The Middle of Nowhere

Today, I'm excited to share the story behind my song "The Middle of Nowhere" from my 12-song collection of the same name. This song was born on March 3, 2017, when I was asked to minister at Hartley Christian Fellowship in Hartley, Texas - a town about 78 miles north of Amarillo that the locals affectionately refer to as "the middle of nowhere."

As I prepared for my visit, the pastor asked me to address the congregation's need for "renewed passion and an openness and love for our changing community culturally" - a return to their first love as followers of Christ. This request resonated deeply with me, and the phrase "in the middle of nowhere" just wouldn't leave my mind.

The more I pondered that idea, the richer the meaning became. Literally, Hartley fit the Cambridge Dictionary's definition of being "far away from any towns and cities and where few people live." But I knew there had to be a deeper, more spiritual significance to being stuck in the middle of nowhere.

So I kept meditating on it, and a poignant quote from Dag Hammarskjöld, the Swedish economist and diplomat who served as the second Secretary-General of the United Nations, began to echo in my thoughts: "Pray that your loneliness may spur you into finding something to live for, great enough to die for." This sentiment would prove to be a powerful thread woven through the song that emerged.

As I continued to reflect and pray, the lyrics and melody started to take shape, born out of that sense of isolation and the longing for a deeper connection with the Lord. I hope that as you listen to this song, you'll be encouraged to seek that fuller intimacy with our Savior, even - or perhaps especially - when you find yourself in the "middle of nowhere." Because that's often where we discover the fullness of His presence.

The middle of nowhere - it can feel like being lost in the wilderness, both physically and spiritually. Just as the Israelites wandered the physical wilderness, their journey was a reflection of their inner spiritual condition. The wilderness they traversed was a tangible demonstration of the unseen battles raging within.

I imagine the Israelites, freshly freed from the bondage of slavery in Egypt, finding themselves suddenly surrounded by endless expanses of desert. The hot, dry air, the endless horizon, the sense of being utterly alone - it must have felt like being in the middle of nowhere. Yet, even in that desolate landscape, God Himself led them, guiding them by a cloud in the day and a pillar of fire by night. He parted the Red Sea to deliver them. And daily, He provided manna, fresh sustenance from heaven.

But so often, we - like the Israelites - become fixated on the wilderness around us, blind to the love, presence, and power of God at work in our lives. We gaze upon our circumstances and declare ourselves lost in the middle of nowhere, neglecting to see the ways the divine is moving.

Being in the middle of nowhere can be as simple as feeling alone, even amidst a crowd. I imagine standing in the heart of New York City, surrounded by millions during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and yet sensing an overwhelming sense of isolation, as if no one can see you.

But the good news is that we can never truly be alone, for the God we are in relationship with is always with us, wherever we may find ourselves. In fact, I've found that being alone with God - allowing myself to be fully seen and yet fully loved - is a profound way to recharge my spiritual, emotional, and physical batteries. Jesus Himself would intentionally withdraw to solitary places, to commune with His Father and find the strength to continue His mission.

So perhaps being in the middle of nowhere is not something to fear, but an invitation to draw nearer to the One who promises to never leave or forsake us. It's in those quiet, isolated moments that we may just discover the fullness of His presence.

When we are willing to stand alone for our faith; whenever we are willing to speak Truth to those we love; whenever we risk loving through service; we face the risk of being misunderstood. Because of the nature of my own story - freedom from homosexual identity and now identifying as heterosexual - I often feel as if I live in the middle of nowhere, in the middle of being misunderstood. The simple fact of the matter is that if we pursue Jesus with the passion He pursued us, we will be misunderstood.

Each of the apostles had to walk through the wilderness of being misunderstood. They preached love. The world heard hate. The world - thanks to the deception of the enemy - is walking in darkness apart from Christ. The most loving thing to tell someone is that they need a Savior because of their sin. No one wants to be told they are wrong about anything, yet that was one of the most loving things ever spoken to me. “Dennis, you are in sin.” Just as Stephen who was stoned to death for his faith in Christ, we may be misunderstood to the degree that our very life is threatened.

Just as with the children of Israel who had the choice of seeing and experiencing God’s love, presence, and power, Stephen chose to see from the Lord’s point of view while in the middle of nowhere. While being stoned to death for preaching the Truth of Jesus, He chose to look into the heavenly places, ‘but being full of the Holy Spirit, he gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”’ Acts 7:55-56 NASB

The stoning continued but so did the faith of Stephen. ‘They went on stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” Acts 7:59 NASB

When finding ourselves in the middle of nowhere, whether in a desert, in a crowd, or being stoned, we must recognize and realize that even there we are not alone. In fact could it be that finding one’s self in the middle of nowhere is a good - and grand - thing? It all depends on the point of view, I suppose.

We can look at the cloud of obscurity and see only darkness, or we can recognize it as the very guide that leads us. We can view the fiery trial as a threat, or we can take comfort in the pillar of God's protection. We can focus on the raging sea with no way through, or we can marvel at its parting.

Even the smallest things can take on new meaning. That bare existence? It can become manna from heaven. That emptiness? An opportunity to be filled. That brokenness? A chance to be poured out.

I imagine standing in the midst of a vast, barren desert, feeling utterly alone. But what if, in that solitude, I find the chance to truly meet with my Maker, to bask in the oasis of His love? The wounds that once seemed so isolating could become an offering to the Healer.

You see, the middle of nowhere doesn't have to be a place of desolation. It can be transformed into a sacred space where we encounter the God who meets our every need. Where we feel most lost, He can be most found.

So perhaps this "middle of nowhere" is not something to fear, but an invitation to shift our perspective, to see the love, presence, and power of our God at work, even in the most seemingly desolate of places. It's there, in that stillness and solitude, that we may just discover the grandest things.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to listen to the song, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/120884339

Photo courtesy of https://pixabay.com/photos/desert-drought-dehydrated-arid-279862/

Oh, Give Thanks

I am so excited to share the story behind my song, “Oh, Give Thanks To The Lord”, which is a part of the album titled “Sanctuary”. I received this song on April 6, 1983.

After I graduated from college in 1981, I moved to Oklahoma City and lived for a time with a good friend and his mother. My friend, Chuck, had received a vision from the Lord that included me writing hundreds of songs and multitudes of people singing them. This seemed incredulous to me since I had not been allowed to major in song-writing at the university I attended because they saw no potential in me. When my friend shared his vision with me, he also shared the vision of us singing together in a trio. With another close friend from our college days, Johnnie Ann, we formed a trio called “Spirit Song” and we soon recorded an LP - a vinyl album - called “Let the Song Be Sung” and began singing at various churches and gatherings in Oklahoma. Before we knew it, we were on a tour of the east coast of the US as an opening act for Gospel singer, Doug Oldham. We thought we had arrived.

During this period of my life, I had assumed my church music degree would land me a job as music director of a church, but the only job I could find during my first year in OKC was driving a school bus for the local school district. While there, I met a fellow bus driver who happened to be the founding pastor of a brand new church. When I told him about our trio, he invited us to minister there on several occasions. His name was Randy Miller.

After ministering at his church one Sunday morning, Randy came to me and encouraged me with the Scripture, Psalm 107:1-2, and told me he felt God was going to give me a song from these verses.  Guess what?  He did!  Little did Randy know of the magnitude of impact these verses were to have on my life.  Taking these words to heart in 1988, God led me to publicly share my testimony of what I had specifically been redeemed from.  This song even came back to my mind and I began to use it again to encourage the body of Christ.  When we realize our position in Christ of righteousness and holiness by virtue of His sacrificial blood, I believe we cannot help but lift up our hearts in gratitude to Him. I first sang this song with our trio, “Spirit Song”, but never got to record it because we disbanded after three years…but they were three of the best years of my life.

When it came time to release a new album from my ministry, this song came back to my memory and I included it as the finale to my album, “Sanctuary”. The verses Randy quoted to me that proved to be the catalyst and inspiration for this song are life to my soul:

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good,

For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so,

Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary…

Psalm 107:1-2 NASB

I Timothy 1:12-17 NASB

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

I Timothy 1:12-17 NASB

Over the coming days, take time each day to express your gratitude and thanks to God for all He has done to set you free from the hands of the enemy. An attitude of thanksgiving looks good on you and me and tends to clear the air of the confusion the lies of the enemy try to cloud our minds with.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/oh-give-thanks-120393883

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/04/22/11/59/thank-you-5077738_1280.jpg

Sanctuary

In the midst of 2013, Melinda and I faced a significant setback in our ministry, a blow that seemed designed to silence us and render us irrelevant; to cancel us and our ministry. Reflecting on those challenging months, I realized the enemy's attempts to thwart us. During that turbulent summer, as I sought solace in worship, the need for a safe haven to heal our wounds became crystal clear. We longed for a sanctuary.

While lost in a musical reverie in my home studio, I stumbled upon a guitar riff that echoed the spirit of the movie "Oh, Brother, Where Art Thou" – a film that holds a special place in my heart for its family-friendly charm. We've watched it so many times with our children through the years that lines from the movie have become a part of our everyday conversations. "Do not seek the treasure," "I nicked the census man," "Now there's a good boy," along with favorites like "Mrs. Hogwallop up and R-U-N-N-O-F-T," and "We thought you was a toad," not forgetting my favorite, the classic, "That don’t make no sense!" These shared moments of laughter amidst life's challenges served as a sanctuary for my family.

As I reflected on the idea of God being my sanctuary in the midst of trials, and with the movie's inspiration lingering, a song began to take shape. It swiftly became a personal favorite, a heartfelt ode to my relationship with God. Keeping the production raw and simple, I envisioned people gathered on front porches, belting out this song...

