Robert Pierre ‘Nothing Without You’

Written by: Laura Chambers (8/7/2017)

God has a way of leading us around in circles, bringing us back to the place we began. The difference is that we return armed with new convictions and perspectives on the work we are to accomplish. We’re older, wiser, and battle-scarred; tough enough to withstand the trials and tender enough to love our fellow travelers, no matter where they are on the road.

For Robert Pierre, taking a break from the typical life of an artist – touring, festivals, etc – allowed him to discover church ministry as a calling. It narrowed his focus and broadened the room in his heart simultaneously. Now, Nothing Without You marks his re-emergence as an artist, bringing his accumulated insights to a larger audience.

“I Will Praise You” points to God’s abilities to create new things and make things new as reasons for praising Him. Not only is He powerful enough to form the heavens, Earth, and man, but He is compassionate enough to have mercy on our souls. Considering the vile state we come to Him in, what He’s willing to do for us is incredible. We can be certain of one day abiding in His presence for always. “God Most High” continues in this vein, proclaiming that all of God’s works are good. The song encourages everyone to praise God, reminding them that the Lord they worship is the one who forsook his throne to come to our rescue. “Without You” recognizes that we are not the sum of our possessions, acclaim, and abilities. Our worth is found in knowing and trusting the Lord. None of these other things fill us like He does. We are nothing apart from Him. “Rest In Jesus” describes the weariness of suffering contrasted with the relief of knowing that Jesus will respond to our difficulties. We have His presence continually with us, bringing peace and comfort, silencing fear.

“Holy” declares Jesus to be God, the creator, all-powerful, all-knowing. There is no one holier or more deserving of our devotion. Someday, everyone will bow and sing His praises. “Forever Messiah” recalls our hopeless state before Jesus came and brought the good news of His coming as the Messiah, the king and savior. The song continues its before and after theme with the devastation of the cross and the victory of the resurrection. “Your Name” defines Jesus by all of the things He is to us, concluding that we have hope in His name. When we call on His name, it signifies our trust that He will supply our needs. “More Like You” admires Jesus’s love and loyalty and prays to emulate those qualities with His help. We are not naturally inclined to exhibit such qualities; it’s a process that requires His hand to shape our hearts. The song looks ahead to a desired end; being able to look back on a life that was submitted to a God who continually guided us in His likeness.

“The Lord Who Reigns Forever” picks up the tempo a bit, proclaiming the might and mercy of God which draws awed responses from His worshippers. He is righteous and just, glorious and holy. None is His equal.  “In Your Hands” begins with a prayer for humility and surrender, acknowledging God‘s hold on us. He is so much more than we could ever be and still cares for us. Even though we’re still fighting in a country not our own, He’ll carry us all the way. This is a reason to rejoice! Pierre’s version of “How Great Thou Art” is quicker than usual, but just as sincere as always. You could almost dance a jig to it. The last verse begins hushed and reverent, but the excitement quickly returns by the chorus. “On Faith Alone” finishes with a vow to live by faith in Christ as the sole source of salvation and renewal. We can’t rely on our own strength for anything. The blood Jesus shed on the cross is where our confidence comes from.

Lyrically, this album wasn’t as diverse as I’d like, but it definitely has its moments. All throughout, Robert Pierre leaves no room for doubt as to Who has claimed his heart. Nothing Without You consistently names Christ as the only one worthy of praise, creator of everything and savior of anyone who calls upon Him.

3.6/5