I enjoy music, and I find that Christian music lifts me to God and calms my soul. Back in the 1970’s, I found the music of Andrae’ Crouch. Mr. Crouch was known at that time as the father of “Modern Gospel Music.” He had such a powerful witness as to what God could do in all situations. He went through many illnesses in his life, and at times was not sure if he would see the next day. But, his faith in God was steadfast. He wrote the song below in one of those tough moments of his life. It has been such an encouragement to me many times over, and I pray that today, it will also bless you.

Through It All: By Andrae’ Crouch

I’ve had many tears and sorrows, I’ve had questions for tomorrow, there’s been times I didn’t know right from wrong, But in every situation, God gave me blessed consolation, that my trials come to only make me strong.        

Chorus: Through it all, through it all, I’ve learned to trust in Jesus, I’ve learned to trust in God. Through it all, through it all, I’ve learned to depend upon His Word.

I’ve been to lots of places, I’ve seen a lot of faces, there’s been times I felt so all alone.  But in my lonely hours, yes, those precious lonely hours, Jesus lets me know that I was His own.

I thank God for the mountains, and I thank Him for the valleys, I thank Him for the storms He brought me through.  For if I’d never had a problem, I wouldn’t know God could solve them, I’d never know what faith in God could do. 

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As Mr. Crouch reminds us, we can completely depend on God. We can find rest in God whether in good times or bad knowing that God is with us. Isn’t that reassuring? Now, the rest I am talking about is not rest from daily chores or when you are physically exhausted after a long day. It is the peace we can find from God in any situation as we love and obey Him. God knows what is happening in our lives right now, and I appreciate what Mr. Crouch says in the last verse of his song, “For if I’d never had a problem, I wouldn’t know God could solve them, I’d never know what faith in God could do.” 

St. Augustine once said, “God, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in you.” Psalm 62:1 says, “Truly my soul finds rest in God, alone.” In Exodus 33:14, the Lord replied, “my presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Using the word REST, I have left some promises of God for you today, as you seek His rest.

Reflect on God

“I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done.  I spread out my hands to You; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.” Psalm 143:5-6

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3

Engage with God

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:6-7

“Have mercy on me, O God, because of Your unfailing love.  Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.  Wash me clean from my guilt.  Purify me from my sin.” Psalm 51:1-2

Surrender to God

“Yet you Lord, are the Father, we are the clay, and You are the potter; and all of us are the work of your hands.” Isaiah 64:8 

“And call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”  Psalm 50:15

Trust in God

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths” Proverbs 3:5-6

“The Lord is my strength and my shield, in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.” Psalm 28:7

Read these promises throughout the day, and be reminded that you are God’s child, and He loves you and wants to give you rest.

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Prayer

Dear Father in heaven, I am so thankful for your great love and mercy for me. Thank you for the salvation I can find in Jesus, and the power I can receive through your Holy Spirit to walk in your ways. Give me the strength to trust you with all my heart, so that my intentions and choices are truly yours. Help me listen to your voice, be silent before you in prayer, seeking your will. Guide me to wholeheartedly follow your Word and to live a life you have created me for. I pray this day that in all situations that I encounter, I will find rest in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.