Home – Page 10 – Skyler Thomas

Let It Rain (Devotional and Song)

Let It Rain – Duet Remastered

Let It Rain – Original Studio Production

Let It Rain – Original in Studio
Composition and production of song by Kenn Mann.

Isaiah 55:10-11 (NIV)

“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Devotional: “Let It Rain: Embracing God’s Grace for Healing”

As we pause in quiet reflection, we encounter a profound invitation: to lay our burdens at the feet of God, who knows each heartache, each moment of fear, and each tear shed. 1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” speaks to the core of our human experience, reminding us that it is not just permissible but necessary to cast our anxiety on Him. This is an active surrender, a trust fall into arms that are stronger than our frailty.

Many of us walk through life with ice coursing through our veins during desperate times—fear, longing, and uncertainty can freeze the warmth of hope. In the darkest moments, that icy grip tightens, leaving us feeling isolated, as though we are the only ones carrying such heavy burdens. The vivid imagery of “daggers cutting through the heart” resonates; we can relate to the sharp pain that those we love—loss, disappointment, even the weight of ingratitude—can inflict upon our spirits to the point we may not even know how to pray; where to start, if we were to pray.

As we contemplate these experiences, we reach deep into our hearts to find these questions: Can I ever feel whole again? Will the pieces of my brokenness ever fit together? Often, the flame of indifference threatens to smother our spirit’s light, leaving us questioning whether healing is, in fact, possible. Yet, in those very moments of doubt, we are reminded that God’s grace is a healing rain, falling softly upon us, renewing our spirits and washing away our tears and our fears.

The prayerful plea, “Lord, let it rain,” is an act of faith. It is a yearning for the divine intervention that can only come from above. When we invite God into our pain, we make room for His transformative grace. The rain symbolizes not just healing, but a restoration that refreshes the parched ground of our souls. As it pours over us, allowing it to saturate our spirits means letting go of our fears and embracing His promises.

In moments when we feel overwhelmed, we must remember that God is not distant; He is closer than we may realize. He understands our struggles and invites us to seek Him. It’s in acknowledging our vulnerabilities that we find the strength to rise from our despair. In our moments of shame or grief, God’s mercy floods us with the assurance that we are not defined by our past but by His unchanging love.

When we think of the heavens testifying as grace falls, it serves as a reminder of the larger picture. The world outside may seem heavy with trials, but the rain—a metaphor for divine grace—brings new life and hope, promising us that even through our toughest seasons, God is still at work. There is a promise in the storm; it nurtures the ground, allowing beauty to emerge from dust.

Built on this truth, we can approach each day with renewed anticipation. When wrestling with doubt, let us turn our thoughts to moments of connection with God—a prayer whispered in despair, the warmth of a friend’s embrace, or the gentle reminder of nature’s beauty. Each of these serves as a testament that connection is possible even in our darkest hours.

Finally, as we submit our hearts before Him, let each day serve as an opportunity to “let it rain.” Seek out the grace that renews and replenishes, allowing your heart to become fertile ground for love and peace. When we embrace this grace, we come into a closer relationship with our Creator—ready to live not just for ourselves but to embody His love and mercy to others.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You, burdened with grief and discomfort. I offer up my heart, casting my anxieties upon You, knowing that You care deeply. Let Your grace rain down over me, refreshing me in my darkest hours, and healing my wounds. Bring relief from the shame and sorrow that sometimes weighs me down. Help me to find solace in your love and the promise of new beginnings. May Your mercy flood my spirit and transform my pain into purpose. Thank You for holding my heart in Your gentle hands. Amen.

Closing Thought

As we conclude this time of devotion, remember this: the grace of God is like refreshing rain—abundant, sustaining, and deeply healing. Each time you feel the weight of distress, call upon Him to let it rain. He promises to transform your sorrows into joy and to bind up every broken heart. The journey of healing begins with surrendering to God’s grace, trusting that He is leading you toward wholeness. Carry this truth with you: “Lord, let it rain in my life, and renew my heart with Your love.”

