The Wilderness Song (As I walk this arid land)
Reflection on God's dealing with his people in the Exodus wilderness wanderings; and now.
- Scripture references: Exodus, Psalm 103, Philippians 4, Hebrews 12
- Written: 2012
If you'd prefer a full piano score, here it is.
Lyrics:
As I walk this arid land afraid of each tomorrow
Numbing silence grows within my soul
Must I watch each new oasis crumble into dust
Wondering why I second guess the God I trust?
Dare I not move on before I see around the corner?
When did child-like faith begin to fade?
In the watches of the night I can but cling to Jesus
Will I learn to thirst for him alone?
In the shadow of his wing is joy I used to know
Have I settled for the treasures here below?
Meditate on him, my soul, and cleave to him, my reason
When did his provision ever fail?
I will run to my God and Father
Give him praise for all he’s done
Brave the tears and deafening thunder
In the steps of his Son
I will sing of the grace and mercy
That pursued my grumbling heart
Though his perfect ways escape me
With each trial I’ll cry, “How great thou art!”
Author of the peace that lies beyond all understanding
Founder and perfecter of my faith
Living water, bread of life, you know my humble frame
Help my heart believe the truths that I proclaim
Longing for the day I’ll gaze in awe upon your glory
Sanctified by love that knows no end
I will run to my God and Father
Give him praise for all he’s done
Brave the tears and deafening thunder
In the steps of his Son
I will sing of the grace and mercy
That pursued my grumbling heart
Though his perfect ways escape me
With each trial I’ll cry, “How great thou art!”
Numbing silence grows within my soul
Must I watch each new oasis crumble into dust
Wondering why I second guess the God I trust?
Dare I not move on before I see around the corner?
When did child-like faith begin to fade?
In the watches of the night I can but cling to Jesus
Will I learn to thirst for him alone?
In the shadow of his wing is joy I used to know
Have I settled for the treasures here below?
Meditate on him, my soul, and cleave to him, my reason
When did his provision ever fail?
I will run to my God and Father
Give him praise for all he’s done
Brave the tears and deafening thunder
In the steps of his Son
I will sing of the grace and mercy
That pursued my grumbling heart
Though his perfect ways escape me
With each trial I’ll cry, “How great thou art!”
Author of the peace that lies beyond all understanding
Founder and perfecter of my faith
Living water, bread of life, you know my humble frame
Help my heart believe the truths that I proclaim
Longing for the day I’ll gaze in awe upon your glory
Sanctified by love that knows no end
I will run to my God and Father
Give him praise for all he’s done
Brave the tears and deafening thunder
In the steps of his Son
I will sing of the grace and mercy
That pursued my grumbling heart
Though his perfect ways escape me
With each trial I’ll cry, “How great thou art!”
