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

"When We All Get To Heaven"

This week I’ll be sharing the story behind the hymn, “When We All Get To Heaven.” I have always loved this hymn so much and I love sharing it with you today.

As we have discovered with many of the hymns we've already discussed, the writer of the hymn, When We All Get To Heaven, had a very difficult life yet managed to live that life with a purposeful and joyful outlook. I identify greatly with some of the things I imagine she must have had to endure.

Eliza Edmunds Hewitt (June 28, 1851 – April 24, 1920), also known as Eliza Jane Hewitt, was an American hymn writer, teacher and Presbyterian. She was the author of numerous Christian religious songs. In the beginning, she was active in Olivet Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia. Later she joined the Calvin Presbyterian Church, where she taught the primary class in Sunday school until her death.

Born on June 28, 1851, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Eliza Edmunds Hewitt was the daughter of sea Capt. James Stratton Hewitt and his wife Zeruiah Stites Edmunds. She completed her school education at the Girls' Normal School in Philadelphia where she graduated as valedictorian of her class. She later started teaching at the Northern Home for Friendless Children, but her professional career was cut short by a serious spinal problem, in 1887, that was caused by a student who struck her across the back with a heavy slate after being disciplined by Eliza. As a result, she was put in a heavy cast for six months. Though she partially recovered, she remained an invalid for an extended period of her life. During her prolonged convalescence, she studied English literature and started writing poems for the primary department of her church. She soon became a prolific writer of children's verses.

Despite her health problems, she showed interest in Sunday school work. She began teaching the primary class in Sunday schools. She later became Sunday school superintendent at the Northern Home for Friendless Children, and the Calvin Presbyterian Church. She prepared study materials for Sunday schools and regularly contributed for children's periodicals.

She used the pseudonym Lidie H. Edmunds for some of her poems. A number of her hymns have been translated into different languages. Some of her poems were set to music by different composers. She often attended the Methodist camp meetings at Ocean Grove, New Jersey.

She was also a close friend of Fanny Crosby, who happened to be blind and a very prolific hymnist, writing more than 8,000 hymns.

The hymn lyrics for When We All Get to Heaven were written in 1898 and the melody by Mrs. J. G. (Emily) Wilson. The two became acquainted at Methodist camp meetings in New Jersey. Eliza passed away on April 24, 1920 at the age of 68.

1 Corinthians 13:12 NASB says, 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.

The reason I coupled the hymn, When We All Get To Heaven, with my song, I I Long for the Day, should be quite obvious to the reader. The older I get, the more special these two songs become to me. Let me tell you a little about the story behind this song, I I Long for the Day before we listen.

First of all, This song was inspired by Jack Taylor and is dedicated to Joy and Teresa Burgess and is in memory of my Grandmother Jernigan.

When I was a little boy, my Grandmother Jernigan often told me of spiritual things. She spoke of the Holy Spirit as a Person – and told me things the Lord had ‘told’ her. Being raised in a church where I wasn’t used to hearing God spoken of in this manner, this way of referring to the Holy Spirit stuck with me. On one occasion she told me that the Lord had told her how she would know my Grandpa Jernigan when she got to heaven since they would not be married there. She told me God had spoken my Grandfather’s new name to her to help her recognize him when she got there. I have always had an eternal perspective since that time.

In 1988 the ‘eternality’ of life and of God’s deep concern for me was revealed through one of my Grandmother’s former prayer partners. You see, in 1973 my Grandmother died. I was only 14. When I was 29 years old, I took my whole worship team back to my home town, Boynton, Oklahoma, to lead in a community worship service. After the service, my Grandmother’s prayer partner came to me and said, ”Isn’t it wonderful how your Grandmother’s prayers have been answered?” Amid feelings of shock and tears of joy, I asked, “What prayers?” And she answered, “Didn’t you know? Your Grandmother used to tell me how she would stand behind you as you practiced the piano at her house each day and would ask God to use you mightily in His Kingdom to lead in music and worship! And He answered her prayers!”

My Grandmother was used mightily of the Lord in my life, not only through prayer, but by her example. Her intimate relationship with the Lord made me long for that same ‘hearing’ ability! This song is for my Grandmother and was inspired by one of my spiritual fathers, Jack Taylor.

Jack shared with our body in August of 1992 his heart concerning the true Word of God. We don’t have a relationship with a book - but with the Living Word of God - Jesus Christ! Jack had such a longing for heaven and a clear perspective of eternity that this song came quite easily after listening to his heart.

When I die, this is one of the songs that I hope will be sung at the memorial service for my family. This is my life and my song. Jesus is my Life and my Song. The only thing that can sustain me is hearing and knowing His voice - His Word. Yet, I long for the day when I can embrace Him as He has embraced me.

Philippians 1:21 NASB says, 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

It does not get more simple than that. We will all face death…but we have a choice as to how we will view it. I choose to see it as a stepping stone into the next phase of my journey with God through eternity.

Since my dad passed away, this song has become even more special and more meaningful to me…and in light of my current health issues, has taken on a whole new depth of joy for me. Death may not come for me for many more years…at least that’s MY plan…but I am ready should it come in the next few moments. My relationship with God is in the here and now…and death will not change that. Death just means I’ll get to see my Redeemer face to face. And I’ll see you when we all get to heaven.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the songs “When We All Get To Heaven” and “I Long For The Day”, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/when-we-all-get-109510089

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"Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!”

"Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!"

The stirring opening lines of this beloved Christian hymn instantly evoke a sense of reverence and grandeur. Penned by the Anglican bishop Reginald Heber in the early 1800s, "Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!" invites worshippers to join in a chorus of praise to the triune God.

Heber, serving as the vicar of Hodnet, Shropshire in England at the time, was a prolific hymn writer, crafting over 100 songs that have endured through the centuries. This particular hymn, set to the majestic tune "Nicaea" by composer John Bacchus Dykes, was first published posthumously in 1826. Though Anglican authorities were initially wary of incorporating hymns beyond metrical psalms in church services, "Holy, Holy, Holy" quickly gained widespread popularity, appearing in the influential Hymns Ancient and Modern collection in 1861.

As you read the lyrics, you can almost hear the swell of the organ, feel the wooden pews beneath you, and sense the hush that falls over the sanctuary. The text paraphrases the vision described in Revelation 4, painting a vivid picture of the heavenly throne room, where ceaseless praise is offered to the Lord.

"Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty,

God in three Persons, blessed Trinity."

The repetition of "holy" evokes a profound sense of the divine majesty and holiness of God, while the references to the Trinity – "God in three Persons" – underscore the unique nature of the Christian conception of the Godhead.

For many, this hymn has become a touchstone, a sacred anthem that transports the soul into the very presence of the Almighty. Whether it's the first time hearing it or the hundredth, the words have a way of stirring the heart, leaving the worshipper awestruck and, quite often, rendered temporarily speechless by the weight of God's glory.

Heber's hymn has endured through the centuries, resonating with believers from diverse Christian traditions. Its timeless message of adoration and wonder continues to inspire congregations around the world to lift their voices in reverent praise. I'll share two of my favorite renditions of this hymn a little later, but for now, I invite you to reflect on the moments in your own life when you've been left utterly speechless before the majesty of our great God.

Though intended for use on Trinity Sunday, the hymn's majestic language and sweeping scope make it a fitting offering of adoration throughout the liturgical year. As the verses unfold, the hymn's poetic meter, longer and more complex than the typical English hymn, draws the singer into a profound meditation on the nature of the Godhead. "God in three Persons, blessed Trinity" - this central tenet of Christian theology is expounded upon with a reverence that avoids the pitfalls of excessive emotionalism, as Heber himself intended.

Yet for many, this hymn has the opposite effect, stirring the heart to depths of worship and wonder. As the melody soars, one can almost feel the very foundations of the earth tremble at the weight of God's glory, as described in the text. The scope of the hymn broadens to include not only humanity, but also the "saints and angels" and "all the ransomed" - a vision of the entire cosmos joined in unending praise.