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;

The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10 NASB

The name of the Lord truly serves as a sanctuary for my soul. When seeking peace, I find solace in Jehovah Shalom - the Lord is my Peace. In times of need, I turn to Jehovah Jireh - the Lord is my Provider. For guidance, I lean on Jehovah Rohi - the Lord is my Shepherd. Seeking healing, I trust in Jehovah Rapha - the Lord is my Healer. Longing for righteousness, I find refuge in Jehovah T’sidkenu - the Lord is my Righteousness. For holiness, I seek Jehovah M’Kaddesh - the Lord is my Holiness. When I simply need His presence, I rest in Jehovah Shammah - the Lord is Here. And for victory, I rely on Jehovah Nissi - the Lord is my Banner of Victory.

In life's various seasons, we all crave sanctuary for our souls. It's incredible how God reveals His nature through these names, offering us protection and peace in every circumstance. So, find your sanctuary in His presence as you journey ahead. He's always there, ready for us to call out to Him, to run to Him.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song, “Sanctuary”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/sanctuary-119914398

The photo is courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2013/10/23/12/29/church-199778_1280.jpg

The Safe and Mighty Arms of Your Love

Are you win need of safety and shelter in any area of your life. If so, I would like to share with you the story behind one of my songs. This song is titled "The Safe and Mighty Arms of Your Love,” and was received on May 9, 2019.

This song was born out of a personal trial my wife and I are currently navigating. With a damaged vocal cord and a Parkinson's Disease diagnosis on my plate, and with Melinda faithfully by my side through it all, the journey has been a challenging one. While there are rough days sprinkled here and there, medication helps tilt the scale towards more good days than bad.

Fighting health battles is no walk in the park and drains one in every possible way. But let's not overlook the unsung heroes in these battles – the caregivers. They bear a heavy burden silently. Melinda witnesses my struggles, supporting me through moments of discouragement, grieving over the diagnosis, and lifting me up emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and sometimes even physically. In many ways, I believe the caregiver's suffering matches, if not surpasses, that of the one facing health issues.

This song blossomed as my way of offering her solace amidst the constant care she bestows upon me. I can sense the weight of my needs on her shoulders. I catch the tremor of fear in her voice as she bravely leans on her faith to support us both. I know she stands alone when she crumbles into tears, worrying over me as I sleep.

This song, though deeply resonant with my own struggles, is dedicated to her – a gentle touch from the Lord to soothe her weary soul as she witnesses my battle with illness. It's my humble effort to uplift her, the one who tirelessly uplifts me. May it bring healing to her heart, soul, and mind, and may its soothing essence reach you and yours too.

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

A broken and a contrite heart, O God,

You will not despise."

Psalm 51:17 NASB.

Songs like this one may sound easy to sing, but living out their message can prove to be quite the challenge. Personally, I hold unwavering faith in God, trusting Him wholeheartedly. I firmly believe in His goodness, His desire for my ultimate well-being, and His ability to work even through the trials like Parkinson's for my benefit. Regardless of the circumstances, I find solace anytime, anywhere, under any conditions, within the secure and powerful embrace of His love because His love is flawless, and perfect love drives out fear. Embrace His love and trust in it today.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/safe-and-mighty-119425174

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/12/01/03/16/holiday-2990058_1280.jpg

This Is My Destiny

How does one put on the truth when the reality of their life says one thing about their identity yet God calls them something new?

All I was I lay aside now dead to sin, to God alive!

Romans 6:1 What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase?

Romans 6:2 May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it?

Romans 6:3 Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death?

Romans 6:4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.

Romans 6:5 For if we have become united with {Him} in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be {in the likeness} of His resurrection,

Romans 6:6 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with {Him,} in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin;

Romans 6:7 for he who has died is freed from sin.

Romans 6:8 Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him,

Romans 6:9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him.

Romans 6:10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.

Romans 6:11 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Romans 6:1-11 NASB

Born again into a new identity!

Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know {Him} {in this way} no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, {he is} a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NASB

Once asleep to God in sin now wakened by the blood and cleansed!

For it was the {Father's} good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, {I say,} whether things on earth or things in heaven. And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, {engaged} in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach… Colossians 1:19-22 NASB

Born again to be who He called me to be!

Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." John 3:3 NASB

All I have I lay aside - run the race to gain the prize

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB

For the sake of knowing Jesus Christ in me!

Philippians 3:7 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.

Philippians 3:8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ,

Philippians 3:9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from {the} Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which {comes} from God on the basis of faith,

Philippians 3:10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death;

Philippians 3:11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Philippians 3:12 Not that I have already obtained {it} or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:7-12 NASB

I cannot yet fully see all I’m truly called to be

1 Corinthians 13:9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part;

1 Corinthians but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away.

1 Corinthians 13:11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.

1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.

1 Corinthians 13:9-12 NASB

Knowing Christ reveals my hope and destiny!

Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the {life} which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.

Galatians 2:20 NASB

He calls me child!

1 John 3:1 See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and {such} we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.

1 John 3:2 Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.

1 John 3:3 And everyone who has this hope {fixed} on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

He calls me to his side eternally!

John 3:14 "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up;

John 3:15 so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

He calls what once was lost now found;

Matthew 18:11 ["For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.]

Once bound to sin - now free!

John 8:34 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.

John 8:35 "The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever.

John 8:36 "So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

He calls me holy!

1 Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR {God's} OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

1 Peter 2:10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

Revelation 1:4 John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace, from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,

Revelation 1:5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood--

Revelation 1:6 and He has made us {to be} a kingdom, priests to His God and Father--to Him {be} the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Calls me righteous!

2 Corinthians 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin {to be} sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

By the blood redeemed!

Revelation 5:9 And they *sang a new song, saying, "Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood {men} from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.

Revelation 5:10 "You have made them {to be} a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth."

He calls me overcomer crowned with victory!

Revelation 12:11 "And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death.

This is my destiny!

Colossians 1:25 Of {this church} I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the {preaching of} the word of God,

Colossians 1:26 {that is,} the mystery which has been hidden from the {past} ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints,

Colossians 1:27 to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Colossians 1:25-27 NASB

What once bound me is no more!

Galatians 5:1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

What was stolen is restored

Joel 2:25 "Then I will make up to you for the years That the swarming locust has eaten, The creeping locust, the stripping locust and the gnawing locust, My great army which I sent among you.

Joel 2:26 "You will have plenty to eat and be satisfied And praise the name of the LORD your God, Who has dealt wondrously with you; Then My people will never be put to shame.

By the resurrection power of my King!

Philippians 3:10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection

What was old has been made new;

Hebrews 8:13 When He said, "A new {covenant,}" He has made the first obsolete. But whatever is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to disappear.

Lies and doubts replaced by truth!

Romans 13:12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.

Ephesians 4:22 …in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit,

Ephesians 4:23 and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind,

Ephesians 4:24 and put on the new self, which in {the likeness of} God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

What was silent now resounds, “I am redeemed!”

Galatians 3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us…

Psalm 107:1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say {so,} Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary

Psalm 107:3 And gathered from the lands, From the east and from the west, From the north and from the south.

He calls me servant;

Matthew 23:11 "But the greatest among you shall be your servant.

Matthew 23:12 "Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

Calls me warrior;

Calls me royalty!

1 Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR {God's} OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

He calls me resurrected one!

Romans 6:5 For if we have become united with {Him} in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be {in the likeness} of His resurrection,

Romans 6:6 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with {Him,} in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin;

Romans 6:7 for he who has died is freed from sin.

He calls me His redeemed!

Galatians 3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us…

He calls me higher; Calls me far beyond my wildest dream!

Psalm 42:7 Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls; All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me.

Psalm 42:8 The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime; And His song will be with me in the night, A prayer to the God of my life.

1 Corinthians 2:9 but just as it is written, "THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, AND {which} HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN, ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM."

Isaiah 40:30 Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly,

Isaiah 40:31 Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up {with} wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.

He calls my heart to come and be all He can see!

Jeremiah 29:11 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:12 'Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.

Jeremiah 29:13 'You will seek Me and find {Me} when you search for Me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29:14 'I will be found by you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.'

He calls me chosen! New creation!

Trophy of His grace!

2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things {are} for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God.

2 Corinthians 3:2 You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men;

2 Corinthians 3:3 being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

He gives me strength to fight the fight and run to win the race!

Psalm 118:14 The LORD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation.

He tells me he delights in me while singing over me,

Psalm 32:7 You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah.

Zephaniah 3:17 "The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with [singing] shouts of joy.

Accepting me as His beloved bride-to-be!

Ephesians 1:5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,

Ephesians 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.

Revelation 22:17 The Spirit and the bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.

This is my destiny! This is my destiny!

•My lack of understanding or ability to see what God sees never negates the truth! That brings me great joy and peace as I pursue Him.

• I simply respond to the truth in faith regardless of whether I feel like a new creation or not.

• I put on the truth. I change my attitude. I change my behavior. Feelings follow.

• The truth has the awesome ability to transcend any feeling or circumstance I face.

• The truth sets me free from the snares of fleshly feelings and actually taps me into the emotions of my Creator.

• The truth sets me free from the snares of hopelessness by taking my eyes off of me and my circumstances and placing my gaze upon the goal of my calling, Jesus Christ.

