My in-laws own a farm in Michigan. One of my favorite things to do when visiting them is to sit on the porch of their farmhouse and listen. It is amazing to hear the vibrant life surrounding you. There is this incredible peace that comes when you listen. Almost every time I sit there a bird will come and start eating at the bird-feeder just a few feet from me. One time after watching a bird land on the feeder my father-in-law starting singing the old hymn:
“I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.”
There is so much comfort to be found in knowing that we have a loving God watching over us – that no matter what challenges may come our way, there is someone in control who knows what is best.
Why do we so often lose hope when faced with uncertainty? It isn’t that God’s promises cease to be true, it’s that we stop listening. We let the noise of life, worry, and fear drown out the voice of God. Connie shares how God uses The River to help her in these moments:
“I just retired. I know that there’s other people like me that wonder where their next meal is going to be, or what their life is going to turn out like. And your station has just continued to play songs that give us hope, real hope. God just touches your station and plays the right song that just gets us that confirmation. I can’t explain it any better than that.”
Whatever you’re going through, take a moment and listen. Listen to the words of Connie, to the words of the next song on the radio, and listen to the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:29-31, and Matthew 6:26.
“What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.”
“Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?” (NLT)
Like Connie, do you have a song that God has used to bring you hope? Please share in the comments below!
