Eternal Beauty Album – Song Stories

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper the track order and song story links are down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

Day and Night (Psalm 1)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 1 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

My heart’s desire for the opening track of Eternal Beauty was to convey God’s strength and power from the very start. The introduction of Day and Night expresses these being available to me in my life and faith journey. God’s “I am available” is transformed to “I am with you” through His strength and power when I progress from seeking to be in His proximity to being fully surrendered to Him. The percussion rhythms symbolize God’s heartbeat for me as I put my trust in Him. I want to be in step, in rhythm as I wait, walk, and run with Him.

Blessed is the one, blessed is the one, blessed is the one, blessed is the one. After the introduction the musical notes repeat the main theme melody sixteen times, which was inspired by these four words. The main theme reappears throughout the song, with other secondary melodies interspersed along the way.

The secondary theme symbolizes the tension between my imperfect unholiness and God’s perfect holiness. The minor and major chords and notes reflect both the longing I have to meditate on God’s word day and night and, at the same time, the victories and struggles of living by faith. In the final minute and a half of the song, a third theme appears. As I composed I thought about how angels are watching over us even though we can’t see them. The Bible has many stories of the unseen becoming visible for a moment to a character in the story. By faith we can know that angels are watching over and singing over us with beauty and peace, just as God is singing over us with His strength and power.

One final musical and spiritual insight is from verse three. The “blessed one” whose delight is in God’s Word and who meditates on it “day and night” is described to be “like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” I selected the wooden marimba from the orchestra percussion section to play from start to finish as inspiration for my life and faith journey to be like this “tree.” In researching the marimba I discovered that the use of rosewood is significant for marimbas due to its rich, warm, and resonant tone, making it the preferred “gold standard” for the instrument’s bars. The unique properties of rosewood create a warm, deep sound with a long sustain, and its quality, density, and grain are meticulously matched during the instrument’s construction to achieve a high level of performance. Amazingly these words could also describe a fruitful life in Christ: rich, warm, resonant, deep, sustaining, quality, density and depth, matched—in step with God, and, buy His life in us, achieving a high level of performance for His glory.

I hope you enjoy soaking in Day and Night again and again. I experienced God’s inspiration while composing it, and have encountered His presence while listening many times. Our Father reveals deep truths from Psalm 1 which enrich our private intimacy with Him, and then overflow into our public influence as we love and serve others for His glory.

How does Day and Night speak to you?

Psalm 1 (NIV) — DAY AND NIGHT

1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. 4 Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

Streams from the Heavens (Psalm 8)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 8 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

Track two on the Eternal Beauty album is all about God’s Glory. Verse 1 reads, “Yahweh, our Sovereign God, your glory streams from the heavens above, filling the earth with the majesty of your name!” This song demanded a huge and triumphant main theme as a testament to the magnitude of God’s glory and majesty.

The solo trumpet introduction is a reference to the “trumpet of heaven” which is mentioned several times in the Bible, including New Testament names loud trumpet, last trumpet, trumpet of God, and seven trumpets. The solo trumpet calls us to attention and its melody references the main theme we will soon hear throughout the piece.

The choir, harp, strings, organ, and woodwinds all sing together with long notes and a majestic melody to continue part two of the introduction. These sounds all have a sense of wonder, awe, and worship of God as the prelude to a glorious voyage. He is God of the universe, God of the cosmos, and worthy of our worship. “Look at the splendor of your skies, your creative genius glowing in the heavens. When I gaze at your moon and your stars, mounted like jewels in their settings, I know you are the fascinating artist who fashioned it all!” (verse 3).

At 1:30 in the song there is a secondary theme verse which repeats before the main theme appears. This secondary theme is singing the words “streams from the heavens” with notes that become a set up melody for the main theme melody. About thirty seconds later the main theme is finally introduced in its majesty with piano and orchestra. It is repeated once here and begins to build. I wanted to create a desire to hear this played again soon, even multiple times, to take it in fully over and over. The main theme pauses at the 2:31 mark, and the secondary theme verse appears a second time with new variations in instruments and percussion rhythms. This thirty second time window opens up the song, and increases the energy and anticipation for the main theme chorus to return soon.

At 3:00 the main theme reappears and is now bigger in instrumentation. Then it repeats a second time and is even bigger, and a third that is still bigger. The fourth and final presentation is the biggest of all. Each one of these four playings stretches out the song to get lost in the moment, for it to seem longer and grander with each listening. The trumpet from the introduction appears and grows to its full glory in the final repeat. As I experimented with endings, it was fitting to let the chorus carry the day to the finish, for God’s glory and majesty to be at the forefront as the song sends us on our way. I pray this track lifts your spirit and encourages you that you are seen and loved by your heavenly Father who is full of glory and majesty… “from the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise.” (Psalm 8:2, NIV).

How does Streams from the Heavens speak to you?

Psalm 8 (Passion) — STREAMS FROM THE HEAVENS

God’s Splendor, For the Pure and Shining One Set to the melody of “For the Feast of Harvest” by King David

God’s Majesty

1 Yahweh, our Sovereign God, your glory streams from the heavens above, filling the earth with the majesty of your name! 2 You have built a stronghold by the songs of children. Strength rises up with the chorus of infants. This kind of praise has power to shut Satan’s mouth. Childlike worship will silence the madness of those who oppose you.