God saw something in Gideon that Gideon could not see. In Judges, we find the story of the Israelites being held captive by the Midianites. The whole nation is reduced to fear and trembling for many years. Our story begins with Gideon cowered down in a threshing pit fearfully going about his work yet hidden from the eyes of the Midianites. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appears to Gideon and declares, “The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior!” Valiant warrior? Wouldn’t the term yellow-bellied chicken have been more appropriate? Yet, when God looked upon Gideon He saw a valiant warrior! As Gideon learned to walk in his true identity he was given more and more authority among his own people...and eventually led them to overcome all their enemies. If Gideon had not believed the Word of the Lord he never would have walked in the reality of his true nature. He never would have seen the potential of his destiny fulfilled.

• As a new creation learning to see myself as God sees me, I must also learn to see others the way he sees them. I can no longer judge people according to all I see, but I choose to judge them according to their destiny and true calling.

• With other believers I can make appeals for them to put an end to sinful behavior based upon their identity in Christ.

With my own children, if I see them sin - caught lying, for instance - I can say, “Son or daughter, you lied to me...but that is not who you are. You are not a liar. A new creation’s true desire is to tell the truth. You are a truthful person. Put off the old and put on the new of who you really are.” In that way, we confront and deal with sin, yet we tear down only the sin...and not the person. This is how we build one another up. This is how God builds us up! In this way, we each become testimonies of God’s grace to the world...like trophies that declare the power of God!

Who does Father say I am?

• He calls me a trophy of grace.

While this is not a Scriptural term, it does express Scriptural truth. What is a trophy? A trophy is a tangible reminder of some great accomplishment or achievement. The redeemed life is a trophy or reminder to all who see of one of God’s greatest achievements - you! Paul the apostle suffered much, yet he believed his sufferings and the display of God’s grace to carry him through them had a profound purpose. “...That the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God (2 Cor. 4:15).”

Who does Father say I am?

• He calls me a letter, written to all mankind (2 Cor. 3:2-3).

As others see the changes God brings about in our lives, it is as if He has written a love letter for everyone who comes in contact with us to read! My life without Jesus spoke volumes. My redeemed life reads like a letter that was written with the greatest of care. My desire is that God be glorified for all He has done for me - so I open up that letter (my heart) for others to see and read. My desire is that, as they read, their lives are brought to a saving faith in Jesus Christ as well!

What do others see when they read our lives?

• Will we allow others to see and read or will we hide what we have experienced of God? We have nothing to be ashamed of by being honest.

• Honesty is a byproduct of truth. Truth sets us - and others - free! Let us see beyond our own perceptions and see what we cannot always see. Let us see ourselves as Father sees us. Let us see others as Father does.

Who does Father say I am?

He says I am a winner!

He gives me the strength to fight the good fight of faith and to run the race toward the goal for the prize of my highest calling! Though I fall, I get up and keep running! To win a race I must run that race. “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you win (1 Cor. 9:24).” The Word also says, “Let us lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:1-3).”

Who does Father say I am?

• He calls me a fighter!

I do not give up - I am tenacious concerning my desire to conquer sin and to glorify my Redeemer. I fight the good fight of faith by taking hold of the eternal life to which I am called, declaring the truth to all who would see or hear - I am redeemed! (1 Tim. 6:12)

• Father delights in me more than I in Him. His thoughts toward me outnumber the sands of the sea (Psalm 139:17-18). Mine towards Him come nowhere near that! I do not have to earn His acceptance or approval. I already have it by virtue of the redeeming work of Christ upon the cross. God’s Word says that He has made us accepted in the Beloved...accepted in Christ! (Ephesians 1:6). He calls me His bride...and calls Jesus my bridegroom. One day, my truest identity will be fulfilled in the consummation of true oneness with Christ in the eternal glory of heaven. What joy and pleasure to know I do not have to wait until heaven to experience that joy. I am known by my God in a deeply personal and intimate way...and He allows me to know Him! This is my destiny...’that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection...’ (Philippians 3:10)

My destiny?

• To be all God has called me to be! The overcoming testimony of my life? A fragrant aroma. “Thanks be to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place (2 Cor. 2:14).”

• In am a treasure born of God’s spirit to be given back to Him as a sacrifice of praise.

“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not ourselves (2 Cor. 4:7-12).” We will be afflicted in this life - but we will not be crushed. We may be perplexed by the twists and turns of our life - but we will not despair because we have hope. We will be persecuted for the sake of righteousness - but we will never be forsaken. We may even be struck down because of our faith - but we cannot be destroyed! Why? Because this is part of our identity and destiny in Christ. This is who we are!

“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:16-18).”

• Believer. This is your destiny. This is who you are called to be. I am so proud of you! Keep your eyes fixed upon Jesus. Enjoy the journey. Enjoy getting to know your God. I cannot wait until we have the time of eternity to share one another’s stories of God’s redemption. Look for me around the throne...I’ll be waiting to hear and testify God’s goodness with you forever!

Dennis Jernigan

To hear the song, “This Is My Destiny”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/challenge-for-118949086

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/02/04/16/57/road-4818808_1280.jpg

The Stories Behind Three Carols

First of all, Merry Christmas to all of you! I am beyond thrilled to dive into some of my all-time favorite Christmas carols, especially when I get to sing them with my favorite duet partner.

I firmly stand by the belief that God doesn't let anything go to waste - not our pain, not our scars, not even our stumbles. This truth resonates deep within me. Christmas, a time that should be filled with joy, can often stir up feelings of sadness or stress for many. It's a season where loneliness, financial strain, and life's challenges can cast a shadow. I believe this stems from a collective forgetfulness of the true reason for this festive season: the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Melinda and I have always emphasized the significance of celebrating Christmas as the day Jesus entered the world. We instilled this value in our children and crafted numerous family traditions around this core belief. In 2004, we embarked on a musical journey by recording the Jernigan Family Christmas album, a testament to our devotion. I aimed to blend traditional Christmas carols with my own compositions, pouring our hearts into every note.

Among the gems on this album is a medley featuring three beloved carols: "O, Come All Ye Faithful," "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing," and "O, Little Town of Bethlehem." And who better to harmonize with than my lifelong singing partner, my wife Melinda? Her voice is pure magic to my ears, and the unity we share while singing fills me with boundless joy. But before we serenade you with this medley, let's take a quick trip down memory lane to explore the rich history of each timeless song.

The hymn "O Come All Ye Faithful" (Adeste Fideles) has seen its authorship attributed to various figures over time, from St. Bonaventure in the 13th century to King John IV of Portugal in the 17th. However, the prevalent belief points to the text originating from Cistercian monks, with different provinces of this order in Germany, Portugal, or Spain receiving credit at different periods.

In contemporary hymnals, the credit for the text often goes to John Francis Wade, whose name is linked to the earliest printed versions. Wade, an English Catholic residing in France as an exile, earned a living by copying musical manuscripts found in libraries. His exquisite calligraphy likely prompted clients to request his signature on the copies he produced. In 1751, he compiled his manuscript copies into a printed work titled Cantus Diversi pro Dominicis et Festis per annum (Songs for Sundays and Holidays Through the Year), marking the first printed source for Adeste Fideles.

On the other hand, the iconic hymn "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing" traces back to Charles Wesley, who penned it as a "Hymn for Christmas-Day" included in the 1739 collection Hymns and Sacred Poems by John Wesley. The initial stanza heralds the birth of Jesus, with Wesley's original composition commencing with the line "Hark how all the Welkin (heaven) rings." It was the adaptation by George Whitefield in his 1754 Collection of Hymns for Social Worship that transformed it into the familiar "Hark! the Herald Angels sing." Another alteration occurred in the 1782 publication of the Tate and Brady New Version of the Psalms of David, where Whitefield's version with the repeated line "Hark! the Herald Angels sing/ Glory to the newborn king" at the end of each stanza emerged, shaping the rendition we commonly hear today.

Wrapping up our festive hymn journey, we arrive at the enchanting tale behind "O Little Town of Bethlehem." Crafted from an 1868 text penned by Phillips Brooks, this carol has captured hearts on both sides of the Atlantic, albeit set to different melodies. In the United States, it dances to the tune christened "St. Louis" by Brooks' creative partner, Lewis Redner. Meanwhile, across the pond in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Ireland, it finds harmony with "Forest Green," a melody unearthed by Ralph Vaughan Williams and introduced in the 1906 English Hymnal.

The lyrical beauty of "O Little Town of Bethlehem" unfolded from the mind of Phillips Brooks (1835–1893), an Episcopal priest who served as the rector of Church of the Holy Trinity in Philadelphia before leading Trinity Church in Boston. His inspiration for the carol struck during a visit to the Bethlehem village within the Sanjak of Jerusalem in 1865. Three years after this profound encounter, he penned the poem for his congregation, with his talented organist Lewis Redner (1831–1908) weaving in the music.

And now, for a delightful anecdote straight from the pen of organist Lewis Redner himself. Prepare to be inspired by his words as he sheds light on the creative spark behind this cherished carol.

“As Christmas of 1868 approached, Mr. Brooks told me that he had written a simple little carol for the Christmas Sunday-school service, and he asked me to write the tune to it. The simple music was written in great haste and under great pressure. We were to practice it on the following Sunday. Mr. Brooks came to me on Friday, and said, "Redner, have you ground out that music yet to 'O Little Town of Bethlehem'?" I replied, "No", but that he should have it by Sunday. On the Saturday night previous my brain was all confused about the tune. I thought more about my Sunday-school lesson than I did about the music. But I was roused from sleep late in the night hearing an angel-strain whispering in my ear, and seizing a piece of music paper I jotted down the treble of the tune as we now have it, and on Sunday morning before going to church I filled in the harmony. Neither Mr. Brooks nor I ever thought the carol or the music to it would live beyond that Christmas of 1868.”

