"Leap of Faith and into His Will" by Mary LaFrance

Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called, according to His purpose.”

When reflecting upon the intricate tapestry of our lives, it becomes evident that every experience, whether characterized by jubilation or sorrow, is purposeful in the grand design of our existence. Our moments of elation allow us to witness the benevolence of the divine hand of God who is guiding us, while the trials and tribulations confront us with valuable opportunities for growth in our faith and trust in Jesus, as we walk with Him. For every circumstance, it is essential to recognize that not a single instant is devoid of significance, for each is ordained by our Creator.

It is our response to these life lessons that holds paramount importance. Embracing gratitude and humility in times of abundance and tranquility, and resilience in times of hardship, fosters a spirit of reverence and appreciation for the intricate workings of destiny. Above all, when we are recipients of blessings, our foremost duty is to express gratitude to the Lord, acknowledging His role as the orchestrator of all that unfolds, offering Him an abundance of praise, glory, and unyielding thanks.

So, with that being said, I would humbly like to share with you something that happened, that I know without a shadow of a doubt, came about because of God’s hand, will and grace.

Since I started writing my own original songs, I have belonged to ASCAP and IAIRA, two associations for musicians, songwriters, vocalists, producers, sound engineers, and others who are tied to the music industry. Along the way, I have received tremendous help and advice from experts on how to make sure my songs are protected with copyright, receiving royalties, and how to market/network to get my music exposed to the public.

Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests by known to God.

The Bible verse above speaks of how my heart has been feeling…anxious. I have been sitting on the edge, looking for a way to keep silent about some amazing news that I received, and I know it had everything to do with God. So here it is…in an email for IAIRA, (the International Association of Independent Recording Artists), my original song, “She is a Warrior” has remained in the Top 40 song list, for the last 10 years through this association worldwide. The IAIRA recognizes and honors artistic achievement, technical proficiency, and overall excellence in sound recording, based on various charts from around the world. Therefore, IAIRA has qualified the aforementioned release as eligible for Certification as an “International Top 40” worldwide. There, I’ve said it…whew! My good friend Joanne Wyman texted me the following words when I told her I wasn’t going to share my news: “Brag on our good and gracious God as you always do! We know we can’t do anything without Him. It’s important we share how God uses the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary! Every single thing I’ve ever done of value in my life has been due to God, not me! It’s always beyond our wildest imagination! We are just His vessels.”

So, here I am, boasting of God’s goodness, grace, love and blessings that He alone has covered me with! His enduring power and destiny for my life is a journey that has no bounds. I just need to follow His lead, walking in the footprints He has already left for me to step in, proceeding through any door He opens without reservation or hesitation, and simply giving thanks always first and foremost, to my good, Good Father, who makes things happen in such a way that no one else could. My hope and prayer is that by my sharing this news, that it will encourage even one person’s heart to let go and follow your dreams, with the confidence in God that something good and positive will touch your life.

Psalm 42:8 “The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night, His song shall be with me–A prayer to the God of my life.” This is so fitting since most of the songs I’ve ever written have been composed around 2:00 a.m., for over 15+ years.

Shout to the Lord
All the earth let us sing.
Power and majesty praise to the King.
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar,
At the sound of Your name.
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands,
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand.
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You. (Words by Darlene Zschech)

“Yes, to God be the glory, great things He has done. He has loved me through my failures and successes in this life. Someday, when I stand before His throne, it is the desire of my heart to hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”