The Strength of a Song

A few days ago, I attended a program honoring a deceased friend.  During the program, a soloist sang one of my friend’s favorite songs, “You Are My Strength,” by William Murphy. The song, while comprised of a very few words, speaks to the power, strength, and grace we receive from God – his ability to revive us, to lift us up!  Like the song, the soloist’s rendition was simple yet powerful and enticed many in the audience to join in.  This experience transformed the event into a moving testimony of the presence of God in one’s life.

Oftentimes, we sing songs depicting God’s words and assurances to give us the strength to persevere through life.  King David gave us many to choose from. (See the Book of Psalms.) My friend endured many challenges during her lifetime, but her joy-filled spirit empowered her to break free of her burdens and live a life full of God’s goodness and favor.

Let us pray:

Dear God,

Thank you for my friend’s life and the example she set for us.  Please help us to nurture our faith and trust in you. Help us to focus on sharing your goodness and fulfilling our purpose in life, not on the hardships and burdens we may carry.  Let us find joy, hope, rejuvenation, and strength in your presence.     

You are my strength, strength like no other. Strength like no other reaches to me. [x4]

In the fullness of Your grace, in the power of Your name, you lift me up, you lift me up. [x2]

You are my strength, strength like no other. Strength like no other reaches to me. [x2]

In the fullness of Your grace, in the power of Your name, you lift me up, you lift me up. [x3]

You are my strength, strength like no other. Strength like no other reaches to me.

(By William Murphy)

Amen.