That is amazing to me that the writers of this beloved Carol never thought it would live beyond that Christmas of 1868. Simply amazing.

I love sharing the stories behind songs and hymns. It's like getting to hear them come to life. And I hope you have enjoyed the little glimpse behind the scenes of these beloved Christmas carols and that they would help enhance your times of personal worship in the coming holidays.

Why don't we take some time now and sing these three beautiful carols and take our minds off of the cares of this world and fix our eyes upon the reason for the season, Jesus Christ. You will find the link to hear the medley below.

Have a most blessed Christmas in spite of your circumstances. Jesus is God With Us in the midst of those circumstances. If you ask me, that makes for a very merry Christmas. Now go and be who Father says you are.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of today’s blog and to sing along, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/carol-medley-118102280

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2018/11/27/19/51/religion-3842228_1280.jpg

“Hallelujah! to the Baby Who Came”

The word ‘hallelujah’ literally means ‘praise the Lord. It is not some meaningless word meant to fill up musical space in a song. When I think of or sing that word, I am always filled with joy when I use it. It is not a word I take lightly. During this season - Christmas - we have so much to be grateful for, first and foremost being the advent of Christ, our Savior. Today I am going to be sharing the story of how one of my favorite Christmas songs was born. That song? “Hallelujah! to the Baby Who Came”.

The coming of Jesus had long been prophesied so many times in the Old Testament. As a case in point, picture this: a child born to us, a son given to us; a name that rings out - Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. That's Isaiah 9:6 for you.

Now, let's backtrack a bit. For a couple of years, I had been making my way to Oral Roberts University every Thursday, mentoring students on everything from songwriting to life's big questions. One fine Thursday afternoon (which happened to be November 8, 2012), with a gap in my schedule, I sat at the keys and let the music flow. Before I knew it, I was belting out a sweet, simple melody about a baby born in a manger, here to be our solid ground. The first verse and chorus? Landed in my lap just like that. Hallelujah!

As the days went by and I kept singing, it dawned on me - this was a worship chorus tailor-made for celebrating Christ's birth. Fast forward to teaching it at my home church - and let me tell you, the glory of God? It rained down in that place. After worship that night, my wife, Melinda, asks the question: "Did you plan that bridge to lead folks into singing from the heart - singing in the Spirit?“ And I just grinned, "You bet I did!"

I get it, not everyone feels at ease belting out tunes on the fly. Cue the bridge, inspired by the Lord, nudging me to slip in the innocent phrase 'Merry Christmas' to ease folks into that spontaneous, heart-to-heart melody to the Lord. So, picture this - as the layers of melody and lyrics start to weave their way into needy human hearts, it's like this invitation to just let loose and lift the Lord up with your own spontaneous praises. My hope? That, just like the atmosphere in my cozy living room church, you'll truly feel that divine glory as you pour your heart out in worship to Jesus with this song.

Here's a little nugget from Luke 2:4-7 for you: Joseph, the man from Galilee, made the trek to Bethlehem with Mary, who was due any moment. And in that humble setting, Mary birthed her firstborn, swaddling Him in cloths and laying Him in a manger - no room at the inn, remember?

As we gear up for the weeks ahead, let's make it all about Jesus - celebrating His birth and all the goodness He's poured into our lives. How? By carving out that special space for Him in the deepest corners of our souls, in every nook and cranny of our existence. Let's deck the halls of our hearts with His presence. And remember, go and be who your heavenly Father says you are and sing “Hallelujah! to the Baby Who Came”!

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song “Hallelujah! to the Baby Who Came”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/hallelujah-to-117625704

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2024/05/03/14/21/ai-generated-8737159_1280.png

Extreme Gratitude

We define gratitude as ‘the quality of being thankful with a readiness to show appreciation for something or to someone and being ready to return kindness.' In God’s Word we are encouraged to give thanks in everything.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NASB

16 Rejoice always,

17 pray without ceasing,

18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

What does everything mean? It means EVERYTHING! Even when have been emotionally wounded? Even when we face physical difficulties such as Parkinson’s (which I personally deal with)? Regardless of our circumstances we are to express gratitude to God. Why is that? Simply put, God causes all things to work together for our good…and He walks through those circumstances WITH us. We are never alone.

Romans 8:28 NASB

28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.

When we learn to see and live our lives from God’s point of view, we tend to develop an attitude of gratitude. Expressing our gratitude to God makes us very aware of His presence with us and opens a channel between us through which He pours out his grace upon us to take the next step. He meets us right where we are - but loves us enough to not leave us there. We find it easier to give god thanks in all things, but not so easy to give God thanks FOR all things.

Ephesians 5:15-21 NASB

15 So then, be careful how you walk, not as unwise people but as wise,

16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil.

17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord [is.]

18 And do not get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,

19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your hearts to the Lord;

20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to [our] God and Father;

21 and subject yourselves to one another in the fear of Christ.

Why would God want us to give thanks for bad things that happen to us? I believe it is because He wastes nothing…and when we have an attitude of gratitude even FOR all things we must endure in this life we are able to put down the lies of the enemy that constantly come against us. Gratitude is, in a sense, part of the armor of God we have in our arsenal by which we defeat the liar and walk in the light of truth - and truth sets us free.

I encourage you to give God thanks in all things and for all things and walk in freedom. That’s extreme gratitude - and it looks good on us. It is a choice, but we are people of choice. Just give thanks. That’s what I am choosing to do.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog, just go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/extreme-gratitude-an-interview-with-author-rick-carr/

Phot courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2019/03/29/05/12/worship-4088561_1280.jpg

Always Be Grateful

Now, get this - for several months before our eleventh grandchild, a little boy, was born, I had already started affectionately calling him Theodore or Theo. Anytime our daughter and son-in-law were around, I'd ask, "How is Theodore doing?" Little did I know, that was the baby's actual name! Can you imagine the surprise on their faces when they finally had to pull me aside and ask me to stop using the name, because that was indeed the name they had chosen?

Well, Theodore Fox Songer made his grand entrance into the world on January 14, 2019 at 11:58 AM. My wife, Melinda, had spent the entire night supporting our daughter and son-in-law in the delivery room, while I, having been driven to the point of exhaustion due to Parkinson’s, had to catch some shut-eye in the car. Needless to say, neither of us got much rest that night.

After saying our goodbyes, we embarked on the 2-hour drive back home. To keep myself awake, I started praying for little Theo, and asking the Lord to bless him - especially in light of my own health challenges, including damaged vocal cords and a Parkinson's disease diagnosis. The words "always be grateful" just kept flowing through my mind.

By the time we arrived home, I had received the gift of a brand new song - born on the very same day as my grandson, January 14, 2019. I recorded it the very next day, and our daughter even played it for Theo that same evening. Hearing that he had already listened to the song lifted my heart to heights I cannot even begin to describe.

This song holds such deep significance for me and my family - whether they fully realize it or not. You see, far too often we allow the enemy to shift our focus to what we don't have, rather than appreciating the abundant blessings all around us. And let me tell you, that one perspective leads straight to despair, while the other opens the door to true, abundant life.

By the way, did you know that the name Theodore means "God's gift"? Well, let me tell you, that's exactly what our eleventh grandchild, little Theo, is - a precious gift from God Almighty. And I, my friends, am a truly blessed man.

As the scripture says in Ephesians 5:20, "And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Now, when I say "everything," I mean EVERYTHING - even the challenges, like my Parkinson's diagnosis.

You see, when I dwell on the Parkinson's, I can easily slip into a deep depression. But when I choose to focus on using this as a catalyst to draw even closer to Christ, I find that a wave of pure joy floods my entire being. I have so much to be grateful for, my list is simply too long to bore you with. But the key is this: I choose to focus on what I have, rather than what I don’t.

My greatest joy comes when I shift my focus outward, to the needs of others. That's why I plan to never stop ministering in some way, shape, or form. My best advice? Fix your eyes on Jesus, and not on your circumstances. It's when we keep our gaze steadily on Him that our deepest needs are met.

You see, for me, gratitude is the quickest path to the very center of God's heart, and the surest way to battle depression. Having a grateful heart and attitude is like taking a couple of big, joyful bounces on a diving board. As I express my thankfulness to the Lord, my heart springs high into the atmosphere, soaring over the troubles of life, and plunging me right into the deepest, most intimate place in God's presence.

Through every heartache and hardship, you can instantly reset your attitude by going back to the default settings of a new creation in Christ. It's really quite simple, my friends - have a thankful heart, and always, always be grateful.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast of this blog, just go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/always-be-115345283

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2015/08/13/20/06/flower-887443_1280.jpg

I Choose Joy

I'm honored to share a story with you today - one that emerged from the midst of my own trials.

You see, it was just four months after my Parkinson's disease diagnosis that this particular song - I Choose Joy - came to me on April 12, 2019, a gift amidst the challenges I was facing. With a diagnosis like that, and the added burden of vocal cord damage, it would be all too easy to succumb to a self-focused mentality of "poor me" or "why me?" But the utter reality is that we have a choice in how we respond to the circumstances we face.

I know firsthand how easy it is to become consumed by negative thoughts, allowing them to fester and grow like an infection that never heals. It's like becoming the Dead Sea, taking in the debris of "stinking thinking" without ever flushing it out. But I'm here to tell you that God wastes nothing - not our sorrows, not our wounds, not even our failures.

This song, you see, is my attempt at focusing on what is good, right, true, and pure, despite my circumstances. It is a confession of truth to my own soul, a reminder that we get to choose what we think about and how we respond. And my prayer is that as you listen, it will do the same for you.

