So back in mid-March, I was compiling a list of praise songs that were speaking to me, as most of you know I rely on praise music for strength and healing. Well, those are all great songs, but they really don’t fit me right now. (However, if you are receptive to some empowering songs check these out: “Survivor” by Zach Williams, “We Win” by MercyMe, “Stand in your Love” by Josh Baldwin/Bethel Music, “joy.” by for King and Country. Awesome songs and I will appreciate them again in the future)

I admit some of those frustrate me right now and I am in need of God’s strength and comfort. Here are some more fitting songs for me at this point in my grief journey. “Haven’t Seen it Yet” by Danny Gokey.  “Don’t forget the things that He has done before, And remember He can do it all once more…Don’t ever lose Hope, hold on and Believe, Maybe you just haven’t seen it… yet…Good things are coming even when we can’t see…” Don’t Lose Hope. Romans 8:28 “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” And Romans 8:38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” God Loves James and Carrie and God Loves You.

“No Matter What” by Ryan Stevenson is about regrets, which always hit survivors of suicide loss, but I think the bigger message in this song is one of comfort : “You can’t erase His love, Nothing can change it. You’re not separated, No matter where you run, He’s always holding on, You’re still a daughter, you’re still a son, No matter what.” Comfort. Love. For those of you who are parents, you know how you would do anything for your children? God loves you More than that and will do more for you, His child.

“Maybe it’s Ok” by We are Messengers. This a great song for mental health awareness as well as to remind you of God’s love and strength. “Maybe it’s ok if I’m not ok, ‘Cause the One who holds the world is holding onto me…” Remember, God is still in control and He is there for you. I’ll also recommend “It’s Ok that you’re not Ok” by Megan Devine as a book for those grieving or anyone who wants to be there for someone who is grieving.

“Before the Morning” by Josh Wilson. Wow. There are so many good lines in this one, so I will include a link to a lyric video for you. “Would you dare, would you dare to believe, That you still have a reason to sing, Cause the pain that you’ve been feeling, It can’t compare to the joy that’s coming, So hold on you gotta wait for the light, Press on and just fight the good fight, Cause the pain that you’ve been feeling, It’s just the dark before the morning…” Psalm 30:5 “For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (special meaning for Teal residents) and Romans 8:18 “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us.” What a promise to remember in dark times. H.O.P.E. = Hold On, Pain Ends

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hWEbz69FYs

“Only Jesus” by Casting Crowns is on my list too, though it doesn’t specifically relate to my grief journey.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the ones that obviously speak loudly to me; ones we used in James’ Memorial Service. I’m sure you know these, but if you don’t, search them up and take a listen. “Jesus Loves Me,” (special private meaning why we included it, but, yes, the children’s song) “The 23rd Psalm,” (the Baylor Women’s choir sang Z Randall Stroope’s arrangement for us), “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” the classic hymn or Christ Tomlin’s version, “10,000 Reasons,” by Matt Redmond (love that one), “Reckless Love,” by Cory Asbury (talk about a song about God’s Love for you! Let that song wash over you) “O Love that Will Not Let me Go,” by Chris Rice (chosen by one of James’ childhood friends and sung by him and some members of the Baylor Men’s choir) and “Be Thou My Vision.” the classic hymn.

I’m probably forgetting some other excellent songs that spoke to me, but I hope these might help someone. “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” Psalm 95:1. #CarryingOn❤️🎈💚🐻 #800273TALK #musictherapy #processing #myHopeisinHim #DontLoseHope #KeepTheFaith #LoveOneAnother