A Writing

Ice flows through my veins

Fire burns through my soul
As the thought of losing you longs to take control

The pain of a million daggers
Are cutting through my heart
I’ve tried to pray but not sure how to start

Lord Let it rain
Let your grace pour over me
And now my heart can see
You’re healing every pain

Let it rain
You’re bringing me relief
Please free me from this grief and every shame
Lord let it rain

I wonder deep inside if I’ll be whole again
Can you take these broken pieces so I can finally mend
There’s a flame of indifference deep inside of me
Can your flood of mercy somehow set me free

Let it rain
Let your grace pour over me
And now my heart can see
You’re healing every pain

Let it rain
You’re bringing me relief
Please free me from this grief and every shame
Lord let it rain

Fallin’
Fallin’ from the sky
Let the heaven’s testify

I’m bowing down to my king
I beg for this one thing

Let it rain
Let your grace pour over me
Now my heart can see
You’re healing every pain

Let it rain
You’re bringing me relief
Please free from this grief and every shame
Lord let it rain
…Lord let it rain

Original Lyrics

Ice flows through my veins
Fire burns in my soul
As the thought of losing you consumes me

The pain of a million daggers
Cutting through my heart
Is nothing compared to what dooms me

Let it rain
Oh, let it rain
Please Lord, let it rain in my soul

I cry out in despair
Oh God hear my prayer…of repentance

Bring me relief
Free me from my grief…and indifference

Bring rain to my burning soul
That I will again be whole…and make a difference

That my life will be restored
That you will cut the cord…of my sentance

Let it rain
Oh, let it rain
Please Lord, let it rain in my soul

That you may reign
Oh, that you may reign
That you may reign and make me whole

I bow down to my King
And beg for this one thing
Please Lord, reign in my soul

Let you reign
Oh, Lord let you reign
Please Lord, reign in my soul

That I can be whole…again

Let it rain
Oh, let it rain
Please Lord, let it rain in my soul

Living Waters Edge (Devotional and Song)

Male Vocal

Female Vocal

Devotional: Finding Grace at the End of the Road

Scripture:
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
—Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

Devotional:
There are moments in life when we feel like we’ve reached the end of the road—when the weight of our mistakes and the burden of our circumstances leave us broken and searching for hope. April 3, 2014, was one of those moments for me. I had traveled to Oklahoma City to escape the wreckage of my life, and for a brief moment, the energy of OKC Thunder and my favorite player, Kevin Durant, allowed me to forget my pain. But reality waited for me the next day.

Sitting on the dry boat ramp at Lake Hefner, I felt like my surroundings mirrored my heart—parched, empty, and at a dead end. With headphones on and tears streaming down my face, I cried out to God. I played a song, “Word of God, Speak to Me” over and over, its lyrics piercing my heart. It was there, in the silence and solitude, that I realized running wasn’t the answer. I needed to face my pain and give it to God.

As I sat at the edge of that ramp, it struck me: I had been carrying a burden I was never meant to bear alone. For so long, I had tried to fix things in my own strength, only to end up more broken and exhausted. The end of the road wasn’t an ending—it was an invitation. An invitation to surrender my shame, my failures, and my heavy heart to the One who could truly heal me. The dry conditions of the lake mirrored my soul, but I was reminded that God is the living water, able to quench the deepest thirst and bring life to the driest places.

Sometimes, the hardest part of healing is letting go of the mask we wear. We cling to an image of strength, afraid to admit our struggles. But healing begins when we strip away the facade and come before God as we are—broken, messy, and desperate for His touch. That day at Lake Hefner, I didn’t need eloquent words or polished prayers. I just needed honesty, and God met me in my rawest, most vulnerable moment.