Though written nearly two centuries ago, "Holy, Holy, Holy" continues to resonate with believers from diverse Christian traditions. Its timeless message of adoration to the triune God has the power to transport the soul, leaving the worshipper awestruck and, quite often, rendered temporarily speechless by the majesty of the divine.The second stanza expands the scope, as the "saints in glory" now join in "adoring the Majesty in heaven." One can almost hear the swell of heavenly voices, mingling with the earthly chorus, in a timeless symphony of praise. The third verse paints vivid descriptors of the Almighty - "Merciful and mighty, God in three Persons, blessed Trinity" - as the worshipper's gaze is lifted higher.

Finally, in a grand crescendo, the hymn reaches its climactic conclusion: "Earth and sky and sea" itself joining the unending refrain. The worshipper is left awestruck, temporarily rendered speechless by the weight of God's glory, as described so eloquently in the text.

This beloved hymn, set to the majestic tune "Nicaea" by composer John Bacchus Dykes, has long been a favorite of mine. I'm drawn to the way it transports the soul, leaving an indelible imprint of reverence and wonder. Whether accompanied by the rich tones of a pipe organ or the gentle strains of an acoustic guitar, "Holy, Holy, Holy" has the power to still the heart and focus the mind on the greatness of our triune God.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of leading worship during countless "Nights of Praise," including special New Year's Eve services. As we would raise our voices together in this timeless hymn, I was always struck by the palpable sense of the divine presence. It was as if heaven and earth converged, and we were caught up in the unending chorus of adoration.

As the calendar turned to a new year, the air crackled with anticipation in the Muskogee, Oklahoma sanctuary. Hundreds had gathered for the annual New Year's Eve "Night of Praise," eager to usher in the fresh start with an offering of heartfelt worship. Little did I know that the Lord had a profound gift in store - a song that would flow directly from my own soul's gratitude.

As I began to pray and meditate in the days leading up to the event, a heavy burden settled upon my heart. I saw the faces of the hurting, the wounded, the hopeless - people whose lives had been marred by their own failings, whose spirits had been crushed by the burdens of this world. My own past failures and shortcomings came into sharp focus, and I was overwhelmed by a deep sense of unworthiness.

But then, as I reflected on the boundless grace and mercy of our God, something shifted within me. The verses of a new song began to well up, fueled by a wellspring of gratitude for the times the Lord had tenderly restored my own shattered heart. The song, “I Cry Holy”, was born on December 29, 2004 just 2 days prior to the New Year’s Eve Night of Praise on December 31, 2004.

As I stood before the congregation on that New Year's Eve, the weight of God's holiness and the wonder of His redeeming love were palpable. Voices joined together in a chorus of adoration, the sanctuary brimming with a tangible sense of the divine presence. It was as if heaven and earth had converged, and we were caught up in the timeless symphony of praise.

To this day, whenever I sing "I Cry Holy," I am transported back to that sacred moment - the hush that fell over the room, the tears streaming down faces, the collective sigh of relief and renewal. For me, this song has become a touchstone, a reminder of the transformative power of God's holiness and the freedom found in His forgiveness.

Though the monthly gatherings have since concluded, the memory of those sacred moments lingers. And whenever I hear "Holy, Holy, Holy" - whether in a grand cathedral or a humble chapel - I am transported back to that holy hush, where all creation bows before the King of kings. I'll share two of my favorite renditions of this hymn with you. I love this version by 2nd Chapter of Acts: https://youtu.be/L_rioPlLbSI?si=eufb-PnTh5oVHl1X

And I love this version by Keith Green: https://youtu.be/POHs8NsEITo?si=OlHqgxxH_AilnOe8

I invite you to join me in declaring the Lord's holiness with your whole being. For despite our failings, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the Lamb. Let us live as if we truly believe it - humbly bowing before the King of kings, surrendering our lives anew to His perfect plan. May the refrain "Holy, holy, holy" ever be on our lips, a testament to the majesty and grace of our Almighty God.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the songs, "Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!” and “I Cry Holy”, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/holy-holy-holyi-cry-holy-podcast/

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

It Is Well With My Soul

As I delve into the story behind the beloved hymn "It Is Well With My Soul," I'm struck by the profound heartbreak and unwavering faith of its composers.

The lyrics were penned by Horatio Gates Spafford, a man whose life was marked by unimaginable tragedy. Born in 1828 in Troy, New York, Spafford was an American lawyer and devoted Presbyterian church elder. But in 1871, the Great Chicago Fire devastated his real estate investments, leaving him financially ruined.

Two years later, Spafford planned a family vacation to Europe, where his dear friend D.L. Moody would be preaching. Duty kept Spafford from joining his wife, Anna, and their four young daughters on the journey. Tragically, their ship, the Ville du Havre, was struck by another vessel, claiming the lives of all four children. Upon receiving the news, Anna sent Spafford a telegram with the heartbreaking words, "Saved alone.”

As Spafford's ship sailed near the tragic site where his beloved daughters had perished, he felt a profound sense of anguish and loss wash over him. Yet, in the midst of his overwhelming grief, a glimmer of faith began to stir within.

I can almost feel the gentle rocking of the vessel, the salty breeze caressing my face, as Spafford gazed out at the vast, churning waters. The weight of his devastation must have been palpable, a heaviness that threatened to consume him. And yet, through the haze of his sorrow, a spark of divine inspiration took hold.

With pen in hand, Spafford began to write the timeless words of "It Is Well With My Soul." Each stroke of the pen, each carefully chosen phrase, was imbued with a profound trust in God's sovereignty, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

As I reflect on this moment, I am humbled by Spafford's ability to find peace amidst the storm. His words, born of such profound sorrow, have the power to lift our spirits and remind us that, no matter the circumstances, it can indeed be well with our souls.

I can only imagine the depths of Spafford's grief in that moment, yet his response reveals an unwavering faith. It is from this place of profound sorrow that he penned the timeless lyrics, "It is well, it is well with my soul.”

After the devastating loss of his four daughters aboard the Ville du Havre, Horatio Spafford's life took a profound spiritual turn. In the midst of his unimaginable grief, he found solace in his faith.

Yet, Spafford's journey was far from over. Following the tragedy, he and his wife, Anna, welcomed three more children into their family - Horatio, Bertha, and Grace. But in 1880, their young son Horatio succumbed to scarlet fever, a final blow that propelled Spafford and Anna to embark on a lifelong spiritual pilgrimage.

Leaving their Presbyterian congregation, the couple began hosting prayer meetings in their home, becoming part of a Messianic sect known as "the Overcomers." In 1881, they settled in Jerusalem, establishing the American Colony, where they engaged in philanthropic work among the local Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities.

Tragically, Spafford's journey came to an end in 1888, when he succumbed to malaria at the age of 59. His final resting place, the Mount Zion Cemetery in Jerusalem, serves as a poignant reminder of the profound spiritual transformation that marked his later years.

It was during this time that Spafford's hymn found its musical counterpart. The tune was composed by Philip P. Bliss, a renowned American composer and gospel singer, who had been a close friend of the famous preacher D.L. Moody. Bliss's own life was marked by a deep devotion to his faith and a passion for music that would inspire countless souls.

Intertwined with Spafford's story is the life of Philip P. Bliss, a renowned American composer, conductor, and gospel singer. Bliss's musical talents were nurtured from a young age, as he grew up in a log cabin in Pennsylvania, where his father, Isaac, instilled in him a deep devotion to faith and prayer.

Despite his humble beginnings, Bliss went on to compose some of the most beloved hymns of the era, including "Hold the Fort," "Almost Persuaded," and the iconic tune for Spafford's "It Is Well with My Soul." His close friendship with the famous preacher D.L. Moody further cemented his place as a pillar of the gospel music community.

In 1858, while in Rome, Bliss met the woman who would become his wife, Lucy J. Young. From a musical family herself, Lucy encouraged Bliss to nurture his burgeoning talents. Together, they joined a Presbyterian church, where Bliss would continue to hone his skills as a composer and performer.