You know, whatever we choose to focus on, whatever thoughts we put or allow in our minds, that's exactly what we're going to get out of it. It's like the old saying goes - "Garbage in, garbage out." But on the flip side, "Joy in, joy out!”

And that's exactly the approach I'm going to share with you today. You see, there's this powerful verse from Philippians 4:8 that's really become a guiding light for me:

"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.”

Isn't that just incredible? It's all about taking control of our own thoughts, choosing to focus on what's good, right, and true. Because when we do that, it transforms our entire mindset and outlook…and brings with it joy!

1 Peter 1:3-9 NASB

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to [obtain] an inheritance [which is] imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in [the] last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which perishes though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

I urge you to choose to walk in joy today - in spite of your circumstances.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog as well as the song, I Choose Joy, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/i-choose-joy-114868539

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/11/29/09/49/blonde-1868815_1280.jpg

Atom Bomb

I am so excited to share the story behind the song, Atom Bomb, from my new album called, Sanctuary, yet hesitant at the same time. It is a difficult song to sing because it brings up hurtful memories for me but, at the same time, it brings much inner healing. This song came to me just a couple of weeks before Christmas on December 9, 2021. The story behind the song is one of shattered dreams and broken hearts and came on the heels of the diagnosis of Parkinson’s I had received less than 2 years earlier.

You know, as I reflect back on the events that inspired this track, I can practically feel the weight of those shattered dreams, the heaviness of those broken hearts. It's as if the very air around us has been charged with an electric current of emotion - one moment serene and peaceful, the next, rocked by the tremors of life's most devastating blows.

Just imagine the scene: your dear friend, watching helplessly as her mother slips away, the grief palpable, the sorrow etched into every crease of her face. And then, the unimaginable news of a child violated, the shame and fear paralyzing her, leaving her feeling utterly alone. It's enough to make your heart ache, isn't it?

And then, as if that weren't enough, the news of a family torn apart, a grandchild lost, the finality of that decision reverberating through their lives like the shockwave of an atom bomb. You can almost hear the cries of anguish, see the tears streaming down their faces, can't you?

It's in the midst of these earth-shattering moments that we find ourselves questioning everything - our faith, our purpose, our very identity. How could a good God allow such pain to infiltrate the lives of those we love? Where is the hope, the refuge, the intimacy we so desperately crave?

But you know, my friends, even in the darkest of valleys, even when the bombs of life seem to be raining down all around us, there is one truth that remains steadfast: God wastes nothing. Not our sorrows, not our wounds, not even our failures. Instead, He takes those shattered pieces and weaves them into a tapestry of redemption, a masterpiece of grace.

And it is with that unwavering hope that we press on, trusting that the One Who holds the universe in the palm of His hand will guide us through, will carry us when we can no longer walk. For when we find our refuge in Him, we discover that there is no challenge too great, no obstacle too daunting, for the one who makes even the demons tremble at the sound of His name.

So, let's dive in, shall we? Let's unpack the story behind this powerful song and see how the God of all comfort can transform our deepest wounds into sources of unshakable strength. I can't wait to share this journey with you.

During the same period of time we heard the aforementioned stories from heartbroken friends, Melinda and I received some devastating news of our own just 2 weeks before Christmas. Can you just imagine the look on our faces, the pain etched into every feature, as someone we hold very dear renounced their faith in the very God we'd built our life upon? It felt like the foundations of our world were crumbling beneath our feet, leaving us grasping for any semblance of stability. The weight of those words were utterly crushing, like a punch to the gut that left us breathless and reeling.

And then, to have that news delivered in such a matter-of-fact, out-of-the-blue way - it's no wonder it felt so life-shattering. If I were taking to you right now, the tremor you would hear in my voice, the crack of emotion, is not due to Parkinson’s. As I tell this story I am still trying to process the magnitude of what was said. It's as if the very air in the room has been sucked out, leaving me struggling to catch my breath.

But amidst the devastation, the glimmer of hope that our relationship remains intact - that is truly a lifeline. A reminder that even in the midst of the storm, there is still light to be found, still reasons to cling to. It's as if you can feel that thread of connection, that unwavering bond, keeping me tethered to the one I love, no matter how turbulent the waters may become.

And then, just when I thought I couldn't bear another blow, the news of my nephew's brain tumor - it's enough to make my heart sink, to have that familiar ache of grief well up within me once more. The thought of my brother, already reeling from the loss of his wife, now facing the possible loss of his only son - it was almost too much to bear. Even now, saying those words causes my hands to tremble as my mind tries to process this latest devastating development.

But then, the glimmer of hope - the successful surgery, the benign diagnosis, the possibility of a better future. It's as if the clouds had parted, and a ray of sunshine had broken through, illuminating the path forward. Our family breathed a collective sigh of relief, the sense of renewed energy and purpose, as my nephew embarked on his road to recovery, transformed in ways I never could have imagined.

When we encounter various trials and the emotions that go with them that threaten to overwhelm us, the rawness of those emotions, the vulnerability of those moments - it's enough to make your heart ache, isn't it? The harsh words spoken, the wounds inflicted, the fear and anxiety that seem to permeate every corner of your life. It's as if you can practically feel the weight of it all bearing down on you, crushing the very breath from your lungs.

And in the midst of that devastation, that sense of utter hopelessness, the questions that plague your mind - how can one possibly hold on to their faith when it feels like everything has been reduced to rubble, like the debris of an atom bomb has been scattered all around you? It's enough to make you want to curl up and hide, to shut out the world and all its pain.

But then, you remember - you have a safe place to fall apart, a refuge in the arms of the One who knows you better than you know yourself. You can almost feel the warmth of His embrace, the gentle whispers of reassurance that wash over you, reminding you that your identity, your very worth, is not defined by the circumstances that seek to destroy you, but by the unwavering love of the God who created you.

In those moments when the world seems to be crumbling all around you, you have the steadfast truth to cling to - that your God is with you, that He loves you, and that He will never waste the pain you endure. It's as if you can feel the weight of those words, the power behind them, like a soothing balm for your weary soul.

And it is from that place of unshakable faith, that wellspring of hope, that you find the strength to pour out your heart, to give voice to the emotions that threaten to overwhelm you. The words of the song that came out of these events, they're like a lifeline, a beacon in the darkness, offering solace to those who find themselves in the midst of their own devastating "atom bomb" moments.

My friend, in these times of shattering, when it feels like everything has been destroyed, may you find comfort in the knowledge that you are not alone. That the God who holds the universe in the palm of His hand is the same God who holds you, who weeps with you, who promises to make all things new. For it is in the darkest valleys that the light of His love shines the brightest, guiding us home, restoring us, and reminding us that He truly does waste nothing.

In the midst of these emotional atom bombs, these earth-shattering moments that leave us questioning everything, it is in these very trials that we find the opportunity to deepen our trust, to strengthen our faith, to discover the unshakable refuge that can only be found in the arms of our Savior. For it is in the darkest valleys that the light of His love shines the brightest, guiding us through the storm and into the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

I cherish the comfort and reassurance found in those timeless words from Romans 8:28 - “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.” The Word of God is like a warm embrace, wrapping us in the promise that even in the midst of the most devastating circumstances, our God is at work, weaving together a tapestry of redemption and restoration. I hope you can feel the weight of that truth, the solidity of it, as it settles deep within your soul. I encourage you to take a few minutes and listen to the song, “Atom Bomb”, and lay your broken heart and all your burdens at His feet.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/atom-bomb/

Photo Courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2012/11/28/09/32/explosion-67557_1280.jpg

Tried By Fire

During the month of January 2022, one of my sons was thrust into a horrible ordeal that would take nearly a year to get through…and all I could do was watch and offer comfort and support. One of the first things the Lord gave me for him came in the form of a song on July 14, 2022. As a dad, I wanted to ‘fix’ the problem, but realized very quickly that I could not - would not - be able to do so. The details are not mine to share, but he has given me permission to share the basics.

He was wounded emotionally and mentally and had his faith severely tested to the point of questioning all he believed in. His suffering was intense and overwhelming to the point of feeling defeated and feeling like giving up. He moved back home and set up a portion of my studio as his own work station and worked from home - in the same room as me - for a year. For me, it was like I had died and gone to heaven…just working ‘shoulder to shoulder’ with my son. A treasure I will not soon forget.

Through the course of that entire year we had many one on one conversations in which he bared his heart to me. After several such encounters, he asked me what I thought about what he was having to go through. I told him that the pain he and our family were going through was worth it for the sheer amount of intimacy and honesty and love I felt between him and me. That may sound selfish in a way, but it is the truth of how I felt…especially given that I have Parkinson’s and life seems somehow more precious than ever to me.

His birthday is July 15. As I pondered what to give him as a token of my love for him, the Lord filled my heart with the words and melody of the first verse and chorus of a song and I recorded and gave it to him. In January of 2023 - almost exactly a year after his fiery trial had begun - the Lord gave me the second verse. I added it to the previous recording and sent it to him again as a way of saying how proud I was of him for the way he faced the fire and came out shining like gold.

God’s Word urges us to pray Psalm 26:2 which says:

Examine me, LORD, and put me to the test;

Refine my mind and my heart.

1 Peter 1:3-9 NASB 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to [obtain] an inheritance [which is] imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in [the] last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which perishes though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9 NASB

A year after all this began, my son moved back to the city he now calls home, tried and tested by fire, and a shining example of how to live honestly with an adventurous joyful, attitude and extend love to others he meets along the way. May this song encourage you to do the same.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/tried-by-fire-113979141

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2018/02/25/14/30/bronze-cast-3180684_1280.jpg

Relentless

Now, today, I'm going to be sharing the story behind my song, "Relentless," from the worship recording, "Sanctuary." The story behind this song is so personally encouraging to me that I wanted to share it with you. It came to me on March 2, 2009 after watching a movie that left me sobbing in the theater.

