The Way to Godናሙና

One Song Away

Carol McLeod describes herself as a Christmas-addicted, ACC basketball-loving “northern girl with a southern heart.” But perhaps the first thing you’d notice after meeting Carol is her deep, desperate love for Jesus. As an accomplished author and Bible teacher, Carol spreads the Word of God however she can — on her blog, in her books (all 15 of them!), through her published columns, in her YouVersion devotionals, and on her podcasts. In every format, she’s bringing healing to our hurting world.

Today, you’ll hear all about Carol’s intimate relationship with Jesus.

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Oh! How the music of my faith touches the deepest parts of my soul.

I am in awe as I sing the ancient hymns that thousands of battle-weary believers have sung before me. I can’t help but weep as I worship in my car with the melodies and lyrics that touch the generations of my children and grandchildren. And as I recall the Scripture choruses of my young adult years, I remember the power of singing the Bible—word for beloved word. And may I just say that I’m the very best shower singer you ever did hear!

As I sing, my view of heaven comes into focus and the problems of my current situation shrink. As the thoughts of my Savior rest melodically in my heart, I’m strengthened and propelled in my calling. As I allow the forces of darkness to hear my strains of joy and hope, I find myself standing at attention to all that he is and all that he is capable of doing on my behalf.

When I sing even a simple song of praise, I am more aware of his presence than I am of my pain. Truly, God does inhabit the praises of his people. As I choose to sing above the storm and even in the fires of life, I experience his presence where there is always fullness of joy.

I’ve discovered that he is just one worship song away. I now know that as I praise him with my audible voice, as weak and as shaky as it might be, he is delighted with me!

—Carol McLeod, Bible Teacher, as told to Rapt Interviews