At the age of 22, Bliss embarked on a journey as an itinerant music teacher, traveling from community to community on horseback, accompanied by a melodeon. His passion for music was insatiable, and when he learned of the prestigious Normal Academy of Music event in Geneseo, New York, he was determined to attend, despite the financial challenges.

Fate intervened when Bliss's wife's grandmother, Grandma Allen, noticed his despondent demeanor and inquired about the cost of the academy. Upon learning that it would require thirty dollars – a significant sum at the time – Grandma Allen generously opened her old stocking, filled with years of savings, and provided Bliss with the necessary funds. This act of kindness allowed Bliss to immerse himself in six weeks of "the heartiest study of his life" at the prestigious academy, solidifying his reputation as an expert within his local community.

As Bliss continued his itinerant teaching, he turned his attention to composition, though none of his songs were ever copyrighted. In 1864, he and his wife, Lucy, moved to Chicago, where Bliss's talents as a singer and teacher gained him recognition. He even embarked on a lucrative concert tour, earning a remarkable $100 in just two weeks – a testament to his growing renown.

Yet, even as Bliss's career blossomed, the shadow of the Civil War loomed. He was briefly drafted into the Union Army, though his service was ultimately canceled. Undeterred, Bliss went on to secure a position at the renowned Root and Cady Musical Publishers, where he would spend the next eight years honing his craft and composing the hymns that would cement his legacy.

The story of Philip P. Bliss's life takes an even more profound turn in 1869, when he formed a pivotal association with the renowned evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Urged by Moody and others to abandon his lucrative position and embrace full-time Christian evangelism, Bliss heeded the call, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to spreading the gospel through his music.

Though Bliss had amassed significant wealth through his royalties, he selflessly channeled these resources into charitable endeavors and his evangelical pursuits. His unwavering commitment to his faith was matched by his staunch abolitionist views, which led him to serve as a lieutenant during the American Civil War.

Tragically, Bliss's life was cut short on December 29, 1876, when the train he and his wife, Lucy, were traveling on to attend one of Moody's meetings collapsed while crossing the Ashtabula River bridge in Ohio. The devastating Ashtabula River Railroad Disaster claimed the lives of 92 out of the 159 passengers, including Bliss and his beloved Lucy. Bliss was only 38 years old at the time of his untimely death.

Yet, even in the face of this unimaginable tragedy, a glimmer of hope emerged. In the wreckage of the train, a manuscript bearing the lyrics to Bliss's only well-known gospel song for which he had not written a tune, "I Will Sing of My Redeemer," was discovered. This poignant work was soon set to music by James McGranahan and became one of the first songs recorded by the pioneering inventor Thomas Edison.

As I reflect on the lives of Bliss and Horatio Spafford, the writers of the beloved hymn "It Is Well With My Soul," I am struck by the profound ways in which their personal tragedies and unwavering faith converged to create a timeless anthem that continues to comfort and inspire countless souls. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, the Lord can bring forth beauty, hope, and eternal truth.

While contemplating which one of my songs would best be coupled with this enduring hymn, my heart with immediately went to “Hide Me In the Cleft of the Rock.” As I thought about the song, the poignant words resonated deeply, for they speak to the universal human experience of facing adversity and the relentless attacks of the enemy. In times of spiritual warfare, when the weight of temptation and accusation threatens to overwhelm us, the choice before us is clear – we can either succumb to the lies of the adversary or stand firm in the truth that sets us free.

For me, the wisest path forward is to take refuge in the sanctuary of God's presence, to hide ourselves within the cleft of the Rock that is our Savior. It is in these sacred moments of solace that we find the strength to fight off the enemy's advances and reclaim the peace and joy that is our birthright as children of God.

My song, "Hide Me in the Cleft of the Rock," was born out of these very trials, a testament to the power of faith to transform sorrow into triumph. When we sing its lyrics, we are reminded that we are never alone, that God's grace is sufficient to carry us through even the darkest of valleys.

In the lives of Horatio Spafford and Philip P. Bliss, we see this same unwavering faith forged in the crucible of personal tragedy. Their hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," stands as a timeless beacon of hope, reminding us that even when the storms of life rage all around us, our souls can find solace in the knowledge that God is good and God is faithful.

I thank God for using even the tragedies of life through such powerful stories to encourage us with the truth that He will NEVER leave us…NEVER forsake us. May we all find the courage to hide ourselves in the cleft of the Rock, and may the truth of God's love and steadfastness be the anchor that steadies our souls, no matter the trials we face.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog and to hear the songs, It Is Well With My Soul, and. Hide Me in the Cleft of the Rock, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/it-is-well-with-107747211

Photo of Ville du Havre courtesy of https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SS_Ville_du_Havre#/media/File:Ville_du_Havre.jpg

Softly and Tenderly

Alright, folks, gather 'round because I've got a real treat for you today - a deep dive into the story behind one of my all-time favorite hymns, “Softly and Tenderly." And let me tell you, this one's got it all - a talented composer, a stunning mansion, and a name that's just begging to be the theme song of a well-loved movie.

Now, before we get into the juicy details, I've got to be upfront with you - I may have borrowed a bit of this information from our good friends over at Wikipedia. But hey, when the facts are this good, who am I to reinvent the wheel, right?

So, let's start with the man behind the music, William Lamartine Thompson. Now, this guy was no slouch - born in 1847 in the bustling town of East Liverpool, Ohio, he was the youngest of seven children, with a dad who was a successful merchant, manufacturer, and banker, and a mom who was all about her social and charitable life. Talk about having some big shoes to fill!

But Thompson wasn't one to shy away from a challenge. Nope, he graduated from Mount Union College, then headed off to the New England Conservatory of Music, and even spent some time honing his craft in good ol' Leipzig, Germany. And let me tell you, all that hard work paid off, because this guy went on to found his own music company and start cranking out some seriously catchy hymns and gospel songs.

Thompson married a woman named Elizabeth Johnson, and together they built a massive hilltop mansion in East Liverpool that's still standing today. And get this - the locals have dubbed it the "Softly and Tenderly House." I mean, come on, how perfect is that?! It's like something straight out of a Hallmark movie, am I right?

Anyway, enough about the man behind the music - let's talk about the hymn itself, “Softly and Tenderly." I don't know about you, but the imagery in that title just gets me every time. I can practically smell the presence of the Lord, hear the organ swelling, and feel the wooden pews creaking beneath me as I belt out those lyrics of longing. It's like a spiritual balm shot straight to the heart, you know?

And let me tell you, when you pair that with the story of Thompson's life - the small-town roots, the musical ambition, the grand mansion on the hill - it's enough to make you want to grab a hymnal and start singing at the top of your lungs. I mean, can't you just picture it? The sun streaming through the stained-glass windows, the congregation lifting their voices in perfect harmony, and Thompson himself, sitting in the front pew with the proudest grin you ever did see.

This guy was a regular Renaissance man. Not only was he a gifted lyricist and composer, but he also had a knack for writing some pretty catchy tunes that weren't exactly church-approved. I'm talking about hits like "My Home on the Old Ohio" and "Gathering Shells from the Seashore" - the kind of songs that would have your grandparents tapping their toes and your parents rolling their eyes.

But you know what they say, "The Lord works in mysterious ways," and Thompson was no exception. Because even though he may have dabbled in the secular world, his true passion was for hymns and gospel songs. And let me tell you, the man had a system down pat.

Imagine this: you're Thompson, sitting in your study, the smell of freshly sharpened pencils and the sound of a crackling fire filling the air. Suddenly, inspiration strikes, and you've just got to get those words and melodies down before they slip away. So, you reach for your trusty notebook, jotting down every last bit of it, no matter where you are - "at home or hotel, at the store or traveling." Because as Thompson himself said, "I never lose it.”