A film that has really resonated with me on a deep, emotional level is the 2009 masterpiece, "Slumdog Millionaire." From the moment the opening credits rolled and that pulsing, rhythmic score filled the theater, I was absolutely captivated by the story unfolding before me.

As I sat there, I could practically feel the oppressive heat and gritty energy of the bustling Mumbai slums where the film is set. The sights and sounds were so vividly rendered - the crowded, winding alleyways, the cacophony of voices and honking horns, the glimpses of vibrant colors amidst the urban decay. And at the heart of it all was the story of Jamal, an orphaned young man whose unwavering determination to reconnect with his childhood love, Latika, just pulled me in completely.

The way their relationship was portrayed, the bittersweet ebb and flow of their lives intertwining and then being torn apart - it was all so powerfully emotive. And when Jamal finally finds Latika again as an adult, scarred from the trauma she's endured, her face disfigured, his immediate, instinctive response to kiss her scar…the place of her greatest pain and source of shame…it just broke my heart open in the most beautiful way.

As I watched that scene unfold, I was suddenly struck by the parallel to my own relationship with the Lord. Just like Jamal found Latika, I didn't find God - He found me. I was the lost one, the wounded one, and yet His love pursued me relentlessly, even when I tried to turn away. That realization hit me with such force, it was almost overwhelming.

I could see so clearly the many times in my own life where God had come after me, refusing to let me go, loving me through my scars and brokenness with a grace that was truly unfathomable. His relentless passion, His unwavering commitment to redeeming me - it was all there on display in that simple, poignant gesture between Jamal and Latika.

It was in that moment that the song "Relentless" was born in my heart. I knew I had to capture that essence, that all-consuming love that refuses to be denied, and weave it into the tapestry of my album, "Sanctuary." Because that's the kind of love that transforms lives, that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

This film gave me a big picture point of view of the reality of the fact that God has always been pursuing me and has never stopped in that pursuit. His love is truly relentless.

"Slumdog Millionaire" is the kind of cinematic experience that burrows its way deep into your being, awakening something profound within you. The way it speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of unconditional love to heal even the deepest wounds - it's the stuff that great art is made of. And I'm forever grateful that it crossed my path, inspiring me to dig deeper into my own creative well and give voice to the relentless, redemptive love of God that never stops pursuing us.

Luke 19:10 says it like this:

"For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/relentless-113541275

Photo courtesy of https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=6590bfce35d1c64e&q=pictures+from+Slumdog+Millionaire&udm=2&source=univ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjw05CuzoGJAxVT4ckDHa-7BNgQnN8JegQILhAD&biw=1574&bih=895&dpr=2#vhid=2MjPCVF1Ys8leM&vssid=mosaic

When I Fell in Love with You

I suppose you wonder why I write so much about my music - and that is a fair thing to wonder about. Every song that I have received or written has been born out of my relationship, in one way or another, with Jesus Christ. In a sense, my music has become my personal journal of my journey through life - and I write about what I know. One of my greatest joys is sharing the stories behind those songs in the hope that you would find the same healing and redemption and freedom that I have found in knowing Jesus Christ personally.

Of all the songs I've ever written, this week’s tune holds a unique place in my heart. It expresses the deep, intimate connection I've come to know with the Lord in a way that no other song of mine ever has. And honestly, I truly believe it captures the boundless love that Jesus Christ has for every single human being who has ever existed or will ever exist.

The song is called "When I Fell in Love with You," and it came to me way back on May 2, 1994. As I write this blog, that means this song is now over 30 years old - and yet, to this day, it still gives me goosebumps when I hear it. It's dedicated to Bethesda Community Church in Fort Worth, Texas, as well as the worship pastor there at the time, J. Daniel Smith.

I met Dan through the worship leader for the James Robison Bible Conferences, Jeanne Rogers. Jeanne was one of the first public figures to start using my music, and Dan was her musical arranger. James and Betty Robison also gave my music a huge platform to launch from, and I'll be forever grateful for their support.

In the years leading up to 1994, I had the privilege of serving as the worship pastor at Western Hills Church in Oklahoma City (today it is known as Together Church). But in 1993, I stepped down from that role, and my music began to take off in an overwhelming way. Suddenly, I found myself dumbfounded that people were truly worshiping God through the songs I had written. It was during one of those overwhelming moments that I began to cry out to God, asking for His help to keep from burning out.

Melinda and I were preparing for the birth of our eighth and ninth children, and we were also getting ready to record our Christmas album, "Like Christmas All Year 'Round," which was produced by none other than J. Daniel Smith. On top of that, I was being invited to minister in churches all across the nation. It was all becoming a bit too much to handle, so I had no choice but to turn to the Lord for help. And He did not let me down.

As I prayed, I felt a deep impression, a clear leading from the Holy Spirit, to get back to the very first things in my relationship with God. I felt a profound compulsion to return to my first love - that initial, passionate connection I had cultivated with the Lord.

And just what was, or is, my first love? The simple answer is Jesus. In fact, it was around this time that my spiritual mentor, Jack Taylor, gave me some of the best advice I have ever received. He said to me, "Dennis, don't seek a ministry. Seek Jesus. It is in the seeking of Jesus and the ever-deepening relationship developed with Him that true ministry to others is born.”

As I reflect on those words, I can still feel the weight and wisdom they carried. In that moment, it was as if a veil was lifted, and I was reminded of the foundational truth that should guide my life and work - that my primary focus should be on cultivating an intimate, abiding connection with the Lord, not just building a platform or pursuing accolades.

In that pivotal moment, I was reminded that the true wellspring of any genuine ministry must flow from a heart that is fully surrendered to Christ. It's not about seeking the spotlight or building an impressive resume, but rather about maintaining an unwavering focus on Jesus and allowing Him to work through me in ways that bring glory to His name.

This profound insight from my dear friend and mentor Jack Taylor was a turning point for me. It set the trajectory for the song "When I Fell in Love with You" and, in many ways, for the entire trajectory of my life and ministry. For in rediscovering that first, fervent love for my Savior, I found the inspiration and the anointing to create music that truly touches the hearts of those who hear it.

1 John 4:18-19 in the NASB says, 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. 19 We love, because He first loved us.

Jesus was my first love, so I had to lay all other loves aside and place them in proper order - God, marriage, children, church, and others. I had to come to the place where I recognized that any fame, popularity, or blessing that came about as a result of my music had to pass through the filter of my love for Jesus and my love for His Word. The bottom line of my life became quite simple: this life is not about me, it is about God and others.

The most important step in getting my heart and mind back to my first love was to simply recall how far into sin I had fallen, and how Jesus had never stopped pursuing me - ever. I needed to recall the massiveness of His love for me when He broke my hardened heart on November 7, 1981. I can still vividly remember the sensation of His presence, the weight of His words as He spoke to my heart and mind, saying, "Dennis, I see the things you are so ashamed of; the wounds, the depth of depravity, the abuse, the betrayals, the things you think you can hide from me. The truth is, I see all those things, and I love you anyway. I love you right where you are, but love you enough to not leave you there.”

In that moment, with my heart standing naked and exposed, yet clothed in the unfathomable love of my Savior, I fell in love with Him. It was in that sacred encounter that this song was born - a song that has become a tangible expression of the transformative power of Christ's relentless pursuit of our hearts. The melody, the lyrics, the very essence of the song, all flowed from that pivotal moment when I rediscovered the boundless depths of my first love.

The words seemed to flow effortlessly, as if guided by the very hand of God. I could feel the Holy Spirit stirring within me, giving voice to the depths of my heart's longing to know Christ more deeply, to bask in the warmth of His unfailing love.

The sounds of my fingers gliding across the keys of the piano, the gentle hum of a mind set at peace, the way the chords seemed to resonate with the very rhythm of my soul - all of these sensory details are seared into my memory. I was lost in a sacred moment, acutely aware of the Lord's presence surrounding me.

As the song unfolded, I found myself transported to a place of profound worship, my spirit soaring with a newfound appreciation for the boundless love our Savior has for each of us. As I said, it was as if the veil had been lifted, and I was granted a glimpse into the immensity of Christ's love.

Matthew 6:33 in the NASB says, 33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.”

And just how do we seek first his kingdom and his righteousness? We seek first the king! We seek Jesus in every aspect of our lives and in the process we have all of our needs met. After all, the deepest need of every human heart is to know and to be known and the ultimate experience of that deepest need being met is through an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through simple faith.

That day, on May 2, 1994, something profound happened. A song was birthed that has continued to touch the hearts of countless individuals over the past three decades. And for me, it remains a tangible reminder of the power of returning to that first, fervent love for my Lord and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or left feeling crippled with shame or feeling unloved or unlovable, listen to this week’s song a few times and make it personal to you and your circumstances and let the truth of those lyrics set you free. You are so massively loved. Now go and be who your Father says you are.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear re song, "When I Fell in Love with You”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/when-i-fell-in-112608459

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2021/11/25/08/52/mountains-6822937_1280.jpg

Run To The Battle

Now, today, I'm going to be sharing the story behind my song, "Run to the Battle," from the live worship recording, "Here In Your Presence." The story behind this song is so personally encouraging to me that I wanted to share it with you. It all started back on September 16, 2008, when I was feeling a little disheartened after hearing about a popular Christian artist's decision to embrace an alternate identity.

