Even though I’m not musically inclined like my amazing guitarist husband, I love listening to and singing along with great music. I’ve enjoyed Mandisa‘s music since her debut album True Beauty in 2007. Her new album Overcomer speaks to the idea of believing you CAN overcome the struggles you face in this life. It is definitely my favorite of all her albums!
The Beauty in Overcomers
I began interviewing courageous women who have overcome life’s tough challenges for my web site in January of this year. The idea came about after years of hearing the stories of women who had experienced addictions, domestic abuse, serious health issues, and tragedies. A common thread emerged that was impossible to miss – each of those women could have given up, but they chose to overcome their struggles instead. I knew I had to share their stories.
Soon after my web site launched, talk of Mandisa releasing an album titled Overcomer was all over her Facebook page and her web site. It didn’t seem coincidental to me that she too saw the beauty in overcomers. I couldn’t wait for the album to be released.
Mandisa has struggled with her weight since before her season on American Idol. She is an overcomer as she has lost over 100 pounds in the last few years and is determined to continue to live a healthy lifestyle. She’s happy to share the spotlight with some other amazing overcomers in the video for her title song “Overcomer.” I’m sure you will recognize them.
Overcomer: www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8VoUYtx0kw
Press On
When we face challenges in our lives, we have two choices: give up or press on. Mandisa’s song “Press On” stresses the importance of putting one foot in front of the other and not looking back.
Press On: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNHsY93VrO8&list=PLNc6Yf0WBybnyvMn6axIrfzc7GEP_LN6T&index=12
When I’m alone, when I’m afraid
When I have had all I can take
Losin my grip, I start to slip away
When I can hear the voice of doubt
Inside my head screamin loud
Strengthen my faith and help me say today, today
I will follow, I will press on
Even when the walk feels long
Your hands hold me together
Your love is with me forever
Through the broken, through the victory
I will praise you through it all
And run hard til the race done
I’m gonna press on, press on!
How many storms have I been through?
How many led me right to You?
Using the pain, the hardest days for my good, my good
So, what do I fear, God you are with me
Guiding my steps today
Through the mountains, valleys, sun and rain
Lord, lead the way – lead the way!
I will follow, I will press on
Even when the walk feels long
Your hands hold me together
Your love is with me forever
Through the broken, through the victory
I will praise you through it all
And run hard til the race done
I’m gonna press on, press on!
One step in front of the other,
No lookin back, no looking back!
One step in front of the other,
I’m gonna press on, press on!
One step in front of the other,
No lookin back, no looking back!
One step in front of the other!
I will follow, I will press on
Even when the walk feels long
Your hands hold me together
Your love is with me forever
Through the broken, through the victory
I will praise you through it all
And run hard til the race done
I’m gonna press on, press on!
Overcoming Is Possible!
Feeling as though your struggle is overwhelming you? Believing the doubt that is taking up space in your head? Need some encouragement to hang on?
Robin Roberts, Gabrielle Giffords, and Scott Hamilton likely experienced these same feelings as they faced their struggles, but they ultimately made a choice. A choice not to be defeated. A choice to do whatever it took to overcome. You can make that same choice.
If you allow the music and the inspirational lyrics on Mandisa’s album Overcomer to get in your head, I know it will help you believe overcoming your challenges/struggles/tragedies is possible.
To learn more about Mandisa’s music, friend her on Facebook and follow her on twitter.
You can buy Mandisa’s Overcomer album on amazon.com or iTunes. What are you waiting for? Do it now!
You know I enjoy all sorts of different types of music, genres, with very diverse lyrical content, and I like her approach. Her message is extremly encouraging in a fallen world…I think she will be around for a long time, and may have a few Dove Awards to lug around…JB
P.S. love you baby for the plug here!! I might have to play you our Christmas song to get you in the Christmas mood!! XOXOXO
I can’t wait to hear it!
Loved the two songs and the video! I don’t watch American Idol, so was not familiar with Mandisa or her music. Her music is very inspiring, as is she. Hope she continues to get healthy and continues to inspire us with her music and her life.
I’m glad I had the opportunity to introduce you to Mandisa’s music, Kay! She has other great videos on youtube if you want to listen to more of her music.
Music sings to everyone’s heart. We need more talented musicians like yourself.