And lose it, he did not. In fact, his dedication to his craft paid off big time when he opened up the W. L. Thompson Music Company right there in East Liverpool, Ohio. By the 1880s, this place was a veritable hymn-writing factory, churning out sheet music, instruments, and supplies for music teachers and musicians all across the United States. I mean, talk about a one-stop shop for all your sacred musical needs!

But Thompson wasn't content to just rule the roost in his hometown. Oh no, this guy had bigger plans, and he eventually branched out to Chicago, opening up a whole new music and publishing company. It's like the guy had a direct line to the heart of God, because no matter where he went, his talent for crafting those timeless hymns just seemed to follow him.

And you know what they say, "The rest is history." Thompson may have dabbled in the secular world, but his true legacy lies in the countless souls he's touched with his powerful, faith-filled lyrics and melodies. So, the next time you find yourself belting out “Softly and Tenderly," take a moment to imagine the man behind the music - sitting at his desk, pencil in hand, the weight of the world on his shoulders, but the joy of the Lord in his heart. Because that, my friends, is the kind of story that just keeps on giving.

Let's talk about the song that's truly the crown jewel in William Lamartine Thompson's musical legacy - the one, the only, "Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling." Now, this hymn has got to be one of the most iconic and enduring pieces of gospel music out there, and let me tell you, it's got quite the storied history.

First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate how many different languages this thing has been translated into? I mean, talk about a global reach! It's like the United Nations of hymns! And the way it's been featured in everything from movies to novels to TV shows, it's practically a cultural touchstone at this point. Cynthia Clawson's interpretation of the song was used as background throughout the 1985 movie The Trip to Bountiful. Cynthia’s version is far and away my personal favorite version of the song.

Now, let's talk about that sweet, soulful melody and those heartstring-tugging lyrics. I can just picture it now - you're sitting in the pew, the organ swelling, the choir belting it out, and suddenly, it's like the heavens have opened up and Jesus himself is whispering in your ear. It's enough to make even the most stoic among us reach for a tissue.

And let's not forget the legendary Dwight L. Moody, the famous evangelist who couldn't get enough of this hymn. I mean, the guy practically made it his personal anthem, using it to stir up the crowds at his rallies across America and even over in Britain. And then, when Moody was on his deathbed, he insisted on seeing the man behind the music, Thompson himself. Talk about a full-circle moment!

Apparently, Moody told Thompson, "Will, I would rather have written 'Softly and Tenderly' than anything I have been able to do in my whole life." I mean, come on, if that doesn't just melt your heart, I don't know what will. And the fact that Moody died while singing the words of that very hymn? Well, that's just the kind of poetic ending that would make even the most cynical among us believe in the power of music to touch the soul.

And let's not forget the impact this hymn has had on some of the biggest names in the civil rights movement. I'm talking about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose funeral service at Ebenezer Baptist Church featured a rousing rendition by the choir. It's like the song has this way of transcending time and space, speaking to the hearts of people from all walks of life.

So, the next time you find yourself humming along to "Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling," take a moment to appreciate the rich history and enduring legacy of this truly remarkable piece of music. Because let's be real, when it comes to gospel hymns, this one is the whole package - from the soulful melodies to the timeless lyrics to the incredible stories of the people who've been touched by its power. It's the kind of thing that just keeps on giving, generation after generation. And that, my friends, is what makes it truly unforgettable. William Thompson fell ill during a tour of Europe, and his family cut short their travels to return home. He was called home ‘softly and tenderly’ a few weeks later in New York City on September 20, 1909.

"Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling" - the hymn that's truly become part of the soundtrack to my life. You know, there's just something about that song that's always resonated with me, even from my earliest days. I can still remember sitting in the pews of our little Baptist church, belting out those lyrics with all my heart, and feeling this overwhelming sense of peace wash over me.

It was like I could just imagine Jesus himself, reaching out to me with those gentle, tender words, calling me home. And let me tell you, as a kid, that was a pretty powerful thing. I mean, the idea that the Almighty Creator of the universe would take the time to personally beckon me, little old me, it just filled me with this profound sense of wonder and awe.

And now, as I face the challenges of Parkinson's, that song has taken on an even deeper meaning. When the days get tough and the road ahead seems uncertain, I find myself turning to those familiar melodies and lyrics, finding comfort in the knowledge that Jesus is always there, softly and tenderly calling me to His side.

It's almost as if the song has become a lifeline, a way for me to connect with the divine even in the midst of my struggles. And you know, that's where this other hymn of mine, "When the Night is Falling," really comes into play.

See, I wrote that one back in '89, inspired by the beautiful imagery in Zephaniah 3:17 - the idea that the Lord rejoices over us with singing. I can still remember sitting at the piano, just letting the Spirit move me, and feeling this overwhelming sense of peace wash over me. It was like I could hear the Lord Himself serenading me with His love, the waves of His affection rolling over me like the gentlest of tides.

And now, as I navigate this new chapter of my life, those words and that melody have become a constant source of comfort and strength. Because even on the darkest of nights, when the challenges of Parkinson's seem to be closing in, I can close my eyes and picture the Lord, singing His love over me, reminding me that I'm never truly alone.

It's funny how the songs we hold dear can take on such profound meaning, can't it? But I guess that's the power of music, the way it has of touching our hearts and souls in ways that words alone simply can't. And for me, these two hymns, "Softly and Tenderly" and "When the Night is Falling," they've become the soundtrack to my journey, the melodies that carry me through the highs and lows, the reminders that no matter what, I am loved, I am cherished, and I am never, ever alone.

Now, I don't know about you, but one of the things that just absolutely blows my mind is the sheer tenacity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I mean, think about it - even when we're at our absolute worst, when we're knee-deep in sin and turning our backs on Him left and right, our God never stops pursuing us. It's like He's got this crazy, relentless love that just won't quit, no matter how hard we try to shake Him off.

And let me tell you, when you really sit with that truth, it can be enough to bring a grown man to tears. I mean, talk about a humbling realization - that even in our darkest moments, when we're at our most unlovable, Jesus is still over there belting out this song of rejoicing, just because He loves us that darn much. It's enough to make you want to drop to your knees and start ugly-crying!

But you know what? That's the beauty of it all. Because when we allow ourselves to really soak in that kind of unconditional love, it has this way of bringing healing to our souls, even in the midst of the most painful circumstances. It's like a spiritual salve for the weary, a reminder that no matter how lost we may feel, we're never truly alone.

So, my challenge to you, dear readers, is to take some time over the next few days to really meditate on this truth. Let it sink in, let it permeate every nook and cranny of your being. And then, when you're feeling down and out, when the world seems to be crashing in around you, just pause and listen - because I can guarantee you, Jesus is right there, softly and tenderly calling your name, singing a song of love and rejoicing that's powerful enough to lift even the heaviest of hearts.

Believe it, my friends. Receive it. And then watch as that incredible, relentless love of His starts to work its power, bringing healing and restoration to your soul. Because trust me, when you really let that truth take root, it's like a spiritual shot of espresso straight to the heart - invigorating, empowering, and oh-so-sweet.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this blog, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/softly-and-107245004

Photo courtesy of http://www.paperlesshymnal.com/tph/Articles/WillThompson.pdf

Many years ago, years ago God placed this Scripture, Zephaniah 3:17, on my heart and I did a word study and came up with my very own translation just for me. Little did I know that it would be the underlying thread for my entire ministry.

My translation: The eternal self-existent God, the God Who is three in one; He Who dwells in the center of your being is a powerful and valiant warrior. He has come to set you free, to keep you safe, and to bring you victory. He is cheered and He beams with exceeding joy and takes pleasure in your presence. He has engraved a place for Himself in you and there He quietly rests in His love and affection for you. He cannot contain Himself at the thought of you and with the greatest of joy spins around wildly in anticipation over you…and has placed you above all other creations and in the highest place in His priorities. In fact, He shouts and sings in triumph, joyfully proclaiming the gladness of His heart in a song of rejoicing! All because of you!

