Naomi Raine is perhaps best known as one of the lead singers from Maverick City Music, the GRAMMY Award-winning supergroup that only recently burst onto the Christian music scene. Her passion for lyrics and melodies alike is evident in Maverick City's hit songs, "Jireh" and "Promises."
The artist recently dropped her debut album, Journey, under the TRIBL Records banner. Her new project gives Naomi even more opportunities to share her faith on a solo platform. Her lyrics are vulnerable, capable of shaking the listener at the core. And, when you pair the lyrics with the song's upbeat backtracks, it's quite the masterpiece. In this column, I'll review Naomi's debut solo single, "Not Ready," from Journey, as well as another recently released praise anthem, "Find My Place."
"Not Ready"
I know I need to pray But I don't know how to say I'm not ready, I'm not ready to change I wanna trust in you but if I tell the truth I'm not ready, I'm not ready to change
This song presents the authentic truth that the desires of our own hearts often reside miles away from that of God's heart for us. Naomi speaks of her silent mental health struggle with grace and seems to be offering that same acceptance to listeners.
I felt connected to this song on a deeper level, as though it was God stretching out His hand to me in forgiveness. The song's lyrics accentuate the desires of our flesh. But, even more so, the lyrics accentuate our heart's plea to once again walk with Jesus.
The battle between instant gratification and eternal salvation never ends. But whenever I feel myself slipping, yet again, into a dangerous mindset, I remember that Jesus has already won every battle. That being said, know that He's already won every victory--even yours. And, it's with this confidence that I sing along to this song, "my freedom in Christ," on full volume.
"Find My Peace"
Life found in you, love being known by you, Jesus Emotions will rise and fall but you are my anchor, Lord, Jesus
It was the extended version of this song that really did me in, emotion-wise. The echoing peace was evident; even as it resounded artificially from my computer, I could feel a tangible hope in Naomi's voice.
Ironically, although I just mentioned how deeply I was struck emotionally by this song, it was a lyric about not relying on feelings that hit me the hardest: "Emotions will rise and fall but you are my anchor, Lord, Jesus." I always tell people that I'm an emotional ambivert (both introverted and extroverted), and that pretty much defines my personality.
Although on the surface level, that's indeed true, I'm extremely grateful that the slippery slope of my worldly identity isn't what holds me up during hard times. Thank goodness that spot is reserved for Jesus and the strong foundation He provides for me to stand on. He is where I find my peace.
Selena Schulz is NRT’s youngest staff contributor. She loves God, music, reading, and writing.
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