Occasionally on the blog, I’ll post a throwback and recycle some things I have written in the past. I have a short story that’s in the final editing process that is brand-stinkin-new. But since it’s not ready to share with the world yet, I wanted to share this work instead. It serves as the inspiration for a song that I’m going to collaborate on with a friend next week (she has the most amazing voice ever, so I’m so excited to work with her!)
This piece is a Psalm of Praise that I wrote for a seminary class this past spring. It stands as one of the most influential classes I have ever taken. It is the class that got me to start writing again and reminded me that it’s never actually about us or what we create, but instead about the God to whom we give glory.
Without further delay:
I will sing joyously for You, my God, are constant;
truly I love You because you are near.
Your hand will sustain me as long as I live,
from the deepest valleys You will lift me up.
Though I grow weary, You do not;
Surely You will watch over me and protect me all of my days.
I can breathe, for I know You have ordained this day,
before I awoke, You knew what lay before me.
Surely blessings and goodness await me
for You are loyal and kind to your children.
and You delight in their presence.
Be not far from me, O mighty King.
for though I am simple in mind,
my hope is ever with You.
If You are not with me, I will surely faint,
but if You will go with me, I will conquer armies by Your hand
and Your name shall go forth from this place.
Yes Lord, though the enemy is encamped nearby
I will raise a battle cry of joy.
To the mountains and through deep valleys, it shall be heard
calling those who fear You to come forth.
Together we shall stand before the camp and sing,
“Holy and True is our King.
His faithful love will never leave us.
His strong hand will be our help this day and all the days to come.
Take courage, for he is not a King who remains in His palace.
This very day, He will ride before us into battle;
All who stand against us, fear His name.
for He will not let his children be put to shame.”
rebekah.eckard 