There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood - William Cowper

Well, my friends, this week's blog post is going to be a real treat. We're diving deep into the story and the writer behind one of the most powerful and profound hymns of all time – "There Is a Fountain Filled with Blood." Now, I have to let you know upfront that I've done my fair share of research for this one, scouring through Wikipedia and the website umcdiscipleship.org to uncover all the juicy details. But trust me, it's going to be worth it.

You see, this iconic hymn was penned by none other than William Cowper, way back in 1771. And let me tell you, Cowper's life was anything but simple. In fact, he was someone who battled depression and mental illness for the majority of his days. Can you believe it? This man, whose words have brought such profound comfort and hope to countless souls, was himself no stranger to the darkness of the human condition.

But that's what makes his story all the more remarkable, don't you think? To be able to craft such a powerful, unwavering declaration of the redeeming power of Christ's blood, despite the personal turmoil he endured – it's truly awe-inspiring. I can't wait to dive into the details and share Cowper's story with you, my friends. Because I believe there's so much we can learn from this man's life and the legacy he's left behind.

So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, get cozy, and join me as we explore the life and the lyrics of the one and only William Cowper. It's going to be a journey, to be sure, but one that I promise will leave you feeling inspired, uplifted, and maybe even a little bit in awe. After all, that's what great storytelling is all about, isn't it?

You know, my friends, William Cowper was truly a one-of-a-kind figure – a hymn writer who was also a renowned secular poet. And from the moment I started delving into his story, I was captivated by the sheer complexity and depth of this much-beloved, yet deeply tormented literary genius.

Let me paint you a picture of Cowper's early life. He was born in 1731, right in the rectory of the Church of St. Peter in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. His father, George II, was a chaplain – a member of the clergy who had charge of a parish. And you know, Cowper came from quite the literary lineage. His aunt, Judith Madan, was a poet in her own right, and his mother, Ann Donne, sadly passed away when he was just six years old. The loss of his beloved mother at such a tender age clearly left a deep and lasting impact on young William.

But despite the darkness that would come to define so much of his life, Cowper was blessed with a remarkable support system in his early years. His mother's family, particularly her brother Robert and his wife Harriot, showered William with love and nurtured his burgeoning passion for reading. They even gifted him some of his very first books – classics like John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and John Gay's Fables. Can you just imagine the young Cowper, curled up with those timeless tales, his imagination running wild? It's no wonder he grew up to be such a celebrated literary figure.

But of course, as we'll soon discover, Cowper's life was anything but a fairytale. The shadows that would haunt him were just beginning to take shape. Still, even in the face of the immense personal turmoil that was to come, this remarkable man would go on to leave an indelible mark on the world – through his poetry, his hymns, and the enduring legacy of his resilience in the face of adversity. But that's a story for another time, my friends. For now, let's savor the beginnings of Cowper's remarkable journey, and see where it takes us next.

Ah, the fascinating life of William Cowper – a man whose journey was marked by both triumph and tragedy, yet whose legacy has endured for centuries. Let's dive a little deeper into his formative years, shall we?

You see, Cowper's early education was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. He was first sent to a boarding school in Markyate, where he began to struggle with the emotional difficulties that would haunt him throughout his life. Poor lad, even at such a young age, he was already grappling with the shadows that would loom over him. But then, he found a glimmer of happiness at Westminster School, where he blossomed as a scholar, diving headfirst into the classics and honing his skills in Latin. Ah, the joys of young, eager minds! And you know, Westminster was quite the intellectual hub back then – a place where the children of Whig families mingled with those of more humble origins. It was a melting pot of brilliant young minds, and Cowper was right at home, forging lifelong friendships and nurturing his love for the written word.

But of course, the path ahead was not without its challenges. After graduating, Cowper embarked on a new venture, apprenticing himself to a solicitor. And though he was called to the Bar in 1754, he never actually practiced law. In fact, when he was up for a prestigious position as the Clerk of Journals in the House of Lords, tragedy struck – a debilitating panic attack that robbed him of the opportunity. It was a devastating blow that sent him spiraling into a deep, dark depression.

But even in the midst of his personal turmoil, Cowper found solace and support in the most unexpected places. It was during his time at St. Alban's Hospital that he forged a lifelong friendship with the Reverend Morley Unwin and his family. And when tragedy struck again with Unwin's passing, it was none other than the renowned hymn writer John Newton who stepped in, persuading Cowper and the Unwin clan to join him in the quaint village of Olney.

Ah, but it was in Olney that Cowper's legacy truly began to take shape. It was there, amid the supportive embrace of his newfound community, that he and Newton embarked on a joint publication that would become a touchstone of faith – the Olney Hymns. And it was during this time, even in the throes of his own personal struggles, that Cowper penned one of his most beloved and controversial hymns – "There is a Fountain Filled With Blood.”

Truly, the life of William Cowper is a testament to the power of resilience, the transformative nature of friendship, and the enduring legacy of the written word. But the story is far from over, my friends. Join me as we continue to unravel the threads of this remarkable man's life and the indelible mark he left on the world.

As I delve deeper into the life and work of William Cowper, one particular hymn has captivated my attention – "There Is a Fountain Filled With Blood." Based on the powerful imagery of Zechariah 13:1, this hymn stands as a profound meditation on the cleansing, saving power of Christ's blood. It's a testament to the raw, unapologetic poetry that could spring forth from Cowper's pen.

And you know, it's fascinating to me that even in the 19th century, there were those who sought to "sanitize" this hymn, to make it less graphic. In 1819, a group tried to alter the opening line, changing it from "There is a fountain filled with blood" to the more palatable "From Calvary's Cross a Fountain Flows." But as the esteemed hymnologist E.E. Ryder so eloquently stated, such attempts "forget that what they [the offensive graphic language] express is not only poetry, but the poetry of intense and impassioned feeling, which naturally embodies itself in the boldest metaphors.”

And I couldn't agree more. You see, for me, that opening line – "There is a fountain filled with blood" – has always held a deep, personal resonance. In fact, it was my favorite hymn to sing as a solo back in my high school days. Those were the times, weren't they?

But of course, Cowper's life was not without its own profound struggles. In 1773, just two years into the Olney Hymns project, the poet was devastated by the death of his brother. This tragedy plunged him into his deepest, darkest bout of depression yet, to the point where he became convinced that God wanted him to take his own life. And yet, even in the midst of that anguish, Cowper was spared – not once, but three times, as he attempted suicide. He saw this as a sign of God's divine intervention, a testament to the overruling providence that would lead him to write his most famous hymn on that very subject.

And what a testament it is! "God Moves in a Mysterious Way" – a hymn that has undoubtedly touched the hearts of countless souls, including my own. It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, even when the path ahead seems shrouded in mystery, there is a divine hand guiding us, a light to lead us through the shadows.

But of course, Cowper's journey was not without its final, devastating blow. In 1796, he lost his dear friend, Mrs. Unwin, and the depth of his grief plunged him into a permanent state of despair. It was a loss from which he never truly recovered, and ultimately led to his passing in 1800.

And yet, even in the face of such profound personal trials, Cowper's words and his music have endured, touching the hearts and souls of generations. For me, this hymn – this bold, unapologetic testament to the power of Christ's blood – has become a source of solace, a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is a fountain of redemption, a wellspring of grace.

As I've grown older, my appreciation for this hymn has only deepened. Perhaps it's because I've weathered my own share of emotional storms, my own bouts of depression. But in those times, I've found solace in the timeless words of William Cowper, in the knowledge that I am not alone in my struggles, that there is a fountain – a wellspring of divine love – that can cleanse and restore the weary soul.

Cowper’s personal story resonates with me deeply, my friend. The parallels between my own journey and that of William Cowper are truly profound. I can only imagine the weight of the struggles he endured, the darkness he had to confront. And yet, through it all, I found solace and strength in the very hymn that so captivated Cowper's own soul. "There Is a Fountain Filled With Blood" – a testament to the cleansing, redeeming power of Christ's sacrifice.