Human Dignity

3 Look at the splendor of your skies, your creative genius glowing in the heavens. When I gaze at your moon and your stars, mounted like jewels in their settings, I know you are the fascinating artist who fashioned it all! 4 Why would you bother with puny, mortal man or care about human beings? 5 Yet what honor you have given to men, created only a little lower than Elohim, crowned with glory and magnificence. 6 You have delegated to them rulership over all you have made, with everything under their authority, placing earth itself under the feet of your image-bearers. 7-8 All the created order and every living thing of the earth, sky, and sea — the wildest beasts and all that move in the paths of the sea — everything is in submission to Adam’s sons. 9 Yahweh, our Sovereign God, your glory streams from the heavens above, filling the earth with the majesty of your name! People everywhere see your splendor!

Written in the Stars (Psalm 19)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 19 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

After opening the album with two powerful “God is big” tracks, the third song could have been big as well. Psalm 19:1 says, “God’s splendor is…written in the stars.” God created the universe, the earth and everything in it, the planets, and all the galaxies and stars. Our heavenly Father is magnificent, impressively beautiful and extravagant. He speaks through His creation, the skies (Psalm 19:1-6,) and His Word, the Scriptures (Psalm 19:7-14).

As I was musically sketching and recording ideas for this piece, what came to mind was the idea that God doesn’t need to clinch His fist or grit His teeth to be strong. He didn’t need to “try harder” in creating everything we see in the heavens above and the earth below. He is such a big and powerful God, I wanted to compose music expressing the ease with which He demonstrates His incomprehensible, immeasurable strength. The melodies became like a soundtrack for a master painter making brush strokes to create a marvelous work of art.

As you listen to Written in the Stars I pray the music offers God’s peace and rest to your soul. His sustaining strength and calming gentleness gave me hope as I was writing the notes. The soothing piano, symphony strings, and solos on French horn, English horn, and cello all work together to symbolize the effortless beauty and wonder of God’s creativity. They also represent the comforting assurance of His strength and presence.

The second half of the Psalm is worthy of attention and deep reflection as well. Even though musical ideas did not stem from these words, they are ever present behind the melodies. God’s Word is perfect, reviving the soul (verse 7). The “seen” in the first half and the “unseen” in the second half of Psalm 19 make me grateful to God for His faithfulness. He continually fulfills His promises as I walk by faith.

C.S. Lewis said, “Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither.” He described heaven as a place far beyond human imagination, a place where earthly joys are faint echoes of the true, glorious reality. He emphasized that heaven is not an ethereal existence but the renewal of creation and our resurrected, perfected selves, filled with unimaginable joy, beauty, learning, and love. For Lewis, the longing for something more than earth can provide is proof that heaven is our true home. God’s splendor is a tale that is told, written in the stars.

How does Written in the Stars speak to you?

Psalm 19 (Passion) — WRITTEN IN THE STARS

God’s Story in the Skies

1 God’s splendor is a tale that is told, written in the stars. Space itself speaks his story through the marvels of the heavens. His truth is on tour in the starry vault of the sky, showing his skill in creation’s craftsmanship. 2 Each day gushes out its message to the next, night by night whispering its knowledge to all — 3 without a sound, without a word, without a voice being heard, 4 yet all the world can hear its echo. Everywhere its message goes out. What a heavenly home God has set for the sun, shining in the super dome of the sky! 5 See how he leaves his celestial chamber each morning, radiant as a bridegroom ready for his wedding, like a day-breaking champion eager to run his course. 6 He rises on one horizon, completing his circuit on the other, warming lives and lands with his heat.

God’s Story in the Scriptures

7 Yahweh’s Word is perfect in every way; how it revives our souls! Yahweh’s laws lead us to truth, and his ways change the simple into wise. 8 Yahweh’s teachings are right and make us joyful; his precepts are so pure! Yahweh’s commands challenge us to keep close to his heart! The revelation-light of his Word makes my spirit shine radiant. Yahweh’s decrees are trustworthy. The fear of Yahweh is pure, enduring forever. 10 The rarest treasures of life are found in his truth. That’s why God’s Word is prized like others prize the finest gold. Sweeter also than honey are his living words—sweet word dripping from the honeycomb! 11 For they warn us, your servants, and keep us from following the wicked way, giving a lifetime guarantee: great success to every obedient soul! 12 How would I discern the waywardness of my heart? Lord, forgive my hidden flaws whenever you find them. 13 Keep cleansing me, God, and keep me from my secret, selfish sins; may they never rule over me! For only then will I be free from fault and remain innocent of rebellion. 14 So may the words of my mouth, my meditation-thoughts, and every movement of my heart be always pure and pleasing, acceptable before your eyes, Yahweh, my only Redeemer, my Protector.

Eternal Beauty (Psalm 103)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 103 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

The album’s title track was a humble attempt to convey God’s eternal beauty. How is this possible? Psalm 103 features the words, “O my soul, bless God. He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal. God is sheer mercy and grace. He is rich in love. As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is His love to those who fear Him. God’s love is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear Him. So bless God. Oh my soul, bless God.”

The composing process kept bringing to mind God’s holiness. The words “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory” appear in Isaiah 6:3, Psalm 72:19, and Revelation 4:8. The music embodies deep emotion and gratitude for God’s eternal beauty and holiness washing over my temporary brokenness and imperfection. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13) “For in the Son all our sins are cancelled and we have the release of redemption through his very blood.” (Colossians 1:14) “And now there is nothing between you and Father God, for He sees you as holy, flawless, and restored.” (Colossians 1:22)

When the song was almost complete I began searching for a counter melody that would sing over the main theme. The very first time I played the violin notes which are introduced at the 3:17 mark, the Holy Spirit gave me chills. I was just hoping to find a few more notes and sounds to add another layer expressing God’s eternal beauty. How is this possible? Father, give us glimpses of Your eternal beauty as we walk with You on our very brief earthly sojourn. Thank You for your love, grace, forgiveness and beauty. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

P.S. I share about the Eternal Beauty album cover art in the story about track 9, Marvelous Love.

