Here's the story:
Ashleigh's song, Armor, was written by Lissa Lauria. She talked to Ashleigh about what was going on in her life, and she was finally trying to get over a relationship that was just not a good one. Through talking back and forth, Lissa wrote her a song about Ashleigh's life experiences with relationships. It's not technically a Christian song, but deals with teens issues, and realizing you don't have to take the garbage out there, to move on and be strong! Stand up for yourself, and don't get involved with what you know isn't a good situation. Many girls identify with the words, and the tune is so catchy! Ashleigh's main love for music is Country/Pop along with worship music.but this song is so fun, she loved it from the moment she heard it. She has also enjoyed leading worship in her youth groups, and school.
Ashleigh was chosen out of hundreds from an application on Spirit 105.3 FM The 10 chosen to get votes from the public, would be whittled down to one lucky singer or band getting to open for the Newsboys! (see fun personal story about them at end of post)
She submitted her song, application online, and the official entry rules mentioned nothing of an age requirement. We waited, and they called! They told her she was going to be one of ten featured on their website and top votes, opens for them! They would also get a 4 page photo spread in Surrender Magazine. How cool is that? We also found out she has cousins at the church, Overlake Christian Church in Redmond, WA. They gave her official code to text for her name, and told her to be creative in getting votes. So, not wanting to miss an amazing opportunity, I sent out emails and facebook invites to thousands of people!
Two days before she was to be featured, they emailed, "Please confirm she is over 18." I thought, "What?!!" Long story short, the legal team didn't want to cause problems with others that had entered. So they pulled her spot and gave it to somebody else. Did I mention this was the same day Ashleigh was starting her senior year at a brand new high school? What a bummer!
Remember the emails and facebook invites I had sent out? Yep, here's me.. "I'm sorry, but please don't vote for her, she can't do it anymore."
Well, we wish the final contestants the best. We know God's timing is best, and for one of those, it's going to be their time! I am still going to cheer them on and be genuinely happy for them! I also mentioned the radio station, because I know they are bringing glory to God by playing songs that praise Him.
Now, I know that God's timing is perfect. We were just thrilled for her because we just knew He was literally paving the way, guiding her in the right direction. She was over the moon excited, and also eager to see what God had in store.
Have you ever been given something, then it taken away, and you thought, "that is exactly where you were supposed to be, so what happened?" I hope these verses will help you as much as they are reminding us, we are not in control.
We will rest in these promises:
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. - Proverbs 19:21
And also know that we can ask for anything:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phillipians 4:6
In church today we learned that if we have faith, BIG faith, there are things that he is just waiting to give to us! Just waiting for our faith!
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. - Hebrews 11:6
So we sit, we pray, and know by faith in Jesus that He is working on something for her. Something that is the best thing for her. We know this! I can't wait to share, but I don't even know about it yet! :) Something fun though, is that the local station where she is now living is playing her song along with their oldies played. Thank you to ksqm 91.5FM!
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(fun personal story time)
I was taking Ashleigh to school when she was in 2nd grade. The Newsboys were in town singing on the radio station live. They urged those to call in with a story or question. We just listened to them all the way to school, and sang along. I also had 2 neices, and my son in the car. They were ages 3-7. Then the Newsboys sang, "He Reigns." Have you heard it? Click and listen! My entire van rang out as all the kids were singing, "Glory, glory! Hallelujah! He reeeeeeigns!" Then the Newsboys sing, "All Chicago singing.. glory, glory, hallelujah..." And my car went crazy screaming, "They said Chicago!" I called in just as the Newsboys were leaving, and the DJ told me she loved the story, the Newsboys were leaving, but the station sent me their latest CD. So awesome!
You can imagine how long we've enjoyed singing along to the Newsboys, and 10 years later, it was so close, but not the right timing.
Download the song for free!
~ Armor ~ mp3
CLICK HERE - www.reverbnation.com/ashleighvictoria