It has been my goal to weave my own story into this hymn, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and, hopefully, profound insights. I found it remarkable that my song, “Who Can Satisfy My Soul," goes so well with this timeless hymn. What a powerful pairing, a testament to the truth that only Christ can truly satisfy the longing of our souls.

I hope my description of that pivotal moment in 1988 when I received “Who Can Satisfy My Soul,” when God flooded my soul with the truth of His presence – is a testament to the transformative power of humility and earnest cries for help. It’s the truth, my friend – when we feel alone, when we're bombarded by the lies of the enemy, we must remember that we don't deserve to be noticed, to be encouraged, to be picked up. And yet, in His infinite grace, God has made a way for us to never be alone, to always be upheld and cherished.

I'm so grateful that I did not succeed in my attempt to take my own life, just as I'm grateful that Cowper was spared. Through the years, I've found that same network of trusted friends and counselors that Cowper did – those who talked me down from the ledge, who walked with me through the valleys of depression and into the sunlit meadows of joy.

We must never lose sight of the fundamental truth that every person has a deep, innate desire to be known and valued. And as followers of Christ, it is our sacred duty to be that light, that friend, that Jesus to those who are struggling, to those who feel alone and forgotten. By simply being present, by offering the gift of our time and our empathy, we can pour balm on the wounded souls of this world.

It is my prayer that my story, my journey, could be a testament to the power of resilience, of faith, and of the unwavering love of our Savior. It is my hope that my words and my music continue to touch the hearts of all who hear them, just as Cowper's hymn has touched my own soul. For in the end, that is the true legacy we all strive to leave behind – a legacy of hope, of healing, and of the unshakable truth that Christ alone can satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this teaching and to hear the coupling of these two songs, go to https://www.patreon.com/posts/there-is-filled-106818536

Photo courtesy of https://images.app.goo.gl/NRPrHYnESQgPf839A

I Stand Amazed In the Presence

Welcome back, everyone! This week, I am thrilled to delve into the rich history and enduring legacy of hymn number one on my recording, "HYMNS I"—"I Stand Amazed in the Presence." This beloved hymn was penned by the prolific Charles Hutchinson Gabriel around 1905. But who exactly was this musical genius?

Charles Hutchinson Gabriel, born on August 18, 1856, in Wilton, Muscatine County, Iowa, and living until September 14, 1932, was a towering figure in American gospel music. Imagine a life so infused with melody that he crafted between 7,000 and 8,000 songs, many of which still resonate through the 21st-century hymnals we sing today. Under various pseudonyms—Charlotte G. Homer, H. A. Henry, and S. B. Jackson—he created a vast and enduring repertoire.

Picture young Charles on a farm in Iowa, his father leading singing schools right in their home. The air would be filled with the sound of voices learning to harmonize, and there, in the midst of it, a young boy teaching himself to play the family's reed organ. With no formal music training, he began leading his own shape note singing schools at just 17, traveling to share his gift.

I must pause here to reflect on a personal note. My grandmother Jernigan cherished her shaped note hymnals, trying earnestly to pass that sight-singing method on to me. While I grasped it, I found playing by ear came more naturally. This shaped note tradition is a treasured part of my musical heritage. I am proud to say several of my own songs have been published in shaped note hymnals, a feat that would surely make my grandmother's heart swell with pride.

Returning to Gabriel, his musical prowess was well acknowledged in his hometown of Wilton. A charming piece of local lore tells of a pastor at the First Presbyterian Church—be it Pastor Pollock or McAulay—who once asked Gabriel early in the week if he knew a suitable song for the upcoming sermon. By Sunday, Gabriel had composed a new hymn, both lyrics and music. This knack for swift creativity marked his early career.

From 1890 to 1892, Gabriel served as the music director at Grace Methodist Episcopal Church in San Francisco. There, he was tasked with writing a song for a mission celebration, resulting in "Send the Light," his first commercial success. His career later took him to Chicago, where he joined Homer Rodeheaver’s publishing firm in 1912.

Gabriel's personal life saw two marriages, first to Fannie Woodhouse, ending in divorce, and then to Amelia Moore. He had one child from each marriage. He spent his final years in Hollywood, California, passing away at the age of 76. His autobiography, "Sixty Years of Gospel Song," remains a testament to his enduring impact.

In the early 1900s, Charles H. Gabriel reigned as the king of gospel music. His hymns, a departure from the deeply theological and meditative songs of the 1800s, were vibrant, energetic, and easy to remember. Evangelists like Billy Sunday and his song leader, Homer Rodeheaver, found in Gabriel’s music the perfect accompaniment to their revival meetings.

Among Gabriel's extensive catalog, "Oh That Will Be Glory for Me" and "Send the Light" are particularly notable. His prolific output included 35 gospel song collections, numerous Sunday school songbooks, choir collections, and an astonishing 41 Christmas cantatas. He often wrote under pseudonyms, complicating the task of pinpointing his total output.

Yet, the hymn that has perhaps enjoyed the longest-lasting affection is "I Stand Amazed in the Presence." Despite being written in 1905, it feels as timeless as ever, focusing on the sheer awe of Christ’s sacrifice. The raw emotion captured in this hymn resonates deeply—how marvelous, how wonderful indeed!

"I Stand Amazed" was first published in E. O. Excell’s collection, "Praises" (1905). The Rev. Carlton R. Young, editor of The United Methodist Hymnal, describes it as a song of gratitude and praise, rooted in Luke's account of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, an episode uniquely detailed in Luke 22:41-44.

Now, I paired this classic hymn with a portion of my own song, also titled "I Stand Amazed," which I received on April 14, 1991. Inspired by the miracles of Jesus in Matthew 9, particularly verses 32-33, my song was born from a place of deep personal pain and profound spiritual revelation.

1991 was a tumultuous year for me, marked by significant hardships but also incredible spiritual growth. Through it all, Jesus Christ remained a steadfast presence, sustaining me. The depth of His love continually leaves me in awe. This song, turning 33 years old this past April, stands as a testament to that enduring amazement and gratitude.

As I journey through the years, I find myself increasingly in awe of all that God has woven into the tapestry of my life over these 65 years. Each moment, each blessing, and each challenge met with His grace, leaves me standing in utter amazement. If His presence has been this incredible in our earthly walk, just imagine the wonder that awaits us in eternity with Him. It fills my heart with an even deeper sense of awe. May we never cease to be astonished by the boundless greatness of our God and His immense love for us.

And always remember, God loves you, and so do I. Take a moment today to revel in His presence. Feel the warmth of His love surrounding you, and let your heart soar with big dreams, for our God is infinitely grand - and amazing. Never forget, you are never alone—ever. Embrace your true identity as the beloved child of the Father, and go forth to be all He says you are.

Dennis

PS So, as we listen to "I Stand Amazed in the Presence," let’s reflect on the profound wonder of Christ’s sacrifice and the boundless love He extends to each of us. How marvelous! How wonderful!

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this story, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/i-stand-amazed-in-the-presence-i-stand-amazed/

Photo and facts about the life of Charles Hutchinson Gabriel courtesy of Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_H._Gabriel

I'm Changed

Therefore from now on we recognize no one by the flesh; even though we have known Christ by the flesh, yet now we know [Him in this way] no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, [this person is] a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NASB

This week’s song, I’m Changed, was received on April 20, 1983, roughly a year and a half after my salvation and new birth in Christ. It is a very precious gift to me that God placed upon my heart as a remembrance of all He has done for me.

On November 7, 1981, God had radically touched and changed my life. Yet, here I was a year and a half into my new identity and I was still being bombarded by the old lies concerning that very identity.

This song was inspired by my friend, John Jewell, who looked me in the eye and told me to stop doubting what God had done and simply believe the truth. He said, “Dennis, if God changed you, you are changed!”

