe burdens heavy to carry. Maybe we seek all that which is not eternal, but have deceived ourselves into believing it is under the guise of "ministry" or whatever. Maybe hearts are full of hate, jealousy, envy, competition and comparison. Reputation and image seeking, wondering why the chase is empty and endless. . .

Throughout 35 years I've felt or walked through all of the above. And more.

I am continually amazed at how He never lets go of me. He never walks out on me. He shows me His goodness regardless.

He draws me near often through me laying it all down and worshipping Him. Something that sounds simple, but I can be slow to do.

I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned
In awe of The One who gave it all
I'll stand my soul Lord to You surrendered all I am is Yours.

I offer this heart, Oh God. For You know it full well. You do not look upon it and glare, or reject, or accuse. You look in love at me, Your daughter, and make it stronger. You take what the enemy through others or situations intends for evil and You build me up through it and make me stronger than I was before, to Your glory. You strengthen through the suffering. You wrap up, You surround, You touch and calm and relieve. You are the Cornerstone, a Strong Tower, Refuge, Deliverer. Nothing happens to me outside Your knowing. Your love is that amazing. 

Thank You. I worship You, Lord.

Alyssa