The Martins ‘Still Standing’

Written by: Kelly Meade (7/11/18)

Over the past two decades, the sibling trio known as The Martins have made a name for themselves in Southern gospel music. With their latest release, Still Standing, Joyce, Jonathan & Judy’s family harmonies inspire with songs that shine a light into the struggles of day to day life.

“Running” opens the album with a reminder that God is there for us in every circumstance. Whether we’re caught in the storms of life or have strayed far from Him through mistakes we’ve made, we can always run back to Him and find protection & mercy.

“Beautiful” tells of someone who has encountered many bumps and hardships along their journey of life and yet maintained a hope & joy in the Lord knowing that He is a faithful Father who makes all things work together for the good of His children (Romans 8:28).

“Good” celebrates the God-given blessings of life such as a loving family, home and finding peace in what you have.

“Days Like This” reiterates God’s goodness & promises and that His power does not rely on our feelings to remain true. On days when it all feels as if it is going wrong and we get overwhelmed, God is still God and a mighty Savior who has things under control.

“Heal The Wound, Leave The Scar” is a prayer for healing of the spirit & broken heart, but also to not let us forget what God brought us through and healed us from so that we may remember His grace at work in our lives.

Title track, “Still Standing” recounts the times that Jesus has carried us through the trials & pain that inevitably come along while giving glory to His Name and recognizing that He is the reason we’ve made it this far. Hearing a few lines from the hymn “Standing on The Promises” in the bridge is a pleasant addition.

The poignant words of “Stained Glass” offer a reflective look at how no matter where you are in your relationship with Christ, we’re all broken and “part of God’s mosaic”, as the lyrics state. In Him we find forgiveness & freedom as our Heavenly Father welcomes us with open arms.

One of my favorite songs on the album, “Wherever You Are” closes the collection with a message for those of us who may be at a crossroads as we prepare for a major life change or to take a big step in faith that is intimidating to us. We can take heart in knowing we are not alone and God will be with us in every decision we make guiding us to where we’re meant to be.

From time to time we all need to be encouraged and reminded that there is still hope and a reason to keep going. The songs on Still Standing does just that while drawing the attention of listeners towards the One who not only created us, but the entire universe and the ever-present Savior who will never let us down.

4/5