Condemnation

Condemnation
by Joel Howard

Condemnation was my station
fully tuned in, fully caged in
fully given over, convinced my life was over
every word you'd speak
was condemnation to me

Bondage to failure and the feeling of gracelessness
Hatred of self and constant striving
Can I get a rest? To the devil I'd say
He'd say, "After I'm finished,"
but he'd never go away.

Blank in the face at every word you'd say
Condemnation was my lie of choice by trade
Scripture says he accuses me every night and day
But more constant is your choice grace to me in the same way
Peace is the anthem you trumpet my way
Closer than the lies, sweeter than his hate
A very different verdict when I remember what you gave
Rest and peace is mine in Jesus today.