There’s something peaceful about watching a river flow. Even when rocks and other obstacles are in its path, the water keeps moving around and over them. Over time, that constant flow can even smooth the rough edges of the rocks.
That imagery became part of the message behind my new song, Peace Like a River. Life has plenty of difficult places that can wear us down. We worry about what is ahead, deal with disappointment and heartache, and sometimes just long for a little peace in the middle of everything going on around us. One of my favorite lines in the song is, “Sharp rocks of life You smooth.” I love the thought that God can work on some of those rough places in our lives over time, just as water gradually smooths the rocks in a river.
I don’t think God’s peace always means that our problems disappear. Sometimes the rocks are still there. But I believe He can give us peace while we’re going through them. That peace may come through prayer, scripture, serving someone else, or through people who reach out and help us when we need it. I’m grateful for the different ways God reminds us that He is near.
The bridge says, “I’m growing, ever growing, as Your love washes over me.” I hope that’s something I can continue to do throughout my life. There will always be more to learn and more ways to grow, but I’m grateful for a loving God who patiently works with us along the way.
I hope Peace Like a River brings a little peace and hope to anyone going through a difficult place and reminds you that God is still there, gently working in your life.
Peace Like a River
By Suzanne Hodson
VERSE 1
The rugged road can wear me down
Clamoring voices and lonely sounds
I think about what is to come
Please fill my soul, Lord, lift me up
CHORUS
Peace like a river
You bring to my heart
God, You’re a Giver
Calming my thoughts
Sharp rocks of life You smooth
Joy pours over sorrow’s grooves
You always deliver
Peace like a river
VERSE 2
You’ve called my name, asked me to serve
And through it all, You help me learn
When life is hard, I know You’re near
Always within a fervent prayer
CHORUS
Peace like a river
You bring to my heart
God, You’re a Giver
Calming my thoughts
Sharp rocks of life You smooth
Joy pours over sorrow’s grooves
You always deliver
Peace like a river
BRIDGE
Rolling, ever rolling
As rivers toward the sea
I’m growing, ever growing
As Your love washes over me
CHORUS
Peace like a river
You bring to my heart
God, You’re a Giver
Calming my thoughts
Sharp rocks of life You smooth
Joy pours over sorrow’s grooves
You always deliver
Peace like a river