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“Down to the River” by Aaron Holder: Finding Peace in Prayer


Aaron Holder's "Down to the River" is a song of gratitude and self-discovery. The genre of the song is a blend of rock and roll guitar licks that seamlessly mix with backwoods rhythms and bluesy pop lyrics. Aaron takes the listener on a spiritual walk through nature to see God's grace in action. 

Aaron Holder - Down To The RiverThe song starts with a simple but symbolic declaration: "Down to the River to pray, I'm going down to the river to pray." It's a call to find peace and renewal through God's grace, and highlights the importance of prayer in our everyday lives. Within the imagery of towering oaks and the flowing river, Aaron shares that this is where he finds his purpose and counts his blessings every day. 

While Aaron borrows so much in style and lyrics from the Great American Songbook, it may come as a surprise to some that he's actually an observant Jew. "My spirituality is deeply rooted in Judaism," says Aaron. "I'm from the Tribe of Levi and they played the music in the Holy Temple." We know from experience that music unites people, and songs of worship and praise direct our focus to God. 

The refrain echoes a powerful truth: "The world's made for you, no one else can do what was meant for you." The refrain is a reminder that we all have a unique purpose under God's watchful eye. Realize that God doesn't ask us to understand His purpose… He asks us to trust Him. 

Aaron uses vivid imagery of birds singing praises and the winds to help us see God's grace and presence in nature. 

May this song invite you to pause, reflect, and embrace your blessings, and be grateful for life's gifts-the Gifts of a loving Father for you. Search for God's grace in the simple, beautiful moments of life, and keep faith during each step of your journey back to Him.

(Related scripture: Psalm 23:1-3; Isaiah 43:2; Philippians 4:6-7)

Connect with Aaron Holder

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