How does Eternal Beauty speak to you?

Psalm 103 (MSG) — ETERNAL BEAUTY

1-2 O my soul, bless God. From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name! O my soul, bless God, don’t forget a single blessing! 3-5 He forgives your sins—every one. He heals your diseases—every one. He redeems you from hell—saves your life! He crowns you with love and mercy—a paradise crown. He wraps you in goodness—beauty eternal. He renews your youth—you’re always young in his presence.

6-18 God makes everything come out right; he puts victims back on their feet. He showed Moses how he went about his work, opened up his plans to all Israel. God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, he’s rich in love. He doesn’t endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever. He doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs. As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is his love to those who fear him. And as far as sunrise is from sunset, he has separated us from our sins. As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear him. He knows us inside and out, keeps in mind that we’re made of mud. Men and women don’t live very long; like wildflowers they spring up and blossom, But a storm snuffs them out just as quickly, leaving nothing to show they were here. God’s love, though, is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear him, Making everything right for them and their children as they follow his Covenant ways and remember to do whatever he said.

19-22 God has set his throne in heaven; he rules over us all. He’s the King! So bless God, you angels, ready and able to fly at his bidding, quick to hear and do what he says. Bless God, all you armies of angels, alert to respond to whatever he wills. Bless God, all creatures, wherever you are—everything and everyone made by God. And you, O my soul, bless God!

Immersed in Light (Psalm 139)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 139 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

How can we have a sense that we are immersed in God’s Light in such a broken and often dark world? Psalm 139 speaks to this, and the music is filled with light, rippling, sparkling, glimmering, shining, and rising to stir my heart toward God. Below are the key verses from Psalm 139 that jumped off the page as I was reading it over and over.

“God…I’m an open book to you; you know what I’m thinking. You know when I leave and when I get back; I’m never out of your sight. You know everything I’m going to say before I start the first sentence…You’re always there, your reassuring presence, coming and going. This is too much, too wonderful—I can’t take it all in! At night I’m immersed in the light ! It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you; night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you. Oh, let me rise in the morning and live always with You…guide me on the road to eternal life.” (MSG)

There are no words to fully describe, explain, or comprehend God’s Light. Just as we receive salvation as a gift when we believe by faith, for me God’s Light is something to receive as well. I cannot go after it or chase it down. He loves and pursues us first, and we receive and respond with love. (1 John 4:19) I encourage you to read Psalm 139 from one or more Bible versions as you listen to Immersed in Light.

His Light is with us on life’s journey, and it is represented musically throughout this song’s journey. You will hear different instruments “shine” as they have their moment. The airy flute symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Choirs are like angels. The rippling piano is reflecting light. At the very end, the trumpet and French horn announce Jesus’ presence—the Light of the World (John 8:12). He has been there the whole time. He loves us, He knows us, and He is always there.

How does Immersed in Light speak to you?

Psalm 139 (MSG) — IMMERSED IN LIGHT

1-6 God, investigate my life; get all the facts firsthand. I’m an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I’m thinking. You know when I leave and when I get back; I’m never out of your sight. You know everything I’m going to say before I start the first sentence.
I look behind me and you’re there, then up ahead and you’re there, too—your reassuring presence, coming and going. This is too much, too wonderful—I can’t take it all in!

7-12 Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit? to be out of your sight? If I climb to the sky, you’re there! If I go underground, you’re there! If I flew on morning’s wings to the far western horizon, You’d find me in a minute—you’re already there waiting! Then I said to myself, “Oh, he even sees me in the dark! At night I’m immersed in the light !” It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you; night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.

13-16 Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, The days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day.

17-22 Your thoughts—how rare, how beautiful! God, I’ll never comprehend them! I couldn’t even begin to count them—any more than I could count the sand of the sea. Oh, let me rise in the morning and live always with you!And please, God, do away with wickedness for good! And you murderers—out of here!—all the men and women who belittle you, God, infatuated with cheap god-imitations. See how I hate those who hate you, God, see how I loathe all this godless arrogance; I hate it with pure, unadulterated hatred. Your enemies are my enemies!

23-24 Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—then guide me on the road to eternal life.

Ends of the Earth (Psalm 22)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 22 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

There is a reason Ends of the Earth opens with a hint of sadness, featuring a clarinet solo. Psalm 22 begins with, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These were Jesus’ words on the cross. Verse 2 says, “My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.” I have felt this way before, haven’t you? Life on earth has constant tension, ups and downs, victories and struggles, desert moments and sanctuary moments. This element of sadness is also referenced in the middle of the song from 2:04 to 3:01. There is still hope even when God is sometimes silent.