This song came out of sheer joy at the way my soul felt as this truth flooded over me. I won't bore you with my story for the umpteenth time. You already know it, but just in case you would like to hear my story again, you can always go to YouTube and type in the search bar the title Sing Over Me, the Dennis Jernigan movie.

I have a little surprise for you to conclude this week’s podcast version of this blog and it involves that movie I mentioned before. In 2014, the documentary of my life called Sing Over Me was released. For years and years I had constantly been bombarded by people telling me I was faking my change and that I wasn't who I said I was, so I wrote this song as a way to settle my own mind and to answer my critics once and for all. Mainly, it is just my affirmation to God that I am His and His alone.

The first song was called I'm Changed. This song, which is played over the end credits of the movie, is called I Am Changed and I received it on March 20, 2013.

There is need for no more explanation. This song is my heart and I leave it as a blessing for you to end this week’s podcast. Thank you for going on this journey with me…

Dennis Jernigan

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

Photo courtesy of https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2015/12/16/18/11/background-1096347_1280.jpg

Dream Come True

Even though I am battling Parkinson's, I am making the choice to fix my gaze on Jesus. I am choosing to not live as a victim, but to live as a victor over Parkinson's and it just so happens that these songs I share each week have been helping me do that in a brand new way with a brand new perspective. Even during times when I have felt like all my dreams are not going to come to pass or when I have felt my dreams have been crushed due to the disease, I am actively choosing to live my life from my God's point of view.

This week’s song, Dream Come True, was received on January 24, 1994. As I have already alluded to and as you can probably guess, I am a dreamer. I always have been. Always will be. I've told you on several occasions about my literal dreams of being the son of Captain James T. Kirk and living aboard the starship Enterprise and I felt captured by aliens in each dream and how my dad would rescue me every night in my dreams. Looking back now it is easy to see how God was smack dab in the middle of bringing those dreams to my mind every single night for many years. Do you know why that is? I firmly believe it is because God wanted me to know that he was pursuing me to rescue me from a life of sin. And that dream came true on November 7, 1981.

When the Lord set me free and gave me a new identity, it was like I began to dream in Technicolor on an IMAX screen! I dreamed of writing music, even though I had been banned in college from pursuing a songwriting major. As I began to seek Jesus intimately…to delight myself in the Lord…He began to give me the desires of my heart, and then some!

As a boy, I dreamed of having nine children one day. But due to my past, I felt I would never be able to marry a woman, even though I dreamed of having a wife one day. Then God brought Melinda into my life and here I sit over 40 years into that dream come true marriage that produced nine children and, so far, 13 grandchildren! God has brought my dreams into reality and has actually blown my mind so many times by the way he has caused my dreams to come to pass.

Case in point: I decided to write music and record that music and put it out publicly even though I had my fair share of naysayers. My first home made recording actually sold over 60,000 copies the first year I produced it…without a record label or any endorsement deal. God simply used word of mouth and put the music into some amazing places. I'll tell you more about that when I see you in heaven and we have a bit more time!

When it came to my public ministry, my dream was that it would be realized via the local church, but God had a much bigger dream for me than I could ever have imagined. He used a letter I wrote to a popular evangelist, thanking him for using my music and telling him my story of redemption and then encouraging him to stop using my music because I didn't want to bring reproach on his ministry due to my past. Do you know what happened next? That evangelist, James Robison, read my letter on national television and suddenly my music was in demand around the world. That was just a few steps beyond my wildest dreams, to say the least!

Soon, due to that outpouring of music, I began to hear from people whose lives had been shattered; from emotionally wounded people; from those held in bondage to sin; from people whose hearts had been broken seemingly beyond repair.

Soon, I began to dream about things I had never even thought of doing or pursuing before. Like writing fantasy novels and getting them published. Like having a documentary filmed about my life and having that documentary viewed on Amazon prime numerous times and continuing to be viewed on YouTube to this day. Like writing my life story. Like ministering to the basketball coaches at the NCAA final four in the year 2005. Like ministering at the national day of prayer on two separate occasions. Like watching videos from war-torn Ukraine of worship gatherings of those in the thick of battle. Like hearing one of my songs being sung in an underground church in Istanbul. God has given me so many dreams through the years that seemed so unattainable, yet because of his might and strength, they have come to pass in spite of me!

Reality is I wouldn't be honest if I said all of my dreams have come true. I have had moments of having my dreams crushed, but even in those moments I have been given the opportunity to experience God's grace on a whole new level, and in most cases, have come to experience even more amazing dreams that I might have missed otherwise.

What does one do when their dreams are shattered? What I do, or at least purpose to do, is to turn my heart and mind towards the giver of dreams…the Lord Jesus Christ. After all, He is my ultimate dream and I will spend eternity living out the most outrageous, mind blowing dreams that I believe will be one grand adventure called heaven.

The enemy, the liar, Satan would like nothing more than to crush every dream of my life and wouldd be elated beyond belief if he could just silence me. The only problem is, Jesus has my heart and because he has my heart he has my dreams. Even at times when it feels like I one day might be imprisoned due to my story of deliverance, there is no prison that could ever keep me from dreaming. In fact, this song came when I reaffirmed to my own heart that no one can capture my heart because it belongs to Jesus. There really is no prison that could ever keep me from dreaming. That's true freedom.

No one can take away our dreams. In fact, God continues to give us more dreams the older we get. Quoting a prophecy found in Joel 2:28, the writer of the book of Acts says,

17 'AND IT SHALL BE IN THE LAST DAYS,' God says, 'THAT I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT ON ALL MANKIND; AND YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS WILL PROPHESY, AND YOUR YOUNG MEN WILL SEE VISIONS, AND YOUR OLD MEN WILL HAVE DREAMS… Acts 2:17 NASB

Psalm 37:4 NASB says:

Delight yourself in the LORD;

And He will give you the desires of your heart.

Dare to be a dreamer. Dare to live out your dreams. I’m gonna go and do some day dreaming after I have finished writing this post. That’s how simple a dream can be. I plan on doing a little dreaming for my grandchildren. Dreams bring me joy…and dreams draw me closer to the heart of God. I can’t think of a better reason to dream.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this post and to hear the song, Dream Come True, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/dream-come-true/

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Hold On

I know I do this a lot, but I am playing the Parkinson's card today, meaning even though I am struggling with this disease I am making the choice to fix my gaze on Jesus. I am choosing to not live as a victim, but to live as a victor over Parkinson's and it just so happens that the songs and stories behind the songs I share each week have been helping me do that in a brand new way with a brand new perspective. Even during times when I have felt alone in my battle, the truth is God has never let me go. In fact, when I felt like I was holding onto God, the real truth of the matter is that he was holding on to me…and that is absolutely glorious. I actually have moments when I don't even feel or believe I have Parkinson's. There are many reasons for that, which I will not go into right now, but suffice it to say, I am choosing to live my life from my God's point of you.

This week’s song, Hold On, was received on August 3, 1998 as I was preparing for our monthly Night of Praise. The Night of Praise was a monthly gathering I hosted and led for 15 years. Each month, people from every denominational background and every walk of life would assemble for worship and we would exalt Jesus for over three hours at each event.

It was my practice to seek the Lord to see if any if He had any songs of deliverance for me to share with the people of these gatherings. If the Holy Spirit had given me a song for that particular group, I would ask all the people to have a seat. I would ask all those who were dealing with a specific issue to stand while I sang the song over them from God's perspective.

On this particular night, the Lord had given me the song, Hold On. I remember asking if there were any people present that evening who felt they were hanging on to life by a thread…if there were any people there who felt so emotionally broken they found it difficult to even cry out to God…if there were any people present who just needed to feel seen…to know and to be known…any who needed to be held close and to receive the comfort of the Lord’s presence…if there were any weary from the constant barrage of the enemy’s lies and just simply needed a reprieve from spiritual battle.

And then I asked them to do a bold thing. I asked them to stand right where they were and allow me to sing over them. I then encouraged all those around those who had stood to surround them and lay hands on them and pray for them as I sang.

