While writing and choosing songs for the Strong album, it seemed like every time I turned around someone was releasing a song about conquering a major setback in life. Because I too have had a few victory moments, the inspiration was there to write a song that would capture the essence of strength in a person. The goal, of course, was to encourage others to forge ahead in whatever battle they are facing. The music was set, but the lyrics never resembled anything other than a repeated sentiment of another writer’s song. Until the day I had an argument with my Son, which managed to flatten me. “How can this be,” I asked God, “I thought I was strong?” In that moment I realized I had it all backwards.
I sat down at my computer and the lyrics flowed out effortlessly. The difference? The idea of being strong was based on personal strength. The argument with my son quickly reminded me that I am in far weaker than expected. One cross word and my heart breaks or I speak words that are not easily retractable. But, because God’s spirit is within me, directing my steps, guiding my words; making amends or asking forgiveness is possible. With Him I can forge ahead with grace.
At a point of weakness, God helped me view the word “strong” from an entirely different angle.
It is He that is strong. I John 4:4 reminds us, “Greater is He that is in me, than he who is in the world.” Where would any of us be without the infusion of God’s Holy Spirit within us? If ever we need proof that God is with us or real, we only need to step back and look at the supernatural modification of our human response to undesirable circumstances. As the lyric of the song says, “The strength you see in me is the spirit of the King carrying on.”
So often God is working in ways we do not understand until after the fact. My hope is this special song (which features the talented Jamie O’Neal), ministers to many and reminds us all that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
If you are interested in downloading the song, visit Mary James on iTunes. The full CD is available here and all major digital platforms.