BECAUSE HE LIVES

SCRIPTURE: " But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit
is life because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead
dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your
mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you." Romans 8:10-12 (ESV)

In the late 90’s, this hymn struck me and became my favorite. It rescued me; It was no longer the old familiar, mundane hymn; the words brought me comfort and caused me to nestle into my Lord’s loving embrace. At that time, at work (often my battle ground), there were some major organizational changes made that affected my role and caused me to dread my work environment. That Sunday, I was so anxious about Monday. I know it was the Lord giving me comfort when the lyrics of the song lifted my countenance: they became a source of hope and strength.

Because He lives (He is my risen Savior!), I can face tomorrow (He already exists in my tomorrows!); because He lives all fears are gone (I can trust He will protect me!); because I know He holds the future (no matter what the enemy says; I have a future); the words were striking and my stay. I began to put on God-confidence. I cried to the Lord; I began to recognize that the Lord was my provision (for I can do all things through Christ). I worshipped the Lord: I gave Him Honor for He is the One and only True and Living God who makes a way for me (every day)! I felt empowered; I am still so grateful for this hymn.

Despite what we see, His plan for our lives will and shall prevail. When I sing this hymn, I still make it personal; and it affirms me to believe that whatever awaits me, I can triumph with His promise to never leave me. I can say, like the Psalmist, some trust in horses and chariots but I will trust in the Name of the Lord! It is just awesome the way God shines His compassion and love in our trials; He causes us to see Him for ALL of who He is; He makes Himself Known to us. Thank You Jesus!  Because He lives, we have power; we are made whole; we are saved; we are blessed! Our God and Savior lives; we don’t have to fear; He brings light to our paths and makes us see Him strong and able to keep us planted firmly in His Truth and Promises-Hallelujah!!

Prayer: Lord, we thank you for your constant and never-failing love! Please forgive us for our unbelief: cause us to see You High, Lifted, and able to bring us through all of our trials triumphantly. You are so faithful to, even, use the songs we sing to bring us to a greater understanding of Your character; and for that we say, Thank You! In Jesus’ Name-Amen!
By Sis. Lisa Williams