When he first asked me to do it back in January this year, I said yes without hesitation. But inwardly, I hesitated. Would I do a good job? Would I overcome my nervousness about singing in the studio? Would the vocals turn out alright?
I didn't want to let my big brother, Bishop Christopher Brinson, down. He needed me to do a good job singing "We Must Change" and "My Peace," which will both be on his new album releasing November 22.
"I just got signed to Black Smoke Music Worldwide, Dianna," he told me, the same label responsible for launching the careers of Earnest Pugh, James Fortune, Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson and others. "And I want you to be on my new project."
I felt so honored that Chris had asked me to sing two songs on a major release.
But, at the same time, I felt a little terrified. You see, as my faithful Daily Cup readers already know, I've battled shyness in the singing department for years. I realize that it might be hard to tell I'm nervous once I'm fully engaged in a song. But there are times when my knees will shake like leaves in the wind.
When I was younger, I would ball my eyes out whenever I knew I had to sing! I remember begging and pleading with my parents not to make me do it. But somehow, after all the antics, I'd put my fear in check and sing.
Now that I'm a bit older, I don't break down in tears when time comes to minister in song, but I do feel like breaking out and running a way from the microphone occasionally.
I couldn't run away that day, though.
I had to put those headphones on and get behind that mic in the studio, talk to myself, and coach myself through it. Then it hit me after I prayed.
Sing for an audience of one, Dianna.
This is for the Lord.
As I began shifting my focus, God gave me the strength and courage needed to pull myself together and go for it. You should have seen me sweating it out in the expansive studio booth. I took my little cardigan sweater off, closed my eyes, and sang for an audience of one in my white tee.
Every time I felt a bit of anxiety creeping in, I would say, "This is for you God."
There was something about remembering who I was really doing it for (not my brother or anyone else, but as unto the Lord), that calmed me as I sang. Even the words to the song were saying "We must lay down our lives for the Lord."
So apropos, right?
The more I focused on the purpose, the project became easier. I even started enjoying it!
At the time, I had no idea what the Lord had planned for that song. I was just being obedient to His call, because my gift is not my own. But the Lord already knew that very song would catch the ears of the Black Smoke excecutives who hand-picked "We Must Change" to be featured on the nationally released "CoCo Brother Presents Gospel Mix V" CD compilation that is in stores nationwide today.
Please be sure to support the CD and get your copy.
When we obediently use our gifts to glorify God, not always because we want to, but because we know we're called to, God will bless our endeavors.
That's why, today, I'm adding Colossians 3:23 NIV into your daily cup. It says, Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."
When you drink down the contents of your cup, you will be reminded of who you're working for everyday. Even unpleasant tasks will take on new meaning as a passion is ignited in you to work wholeheartedly for the up-building of God's Kingdom, and not for any other purpose.
Your heart will cry out, "For your glory, I will do anything."
You'll be reminded that when you make up your mind to do what Jesus said and be about your Father's business, He'll step into your business affairs and do exceeding, abundantly, above all you can ask or think!
Lord, today I say yes to your will. I put my personal feelings aside about my divine calling and submit to Your plans for my life. Each time I take on a new task, please help me remember that it is for You and Your glory. And through my obedience, I put myself in position to be a living testimony of Your greatness and faithfulness to bring all things to completion. In Jesus' name, Amen.
As always, thanks for reading and until next time... may today's cup of inspiration uplift, encourage, and empower you!
Listen to a snippet:
CoCo Brother Presents Gospel Mix V: "We Must Change" by Bishop Christopher Brinson & The Ensemble ft. Dianna Hobbs
