While searching through Scriptures for songwriting material, Ellie Holcomb was immediately moved by Hosea 6:3, “Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge Him. As surely as the sun rises, He will appear; He will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.”
With this verse serving as the catalyst for Holcomb’s debut album, “As Sure As The Sun,” Holcomb’s poignant lyrics deeply impacted audiences around the country.
“God doesn’t promise that life will be easy,” Holcomb noted. “There will be many trials in life, but we know that Jesus understands each element of suffering and He is with us every step of the way. Jesus is right there walking with us and pressing on with us. God is able to heal any broken heart or broken situation.”
‘Healing and redemption’
“I know this to be true because God has taken the most broken parts of my story and He has brought healing and redemption. I’ve seen Him do the same thing in the lives of my friends who are walking through such trials where you wonder how Romans 8:28 can be true, and you wonder how God can work all things for the good of those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose.
“You wonder how God is going to show up, then lo and behold, He always does. The story of the cross resonates because there was great pain, great suffering and great betrayal. Praise God that wasn’t the final outcome because Jesus walked out of the grave. No matter the situation or heartbreak, Jesus is greater because He has victory over death. If our hope is in Him, we can abide in His overwhelming love, grace and redemption.”
Continuing to honor God
While garnering New Artist of the Year honors at the 2014 Dove Awards in Nashville the accolades haven’t changed Holcomb, who is 1 of only 2 independent artists who have won this award. She continues searching for ways to honor God through music and blessing others with her gift.
Before starting her musical journey Holcomb taught English to middle school and high school students.
Although she enjoyed teaching, she began to develop a passion for music while watching her husband perform with his band, Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors.
By seeking God’s guidance and direction, Holcomb sensed God was calling her to leave the classroom and pursue music full time.
With her new role and ministry taking shape, Holcomb realized the importance of connecting teenagers and young adults to Christ’s redeeming love.
“Where there is truth, there is freedom,” Holcomb said. “I’ve also learned that freedom is grace [in] being fully known with all of my mistakes and shame, and still being fully loved because of what Jesus did on the cross.
“One of my songs, ‘Marvelous Light,’ is based on 1 Peter 2:9, which talks about praising the One who has called us out of the darkness and into His marvelous light.
“When I think about what I want to be doing, it’s singing truth into the darkness. If I can play any part of inviting people into the joy and freedom that I’ve found in coming just as I am to the foot of the cross, I want to be a part of that story. I want to encourage the wounded and weary in the church pews.”
As Holcomb performs concerts around the country, she loves to tell stories through songs and create conversations for audiences to enjoy.
“I never really planned on being an artist, but I took one step forward in faith,” Holcomb said. “When I felt God calling me into music I also felt called to help refresh and encourage the hearts of believers and bring freedom where there is none. When I felt that stirring in my heart, that’s when I knew to say ‘yes’ to this vocation.
“With each step forward, it’s been incredible how God has opened doors and provided in ways I never could have imagined. I’m just walking in faith and following where God leads. I’m just glad to be along for the ride. I don’t know where the road will lead, but the only thing I know is that I’m supposed to keep my eyes on Him.”
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