Words. That is the title of one of my favorite songs by Hawk Nelson. It can be found on their sixth studio album, “Made” and the first one to feature Jonathan “Jon” Steingard as the frontman.
Jon Steingard made the news this week for more than just the amazing worship music he, and Hawk Nelson, create in their Christian band.
He made a public declaration that he no longer believes in God.
My heart was devastated when I heard this and I immediately began praying for him. He needs the most love, prayers, and support that we can give him.
So much is being said about this right now on several news stations, but I was incredibly inspired by the words shared on Facebook by his brothers/fellow band members:
“One of our best friends, one with whom we have walked, worked and lived alongside for 20+ years revealed some of his innermost feelings on his faith journey this past week. Our mission as Hawk Nelson has always been to inspire and encourage all people with the truth that God is FOR them and not against them. In that message’s most simple and purest form, that THEY matter. So now we turn that truth towards one of our own. That God is still FOR Jon & he still matters. Why? Because that truth doesn’t change just because we question it.”
How we treat one another when they are at a different stage in their journey based on their life experiences is part of a bigger conversation. We are called to love one another unconditionally, as God loves us. We should also encourage and challenge one another in our Faith, seeking the truth” (newreleasetoday editorial).
No judgment in those words, just pure, unconditional love and support when their (our) brother, Jon, needs it the most.
More than anything, we need to be praying for him and his family. Apostle Paul, in 1 Timothy 2:1 reminds us about praying for others:
“I urge, then, first of all that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—”
Please join me in praying for him, and all the other people that the Lord may be bringing to your mind to pray and intercede for. I believe it is not only a responsibility to pray for others, but it is a gift as well. The love and prayer we have and share with others can affect them for eternity!! Amen!! So, keep praying, seeking, loving, and believing because God is ALWAYS at work!!
On a personal note, several songs by Hawk Nelson have truly inspired me. I mentioned Words earlier, but I also love He Still Does (Miracles). If you have not listened to it before or it has been a while check it out. Those are the words we need to inspire us right now. God is ALWAYS at work and miracles are all around us and happening all the time!!
Something to keep in mind as you continue to listen to their music. The message through their lyrics and their voices is from God, make no mistake where it came from. God gives the message, man is the vessel through which it is given. Keep listening to the worship music and let God minister to you through their gift and Him.
Remember….
A broken heart can be restored
A broken soul can be reborn
And greater things are still in store
For us, for us [Hawk Nelson, He Still Does (Miracles)]
All the Glory to God,
Shanon
Works Cited:
McNeese, Kevin. “I No Longer Believe In God”-A Conversation About Jon Steingard. New Release Today Website. 27 May 2020. https://www.newreleasetoday.com/article.php?article_id=2862
Image of “There is Power in Prayer” by http://www.AHealthyWebsite.com 29 May 2020. Web.
Heaven Sent Sentiments 