ChristianDance

Time flies, and distractions are constantly entering our lives, sometimes to the point that we forget about God. Oops!! It may not be what we intended, and sometimes all it takes is a song to help us to refocus. Joshua Royal's "Praise The Lord" is that kind of song, and it came from a real moment where Joshua needed to shift his focus back to God. "Praise the Lord" is joyful and upbeat, with great lyrics and worship vibes. Joshua sings, "When I wake up in the morning // I will join in your creation song again," setting the tone for a day filled with praise and thankfulness.  The song reminds us that there is always a reason to praise, regardless of our circumstances: "Even if I'm in the valley // Let there be a sound of joy flow from my lips." So, get up, lift your hands and dance! You can praise Him to celebrate your deliverance or praise Him just to simply acknowledge His presence. "You're the Lord of my deliverance // You ha...

Discover the connection between Compel Worship's song "He Leads Me" and Psalm 23:1–3, 4, 6. This live rendition of "He Leads Me" celebrates God as the ultimate Shepherd who lovingly guides and provides. The lyrics are directly linked to this Psalm, reminding us that God is with us through it all.  When you wake up in the morning, the goodness and mercy of God are not just waiting for you, they're pursuing you. When you open your eyes and you first come to consciousness in the morning, goodness and mercy from God are flowing into your life.  Even when the world is turbulent, we may have His peace in us. He guards our hearts and minds with His peace. He leads us beside still waters, restores our soul, restores our strength, restores our joy, and restores everything we truly need. He fills us and leads us. He leads us over paths of righteousness if we are prepared to follow Him. And when we drift away, He is there to put us back on the right path, "For the...

"I Noah Guy" by MrR combines honesty with hope and brings an interesting vibe to Christian contemporary music with his signature "Righteous Funk" style. The song is about those moments of desperation that most of us are familiar with, where it feels like we're fighting against the tide. Life often may feel like chaos, with dreams that are breaking, the constant pressure, and emotions that run high. We see chaos all around us, and our lives are not exempt from chaos. MrR sings, "God I'm drowning, chaos roars," and despite being overwhelmed, we still have a choice, a way forward. MrR keeps pointing us back to God and reminding us that He is always there for us, "Yea I know a guy…" . Even in the chaos, there's Someone who never leaves us. "Your love is my anchor, it changed my rebel heart," God is the anchor that offers stability in our life, and His love not only protects us, but it also changes our mindset and how we react....

NewSpring Worship's new release, called "The Christ", invites us to answer Jesus' timeless question: "Who do you say that I am?" The song takes us to the scene of Mark 8:29, where Jesus and His disciples were on their way to Caesarea Philippi, and He asked His disciples: "Who do men say that I am?" After the disciples answered, Jesus turned the question around and made it personal… He asked them: "But what about you? Who do you say I am?' Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah.'" Tom, one of the members of NewSpring Worship shared: "… we want that to be a confession of every individual in our church and outside of our church. And we want that to be a confession of everybody." That's the heart of the song. Ask yourself, if you had been there together with the other disciples on that road with Jesus, what would your answer be to His question, "Who do you say that I am?" With this song, you have the oppor...

This rendition of Josh Bissell's song "How Far (Psalm 139)" features the Canadian artist Elenee. Josh Bissell co-wrote it with friends during a season of personal reflection. They wanted to capture both the comfort and mystery of knowing God fully. "How far could I go where You won't find me?" John sings about the fact that God is always there for us.  "You know my words before I say a thing // You are the reason that my heart is beating," reminding us that it doesn't matter how far we drift away or what we have done, we can rely on His love for us. "There is no height nor depth / To keep me from Your love / Nothing in life or death / Could keep me from Your love." As the original of this song came to life, Josh sensed it needed another voice - someone who could carry its tenderness and depth. That someone is Elenee, with a voice that adds a special tender touch to the song, not only increasing the richness of the song but also incre...

Today is the second day of Pentecost, a public holiday where I live, and I'm listening to my new release playlist. I like to close my eyes while I'm listening so I can better enjoy the musical abilities that artists have been blessed with and be amazed by the way that they use their talents to honor our Lord and Savior. Emmanuel Songsore is not a stranger to me; I have written about several of his earlier instrumental releases. I didn't realize at first who was playing, but I was moved to tears by this piano solo. When I opened my eyes to look at the song details, a smile appeared on my face… welcome back, dear friend.  A cover of the song "Mercy" by Moses Bliss. Knowing that Emmanuel selects music with care, I turn on the PC to look up the lyrics and listen to the original. I ponder about the lyrics: "It's all because of You // It's all because of Your grace // That I'm still standing here right now // It's all because of You // It's all ...

Have you ever struggled with feelings of doubt? Then "Walk By Faith" by Haddon is definitely a song that will help to change your point of view! Haddon wrote this song when he was struggling with doubts. He shares that he felt like Peter when he tried walking on water. He was basing his faith on feelings in that moment, feelings of fear, doubt, and anxiety. Instead of letting those feelings control him, Hadon turned them into a prayer: "Lord take my doubts and throw them all away // I'm sinking down, help me walk by faith." The song talks about waiting for signs or emotional highs to feel close to God. But Haddon reminds us, "When faith is just a feeling // It's fleeting." Our feelings may constantly be going to and fro, but God's love for us does not. True trust isn't about what we can see or feel; it's all about stepping forward (the leap of faith) even when we think we can't. Haddon admits, "Took 20 years just to teach my h...

