Her Continuing Christian Music Ministry...
About the Music on FAITHFULLY YOURS (PSALMS)
"Psalms are both poetry and prayer,
poetry intended to be set to music and prayed in worship" -
Dennis Bratcher.
Margaret Becker now has the time and the
creative license to get involved in musical projects which really
interest her and also has the control on how they are put together.
This new CD, FAITHFULLY YOURS (PSALMS) is a project she has longed
to do; using her favorite Psalms to inspire a variety of songs which
are focused on praise and worship, which will reach a wide audience
because of the way the songs are created. Teaming up with a talented
worship pastor, David M. Edwards, the songs on this CD accomplish
several goals, much to the delight and blessing of the individual
listener and church congregations. (In fact, Every CD comes with
pdf files embedded, containing a music chart for every song)
Margaret comments, "I'm just doing some of
the thematic projects I haven't had the time to do before, like
this new Psalms based project, Faithfully Yours. "It is directly
written for the church. A worship pastor named David M. Edwards,
and myself, wrote the bulk of the songs. Taken directly from the
new Broadman/Holman
translation of the Bible, which is a new translation which combines
"accuracy with modern-day readability," was a fulfillment
of yet another dream – to write on the Psalms."
Psalms traditionally throughout the ages
were sung as part of group worship, led by a cantor or
other leader. The Psalms in the Old
Testament are grouped by their theme or mood, yet each Psalm is
unique as each message is slightly different, with the "intrinsic
power to stand on its own. "
Margaret and David composed these songs with
this in mind, giving us a glorious collection of songs, which offer
a variety of catchy, memorable melodies, strong, heartfelt vocals,
several musical styles, soft inner voice accompaniment, effective
dynamics, all which presents the spirit, beauty and meaning of these
Psalms in a musical form which will
appeal to a wide denominational range of Christians.
While the musical compositions on this CD
have all the elements needed "to encourage, comfort, and open
hearts; drawing the worshipper in all of us into Christ’s presence,"
the real prominent factor of importance is the Psalm scripture itself,
which have inspired praise and worship, since the times of David.
"Perhaps it's greatest strength, The
Psalms Project gives reverence to the words . . . Allowing the words
to take center stage."
Yet, it was the Holy Spirit inspired musical
talent and discernment of Margaret and David that used just the
right verses to so wonderfully express the core meaning of each
Psalm, and pairing each Psalm with just the right musical composition,
that musically illustrates the verses! Margaret and David truly
created a wonderful collection of praise and worship songs which
will be a blessing to any congregation or individual listener. It
is a must for any music collection for churches and individuals.
SPIRITUAL MEANINGS FOUND IN THE SONGS
Traditionally, "Poetry and music were
the means by which people expressed the deepest of human feelings
and emotions, the most profound of insights, and the most tragic
and joyous of human experiences."
The Psalms in the old Testament are divided
into 5 books, patterned after the first 5 books of the Old Testament.
Margaret and David picked at least one Psalm from all the 5 Books
of Psalms, though 7 of the Psalms came from Books 1 and 2.
Many of the Psalms in Book 1 (Similar
to Genesis): Discuss humans as "blessed, fallen and redeemed
by God." (NIV)
I ENTER YOUR HOUSE (Psalm 5) - Written by
King David, using the theme that God is able to "defend lies
spoken against us." He requests God's help, praising Him and
stating his faith in God and his devotion to God.
HOW MAGNIFICENT IS YOUR NAME (Psalm 8): Written
by King David, a tribute song to God, the all-powerful Creator,
who loves us, and values us as His most valuable possession / creation.
HOW HAPPY IS THE MAN (Psalm 40): Written
by King David. Sometimes we must go through the trail of waiting
patiently for God. But we can trust Him to always answer prayers
and take care of us while we wait. We can love God, serve others
and tell others about Him.
