Our Daily Bread: This Far By FaithExemplo

Thank You, Lord!

Every time I hear Mahalia Jackson singing the lyrics of gospel artist Thomas Dorsey, “Precious Lord, take my hand,” I’m reminded that whatever challenge I’m facing, it’s not new to human experience and God will see me through—as He has for generations of African Americans who came before me.  

There’s nothing like hearing a Spirit-filled gospel message or an uplifting gospel song to refocus one’s thoughts towards God’s faithfulness on those days when life seems particularly challenging. The unfolding of African-American history is an ongoing story of challenging days—slavery, Jim Crow, and seemingly never-ending days of discrimination. However, amid these challenges, one also finds the sounds of gratitude, joy, and hope. Those sounds are the loudest and strongest on Sunday morning. 

On Sunday morning, sermons that acknowledge our hardships, yet give God glory, encourage those gathered to keep the faith. This is something pioneering African-American preachers and church-builders like Bishop Richard Allen, preacher and author Jarena Lee, and more knew quite well. On Sunday morning, songs like “We’ve Come This Far by Faith” and “The Lord Will Make a Way Somehow,” also written by Dorsey, are a reminder of God’s faithfulness. 

Through the preached Word we grow in the deep knowledge and assurance that, despite our struggles God is with us and loves us. “Singing to God with gratitude in our hearts” (Colossians 3:16) strengthens us in the midst of trials. -Michelle Loyd-Paige

Gospel songs are the songs of hope. When you sing gospel you have a feeling there is a cure for what's wrong. -Mahalia Jackson