The Psalm moves in a more hopeful direction as it continues. “Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you.” (Verse 9) “But you, Lord, do not be far from me. You are my strength.” (Verse 19) The main theme answers the introduction with confidence and beauty in the first half, and even more in the second half to the ending. The piano plays the identical theme over and over, and various orchestra instruments and sections join in along the way. The musical build up is gradual in the first half and the hope filled main theme grows bigger and bolder in the second half. This mirrors the emotional journey in Psalm 22. Later in the Psalm we read, “those who seek the Lord will praise Him—may your hearts live forever! All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will bow down before Him.” (Verses 26-27) “They will proclaim his righteousness, declaring to a people yet unborn: He has done it!” (Verse 31)

In response to the midpoint sadness, the symphony gets bigger and bolder in the back half of the song as the orchestra goes all in expressing that God is our ultimate hope and strength. Timpani drum joins the 9/8 meter emphasized by the fast strings, which were introduced earlier in the piece. The timpani is a tuned percussion drum, so all of its hits are in tune with the symphony. In my composing, percussion always reminds me of God’s heart beat and His pace in leading me as I long to stay in step with Him. Similar to the timpani, I want to be in tune with—attuned to—God’s plans and purposes. Being in harmony with my heavenly Father is another spiritual layer represented in the music.

God’s bigness and my smallness is also reflected in the opening and ending of the piece. The piano begins gently, and plays the exact same main theme notes throughout the piece. It is always there in the background, even when the full symphony and timpani are playing. By the end everything is stripped away except for the solo piano. In this song, as in others, the piano represents my frailty and weakness a part from God. The symphony symbolizes Him singing over my life with a hope and strength that overshadows everything else. God sees me, knows me, and loves me. He sees you, knows you, and loves you too, to the ends of the earth.

How does Ends of the Earth speak to you?

Psalm 22 (NIV) — ENDS OF THE EARTH

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? 2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest. 3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises. 4 In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. 5 To you they cried out and were saved; in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 6 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by everyone, despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads. 8 “He trusts in the Lord,” they say, “let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in him.” 9 Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you, even at my mother’s breast. 10 From birth I was cast on you; from my mother’s womb you have been my God. 11 Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. 12 Many bulls surround me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle me. 13 Roaring lions that tear their prey open their mouths wide against me. 14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted within me. 15 My mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you lay me in the dust of death. 16 Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. 17 All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. 18 They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment. 19 But you, Lord, do not be far from me. You are my strength; come quickly to help me. 20 Deliver me from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dogs. 21 Rescue me from the mouth of the lions; save me from the horns of the wild oxen. 22 I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you. 23 You who fear the Lord, praise him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor him! Revere him, all you descendants of Israel! 24 For he has not despised or scorned the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help. 25 From you comes the theme of my praise in the great assembly; before those who fear you I will fulfill my vows. 26 The poor will eat and be satisfied; those who seek the Lord will praise him—may your hearts live forever! 27 All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will bow down before him, 28 for dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations. 29 All the rich of the earth will feast and worship; all who go down to the dust will kneel before him—those who cannot keep themselves alive. 30 Posterity will serve him; future generations will be told about the Lord. 31 They will proclaim his righteousness, declaring to a people yet unborn: He has done it!

Oasis of Peace (Psalm 23)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 23 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

Track seven Oasis of Peace is all about the last word in the song title—peace. God’s peace. Even though we all have this innate desire for peace, it is often elusive in such a busy and noisy world. The Eternal Beauty album project is the first time I had all the songs and titles in order from the very beginning, before I composed the first note. God inspired me with the challenge to compose each song in order before going on to the next. This meant Oasis of Peace would be the seventh composition and track, and the opening piece for the album’s second half. Even though we want peace it can take time to be ready to receive it. I wanted the six songs leading up to this one to each play a part in preparing the way for a beautiful, restful invitation to receive God’s peace that only He can offer.

In most Bible translations Psalm 23:2 says, “he leads me beside still waters” or “quiet waters.” A few use the words “refreshing waters.” The Passion Bible, like The Message, is a paraphrase and not a word-for-word translation, with an aim to be a highly readable, heart-level expression of Scripture. In this version Psalm 23:2 reads, “an oasis of peace near the quiet brook of bliss,” and this poetic phrase inspired the title.

Musically this song uses the piano and a smaller ensemble of instruments to convey a sense of peace. My composing desire was to offer God’s peace from the first note, and for the main theme and secondary themes to help us slow down and receive it. Oasis of Peace is the third song I have composed with the word “peace” in the title. Perfect Peace (2020) was inspired by Isaiah 26:3, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Peace (2005) came from John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” My two Christmas albums to date also include it—December Peace and December Peace II.

I encourage you to read Psalm 23 slowly or a few times as you listen to Oasis of Peace. You can also reflect on the words below that enrich the title’s meaning.

Oasis: refuge, haven, safe haven, retreat, sanctuary, shelter, resting place, hiding place.

Peace: calmness, restfulness, peace and quiet, silence, noiselessness, stillness, solitude, tranquility, composure, rest, repose, ease, comfort, contentment, security, bliss.

How does Oasis of Peace speak to you?

Psalm 23 (Passion) —OASIS OF PEACE

1 Yaweh is my best friend and my shepherd. I always have more than enough. 2 He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love. His tracks take me to an oasis of peace near the quiet brook of bliss. 3 That’s where he restores and revives my life. He opens before me the right path and leads me along his footsteps of righteousness so that I can bring honor to his name. 4 Even when your path takes me through the valley of deepest darkness, fear will never conquer me, for you already have! Your authority is my strength and my peace. The comfort of your love takes away my fear. I’ll never be lonely, for you are near. 5 You become my delicious feast even when my enemies dare to fight. You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit, you give me all I can drink of you until my cup overflows. 6 So why would I fear the future? Only goodness and tender love pursue me all the days of my life. Then afterward, when my life is through, I’ll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you!