Let me paint the picture for you - I'm sitting there, minding my own business, when suddenly my inbox starts blowing up with people asking me what I thought about the whole situation. After several such emails and texts, I began hearing this melody - like a battlecry f deep down inside - and the words were just pouring out of my soul, like a spiritual geyser of warfare-themed songs.

I mean, talk about a spiritual rally, it was like God was lighting a fire under my feet, reminding me that the fight for freedom is always worth it, no matter how tired or battle-worn and weary I might get. Because when I think about the alternative - just surrendering to the old life and waving the white flag - it makes my heart feel a pang of defeat.

I've learned that the key is to not wait for the battle to come to you. Nope, you gotta run straight towards it, storming the gates of hell with the confidence that comes from knowing the victory is already ours. I mean, think about it - did David wait for Goliath to come to him? Heck no, he charged straight at that giant! And when Jesus faced the cross, did He cower in fear? Absolutely not, He ran headlong into that redemption, because He knew it was the only way to save us.

Alright, let's talk about overcoming that old identity of ours - you know, the one where we're constantly feeling like the victim, just cowering in the shadow of our fears and letting them dictate our every move? The day I confronted my fear was the day I truly embraced the truth of who God says I am, that's when the game changed.

Picture this - I'm standing face-to-face with the giant of same sex attraction and the fear of what others might think of me for confessing such a temptation - staring it down with the full force of the resurrection power and redeeming love of Jesus Christ. And you know what? That selfish, fear-mongering giant didn't stand a chance! Because when you've got the King of kings on your side, the victory is already sealed.

This song, "Run to the Battle," it just sets my soul on fire, you guys. It's a spiritual rally cry, a battle cry that says, "Enough is enough! No more cowering, no more letting fear call the shots. Today, we run headfirst into the fight!" Because let's be real, how often do we let those giants in our lives just steamroll over us, when all along we had the truth on our side?

Well, my friends, the time has come to stop playing the victim and start embracing our true identity as victors. I mean, just listen to these words from Romans 8: "In all these things, we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us." Nothing can separate us from the love of God, not death, not life, not even the most fearsome giants we face.

So, let's do this, believers. Let's stop letting fear dictate our every move and start running towards the battles head-on. Let's face those giants with the truth, with the confidence that comes from knowing we were born again to win. Because when you've got the truth on your side, the victory is already yours. So what are you waiting for? The battle is calling, and it's time to answer the charge!

So, my friends, the next time you're facing a giant in your life, don't let fear take away the victory that's just within your reach. Run to the battle, storm those gates, and watch as God turns your mess into a masterpiece. Because trust me, when you've got the King of kings on your side, the victory is already yours.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast of this blog and to hear the song, “Run To The Battle”, just go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/run-to-battle-112167649

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2021/08/01/21/03/battle-6515349_1280.jpg

Only Jesus

Today we're going to dive into the story behind my song "Only Jesus" from the album Days of Awe. This song was born on December 7, 2011 as a battle cry against the enemy, but most importantly, as an exaltation of Jesus Christ, my Defender.

As I sit here, I can almost feel the weight of that day - the heaviness in the air, the tension palpable. But then, in the midst of the darkness, the most glorious light began to shine. The melody started to bubble up from deep within, and the words flowed like a river of truth, washing over my soul.

"Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can save. Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can heal." The refrain echoed through the room, filling it with a sense of power and purpose. I could almost hear the chains of bondage beginning to rattle and fall away.

Friends, no matter what you're facing, no matter how overwhelming the circumstances may seem, I want you to cling to this truth - Jesus is your Defender, your Healer, your Refuge. He is the only One who can truly set you free.

So take a deep breath, let the weight of the world slip from your shoulders, and join me as we dive into this powerful story. Let the music wash over you, restoring your soul and renewing your hope. For in Jesus, we have everything we need.

Have you ever felt like giving up? Like you're shouting into the howling wind, your voice lost in the wilderness? Have you ever felt the weight of the world bearing down on you, the hatred of the world seemingly all around you, until you just want to throw in the towel and surrender?

I know that feeling all too well. In fact, that's exactly where I found myself when this song, "Only Jesus," came to be. The darkness was closing in, the discouragement seeping into the very depths of my soul. I felt so alone, like a lone voice crying out in the vast expanse, desperately longing for an answer, for a glimmer of hope.

But then, as I reflected on the life of King David, I was reminded that I was not the first to walk this path. In 1 Samuel 30, we read of a moment when David must have felt the very same way - his encampment burned, his loved ones taken captive, the weight of the world seemingly crushing him. And yet, the scripture tells us that "David found strength in the Lord his God.”

1 Samuel 30:6 NASB says, Moreover David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.

As I sat there, the weight of that truth settling upon me, the melody began to flow. The words spilled forth, a battle cry against the enemy, a declaration of the only true source of refuge and strength. "Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can save. Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can heal.”

I could feel the tension in the air, the heaviness lifting with each note, each word. It was as if the very atmosphere was shifting, the chains of bondage beginning to rattle and fall away. In that moment, I was reminded that no matter how dark the night, no matter how fierce the storm, Jesus is our Defender, our Healer, our Refuge.

So take heart. When the world seems to be crashing in around you, remember the words of this song. Cling to the truth that in Jesus, we have everything we need. He is the only One who can truly set us free.

Oh, how I find such profound encouragement in the story of David, my friends! When the world seemed to be crashing in around him, when all hope appeared to be lost, David chose to dig his heels in and cling to the truth. Rather than succumbing to the lies of the enemy and giving in to despair, he lifted his voice in praise, declaring, "Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”

I can almost feel the weight of that moment, the heaviness in the air as David and his men stared into the abyss. But then, like a beacon in the darkness, the truth of God's faithfulness shone through. They didn't give up; they pressed forward, placing their hope in the Lord. And do you know what happened? They not only recovered all that had been stolen, but they emerged victorious.

You see, we serve the same God as David. The same God who carried him through the darkest of valleys is the God we can cling to in our own times of trial. When the world around us turns its back on God, when the wisdom of man seems to reign supreme, we must learn to do as David did - to focus on the truth, to place our hope in the one true Way, the one true Savior.

And that is what this song, "Only Jesus," is all about. It's a declaration, a battle cry against the lies of the enemy, a proclamation that Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to the Father. In a world that offers so many false paths, so many empty promises, we must stand firm in the truth that there is only one Name under heaven by which we can be saved.

So let us lift our voices together, my friends, and sing out this truth. Let the world hear our cry, "Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can save. Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can heal." For in Him, and Him alone, we find true, lasting hope. In Him, and Him alone, we find the refuge we so desperately need.

As I reflect on the power and the truth of this message, I am utterly awestruck. For there is indeed only one Hope for all of mankind - the mighty name of Jesus Christ. No other prophet, no other god, has dared to declare themselves the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No other deity has made the way to reconcile mankind to the Father, to deal with the stain of sin that separates us from the divine.

I can almost feel the weight of that truth settling upon us, can sense the heaviness in the air as we confront the reality that there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved. Yet, in the midst of this sobering realization, there is a glimmer of hope that shines forth like a beacon in the darkness.

For this God, this King of kings and Lord of lords, chose to lay down His very life for us. He rode the winds, His voice thundering like the heavens, and yet He humbled Himself to walk among us, to live in and through us. What other deity would make such a sacrifice, would risk everything to restore the broken relationship between creation and Creator?

As I ponder these things, my heart swells with gratitude, with a deep and abiding reverence for the One who has conquered sin and death. For He alone is worthy of our praise, our devotion, our very lives. And so, like King David of old, I find myself lifting my voice in song, declaring the truth that "Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can save. Only Jesus, only Jesus, only Jesus can heal.”

Let us cling to this truth, my friends, and let it be the foundation upon which we build our lives. When the world seeks to distort the wisdom of God, when the enemy whispers lies of doubt and despair, may we stand firm in the knowledge that Jesus Christ is the one and only way to the Father. For in Him, and Him alone, we find true, lasting hope.

Dennis Jernigan

Listen to The Dennis Jernigan podcast version of this blog and hear this song, only Jesus, at https://www.patreon.com/posts/only-jesus-111661272

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/09/08/20/24/death-1655381_1280.jpg

Why I Sing

I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to share with you the story behind one of my most personally beloved songs – "I Will Sing" – from the studio recording "I Cry Holy." You see, this song came to me on January 29, 2004, and it's a testament to the truth that we all face battles in this life, but we have the power to choose whether we'll live as victims or as victors. Ah, but I'm getting a bit ahead of myself, aren't I? Let me start at the beginning.

As you all know, I firmly believe that God wastes nothing – not our sorrows, not our wounds, not even our failures. And that's a truth I've come to know in the deepest recesses of my own heart. You see, there was a time in 1981 when I tried to take my own life, but God intervened in a mighty way. And you know what happened next? He began to pour music into my life!

But you know, the story behind "I Will Sing" is a bit more personal, even if it is 20 years old now. It was on January 29, 2004 that this song came to me, during a time when I felt very much under attack by the enemy. But when are we not, am I right?

You see, sometimes it's the little things in life that can really get us down, isn't it? The day-to-day annoyances, the nagging concerns – they can build up like a dam, blocking the flow of God's grace in our lives. But you know what I did? I went back to the tried and true – I started worshiping, singing, and rejoicing in my God, in spite of those "little things"! Because at the end of the day, we deserve death and hell for our sin, but instead, we receive grace and mercy. And that is the very reason I want to sing!

