Desert Song

Last Sunday we introduced Brooke Fraser's "Desert Song" to our congregation. This is an example of a song that I think works on multiple levels - memorable melody, great Scriptural truths, poetic lyrics and timely message. In a season when many are experiencing financial difficulty, job losses and the ripple effects those can have on families, this is the kind of song that the church needs to be singing.

Before we went out for services we spent some time as a team reflecting on the lyrics of "Desert Song".

Verse 1
This is my prayer in the desert
When all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides

Verse 2
This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame

Verse 3
This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

Chorus
I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here

Bridge
All of my life in every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

Verse 4
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favour and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow

CCLI Song No. 5060793 © 2008 Hillsong Publishing (Admin. in U.S. & Canada by Integrity's Hosanna! Music) Brooke Fraser CCLI License No. 10491

As I meditate on these words several Scripture passages come to mind...

• Ps. 63 - David's words (in the context of his own desert experience) speak of thirst and praise
• 1 Peter 1:7 - Peter speaks of being refined by the trials, and on V2 Brooke directly quotes in the line "a faith proved of more worth than gold"
• Isaiah 54:17 - the prophet speaks of the day when God will restore His people, with the promise that "no weapon forged against you will prevail" - a line from the chorus
• Romans 8 - V3 speaks of us being "conquerors" (Rom. 8:37) and "co-heirs" (Rom. 8:17) in and through Jesus Christ

Now that you know that this song contains some precious biblical truths, let's sing and play it with a passion and awareness of God's presence!

Bonus:
Came across this powerful video - Jill McCloghry, one of Hillsong's worship leaders, shares a personal story involving "Desert Song". It's worth your time.