Hallelujah

Have you ever “sampled” some art—maybe listened to a song, read a few pages of a book, or watched a few minutes of a movie—and thought it was just okay? Did you revisit that thing to give it a second chance?

Last fall, my wife and I had the privilege of attending the Dove Awards, which honor excellence in Christian music. We listen to this type of music all the time and are big fans of many artists, so it was quite a treat to see and to hear so many of our favorites in one place. It was a great show with too many awesome performances to mention, but, for us, one stood out above the others.

At that time, one of the newest releases was Let it Be a Hallelujah by Lauren Daigle. My wife and I heard the song a few times on the radio, and we both agreed it was a nice song but nothing special. Then we heard it live at the Dove Awards.

Oh.My.Word.

Daigle commanded the stage with her presence, and an awards show in an arena full of people became a worship service. Her anointing and the power of her voice gave us an unforgettable experience—a holy experience.

After witnessing that performance, every time my wife and I have heard the song on the radio, we have felt that same power. The song has resonated with us on a whole new level.

The song’s lyrics talk about how everything we do should be a form of praise to God. Through my experiences with this tune, I realized my writing should be for the glory of God. I want PEOPLE—editors, publishers, friends—to like my work, but my AUDIENCE OF ONE is more important. If I sell a million copies of book that doesn’t bring glory to God, what’s the point?

Daigle’s performance also taught me the power and anointing of God is vital. I want readers to know I have spent time with God and represent Him. God has given me the ability to write, and I want His presence to be evident.

Wondering what to write today? What to do with your writing career? Whatever you do . . . Let it Be a Hallelujah (and listen to the song).

Carlton Hughes, represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary, wears many hats. By day, he is a professor of communication. On Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings, he serves as a children’s pastor. In his “spare time,” he is a freelance writer. Carlton is an empty-nesting dad and devoted husband who likes long walks on the beach, old sitcoms, and chocolate—all the chocolate. His work has been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Dating Game, The Wonders of Nature, Let the Earth Rejoice, Just Breathe, So God Made a Dog, and Everyday Grace for Men. His latest book is Adventures in Fatherhood, co-authored with Holland Webb.