You see, when we humble ourselves before the mighty hand of God, when we cast our anxieties upon Him, He lifts us up. He becomes our stronghold, our refuge in the day of distress. And so, my friends, I encourage you – don't let the small annoyances of life get you down. Sing to the Lord! Because when we do, He begins a healing work in our souls that lasts a lifetime. Just like He did for me when I first sang "I Will Sing" all those years ago.

Psalm 59:16-17 NASB

16 But as for me,

I shall sing of Your strength;

Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your lovingkindness in the morning,

For You have been my stronghold And a refuge in the day of my distress.

17 O my strength, I will sing praises to You;

For God is my stronghold, the God who shows me lovingkindness.

1 Peter 5:6-7 NASB

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, 7 casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Let’s take a few minutes and just our souls sing with joy for the fact that Jesus has won the victory for us and the He loves us so massively our human minds cannot begin to fully understand it. But isn’t it fun trying? Come and join me and let’s sing for the joy such knowledge brings to our hearts. Use the link provided below to hear the song, “I Will Sing”, from The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog.

Dennis Jernigan

Podcast link: https://www.patreon.com/posts/i-will-sing-111344202

Photo courtesy of https://pixabay.com/photos/people-woman-dark-night-worship-2590551/

The Majesty of the King

Today, I'm excited to share the stories behind not one, but two of my songs: "You Alone Are King," born on July 24, 1990, and "I Glory in the Wonder and the Majesty," born on July 24, 1991. Both are featured in the live recording "A Mystery of Majesty." Though I've shared them individually before, I want you to hear them together, as they were meant to be experienced.

The story behind "You Alone Are King" is deeply personal. At the time I wrote it, I was struggling with identity issues, feeling as though my life had little worth. This song emerged from focusing on the immense worth that God's redemption has given me. It's a paradox: while my sin made me unworthy, God valued my life enough to sacrifice His Son, Jesus. Jesus saw me as worth leaving the glories of heaven for.

Worship, to me, is all about relationship, and relationship begins in the heart. The Bible says that God inhabits the praises of His people. As I meditated on this truth, I envisioned my heart as His throne—a place reserved for Jesus alone. When the music began to flow from these thoughts, I felt God's presence so profoundly, it was as if He was singing His love over me. In that sacred moment, I bowed in worship to my heart's true King. No one else has ever met my needs like Jesus. No one else can cleanse and heal as He can. He alone is my heart's deepest desire and the Ruler—the King of my heart.

Despite living in a world often filled with darkness and disbelief, we can cling to this truth from Romans 14:11: "For it is written, 'As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.'" Jesus alone is King, even if the world refuses to acknowledge it. He reigns sovereign, using even what the enemy means for evil for our good and His glory.

Now, let's talk about "I Glory in the Wonder and the Majesty." This song was born from meditating on life's most wondrous moments: a dark evening sky lit up by a shooting star, meeting a long-admired figure for the first time, the joy of a blind man seeing loved ones after being healed, or the overwhelming awe of holding my children for the first time. My oldest son's birthday is on July 22, and as I thought about holding him for the first time, the song "I Glory in the Wonder and the Majesty" was born. These moments fill my heart with wonder and truly take my breath away. Yet, they all pale in comparison to knowing God. To know that Almighty God desires an intimate relationship with me is indescribable. What glory, what majesty, what a blessing!

As 1 Chronicles 29:11 says, "Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Yours is the dominion, O LORD, and You exalt Yourself as head over all."

We often speak of God's grandeur and majesty in terms of its vastness, but the greatest majesty is found in our relationship with Him. Relationship is everything, and our relationship with our Maker is worth everything to us.

Let's never lose the wonder and the majesty of Who our God is and of the massiveness of His amazing love for us. Take that next shooting star as a personal gesture of God’s love for you, like a secret wink from your Father that says to you, ‘I see you and I love you, child.’

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the songs, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/you-alone-are-i-110759097

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2021/02/09/18/25/stars-5999463_1280.jpg

There Is Power

…that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death…Philippians 3:10 NASB

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NASB

Today, I want to share the story behind my song "There Is Power" from the live recording “I Surrender”. This song came to life on April 1, 1997, inspired by a Resurrection Sunday sermon from my pastor at the time, Chuck Angel. During his teaching, Chuck rhythmically repeated the phrase "resurrection power," and it struck a chord deep within me. I jotted it down in my manuscript book and couldn't stop thinking about it. That phrase resonated because the incredible power that raised Christ from the dead is now the power of God alive in me!

For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18 NASB

There is power in the life of Jesus, and that power is available to us. There is power in the love of Jesus, a love that still abides in me, flowing as an endless fountain of grace. There is power in the name of Jesus; just saying His name makes the enemy flee from my mind. There is power in the blood of Jesus, a power that washed me, cleansed me, redeemed me, saved me, delivered me, resurrected me, and continues to shape who I am today.

…but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NASB

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 NASB

This week, let's proclaim this truth over our lives. We have been granted power over the darkness in this life. We have been granted the power to receive God’s grace and walk as overcomers. We have been granted the power to represent the love of Jesus to those around us. Let's live like we believe that this week!

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, for His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 2 Peter 1:2-3 NASB

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NASB

And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the song, “There Is Power”, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/there-is-power-1718813492/

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2024/03/09/14/55/tomb-8622741_1280.jpg

"Just As I Am"

Imagine yourself sitting in a cozy church pew, the warm sunlight filtering through the stained-glass windows, casting a gentle glow over the congregation. The air is filled with the familiar melody, each note resonating in your heart, like an old friend's embrace. As the hymn swells, you can almost feel the weight of your burdens lifting, replaced by a sense of peace and anticipation for the day when we'll all gather in the presence of our Savior.

This hymn, like so many others, was penned by a remarkable individual who weathered life's storms with unwavering faith. Charlotte Elliott, the writer of the beloved "Just As I Am," faced her own battles with illness and depression, yet she found solace in the unwavering love of Christ. As I delve into her story, I can't help but feel a deep kinship with the challenges she must have endured.

Imagine Charlotte, sitting by the window, her pen dancing across the page as she pours out her heart, finding the words to express the longing for a deeper connection with her Savior. The hymn she wrote, "Just As I Am," has become a timeless anthem of grace, resonating with countless souls who have found themselves in need of that same unconditional love.

And now, as we explore the story behind “Just As I Am," I invite you to let the imagery and emotion of the lyrics wash over you. Picture the day when we'll all gather in the presence of our Lord, our voices joining in a heavenly chorus, our burdens lifted, and our hearts overflowing with joy. It's a vision that can bring us comfort in the midst of life's storms and inspire us to press on, knowing that our ultimate destination is a place of eternal peace and fellowship with our Savior.

Imagine stepping into the cozy parlor of Charlotte Elliott's childhood home in Clapham, the air thick with the scent of freshly brewed tea and the soft melody of a piano drifting through the rooms. Charlotte, a young woman of remarkable talent and poise, sits by the window, her delicate fingers gracefully sketching the faces of her family and friends. Her laughter, warm and infectious, fills the space as she shares her witty verses, captivating all who gather around her.

But beneath the surface of this vibrant social life, Charlotte's heart yearned for something more. In 1821, a severe illness struck, and she found herself confined to her bed, wrestling with doubts about her relationship with Christ. It was during this time of personal struggle that Charlotte's pen found new purpose, as she poured out her heart in the now-beloved hymn, "Just As I Am."

Imagine Charlotte, propped up on her pillows, her brow furrowed in concentration as she searches for the words to convey her longing for the Savior's unconditional love. The words flow from her, a gentle stream of reassurance and grace, resonating with the countless souls who would find solace in her timeless lyrics.

Imagine the relief that must have washed over Charlotte in that moment, as she poured out her soul onto the page. The hymn, now a timeless treasure, was born from her own personal struggle, a testament to the transformative power of faith.

Years later, as Charlotte's hymns found their way into hymnals around the world, she would become known as a woman of unwavering faith, her life a shining example of the grace and redemption that can only be found in Christ. Even in the face of chronic illness and depression, her pen continued to flow, her words a balm for weary souls.

Today, as we reflect on Charlotte's remarkable journey, may we be inspired by her courage and her willingness to be vulnerable. For in her moments of deepest doubt, she found the strength to cling to the promises of her Savior, and in doing so, she left a legacy that continues to echo through the ages, reminding us all that we are loved, just as we are.

I paired this special hymn with my song, "I Revel in the Love," from the album “Here In Your Presence” because the hymn makes me feel profoundly cherished by the Lord. I remember the exact day this song came to me: September 26, 2009.

One day, I asked my pastor what his upcoming sermon would be about when I was set to lead worship. His answer? God's love. Instantly, my mind filled with thoughts of how much joy God finds in MY presence. God revels in His love for me! To revel means to take immense delight in something, and that’s exactly what I felt while meditating on His love, giving birth to this song.

How can we truly love others if we don't first believe in God's love for us? Think about everything He did to reach you! If we really believed in God's love, why would we seek our worth in anything else? We wouldn’t need to turn to drugs, alcohol, sex, money, fame, or anything else for solace. His love has the power to overcome sin and failure, to set us free from the chains that seem to hold us in a death grip. His love is utterly beyond amazing.

He loves me right where I am - Just As I Am - but loves me enough not to leave me there. His love transforms lives and brings victory. God doesn't just love me; He likes me and enjoys being with me!

How do I know this? By simply relating to my own children as their father. When I'm with my kids, I don't even need to say a word. I love listening to them talk to each other. I love just being with them. If I, as an earthly father, can feel and mean that, imagine how much more our heavenly Father feels that way about us!

Dennis Jernigan

"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39 NASB)

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the songs, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/just-as-i-am-i-revel-in-the-love/

Photo courtesy of https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlotte_Elliott