Have you felt like you’ve reached the end of the road? Maybe your heart feels heavy with regret or your circumstances feel insurmountable. Let me encourage you: God’s grace is sufficient for you. He doesn’t meet you with condemnation or shame—He meets you with open arms and unshakable love. He invites you to lay down your burdens and trust Him to do the work you cannot do on your own.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for meeting us in our brokenness and offering the gift of Your grace. When we feel like we’ve reached the end of the road, remind us that You are there, waiting to restore us and lead us into new life. Help us to lay down our burdens at Your feet and trust in Your redeeming power. Let Your love transform us, and may our lives testify to the miracle of Your grace. Thank You for never leaving us where You find us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Writing:

Have you ever wanted a miracle
But felt unworthy to plead

Have you felt like a lost cause
weighed down, never to be freed

All you could do was crawl in a hole
Never to be heard from or seen

Giving up a life of purpose
Giving up hope to be clean

Shouting out to God in your anger
Why not me Lord, why am I not deserving

If you were truly a God of love and compassion
You are the one I would be serving

Walking away into the night
Your heart hardened, you have no regret

Your hopes crushed to have a Savior
Someone who loves you, who will pay your debt

Have you ever seen a miracle
in the life of another soul

Have you ever witnessed the gratitude
that comes by making one whole

It’s a beauty that’s indescribable
A gift from the One above

Filled with so much awe and wonder
It is truly a gift of love

That gift is yours for the taking
All you have to do is ask

But you will never be able to come clean
If you continue to wear your mask

How do you break free from yourself
From the bondage that’s keeping you a slave

You have to lift your hands to the one above
For He is the only one who can save

Come to the living water’s edge
And feel the power of healing

It is a miracle you can receive
The love of the Savior revealing

You will be free from your own bondage
To be made whole again

Give Him your burden, completely your burden
He will cleanse you from all your sin

Have you ever seen a miracle
in the life of your own soul

Have you ever poured out your gratitude
that comes by making you whole

It’s a beauty that’s indescribable
A gift from the One above

Filled with so much awe and wonder
It is truly a gift of love

Song Lyrics

(Verse 1)

Have you longed for a miracle, felt unworthy to believe?
Burdened down by guilt and shame, no hope to be relieved.
In the darkness, you have wondered, “Can I ever be made whole?”
Jesus stands with arms wide open, He’s the Savior of your soul.

(Verse 2)

Have you seen a heart surrendered, healed by mercy’s gentle hand?
Felt the joy of restoration, love you cannot understand?
Bring your pain and all your burdens; leave them at the cross tonight.
Let His power make you righteous, shining pure in holy light.

(Chorus)

Have you seen a miracle, felt His love that sets you free?
It’s a gift beyond all measure, full of grace and majesty.
Come and drink the living water, let it wash your fear away.
Jesus breaks the chains that bind you; He’s your miracle today.

(Verse 3)

Have you felt the weight of sorrow, like a chain you cannot break?
Every step feels weak and heavy, every move a deep mistake.
Jesus sees your every struggle, and He whispers, “You are Mine.”
Through His grace, the chains will shatter; you will rise in love divine.

(Bridge)

Lift your hands and call upon Him; He will meet you where you stand.
Every tear and cry of sorrow, He will hold within His hand.
Feel the freedom in His presence, leave your past and walk His way.
Jesus loves you and redeems you; He’s your miracle today.

(Verse 4)

Have you walked in endless darkness, longing for the morning light?
Felt the pain of isolation, thinking hope was out of sight?
Jesus calls you from the shadows; He will lead you by His hand.
Step into His glorious promise, to the life that He has planned.

(Chorus)

(Outro)

He’s your miracle today,
Jesus is your miracle today.

My Swamp (Devotional and Song)

Song: I Will Rise – Duet

Devotional: Leaving the Swamp Behind

Scripture:
“I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” — Deuteronomy 30:19

There are moments in life when we realize we’ve built a false sanctuary—a place where we have learned to survive but not truly live. Maybe it’s a mindset we’ve adopted, a habit we’ve clung to, or a defense mechanism we’ve crafted over time. Like the swamp in this reflection, it becomes familiar, even comfortable, but at its core, it is a trap.