"Covered by the Cross" by the Ezra Worship Initiative is a song about redemption and grace that (for me) echoes truths found in Romans 3:23–24 and Colossians 1:13–14. That, together with great worship music and vocals, makes this song a pleasure to listen to. The lyrics remind us what authentic faith is and the freedom that we all may find in Christ's finished work.  We can only start to appreciate His sacrifice when we take a closer look at our own lives and start to realize that we need God in our lives, "I was broken beneath my blame // I was a slave to my sin and shame // till I found you." He changes lives once we reach a turning point, "I found passion and reasons to praise, cause you're my home." It's up to us to keep our eyes on Him and grow our faith. It is then that we can sing, "I believe that when You say it's finished // My blame, my sin, my shame // Is covered by the cross."   Christ's sacrifice on the cross is...

Grace, freedom, and transformation… these are the main themes in the song "Where Would I Be" by Presence Music Band. The jazzy, ska-influenced sound makes the song fun to listen to, and the lyrics go deep. This song reflects on who we were and who we may become thanks to Him.  The song starts by looking at our brokenness: "I was like Lazarus // No breath for these lungs to breathe." It compares parts of us with Adam and Eve, believing the lies. And with Cain, hurt, filled with hate, and wandering, and how we are being held captive by sin. With God we have the assurance that there is always a turning point within our reach: "'Til you drew me in all over again."   Our hearts fill with gratitude when we realize, "Where would I be if it wasn't for mercy // Where would I be if it wasn't for grace." The song reminds us of the cross and the high cost that He paid for you and me. He makes it possible for us to sing, "The new me is look...

"Scott Declare Jr.’s “Solid Ground” came out of Joshua 3, when the priests had to step out into the water of the Jordan river during the most dangerous season of flooding. Unlike the Red Sea miracle, they had to trust God before seeing the waters part. This song captures that same call to step out in faith, even when the path looks and feels very uncertain, and God came through as soon as they stepped out onto the water. The lyrics reflect the tension they faced, “The wilderness hardened my heart and dried up my tears // I been waiting for answers // Roaming for 40 years.” It’s so relatable, because waiting can feel endless. And then comes the choice, will they take that small step of faith to get into the water: “I could go back to Egypt // Or I could trust the Lord?” We already know their answer, “I’m stepping out on the water // Some call it faith some call it crazy.” What would your answer have been? Scott reminds us that courage isn’t about having all the answers! The key ...

The idea behind Marcus & Jalyn McGill's new song, "Empty Hand," was triggered by a deeply personal season of infertility. One of their writers, Jennifer, had a vision where God was extending His hand to her, not holding the longed-for child, but an empty hand offering something much greater… His presence in the waiting. This vision became the center of this song and is an important message for anyone who is holding onto a wish/longing for a miracle that hasn't come to pass.  In this song we hear the message that comes along with His extended hand. "I've been watching as you've been waiting / As you focus on your lack," reminding us that it's so easy to get trapped in our pain when prayers don't seem to be answered. It's a pain that distracts and causes us to forget that He's "… more than enough." God already has a miracle for you, "I'm holding out My hand to you // Don't think because it's empty // I h...

Are you feeling stretched thin and empty inside despite all of the activity around? Rachael Sey has been there, and that's when she wrote the song "Spirit Divine." Rachael didn't need more busyness in her life, she craved for presence… His presence! Her longing became a prayer: "Holy Spirit, fill us up." This song is her response to that quiet longing, and it's also an invitation to anyone who is carrying around hidden burdens or has a deep longing for more of God in their lives.  The lyrics echo the surrender and trust we need to have in our heart: "Holy Spirit, come and dwell within / Fill us up with power from on high." A prayer for renewal, asking God to guide us into His truth and freedom. The chorus continues this cry for renewal, "Spirit Divine, Spirit Divine / Come and fill us with Your light divine." Rachael shows us both the simplicity and depth of prayer and how prayer is your connection to God… a connection that is just...

Howard Gripp's "Everything In His Name", co-written with Erin Oakley, is a heartfelt blend of two voices that take you along on a journey from despair to joy and purpose. Despair that was felt at possibly the deepest point in someone's life, "I was lost in regret and full of pride / Contemplating taking my own life." Now imagine the 180-degree change that happened when Jesus stepped in to bring hope and purpose. So real (and relatable to some), but most important is that it reminds us that nobody is ever beyond redemption! Then comes the chorus that is both a declaration and a guide for living: "I'll love like Jesus, pray like Jesus, forgive like Jesus / Do everything in His name." This song is a roadmap showing you how to align your life with His example, bringing in the joy that salvation offers, "He turned my mourning into dancing again / I've tasted and I've seen His goodness over me."   What makes this track more specia...

