Music Monday: “Eye Of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson (featuring GabeREAL)
By: Debbie Waltz
This week has been a tough one. My recent work on a Lighthouse contest entry is compounded by another rejection for my novel’s endorsement. Although expected, I’m still let down; I had hoped it would launch my career as a Christian author. It’s difficult to enter this field without some form of professional validation. So, where does that leave us? (It’s a family affair; my mom edits, and my dad handles proposals and marketing.) Plus, the many others who have stood behind me and worked tirelessly on my website to get my name out there into the world.
To be honest, I’m not quite sure what’s next. Though we are looking into several self-publishing options, the weight of the decision leaves me feeling utterly exhausted. This project has been my life’s work, and I’m excited to share it with the world and see its effect. Conversely, I eagerly anticipate what comes next.
Yesterday’s communion was difficult. The ongoing battle I faced in releasing this situation and placing my trust in him highlighted the steadfastness of his commitment, a powerful reminder of his dedication to me. During the service, Pastor Chris inquired about our understanding of communion, and the word I offered was the one that immediately came to mind as the most accurate and meaningful response. In my previous response, I intended to convey God’s unwavering commitment to me, emphasizing the steadfast nature of our relationship and His consistent, behind-the-scenes work to ensure that both His will and my best interests are prioritized. Pastor Chris emphasized the reciprocal nature of commitment, highlighting that it requires dedication from all parties involved. Though I wholeheartedly agree, I wasn’t feeling it yesterday.
In his guest sermon, the speaker spent a considerable amount of time elaborating on the fractured and damaged state of humanity’s relationship with God, a direct result, he emphasized, of inherent human sinfulness. In its portrayal of Joseph’s character and the essence of the narrative itself, the story powerfully reflects God’s own nature and character, offering a profound insight into the divine. Although Joseph now holds a position of authority and has the power to punish his brothers for their past actions, he instead demonstrates mercy and forgives them, showing unexpected kindness.
In fact, he recognizes God’s hand in it all saying, “..And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.” (Genesis 45:5-7)
A mere few verses before this passage, the brothers are described as recognizing their shameful actions and feeling remorse. Fully understanding the extent of their cruelty towards Joseph and the injustice they perpetrated, they implore him to accept their lifelong service to make amends and atoning for their sins.
Truthfully, I can’t imagine how Joseph managed it all. My problems are nothing compared to his. Yet I’m barely holding it together, but God’s holding me together. As Christians, we sometimes forget who’s in control. God is, we aren’t. Despite changing circumstances, our hope remains steadfast. Why? It rests on God’s unwavering love and mercy, even when we falter.
Ryan Stevenson’s “Eye of the storm” physically illustrates the Christian life. Through every experience, God precedes us, ensuring we are never truly alone. Psalm 139:5-7 reminds us, “You hem me in and before, and you lay your hand upon me.” It also reminds us who is truly guiding and directing our path. Interestingly, a favorite Bible verse from my college years also addressed that theme. It is Hebrews 6:19 which states, “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.” Though we focused on the anchor part, it didn’t stop there, it continued saying in verse 20,” where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”
Ryan Stevenson’s song can be accessed here: