Today’s blog post is about a group of guys with a heart and passion for God, and clearly passionate for people. These guys, Josiah Warneking, Josh Miller, Joel Warneking and Chad McCutchen, make up the Christian Band, Sixteen Cities. Their songs have become quick hits, and have even been featured on TV shows such as “One Tree Hill” but that is far from all they are as people, and as a band.

This is a quote taken from their website (Sixteen Cities) “It is our desire to be a band of servants, humbly offering our giffts and talents to reach this world for Christ. We know we’re just a bunch of normal guys, living each day in the grip of God’s grace“, says Josiah Warneking. As of this point in their career, they are following the heart of God, and are in a process of transitioning into being less of a pop band that is concerned about where they are on the charts (though I know they will still soar) and more of a band whose desire is to be worshipers above anything else — letting people know who Jesus truly is and what He’s all about.

I’d like to ask you to pray for them, as they are heading off to a tour starting in Herlev, Denmark — starting November 21, 2012. They are truly taking His love and grace into all the world. Talk about a Thanksgiving blessing! Let’s just pray that God continues to give them favor, to hold them close and keep them safe during their travels, that He gives them rest as they tour, and above all – that they are able to make a difference sharing Him in a land far from home.

Time and time again, God breathes life through the words and message of their music. One song (Pray You Through) is not only beautiful, but also life-changing. I will post the lyrics below, but this song speaks of prayer, and reaches out to the person who is heartbroken, hurting or struggling – for whatever reason.

Sometimes the reality is that nothing we say or do can truly make a difference, or change a situation. People have pain, and tears sometimes flow. This song speaks of friendship on a God-inspired level.

Friends, this is our call as Christians – to love one another. Every human being alive struggles in some way, shape or form. As a person whose life has been changed by the power of prayer, I can say that prayer is paramount, and a truly vital part of living and walking through life. I would urge you to seek out people who you can simply be a friend to/for. You may have no idea what they’re going through, but just know they need prayer. Take the time, and be the person to pray them through. You never know what a difference just being a friend, being willing to pray and stand in the gap for another person will mean. Life change happens when we are willing to listen to Him and reach out on behalf of others.

On the other hand, if you are a person needing help, and seeking hope – please take the time to reach out. Allow a friend to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Know that you are worth it, and another person would be blessed to reach out, offering you a hand of hope and strength. Know this – you are human, and it’s okay to not always be okay. There is strength in community, and strength when people come together in prayer.

Friendship, together with prayer has the potential of being life-changing — to them, but also to you. When you allow God to work through you, He also works IN you. So, no matter what you are facing, take the reality of His love and hope with you.

This song specifically (with lyrics below) has seen me some tough times. During moments where I just need gentle reminders of the love and support available through Him, this song has brought me an immeasurable amount of peace and strength. I posted the link above to their official song on YouTube.

Whether you are hurting or not, I strongly urge you to just sit back and listen to the message contained in this song. Bookmark it. Take the time, follow God’s lead, and be willing to share it with a friend who may need to hear the words that someone cares enough to pray them through. As I have said and echoed previously — always remember that you may very well be the only Jesus some people see. Allow Him to shine through you, bringing hope and peace in a broken world.

Pray You Through lyrics

The walls are closing in
You feel alone, you feel afraid
Your heart begins to bend
You take a breath and then
It starts to break

Chorus:
I’m all out of words
There’s nothing I could say to you
To take away the hurt
So let me pray you through
Let me pray you through

So lift your shaking hands
Don’t say a word
I’ll stay with you
The tears will heal the pain
You shouldn’t be ashamed
To come undone

Chorus:
I’m all out of words
There’s nothing I could say to you
To take away the hurt
So let me pray you through
Let me pray you through

Fall down
And let me carry you
I’ll carry you

Chorus:
I’m all out of words
There’s nothing I could say to you
To take away the hurt
So let me pray you through

Chorus:
I’m all out of words
There’s nothing I could say to you
To take away the hurt
So let me pray you through
Let me pray you through
Let me pray you through