Treasure in My Heart (Psalm 119)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 119 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible with 176 verses. What music would arise from so many verses? I read this over several times in different Bible versions, seeking God, searching for passages He was using to speak into my life, here and now. The title arose from verse 11, “I consider your Word to be my greatest treasure, and I treasure it in my heart.”

As track number eight, Treasure in My Heart was also going to be a peace filled song in its position following Oasis of Peace. Musically I wanted it to be simpler, with a few select instruments complimenting the piano at the center of the piece. The strings and woodwinds are gently present, but the French horn has the feature solo throughout. This is one of my favorite instruments, with its hauntingly beautiful sound. The horn has always symbolized God’s presence for me when it appears in one of my compositions. Psalm 150:3 shouts, “Praise him with trumpets and horns! Praise him with harps and lyres!”

This piece had several phrases where the words became notes on the piano. You may be able to “hear” some of these in the theme melodies, or perhaps you can hear or sing your own special Scripture verses along with the music. Either way, these are rich and encouraging words, and I hope you will soak them in as you listen.

The introduction and ending are the same and frame the song, inspired by verses 37-38. Drench my soul with life (4 times), As I walk in Your paths ( 2 times), I am (3rd phrase played one time for the words “I am” found in the phrase “I am Your Beloved”), Drench my soul with life (1 time at the very end of the piece).

The first theme melody was born out of verses 24 and 47. “Your word is my light and delight…For I love what you say to me. The second theme melody is from verse 111, “Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness.”

Additional verses I reflected on as I composed were verse 88—Revive me with your tender love, verse 107—Breathe life into me again by your living Word, verse 175—Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and back to verse 11 where the song title is found—I consider your Word to be my greatest treasure, and I treasure it in my heart.

How does Treasure in My Heart speak to you?

Psalm 119 (Passion) —TREASURE IN MY HEART

The Words of God

The Way to Happiness

1 You’re only truly happy when you walk in total integrity, walking in the light of God’s Word. 2 What joy overwhelms everyone who keeps the ways of God, those who seek him as their heart’s passion! 3 They’ll never do what’s wrong but will always choose the paths of the Lord. 4 God has prescribed the right way to live: obeying his laws with all our hearts. 5 How I long for my life to bring you glory as I follow each and every one of your holy precepts! 6 Then I’ll never be ashamed, for I take strength from all your commandments. 7 I will give my thanks to you from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of your righteous judgments, 8 I will be faithful to all that your Word reveals—so don’t ever give up on me!

True Joy

9 How can a young man stay pure? Only by living in the Word of God and walking in its truth. 10 I have longed for you with the passion of my heart; don’t let me stray from your directions! 11 I consider your Word to be my greatest treasure, and I treasure it in my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you. 12 My wonderful God, you are to be praised above all; teach me the power of your decrees! 13 I speak continually of your laws as I recite out loud your counsel to me. 14 I find more joy in following what you tell me to do than in chasing after all the wealth of the world. 15 I set my heart on your precepts and pay close attention to all your ways. 16 My delight is found in all your laws, and I won’t forget to walk in your words.

The Abundant Life

17 Let me, your servant, walk in abundance of life that I may always live to obey your truth. 18 Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture. 19 My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom. 20 I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings, these cravings to obey your every commandment! 21 Your displeasure rests with those who are arrogant, who think they know everything; you rebuke the rebellious who refuse your laws. 22 Don’t let them mock and scorn me for obeying you. 23 For even if the princes and my leaders choose to criticize me, I will continue to serve you and walk in your plans for my life. 24 Your commandments are my counselors; your Word is my light and delight!

Revived by the Word

25 Lord, I’m fading away. I’m discouraged and lying in the dust; revive me by your word, just like you promised you would. 26 I’ve poured out my life before you, and you’ve always been there for me. So now I ask: teach me more of your holy decrees. 27 Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom, and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders. 28 My life’s strength melts away with grief and sadness; come strengthen me and encourage me with your words. 29 Keep me far away from what is false; give me grace to stay true to your laws. 30 I’ve chosen to obey your truth and walk in the splendor-light of all that you teach me. 31 Lord, don’t allow me to make a mess of my life, for I cling to your commands and follow them as closely as I can. 32 I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions.

Understanding God’s Ways

33 Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully. 34 Give me an understanding heart so that I can passionately know and obey your truth. 35 Guide me into the paths that please you, for I take delight in all that you say. 36 Cause my heart to bow before your words of wisdom and not to the wealth of this world. 37 Help me turn my eyes away from illusions so that I pursue only that which is true; drench my soul with life as I walk in your paths. 38 Reassure me of your promises, for I am your beloved, your servant who bows before you. 39 Defend me from the criticism I face for keeping your beautiful words. 40 See how I long with cravings for more of your ways? Let your righteousness revive my spirit!

Trust in the Lord

41 May your tender love overwhelm me, O Lord, for you are my Savior and you keep your promises. 42 I’ll always have an answer for those who mock me because I trust in your word. 43 May I never forget your truth, for I rely upon your precepts. 44 I will observe your laws every moment of the day and will never forget the words you say. 45 I will walk with you in complete freedom, for I seek to follow your every command. 46 When I stand before kings, I will tell them the truth and will never be ashamed. 47 My passion and delight is in your word, for I love what you say to me! 48 I long for more revelation of your truth, for I love the light of your word as I meditate on your decrees.