Ever feel like life's a bit… frosty? Or that you're longing for something more profound and meaningful in life? Robert Peterson and The Crusade connect with that feeling. In their second release, "Change Coming On," they explore the search for meaning and change. Robert Peterson, who has been playing music since his early teens, has an interesting approach to writing lyrics. He is especially careful that his lyrics do not immediately lead to people labeling the song as "Christian," and tries to avoid classifications like "Christian Rock" so that he can reach a larger audience with his message. People who otherwise would be turned off by overt religious references. "Change Coming On" accomplishes this with subtlety and depth. The song opens with the image of being "all alone on a crowded city street," creating a feeling of isolation and longing. As the song continues, a powerful awareness is building up, "I can feel a chang...

Kwame Acheampong H. released a song called "Praise Will Rise." It is a lively song that combines multiple music genres into a joyful celebration of faith. This song is inspired by several biblical stories, such as Paul and Silas singing in chains, the woman with the alabaster box, and the widow's offering. Kwame uses these stories to show that true worship isn't tied to perfect moments. True worship thrives on our genuine surrender and hope. "Midnight in a prison cell // Pain in chains but I can tell // Something's rising in my soul." He emphasizes that God gives us the power to break chains and bring wholeness to our lives through praise and worship. Kwame reminds us that praise strengthens us, "When they say I can't make it // When the storm tries to shake me // Your praise will be my victory!" There is no force that silences our worship when it is rooted in God's love. "I pour my worship out // Every fear, every doubt // At yo...

The journey of spiritual awakening often results in “double joy.” It’s not only joy for the person who is on this journey, but also joy for people who see or hear about the change that this journey brings. This song, “Without You” by Matthew Carmelo, is about one of these double joy moments! This song is about Matthew Carmelo’s journey through the emptiness and the disconnect that he felt before he became a Christian. This was a time in his life that was marked by a lack of purpose, broken relationships, and a lingering sense that something was missing, no matter how hard he was chasing fulfillment on his terms. Matthew shares, “There was this constant ache for something more, and I didn’t realize until later that what I was really missing was God.” His turning point came when he realized Who he’d been missing all along. Matthew sings, “Oh I was lost but you found me in the dust // Oh I was sick but you healed me with your love.” He emphasizes that God’s grace isn’t earned! God’s grac...

Jeff Dickson's song "Always More" was triggered by challenges that he hadn't seen coming. Jeffrey turned to writing songs as a way to deal with what happened and share his faith journey after being laid off from a ministry role he had held for 13 years. Hard decisions like this one were taken as a result of financial struggles at his church. The result is a song filled with hope and encouragement to trust in God's boundless provision. Lines like "When the famine comes, I'll always have a portion" emphasize that even in loss there's still abundance waiting for us to discover.  The chorus points us to God: "All these hills are yours but my eyes look above them / When my cup is dry, ask, who fills the ocean?" When we're facing challenges of our own, it can be easy to forget to lift our gaze beyond our struggles and look at the eternal Source of all things. Jeffrey emphasizes the freedom we have… the freedom to let go, to love freely,...

Angelo Vivo's "Always" is a beautiful and inspiring song. The song was co-written together with two talented songwriters from the San Francisco Bay Area, Savannah and Abraham. The lyrics were inspired by Isaiah 41:10, where we can read God's promise to all, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."   The verses capture the intimate connection that God offers us, describing it as "an endless embrace" and "a love that never fades." His promise gives a hint of the kind of comfort we may find in Him, a feeling of comfort and safety that feels like home, a peace that is so profound that nothing can shake it. Everyone that has invited God to be an active part of their lives knows, "It's simple, He's blessing me." It highlights that faith isn't complicated when you recognize that He is constantly taking c...

Mike Cunningham is a veterinarian from Ohio. He traded his country tunes for worship music after discovering God's call on his life. In this debut single, "Turn to You," Cunningham explores what it means to seek God in a world that is so clouded by chaos and lies. He boldly asks the question, "In a world so torn with darkness, can a miracle set us free?" Looking at the chaos and mess around us, a situation that makes life feel quite overwhelming for many, it's His miracle that truly gives us hope. Cunningham reminds us that Jesus isn't just a distant figure that once walked on water and healed the blind, He is there for you and walks by your side. He is ready to guide you (if you let Him), even through your darkest nights. When everything is shaking beneath your feet, He is the one that you can lean on. "You are the way, the truth, and the light," bringing the clarity that we desperately need in our lives today.  May this song turn your gaze ...

Amanda Joy Powell's "Ain't My Jesus Something" is a new song released to radio, and what a sound it is! Amanda describes it as an upbeat praise song to make you get your groove on! She wrote this song with a simple goal in mind, to remind us that we don't "need" to have a reason to praise Jesus, and sometimes we need a bit of help emotionally to get there! He's already worthy of all glory.  The song bursts with gratitude for the change He gives us, "I'm not who I was just the other day, not one bit // My life has turned around into something new, and I'll admit." The lyrics reflect on how He frees us from our pasts, "the old has come and gone," creating room for a new life, healed from our past, and "Testifying Jesus because He took my sin and washed it away." There's no holding back as Amanda sings, "Ain't no doubt about it // I can get excited // God is moving // Oh to be a witness // Of His lov...