Many of the Psalms in Book 2 (Like
Exodus): Discuss the Nation of Israel as ruined, then recovered
by God. God rescues us as well, and is a source of help when we
have problems. (NIV)
THE STRENGTH OF THE RIVER (Psalm 46): Written
by sons of Korah -God is always there to help, providing refuge,
security and peace. God has total power and His plan for us and
creation will be victorious.
CALL ON ME (Psalm 50): Written by Asaph -
God accepts / desires true faith from us, our sincere thanks, trust
and praise. He is faithful, loving and will be there when the going
get rough and uncomfortable!
CREATE IN ME (Psalm 51): Written by King
David - A confessional prayer, asking for forgiveness and renewal/
help to get back on track. God wants our hearts to be right with
Him.
Many of the Psalms in Book 3: (Similar to Leviticus) Discuss
temple of God and his enthronement. These Psalms praise God the
Almighty, the Deliverer, His perfect Holiness, who deserves our
praise and reverence. (NIV)
I WILL PRAISE YOU (Psalm 86): Written by
King David - Described as a prayer,
with the theme of having a devoted trust in the Lord, (standing
firm through faith in Him), especially in times of deep trouble.
David promises a continued obedience "to the Lord's ways and
His truth."
Many of the Psalms in Book 4: (Similar
to Numbers) - Just as Numbers discusses Israel's relationships with
other nations, these Psalms often talk about God's kingdom, whose
sovereignty rules over other nations. Because we belong to the kingdom
of God, we can "keep in perspective" our earthly trials
and tribulations.(NIV)
MOST HIGH GOD (Psalm 97): Author Unknown
- Joyous Praise - God is righteous, just, in total control of everything
and protects his own, our "awesome Conqueror."
Many of the Psalms in Book 5: (Similar
to Deuteronomy)- Concerned with God and His word, these Psalms are
"anthems of praise and thanksgiving. = Songs to make our hearts
sing!" (NIV)
WHERE COULD I GO? (Psalm 139): Written by
King David - Praises and worships the Lord for who He is, and all
His qualities, what He has done, and asks for continued involvement
and guidance.
I WILL SING (Psalm 141; Song of Invocation):
Written by King David - Asks the Lord for protection and wisdom
in accepting criticism, while praising the Lord and vowing continued
love and obedience to His will.
Individual Review of the Songs:
* * * ++ CREATE IN ME (Psalm 51: 2,10,12,15,17)
- Margaret Becker/ David M. Edwards -
February 2005 -Winner of Worship Leader Praise
Award: Best Scripture Song!
Favorite song of this reviewer on this CD.
Lovely melody carried by poignant vocals by Margaret Becker, supported
nicely by piano, light guitar, light percussion and strings. Begins
very softly with just piano and soft strings. Gradual building of
dynamics in both the music accompaniment and vocals, with background
support vocals of the chorus.
Other Related Scriptures: (Micah 6:8, 1 John 1:9, Hebrews 9:14,
Psalm 78:37 & 34.18, Acts 15:9, Ezekiel 18:31)
Lyrics:
A sacrifice, pleasing to God, Is a broken
spirit. You'll not despise a humble heart. You will hold and heal
it. Renew, restore Remember my Lord.
Chorus: Create in me a new heart, After yours,
after yours. Create in me a new heart, After yours, after yours.
Come purify and I will be clean, wash away
all my shame. Oh let me hear gladness and joy. Let my mouth sing
your praise. Renew, restore, Remember me my Lord. Chorus.
* * * WHERE COULD I GO? (Psalm 139:1-7, 23,
24) - Dave Edwards /Margaret Becker
A flowing worship / prayer hymn with a light
beat carried by soft piano, guitars, which also support the heartfelt
vocals by Dave Edwards, which again carry the melody and message
of the song..
Other Related Scriptures: (Ps.17:3 & 34.7 & 143:10, Heb.
4:13, Jer. 23:24 & Jer.11:20, John 1:3, Job 31:6)
Lyrics:
You have searched me you've known my every
side. Even when my thoughts are all untied. You have fashioned all
my days. My path and all my ways.