The reason I had them stand is that I believe honesty is the first step towards truth and truth sets us free. That night, over 100 people stood to receive ministry. I encouraged those who stood for ministry to disregard me and to hear their Father God's heart for them. As I began to sing, the sound of weeping began to fill that auditorium. In that moment, God's presence was absolutely tangible.

Let me share some of my favorite passages from God’s Word that give me the understanding that God has a hold on me with a love that will never let me go.

When I remember You on my bed,

I meditate on You in the night watches,

For You have been my help,

And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.

My soul clings to You;

Your right hand takes hold of me.

Psalm 63:6-8 NASB

Where can I go from Your Spirit?

Or where can I flee from Your presence?

If I ascend to heaven, You are there;

If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.

[If] I take up the wings of the dawn,

[If] I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,

Even there Your hand will lead me,

And Your right hand will take hold of me...

How precious also are Your thoughts for me, God!

How vast is the sum of them!

Were I to count them, they would outnumber the sand. When I awake, I am still with You.

Psalm 139:7-10, 17-18 NASB

You are my hiding place;

You keep me from trouble;

You surround me with songs of deliverance.

Psalm 32:7 BASV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers [and sisters,] whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Philippians 4:6-8 NASB

I encourage you to do just that; to think about things that are worthy of praise; to remember you have been given the mind of Christ and can change the way you think about things; and to always see every circumstance of life from the King's point of view. Hold on to the truth and allow the Truth to hold on to you.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this teaching and to hear the song, Hold On, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/hold-on/

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Don't Lose Heart

This week’s teaching is inspired by the song, Don’t Lose Heart. The song was received on July 25, 1990 and was given to me for friends who had lost a child to miscarriage. Both would-be mother and father were physicians and both wanted another child. They had already been blessed some years earlier with a precious daughter but had a deep desire for other children. It was the circumstances surrounding this loss that inspired the song Don’t Lose Heart.

I can’t begin to imagine the heartache and pain of going through a miscarriage as a would-be parent, but Melinda and I have experienced the heartache and pain of watching two of our children and their spouses going through the loss of 3 precious babies to miscarriage. It was a crushing experience because we were so excited and full of expectancy at the thought of being grandparents. Miscarriage is painful for the entire family but especially so for the expectant parents.

Concerning the couple I wrote the song for, as only God can, He was able to take the heartaches and trials and turn them to good for this couple and use it for His own glory. I am happy to report that these friends were able to adopt other children through the years and are now enjoying the benefits of God’s grace through these precious blessings of life. I encourage you to use this song to encourage others no matter what trial they are facing.

Hebrews 12:1-3 NASB 1 Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let's rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let's run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the 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. 3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

God’s grace is the same for all – sufficient. Our hope is the fact that we do not go through anything alone. My prayer is that none of you would lose heart or grow weary in your well-doing.

Isaiah 40:31 NASB 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.

Matthew 11:28 NASB 28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB 9 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.

When I feel like giving up, and there are times when I do feel that way, I have chosen ahead of time that there is only one and one alone that I give up to… And that is Jesus. When I have health issues that caused me to grow weary, I surrender them to Jesus. When I have relational issues that bring me discouragement, I give up to Jesus. We may not have a choice as to our circumstances, but we always have a choice as to how we will respond to them. As a new creation in Christ I always have a choice and I always choose Jesus.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this teaching and to listen to the song, Don’t Lose Heart, go to http://podcast.dennisjernigan.com/e/dont-lose-heart/

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The Point of Grace

This week’s study is inspired by the song, The Point of Grace. It came to me on March 17, 1997 for the contemporary Christian women’s quartet, called Point of Grace. Since a couple of the girls were from Oklahoma, we were already familiar with one another's ministries and, coincidentally, had both signed recording deals with Word Music, I believe, in 1993 or 1994. All I know is Melinda and I were invited to the Word Music Christmas dinner in Nashville in December for new artists signed to Word in the early 90s and I recall thinking how cool it was to have two ministries from Oklahoma signed to the same record company.

Of course, Point of Grace made a huge impact on Christian radio and were touring quite a bit in the following years. In the spring of 1997, Heather (soprano of the group), had their manager call and ask if I would be willing to come to their concert at the state fairgrounds arena in Oklahoma City and lead the girls in a pre-concert devotion. Of course, I quickly agreed to do that and immediately began seeking the Lord as to what He would have me share with the girls.

What I heard in my spirit was simply to sing over the girls. Personally, I knew that, based on my own experience with ministering to people in a concert setting and listening afterwards to the stories and burdens shared with me by those in attendance, that after a while, those burdens can become weights upon the shoulders of those who minister.

There were over 10,000 people in attendance that night, but my family and I had gotten there early enough to meet with the girls and their band to share with them what God had put on my heart. The first thing I did was to remind them that God was their hiding place and that he would surround them with songs of deliverance, reminding them that God rejoiced over them with singing…and that he had given me a song from his point of view to sing over them. I told them I felt they needed to let go of the burdens of those they were singing to and give those burdens to God.

Since they did not have a piano in the green room where we were meeting, I had brought my guitar in order to convey this song to them. At first I felt completely intimidated because the guys that played guitar in their band were world-class musicians and I was a piano guy pretending to play the guitar.

What struck me right away was that God could use even a remedial level guitar player to convey His heart because it was evident that what I was singing had struck a nerve; maybe a better way to say it would be to say that God had touched their hearts. How could I tell? All four of the girls had tears streaming down their faces and seeing that gave me a sense that God was enveloping them with a massive dose of his love for them. When I had finished singing this song over them, there was a brief moment of silence as we all experienced the awe and wonder of God's mighty presence with us and amongst us.

Of course, the girls were genuinely grateful while at the same time, jokingly saying to me, “Thanks a lot, Dennis! Now we have to redo our make up!” I felt very blessed to have been asked to do that for them and I suspect they began using waterproof mascara after that night. Just sayin’.

So just what does the phrase point of grace mean? What is the point of grace? The best way to explain it is to share just a few of the lyrics with you before I let you hear the song. I believe you will be able to identify with these words. This is verse one and part of the chorus:

When the fire of life leaves you so dry

That your eyes have no tears left to cry

When heartache leaves you wondering why

Or wondering how you will survive

And when you’ve grown too tired to run the race

But find your strength is gone without a trace

When you’ve reached that lonely desperate place

You have reached the point of grace

Chorus

And I will meet you there where your striving ends

I will hold you there in My embrace

And you will find the place where true joy begins

When you’ve reached the point of grace

The point of grace is the place where I come to understand that I cannot live this life or deal with it circumstances on my own; the place where we have fallen so far we feel we cannot be reached; the place where we let go of our burdens and take God's hand in our own hands. The point of grace is the collision of my realization that I need help with the massive love of God.

We all need more grace. Grace is simply God’s power meeting us in our weakness and infusing us with all that He is. I encourage you to receive His grace for whatever circumstances you face.

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

It's OK to admit we need Jesus. In fact, my personal belief is that Jesus is the answer to every question of life. I just need to learn how to see life; see the world from his point of view because it is there I will find the point of grace. This has become very personal to me in a way I never expected. Each and every day I wake up and remember I am dealing with Parkinson's, I immediately begin thanking God for another day of life and, at the same time, asking God for grace to get me through another day. His grace truly is sufficient. It’s enough to get me through.

Dennis Jernigan

To hear The Dennis Jernigan Podcast version of this teaching and to hear the song, just use the following link. As you listen, all I ask is that you disregard me and hear your Father’s heart singing over you: https://www.patreon.com/posts/point-of-grace-104164421

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Child, Come Forth

In this week’s teaching I share how the Lord used the story of Lazarus to lead me to shed the grave-clothes - the lies of the enemy that bound me in sin - and learn to walk in freedom. As a bonus, I share the recording of the actual moment I was set free.

Blessings,

Dennis

Listen to the teaching at https://www.patreon.com/posts/child-come-forth-103737934

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