God never intended for us to stay in places of spiritual stagnation. He created us to thrive, to walk in His light, to be renewed and transformed. But we must make the choice. We can remain in the toxic environments—whether external or internal—that we’ve adapted to, or we can step into the fullness of life that Christ offers.

The decision is ours. Do we cling to the shadows of what is familiar, or do we trust God to lead us into a land of promise, even if it means vulnerability, growth, and change?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I recognize that I have built walls, adapted to struggles, and settled in places You never intended for me to stay. Give me the courage to step out of my swamp, to leave behind what keeps me trapped, and to walk boldly into the abundant life You have for me. Lead me, Lord, and renew my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Writing:

THIS is my swamp…

My skin is thick and tough…
… so that I no longer have to be vulnerable to the pain that surrounds me.

My fighting skills are honed and advanced…
… so that I can aggressively and fiercely shred any foe that attacks me.

I can submerge and hide for long periods of time…
… to avoid uncomfortable confrontation.

I can adapt to my surroundings here in my swamp…
…so that I can be…
…unaffected
…unmoved
…unshaken
…un-convicted

…of what might otherwise appear to be a…
…murky
…dirty
…polluted environment.

This is MY swamp…

It is my sanctuary. It is my cocoon.

It is…
…my death trap.

I did not always live in my swamp.
In fact, I was not made to be able to survive in my swamp.

I had to become…
…to adapt
…to adjust
…to evolve

…into what I have become in order to survive the toxic conditions that exist in my swamp.

This is my SWAMP…

And only I can make the decision to continue dying here…
…or to choose life outside of my swamp.

What’s it going to be?

Song:

[Verse 1]

I built these walls, I learned to fight,

Kept my heart locked up so tight.

Hid my fear behind a smile,

But I’ve been sinking all the while.

[Pre-Chorus]

I hear You calling through the night,

A voice so strong, yet full of light.

You pull me close, You draw me higher,

Out of the swamp, into the fire.

[Chorus]

I won’t stay where shadows grow,

Where my heart turns cold, where the dark winds blow,

I’m stepping out, I’m choosing life,

Leaving the swamp for the morning light.

Oh, I will rise… I will rise.

[Verse 2]

I made a home in sinking ground,

Afraid to leave, afraid to drown.

But chains aren’t homes, and wounds don’t heal

When I resist the love you reveal

The fear, the shame, the weight I’ve known,

You call me out, You lead me home.

[Pre-Chorus]

I hear You calling through the night,

A voice so strong, yet full of light.

You pull me close, You draw me higher,

Out of the swamp, into the fire.

[Chorus]

I won’t stay where shadows grow,

Where my heart turns cold, where the dark winds blow,

I’m stepping out, I’m choosing life,

Leaving the swamp for the morning light.

Oh, I will rise… I will rise.

[Bridge]

I see the road, I see the dawn,

And though I shake, I’ll carry on.

No more hiding, no more chains,

Your grace is stronger than my pain!

[Final Chorus]

I won’t stay where shadows grow,

Where my heart turns cold, where the dark winds blow,

I’m stepping out, I’m choosing life,

Leaving the swamp for the morning light.

Oh, I will rise… I will rise.

[Outro]

No turning back, I’m walking free,

The past is gone, Your love in me.

Oh, I will rise… I will rise.

The following pictures were taken at Sawgrass Lake Park, St. Petersburg, FL
Copyright © 2014 by SkylerThomas

Named By God

Devotional Thought

In Genesis 32, Jacob wrestles through the night with God and emerges with a limp—and a new name: Israel. That name wasn’t given by family, enemies, or his own ambition; it was spoken by God Himself. In Scripture, when God names someone, it reveals identity, calling, and destiny.

Our world is quick to label us—by our past, our mistakes, our accomplishments, or our circumstances. But none of those names carry the authority of the One who knit us together and calls us His own. If you are in Christ, your truest name is “beloved,” “chosen,” “child of God.” His voice over you is the final word, and His word will stand forever.

Today, let that truth silence every other voice. No one gets to name you but God.

