"Live For You" by Connersvine
Reviewed by: Krystal Burns
Note: We focus on reviewing songs, and therefore cannot comment on the appropriateness of the album in its entirety. Please use your best judgment whenever purchasing or listening to music.
The Artists
Connersvine was started by a couple of guys who love to worship: guitarist Chris Wilson and NFL player Hunter Smith (punter for Indianapolis Colts). Not every band has a pro football player, but the two had been playing worship at a church in south Indianapolis when they felt God leading them to compose music on a professional level.
This last year has been a good one for Hunter Smith with the Colts winning the Super Bowl and Connersvine signing a record deal just a few days later. In a statement Smith said, “Winning the Super Bowl has been one of the highlights of my life and career. It is completely humbling that God has allowed me to not only be part of an amazing football team, but also is giving me the chance to pursue His calling in music.”
The Album
The self-titled album was released October 23 of 2007. The twelve songs are heavy on guitar and vocals, which makes them easy to listen to and sing along with. In writing the songs, Connersvine focused on creating music that could be used in churches and other times of corporate worship.
The Song
First released as a single at the end of September, “Live for You” is the obvious star of the album. The chorus resonates a sinner’s prayer for salvation, reflective of a heart’s yearning to be reconciled to the Father. “I want to live for you/ I want to die to me/ I want to be emptied/ I want to be freed/ From all that holds me captive/ All that brings me down.”
More than just an initial dedication of life to God, I’m reminded of my need to commit myself every day to following Him. Sometimes life is so busy. Before I know it the day is over, and I haven’t given God the place in my life that is His. The song says, “Here in this hour/ Leaning on your mercy/ Your throne of grace/ You are all I’m after/ The beauty of your face.” That should be a Christian’s prayer every hour. It’s not easy, but that’s part of learning to love God.
In Luke Jesus says, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.” (12:23-24) Life as it was meant to be is only found in Jesus Christ. “Live for You” is a beautiful song of renewed dedication to God.
So What Do You Think?
1. Have you heard of Connersvine?
2. What you think of an NFL player being a worship artist?
3. What do you remember about the moment you first committed your life to Christ?
4. When is it hardest for you to remember that commitment?
5. How would you explain to someone else what Jesus is saying in Luke 12:23-24?