Ethereal sounds of dizi (bamboo) flute, panpipes, marimbas, koto etc accompany this evocative song that follows the peaks and falls of a journey through life and how God sustains and strengthens us through turbulent 'winds' of trials and adversity.

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Unlike most birds, eagles do not fly by continually flapping their wings but glide on the breeze. When the wind becomes turbulent and gusty most birds would struggle and even attempt to land, and others may not venture out at all. However, the eagle in flight would stretch out and lock its wings so that the strong winds, which could cause its downfall, actually cause the eagle to soar higher into the sky.

There is a parallel between this and the life of a Christian facing daily trial from the strong winds of persecution. Isaiah Chapter 40 spoke of those who’s hope is in the Lord as having renewed strength and flying like an Eagle. I have read many accounts where imprisoned, persecuted and tortured Christians speak of experiencing the close presence of God during these times of trial. One imprisoned Christian leader was told by a guard that he was taken out of solitary confinement because he was enjoying it too much!

Jesus demonstrated how to endure suffering by remaining obedient to His Father, even to death on a cross, and we seek to follow His direction and example. A Chinese pastor who was imprisoned in a painful position said that during that time he meditated upon heaven and on how much Jesus suffered for him.

SOARING LIKE AN EAGLE

My wings glide on the path my Lord has mapped for me,
But troubled winds conspire to drag me down
Into the deepest, darkest valley, tumbling down,
As I cry out ‘Lord, where are you now?’

I hear His voice, my maker and redeemer
Above the winds that pull my wings and howl,
I cry out ‘Lord, the storm’s too hard for me to bear’
But I’m renewed as He shows me how.

When ill wind strikes, I’m soaring like an eagle,
I spread my wings, so the winds lift me up high,
And I can see so clear now like an eagle’s eye,
Far above the storms in blue sky, safe and dry,
Now I see my Lord is by my side.

So now I seek my bearings from the Risen Lord,
Marked with His cross, the way looks harsh and long,
Weak as I am, my wings grow tired and weatherworn
But I’m renewed as He makes me strong.

When ill wind strikes...

And as I ride the strong winds of adversity,
I lift my eyes much higher than before.
My thankful heart looks deep into eternity,
And with His hope my wings ride the storm.

When ill wind strikes...

Chris Medway
© 1992-2007 Watch Out! Music