Prayer

Father, thank You that You alone have the authority to name me. Thank You for calling me chosen, beloved, and redeemed. Silence every false name spoken over me—names born from fear, shame, or lies—and replace them with the truth of who I am in You.

Just as You renamed Jacob and called him into his destiny, call me again into mine. May I walk in the identity You’ve spoken, confident that You go before me, You are with me, and You will never leave me.

Let my life declare this truth to my family, my community, and the generations to come: No one gets to name me but God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Song Lyrics

(Verse 1 – His Voice Over You)
From the start He called you chosen
Every step, His eyes have seen
No label spoken by another
Can erase what God decreed
From the promise to our fathers
To the children yet to come
Every blessing flows from heaven
And your name is on His tongue

(Chorus – Identity Blessing)
No one gets to name you but God
No one gets to claim you but God
He is with you, He goes before you
You are His and His alone
No one gets to name you but God

(Verse 2 – Heaven’s Blessing, Heaven’s Naming)
May His rain fall on your harvest
May His peace be on your home
May His joy fill every moment
May His strength make you whole
He’s the one who called you worthy
He’s the one who called you friend
Every name He speaks is faithful
Every name will stand till the end

(Chorus – Identity Blessing)
No one gets to name you but God
No one gets to claim you but God
He is with you, He goes before you
You are His and His alone
No one gets to name you but God

(Bridge – Generations Called by Name)
May His covenant rest upon you
And a thousand generations
On your children and their children
And their children after them
May His presence go before you
May His angels walk beside you
Every child will bear His blessing
Every child will bear His name
(into repeated refrain)
No one gets to name you but God
No one gets to claim you but God

(Tag – Sung Declaration)
(Leader) Jacob, you are Israel
(People) No one gets to name you but God
(Leader) Beloved, you are mine
(People) No one gets to name you but God
(Leader) Child, I’ve called you by name
(People) No one gets to name you but God

(Final Chorus – Anthem Build)
No one gets to name you but God
No one gets to claim you but God
He is with you, He goes before you
You are His and His alone
No one gets to name you but God

(Outro – Gentle Benediction)
You are not forgotten
You are not forsaken
You are called by name
By the voice of God alone

No Good Deed Shall Go Unpunished (Devotional and Song)

I Will Serve With Joy – A Cappella

Instrumental Duet

Male Vocal

Scripture:
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” – Ephesians 6:10-12

Devotional:

Have you ever stepped out to do something good, only to be met with resistance, criticism, or even hostility? It’s a painful reality that good deeds are not always met with appreciation. Sometimes, they invite opposition. But why?

Because we live in a world where good and evil are at war. Every act of kindness is a declaration that darkness will not have the final say. Every moment of compassion is a small victory against the cruelty of this world. And yet, the enemy does not sit idly by.

It can be discouraging when our efforts to help others are misunderstood or rejected. The enemy whispers, “Why bother? Just walk away.” But God calls us to stand firm. He reminds us that we do not battle against people, but against spiritual forces that seek to discourage, divide, and destroy.

Imagine a world where no one showed up to fight evil with good. Where sadness had no answer in joy, sorrow no relief in kindness, and despair no comfort in love. That is what happens when we choose to retreat, when we allow fear or frustration to silence the good that God has placed in our hearts.

But the Spirit calls us forward. Step in front of opportunity before it passes you by. Give what you can, even when it’s not easy. Stand strong, even when opposition comes. Do not fear, for God’s strength upholds you.

Yes, good deeds may invite difficulty. But they also invite the presence of God. They bring light where darkness looms. They plant seeds of hope in places of despair. And in the end, they reflect the love of Christ—who faced the ultimate rejection for the greatest act of love.

