Whatever It Takes

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18 NIV

It started off soft and melodic. The female vocalist sang clearly and the words could be easily understood. It is not the type of song I generally hear sung any more so it immediately had my attention. Because of the soft volume I had to listen intently. But that did not detract. In fact it intensified the effect. Even though the vocalist was very poised and seemed at ease performing, I could sense an intensity—a desire to get the message of the words across to the congregation. As the song progressed I became so convicted by the words that I jotted down a few of the phrases.

Take my house and lands, change all my dreams and plans.
For whatever it takes to draw me closer to you.
For whatever it takes to make me more like you.
That is what I’ll be willing to do.
To trade comfort for pain.
Whatever it takes.
Whatever it takes for my will to break.

As she walked down into the auditorium, she passed by where I was sitting. I felt compelled to extend my hand and tell her I was moved by her song, but my quickly and quietly spoken words inadequately expressed the impact of the performance.

I watched her slip in a pew beside her husband as the Scripture reading progressed. She pulled out a Kleenex and dabbed at the tears I had seen forming in her eyes. The tears which were threatening me came forth also. I do not know how God was working in her life, but I do know that God had orchestrated the words, instrumentation, and the vocalist. He had a message to be presented and it was done with obedient passion. I saw her love for God displayed.

My mother told me that the vocalist seldom sings solos because she prefers performing in choirs or small ensembles instead of putting her voice on individual display. This fact makes her solo performance all the more inspiring. God gave her a song with a powerful message, and she obeyed his call. God used it to powerfully speak to not only those who listened but also to her.

“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV

Lord, whatever it takes to draw me closer to you, I will gladly bear. Whatever it takes to make me more like you is what I am willing to do.