My Comfort

49 Lord, never forget the promises you’ve made to me, for they are my hope and confidence. 50 In all of my affliction I find great comfort in your promises, for they have kept me alive! 51 No matter how bitterly the proud mockers speak against me, I refuse to budge from your precepts. 52 Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth! 53 Whenever I see the wicked breaking your laws, I feel horrible. 54 As I journey through life, I put all your statutes to music; they become the theme of my joyous songs. 55 Throughout the night I think of you, dear God; I treasure your every word to me. 56 All this joy is mine as I follow your ways! My Heart Is Devoted to You 57 You are my satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need, so I’m determined to do everything you say. 58 With all my heart I seek your favor; pour out your grace on me as you promised! 59 When I realize that I’m going astray, I turn back to obey your instructions. 60 I give my all to follow your revelation-light; I will not delay to obey. 61 Even when temptations encircle me with evil, I won’t forget for a moment to follow your commands. 62 In the middle of the night I awake to give thanks to you because of all your revelation-light—so right and true! 63 Anyone who loves you and bows in obedience to your words will be my friend. 64 Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere.

My True Treasure

65 Your extravagant kindness to me makes me want to follow your words even more! 66 Teach me how to make good decisions, and give me revelation-light, for I believe in your commands. 67 Before I was humbled I used to always wander astray, but now I see the wisdom of your words. 68 Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words! 69 Proud boasters make up lies about me because I am passionate to follow all that you say. 70 Their hearts are dull and void of feelings, but I find my true treasure in your truth. 71 The punishment you brought me through was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me your ways. 72 The words you speak to me are worth more than all the riches and wealth in the whole world!

Growth through the Word

73 Your very hands have held me and made me who I am; give me more revelation-light so I may learn to please you more. 74 May all your devoted lovers see how you treat me and be glad, for your words are entwined with my heart.75 Lord, I know that your judgments are always right. Even when it’s me you judge, you’re still faithful and true. 76 Send your kind mercy-kiss to comfort me, your servant, just like you promised you would. 77 Love me tenderly so I can go on, for I delight in your life-giving truth. 78 Shame upon the proud liars! See how they oppress me, all because of my passion for your precepts! 79 May all your devoted lovers follow me as I follow the path of your instruction. 80 Make me passionate and wholehearted to fulfill your every wish, so that I’ll never have to be ashamed of myself.

Deliver Me

81 I’m lovesick with yearnings for more of your salvation, for my heart is entwined with your Word. 82 I’m consumed with longings for your promises, so I ask, “When will they all come true?” 83 My soul feels dry and shriveled, useless and forgotten, but I will never forget your living truth. 84 How much longer must I wait until you punish my persecutors? For I am your loving servant. 85 Arrogant men who hate your truth and never obey your laws have laid a trap for my life. 86 They don’t know that everything you say is true, so they harass me with their lies. Help me, Lord! 87 They’ve nearly destroyed my life, but I refuse to yield; I still live according to your Word. 88 Revive me with your tender love and spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.

Faith in the Word of God

89 Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to eternity is the Word of God.

90 Your faithfulness flows from one generation to the next; all that you created sits firmly in place to testify of you. 91 By your decree everything stands at attention, for all that you have made serves you. 92 Because your words are my deepest delight, I didn’t give up when all else was lost. 93 I can never forget the profound revelations you’ve taught me, for they have kept me alive more than once. 94 Lord, I’m all yours, and you are my Savior; I have sought to live my life pleasing to you. 95 Even though evil men wait in ambush to kill me, I will set my heart before you to understand more of your ways. 96 I’ve learned that there is nothing perfect in this imperfect world except your words, for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!

I Love the Word of God

97 O how I love and treasure your law; throughout the day I fill my heart with its light! 98 By considering your commands I have an edge over my enemies, for I take seriously everything you say. 99 You have given me more understanding than those who teach me, for I’ve absorbed your eye-opening revelation. 100 You have graced me with more insight than the old sages because I have not failed to walk in the light of your ways. 101 I refused to bend my morals when temptation was before me so that I could become obedient to your Word. 102 I refuse to turn away from difficult truths, for you yourself have taught me to love your words. 103 How sweet are your living promises to me; sweeter than honey is your revelation-light. 104 For your truth is the source of my understanding, not the falsehoods of those who don’t know you, which I despise.

Truth’s Shining Light

105 Truth’s shining light guides me in my choices and decisions; the revelation of your Word makes my pathway clear. 106 To live my life by your righteous rules has been my holy and lifelong commitment. 107 I’m bruised and broken, overwhelmed by it all; breathe life into me again by your living word. 108 Lord, receive my grateful thanks and teach me more of how to please you. 109 Even though my life hangs in the balance, I’ll keep following what you’ve taught me, no matter what. 110 The ungodly have done their best to throw me off track, but I’ll not deviate from what you’ve told me to do. 111 Everything you speak to me is like joyous treasure, filling my life with gladness. 112 I have determined in my heart to obey whatever you say, fully and forever!

Trust and Obey

113 I despise those who can’t keep commitments, for I passionately love your revelation-light! 114 You’re my place of quiet retreat, and your wraparound presence becomes my shield as I wrap myself in your Word! 115 Go away! Leave me, all you workers of wickedness, for you can’t stop me from following every command of my God. 116 Lord, strengthen my inner being by the promises of your Word so that I may live faithful and unashamed for you. 117 Lift me up and I will be safe. Empower me to live every moment in the light of your ways. 118 Lord, you reject those who reject your laws, for they fool no one but themselves! 119 The wicked are thrown away, discarded and valueless. That’s why I will keep loving all of your laws! 120 My body trembles in holy awe of you, leaving me speechless, for I’m frightened of your righteous judgments.