Chorus: Where could I go from your spirit.
Where could I flee from your sight. Where could I cry and you not
hear it. Oh from I could never hide. Oh from I could never hide.
You have encircled me behind and before,
You have placed your hand upon my heart. How beautiful the weight.
Of your love I can't contain. Chorus.
Search me, sift me, try my every cause. Test
me, see me know my every thought. Should you find offense in me.
With your holy blood redeem. Chorus.
* * * ++ I WILL PRAISE YOU (Psalm 86:8-10,11,12,
15-17) - Dave Edwards/ Margaret Becker
Second favorite song on the CD! A praise
and worship hymn which would fit in easily in a traditional service,
as well as contemporary. Has universal appeal because of its strong
melody, lovely vocals, interesting rhythm, nice choral backup. Piano,
with guitars, strings are playing softly in the background. It's
infectious melody and message leads the listener to sing along with
spirit!
Other Related Scriptures: (Rev. 15:4, Psalms 25:5 Isa. 43:7, Jer.32:39,
1 Peter 5:7, Heb. 6:19-20)
Lyrics:
Teach me your way, Your way oh Lord. And
I will live (live) by your truth. Give me a mind, Set like a stone,
To fear Your name, To fear Your name.
Chorus: I will praise You. Will praise you.
With all my heart I will praise you.
Lord there is no one, None like You. And
there are no works, Like yours Oh God. All the nations will come
and bow down, before you Lord, before Lord.
Chorus 2: I will praise You. Will praise
You. With all my heart I will praise and honor You.
I will call on You, Lord hear my prayer.
For you my God, Have comforted me, My compassionate, And gracious
God, I set my hope On you alone. Chorus 2
* * * + HOW MAGNIFICENT IS YOUR NAME (Psalm
8:1-6, 9) - Dave Edwards / Margaret Becker
Written in 3/4 meter, a beautiful, reverent
worship and praise song, so lovingly sung by Dave Edwards, supported
softly by background chorus. Lovely, flowing piano and acoustic
guitar, help carry this song which floats and swirls over the listener,
which builds on the spirit of worship created by the song before
it. Another song which would be appreciated by many denominations
and ages; Traditional or contemporary!
Other Related Scriptures: (Heb. 2:6-8, Ge.1:28, 1 Cor. 15:25,27,
Ephes. 1:22)
Lyrics:
You have covered the heavens With Your majesty.
A stronghold You have established, to silence the enemy.
Chorus: Oh Lord
our Lord, How magnificent is Your name. Throughout all the earth.
Lord our Lord, How magnificent is Your name. Throughout all the
earth. How magnificent is Your name.
You have remembered your people. Crowned
them with majesty. The moon and the stars are His cover. Creation
is under His feet. Chorus.
And what is man, that you would remember,
The son of man, That you look after him?
* * * + I WILL SING (Psalm 141;1-2, 8 -Song
of Invocation) - David Edwards/Margaret Becker
A strong favorite of this reviewer. A flowing,
3/4 meter, worship hymn, composed in a minor key, carried mainly
by acoustic guitar, with light support and embellishment of electric
guitar, mandolin, very light percussion, all which creates the lovely
melody which flows over the listener, as the lyrics sink into one's
soul. Very nice dynamics, expressive vocals by Margaret.
Other Related Scriptures: (Rev. 5:8 & 8:3, 1 Ti. 2:8, Ex. 29:39-:41,
Ps. 22:19 & 70:5 & 143:1)
Lyrics:
I will call, I will seek, I will welcome
you Lord, Come and pour out your spirit on me. I will praise, I
will sing, I will give you the glory, for the mercy that you've
given me.
Chorus: May
my praise come before you, As incense pure and clean, I lift my
hands in the evening. A sweet offering.
I will kneel, I will bow, I will worship
you Lord, For the life you've laid down for me. I will live, I will
die, I will walk with you Lord, where ever your spirit may lead.