So today, choose to keep doing good. Choose to keep showing up. Choose to fight darkness with light. And when the enemy whispers that it’s not worth it, let your heart reply: “I will not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, I will reap a harvest if I do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for calling me to be a light in this world. I confess that at times I feel discouraged when my kindness is met with resistance. But Lord, I know that I am not fighting against people, but against the darkness that seeks to overcome good. Strengthen me to stand firm. Equip me with Your armor so I may continue to do what is right, even when it is difficult. Help me to show love, joy, and mercy, trusting that You are working through every act of kindness. I surrender my fears and frustrations to You, and I ask for the courage to keep walking in Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Writing:

We were at a park where many homeless gathered. We bought burgers and fries from 5 Guys…and were handing them out. A woman with her daughter and grandchild stepped off the bus…and started arguing with some guys that had some burgers and fries. She wanted theirs. I tried to tell her…”We can get you some too”…but that wasn’t her interest. She just wanted to argue, apparently. I stepped away and said…”No good deed shall go unpunished.” What does that mean?

It is said “No good deed shall go unpunished”

For this is just the way the world works…
…it is what it is

Because for every action there is a counter action…
…the Good deed of Joy brings Sadness
…the Good deed of Happiness brings Sorrow
…the Good deed of Peace brings Turmoil
…the Good deed of Healing brings Woundedness
…the Good deed of Fulfillment brings Emptiness

And so, I commit to do no Good deed…
…to prevent the certain punishment that follows
…thus I am justified for my inaction
…I am not held accountable to Evil
…I am satisfied

And the Spirit dwelling within me touches my soul…and whispers…
…do you expect the actions of Goodness to go unanswered?
…as if Evil will stand still to allow Goodness to prevail?
…that Evil will simply bow down…and be trampled upon?
…that Evil will surrender…simply because a Good deed is done?
…have you not heard there is a war raging between Good and Evil?
…if no one stands against Evil…
…if you don’t show up…
…who will?

…and the light grows dim
…and it vanishes
…and the darkness surrounds me
…and the emptiness engulfs me
…and in the quietness
…I cry out…but there is no answer

In the desolate wasteland of Evil…
…I see Sadness…but there was no Good deed of Joy
…and I see Sorrow…but there was no Good deed of Happiness
…and I see Turmoil…but there was no Good deed of Peace
…and I see Woundedness…but there was no Good deed of Healing
…and I see Emptiness…but there was no Good deed of Fulfillment

And the Spirit dwelling within me touches my soul…and whispers…
…step in front of opportunity, before it passes you by
…don’t walk…but run…into the stadium of Mercy
…simply do what you can
…give Joy as you can
…give Happiness as you can
…give Peace as you can
…give Healing as you can
…give Fulfillment as you can

…and then…stand strong against the shouts of Evil…for they will come…
…do not be afraid
…do not be defeated
…but know the Good deed done today is a blessing of much needed Mercy to a hungry soul

Song:

Verse 1:

Come, weary hearts, the time is near

The lost still wander, the broken fear

Who will go where mercy calls?

Who will rise and give their all?

Chorus:

I will serve with joy, I will walk in grace,

Though the darkness calls, I will take my place.

For the cross still stands, and His love remains,

I will serve with joy in Jesus’ name.

Verse 2:

The poor still hunger, the weak still fall,

Yet love can answer mercy’s call.

Though evil whispers, “Let them be,”

My Savior gave, so I am free.

Chorus:

I will serve with joy, I will walk in grace,

Though the darkness calls, I will take my place.

For the cross still stands, and His love remains,

I will serve with joy in Jesus’ name.

Verse 3:

When trials rise and doubts take hold,

I will not fear, my faith is bold.

For Christ endured the weight of sin,

And through His wounds, I rise again.

Bridge:

Do not fear, do not stray,

Love will drive the dark away.

Every kindness breaks the night,

And fills the world with Heaven’s light.

Chorus:

I will serve with joy, I will walk in grace,

Though the darkness calls, I will take my place.

For the cross still stands, and His love remains,

I will serve with joy in Jesus’ name.

Outro:

I will serve… I will stand…

Holding fast to His command.

I will love… I will give…

For in Him, true joy will live.

Ephesians 6:10-12: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the (evil strategies) of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places”

Most people will show sincere gratitude when they know someone cares…