I Will Follow Your Ways

121 Don’t leave me to the mercies of those who hate me, for I live to do what is just and fair. 122 Let me hear your promise of blessing over my life, breaking me free from the proud oppressors. 123 As a lovesick lover, I yearn for more of your salvation and for your virtuous promises. 124 Let me feel your tender love, for I am yours. Give me more understanding of your wonderful ways. 125 I need more revelation from your Word to know more about you, for I’m in love with you! 126 Lord, the time has come for you to break through, for evil men keep breaking your laws. 127 Truly, your message of truth means more to me than a vault filled with the purest gold. 128 Every word you speak, every truth revealed, is always right and beautiful to me, for I hate what is phony or false.

I Long to Obey You

129 Your marvelous words are living miracles; no wonder I long to obey everything you say. 130 Break open your Word within me until revelation-light shines out! Those with open hearts are given insight into your plans. 131 I open my mouth and inhale the Word of God because I crave the revelation of your commands. 132 Turn your heart to me, Lord, and show me your grace like you do to every one of your godly lovers. 133 Prepare before me a path filled with your promises, and don’t allow even one sin to have dominion over me. 134 Rescue me from the oppression of ungodly men so that I can keep all your precepts. 135 Smile on me, your loving servant. Instruct me in what is right in your eyes. 136 When I witness the rebellious breaking your laws, it makes me weep uncontrollably!

His Word Is True

137 Lord, your judgments reveal your righteousness, and your verdicts are always fair. 138 The motive behind your every word is pure, and your teachings are remarkably faithful and true. 139 I’ve been consumed with a furious passion to do what’s right, all because of the way my enemies disrespect your laws. 140 All your promises glow with fire; that’s why I’m a lover of your Word. 141 Even though I’m considered insignificant and despised by the world, I’ll never abandon your ways. 142 Your righteousness has no end; it is everlasting, and your rules are perfectly fair. 143 Even though my troubles overwhelm me with anguish, I still delight and cherish every message you speak to me. 144 Give me more revelation so that I can live for you, for nothing is more pure and eternal than your truth.

Save Me, God

145 Answer my passionate prayer, O Lord, and I’ll obey everything you say. 146 Save me, God, and I’ll follow your every instruction. 147 Before the day dawns, I’ll be crying out for help and wrapping your words into my life. 148 I lie awake every night pondering your promises to me. 149 Lord, listen to my heart’s cry, for I know your love is real for me; breathe life into me again by the revelation of your justice. 150 Here they come—these lawless rebels are coming near, but they are all so far away from your laws. 151 God, you are near me always, so close to me; every one of your commands reveals truth. 152 I’ve known all along how true and unchanging is every word you speak, established forever!

Breathe Life into Me Again

153 Look upon all my misery and come be my hero to rescue me, for I will never forget what you’ve revealed to me. 154 Take my side and defend me in these sufferings; redeem me and revive me, just like you promised you would. 155 The wicked are so far from salvation, for they could not care less about your message of truth. 156 Your tender mercies are what I need, O God; give me back my life again through the revelation of your judgments. 157 I have so many enemies who persecute me, yet I won’t swerve from following your ways. 158 I grieve when I see how the faithless ones live, for they just walk away from your promises. 159 Lord, see how much I truly love your instructions. So in your tender kindness, breathe life into me again. 160 The sum total of all your words adds up to absolute truth, and every one of your righteous decrees is everlasting.

Devoted to God’s Word

161 The powerful elite have persecuted me without a cause, but my heart trembles in awe because of your miracle-words. 162 Your promises are the source of my bubbling joy; the revelation of your Word thrills me like one who has discovered hidden treasure. 163 I despise every lie and hate every falsehood, for I am passionate about keeping your precepts. 164 I stop to praise you seven times a day, all because your ways are perfect! 165 There is such a great peace and well-being that comes to the lovers of your Word, and they will never be offended. 166 Lord, I’m longing for more of your salvation, for I want to do what pleases you. 167 My love for your ways is indescribable; in my innermost being I want to follow them perfectly! 168 I will keep your instructions and follow your counsel; all my ways are an open book before you.

I Want to Follow You

169 Lord, listen to my prayer. It’s like a sacrifice I bring to you; I must have more revelation of your Word! 170 Take my words to heart when I ask you, Lord; rescue me, just like you promised! 171 I offer you my joyous praise for all that you’ve taught me. 172 Your wonderful words will become my song of worship, for everything you’ve commanded is perfect and true. 173 Place your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I’ve made my choice to follow your ways. 174 I wait for your deliverance, O Lord, for your words thrill me like nothing else! 175 Invigorate my life so that I can praise you even more, and may your truth be my strength! 176 I’ll never forget what you’ve taught me, Lord, but when I wander off and lose my way, come after me, for I am your beloved!

Marvelous Love (Psalm 107)

November 20, 2025 By Stanton Lanier Leave a Comment

As we take this cinematic journey through Psalms together, I encourage you to listen to the album and each song on your favorite music streaming service first, for pure enjoyment and also to see how God may speak to you through the music. If you want to go deeper Psalm 107 is down below. You can also read and reflect on the spiritual and musical inspirations behind each song while you listen or in silence as a quiet devotional. Wishing you God’s grace and peace, Stanton

The verse “So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves” is repeated four times in The Message Bible paraphrase of Psalm 107. The opening verse reads, “Oh, thank God—he’s so good to us! His love never runs out.” The final verse says, “If you are really wise, you’ll think this over—it’s time you appreciated God’s deep love.”