Chorus
* * * + I ENTER YOUR HOUSE (Psalm 5: 1-3,7-
8, 11-12) - David Edwards / Margaret Becker
Another Strong favorite of this reviewer.
A contemporary worship, upbeat worship and praise song. Strong Gospel
/ Spiritual composition in a soft rock style adds zing to the catchy
melody. Starts off quietly with light percussion, piano chords,
and vocals by David Edwards. Composition builds through the first
time through the chorus. 2nd verse light guitar, organ as well as
piano - nice inner voices and chordal support. Nice buildup in choral
back-up vocals.
Other Related Scriptures: (Proverbs 2:6-11,
Psalm 138:2, Ps. 27:11 & 69:36, Isa 65:13)
Lyrics:
Listen to my words, Consider my sighing,
I'll plead my case and watch. Pay attention to the sound. Of my
heart crying. I pray to you my God. Favor like a shield surround
me. Let me boast in nothing but You.
Chorus: I enter
Your house, by the abundance of your faithful love. I will bow down
in your holy temple, I will bow down to my King and God, I will
lift up a shout of joy forever, Cause you are my God.
At Daybreak Lord You hear my voice, I'll
pray to you. Make Your ways Straight before me, In all I say and
do. Favor like a shield surround me. Let me boast in nothing but
you.
Bridge: Make a joyful noise, To the Lord
and King, Shout for joy to God. Make a joyful noise, To the Lord
and King, Shout for joy to God.
Chorus 2: I
enter Your house, by the abundance of your faithful love. I will
bow down in your holy temple, I will bow down to my King and God,
I will lift up a shout of joy forever, Cause you are my God. You
are my God.
* * * + HOW HAPPY IS THE MAN (Psalm 40:1-6,10-11,
16, 17) - Dave Edwards / Margaret Becker
Combining Gospel and rock results in a great
blending of genres, especially in this song, creating a joyous,
bouncy celebration of how faithful our Lord is when we put our trust
in Him! This toe tapper really cooks along nicely, some great inner
voices by piano, guitar and rest of band, offering great musical
support for the message of this song. Margaret provides the energetic
vocals. Sure to get the listener dancing around the room!
Other Related Scriptures: (Proverbs 20:28,
Acts 20:20, Ps.34:8 & 33:3 & 27:5,14)
Lyrics:
He brought me up, From the desolate pit,
He put my feet, On a rock secure. He put a new song, In my mouth
to sing, Many will hear it, And praise the Lord!
Chorus: How
happy is the man, How happy is the man, How happy is the man, Who
puts his trust in the Lord.(Trust in the Lord) God's got wonderful
plans. Let us rejoice and be glad. Let those who love him. Say/sing
great is the Lord.
Though I am weak. Though I am in need. You
bend low. To deliver me. You heard my cry. You turned to see. Your
truth and love. Will ever guard me.
Great is the Lord. Great
is the Lord. Great is the Lord.
* * * ++ THE STRENGTH OF THE RIVER (Psalm
46:1-7, 10-11) - Lifeway/Broadman/ Holeman/ Edwards
Third favorite song of this reviewer, because
it expresses the great hope we have in the Lord. Beautiful worship
song , with an easy beat, contemporary sound, another great melody
providing again the perfect vehicle for the vocals sung lovingly
by Dave.
Other Related Scriptures: (Ps. 100:3, & 14:6 & Deut. 4:7,
Isa 2:11 & 60:14, 2nd Chr. 13:12, Mic. 1:4)
Lyrics:
Although the earth may tremble, And mountains
topple into the sea. And although the oceans rise up. I know they'll
not cover me.
Chorus: Cause there is a river, Who streams delight, To the city
of God, And the Throne of the most high. God is with her, She (we)
shall not be moved. And that is our stronghold. That is our Refuge.
The Lord of Host is He. (So) Come and taste and see. The strength
of the river.