Beginning with the very first instrumental song I wrote twenty-five years ago—Grace and Truth (John 1:14)—every composition has been like a love song from God, even though they have different titles and were inspired by different Bible verses. I wanted Marvelous Love to be huge because God’s love is so extravagant and without limits. It became like a tribute of thanks to Jesus for loving me so much, and for being in my life since I was a young boy (He knew me before I was born, Jeremiah 1:5). I wanted the music to be filled with the incredible sense of wonder and awe rising up in my heart. With a spirit of child-like faith this song is giving thanks and appreciation to God for His astonishing, marvelous love.

Musically this piece is rich with carefully chosen instruments, meter, and tempo. The opening with vibraphone and choir touches on the fantasy realm of God’s wondrous, mysterious love. The meter is 7/8, a less typical beat with a 1-2, 1-2, 1-2-3 pattern that has a fairly fast tempo. Yet, the main theme is singing a long, slower love melody over the top of this rhythm. The secondary theme is in 6/8 time expressing the four times repeated verse, “So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves.” In musical works 7/8 and 6/8 meters are less used than 4/4 meter—common time—which is the most used, followed by 3/4. God’s marvelous love is most uncommon, unusual, unfathomable. Some might even say, “it’s too good to be true, that Jesus dying on the cross saves me from my sins and makes me right with God. It seems too simple.” But Jesus promises, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John14:6) A new 7/8 ending melody fades to a soft, final vibraphone note that sustains and rings true just like God’s marvelous love, which carries us forward.

“God has made us plain and simple, but we have made ourselves very complicated” (Ecclesiastes 7:29) inspired my song Simplicity on my third album Draw Near in 2004. When I began composing Marvelous Love in 2025 my desire was for the music to be worthy of the title. The less common 7/8 meter represents our earthly life’s complications. Life is often perplexing, broken, sinful, and can be seemingly hopeless at times. But God is with us, offering us moments of His peace, hope, joy, and beauty, and singing His “plain and simple” eternal beauty over our “very complicated” lives.

The Eternal Beauty cover image is a photo my wife and I took in a Scotland castle garden. It immediately reminded me how we see glimpses of God’s beauty and love on earth, but the ultimate, incomprehensible beauty and the full experience of His marvelous love for all eternity are behind the door—Jesus—the gate of Heaven (John 10:9). The Marvelous Love main theme with its long notes and beautiful melody is singing over our lives that God is good, merciful, and loving, always and forever.

How does Marvelous Love speak to you?

Psalm 107 (MSG)—MARVELOUS LOVE

1-3 Oh, thank God—he’s so good! His love never runs out.
All of you set free by God, tell the world! Tell how he freed you from oppression, Then rounded you up from all over the place, from the four winds, from the seven seas.

4-9 Some of you wandered for years in the desert, looking but not finding a good place to live, Half-starved and parched with thirst, staggering and stumbling, on the brink of exhaustion. Then, in your desperate condition, you called out to God. He got you out in the nick of time; He put your feet on a wonderful road that took you straight to a good place to live. So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves. He poured great drafts of water down parched throats; the starved and hungry got plenty to eat.

10-16 Some of you were locked in a dark cell, cruelly confined behind bars, Punished for defying God’s Word, for turning your back on the High God’s counsel—A hard sentence, and your hearts so heavy, and not a soul in sight to help. Then you called out to God in your desperate condition; he got you out in the nick of time. He led you out of your dark, dark cell, broke open the jail and led you out. So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves; He shattered the heavy jailhouse doors, he snapped the prison bars like matchsticks!

17-22 Some of you were sick because you’d lived a bad life, your bodies feeling the effects of your sin; You couldn’t stand the sight of food, so miserable you thought you’d be better off dead. Then you called out to God in your desperate condition; he got you out in the nick of time. He spoke the word that healed you, that pulled you back from the brink of death. So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves; Offer thanksgiving sacrifices, tell the world what he’s done—sing it out!

23-32 Some of you set sail in big ships; you put to sea to do business in faraway ports. Out at sea you saw God in action, saw his breathtaking ways with the ocean: With a word he called up the wind— an ocean storm, towering waves! You shot high in the sky, then the bottom dropped out; your hearts were stuck in your throats. You were spun like a top, you reeled like a drunk, you didn’t know which end was up. Then you called out to God in your desperate condition; he got you out in the nick of time. He quieted the wind down to a whisper, put a muzzle on all the big waves. And you were so glad when the storm died down, and he led you safely back to harbor. So thank God for his marvelous love, for his miracle mercy to the children he loves. Lift high your praises when the people assemble, shout Hallelujah when the elders meet!

33-41 God turned rivers into wasteland, springs of water into sunbaked mud;
Luscious orchards became alkali flats because of the evil of the people who lived there. Then he changed wasteland into fresh pools of water, arid earth into springs of water, Brought in the hungry and settled them there; they moved in—what a great place to live! They sowed the fields, they planted vineyards, they reaped a bountiful harvest. He blessed them and they prospered greatly; their herds of cattle never decreased. But abuse and evil and trouble declined as he heaped scorn on princes and sent them away. He gave the poor a safe place to live, treated their clans like well-cared-for sheep.

42-43 Good people see this and are glad; bad people are speechless, stopped in their tracks. If you are really wise, you’ll think this over—it’s time you appreciated God’s deep love.