Helper in times of trouble. The God of Jacob
my Refuge. You lift Your voice the earth melts. The morning dawns
in praise to you.
Bridge: Exalted
among the nations, Exalted among the earth. Chorus
* * * CALL ON ME (Psalm 50:1-7, 14, 15 &
23) - David M. Edwards / Margaret Becker
Contemporary praise and worship song with
an easy rock beat supported by piano, guitar and drums. Great melody
provides perfect vehicle for the expressing the lyrics of this Psalm.
Inspiring vocals are by Margaret, backup vocals are subtle but full.
Other Related Scriptures: (Psalm 81:7, 96:13,
Joshua 22:22, Deut.4:26, Isa 1:2, 1 Thess. 5:17)
Lyrics:
Devouring fire precedes Him, A storm rages
around Him. (From) On high, He summons, Heaven and Earth.
He will not be silent, God, the Lord God,
speaks. (From) On high, He summons, Heaven and Earth.
Chorus: Call
on Me, in (your) day of trouble (And) I will rescue you. Call on
Me, in (your) day of trouble (And) I will rescue you. Call on Me."
Perfection of Beauty, He is The Judge of
(all) people. (From) On high, He summons, Heaven and Earth. God
appears in radiance, proclaim His righteousness, (From) On high,
He summons, Heaven and Earth.
Bridge: Bring sacrifices, And bring all your
thank offerings, Honor the Lord God and Praise Him continually.
* * * + WHO IS LIKE YOU? (Psalm 71: 1-8,
19-24) - David M. Edwards / Margaret Becker
A strong praise and worship song, tailor-made
for a contemporary service or family camp. Great beat, strong musical
support from piano, organ, guitars which offer both counter-melodies
and strong support for the melody as well. Dave does a great job
on the vocals, which shine through, especially during the verses.
Choral back-up vocals are subtle.
Other Related Scriptures: (1 Thess. 5:17, Psalm 17:6 & 28 &
126:2, Jer. 17:7, Job 4:6, Luke 1:49)
Lyrics:
We sing to you Oh Holy One, Your strength
is here for all who come. You have done great things. Who is like
You?
You bring me up and back again, Deliver me
with Your strong hand. You have done great things. Who is like You?
Chorus: Who
is like You Oh God? Who is like You? My mouth is full of praise
all day long. You are my hope and rock, My praise is about You.
Who is like You Oh God? Who is like You?
In Your justice rescue me. Strong refuge
you'll ever be. You have done great things. Who is like You? My
confidence is in your command, Hope that holds me helps me stand.
You have done great things, Who is like You? Chorus:
Who is like
You Oh God? Who is like You?
* * *+ + MOST HIGH GOD (Psalm 97:1, 5-6,
8-12) - David M. Edwards / Margaret Becker
Favorite praise song on the CD!!! Song would
be a great favorite in a contemporary service, especially among
the youth!! An upbeat, joyous praise song, that really cooks with
a driving beat during chorus and features a touch of soul and syncopation
in both the vocals and accompaniment during the verses. Great organ,
guitar work and drums provide a stirring introduction, and continue
to cook along tightly, providing a syncopated counter melody which
supports the main melody carried by the energetic vocals, sung by
Margaret and David.
Other Related Scriptures: (Ex.
18:11, Romans 12:9, Daniel 3:28, Job 22:28, Ps. 30:4 & 96:10-11
& 19:1)
Lyrics:
Come see the glory, That the heavens proclaim.
Mountains tremble before him, Let the people say...
Chorus: Most
high God, Praise Your Holy Name. Let the earth rejoice, Our Lord
reigns.
He protects the life, Of His Holy ones, Light
dawns for the righteous. Gladness in our heart. Chorus
You are exalted far above all Gods, Justice
and righteousness, Adorn Your throne. Chorus
* * *
Reviewed by: Julie Carr for ChristianMusic.com
Hear FAITHFULLY YOURS - PSALMS