Wrote this as a pitch to Dolly Parton .

This song was written out of realizing that I wouldn't be where I am without the Grace and Mercy of God over my life and that what He says about us is what matters most.

The story behind this song is in 2023, I experienced a panic attack during the 3rd Christmas Eve gathering. I found myself hyping myself up with my friend by doing push-ups and then whispering Holy Spirit, you never gave me a timid spirit, please help me get through this gathering. I know I've prayed God please help me to experience what breaks your heart and I knew I needed to push through. So glad I did say that quick prayer.

I heard a sermon one night from a Preacher about the children of Israel leaving Egypt and how becoming a Christian compares to it.

Inspired by "...LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." - Psalm 19:14.

inspired by faith

"When I Pray" is a testimony of struggle, faith, and hope. It speaks about a parent's struggles with a child's addiction. It also reflects Howard's encounter with difficulty, which brought him back to his faith. This song portrays a straightforward confidence in God's directives regardless of the unexpected paths in life.

Here's a Faith Country / Southern Gospel song I wrote with Levi Mills, Jordan Burks and fellow Songwriting Pro member, Randy Maynor. Levi is singing the demo.

I made an album of original songs called "Unvarnished Truth." It is, in a sense, a concept album. It is not praise and worship music. I helped form and was in a praise band at church for several years. I have played for years at retreats called "Walk to Emmaus." sharing just those kinds of songs. But, in my own walk with the Lord, I find that my experience has been less than the idyllic one presented in so many Christian songs. I have had my share of trials and times of honest doubt and so have a lot of my Christian brothers and sisters. I don't feel like I've arrived as a perfect Christian. So, could I glorify God by trying to portray the ups and downs of an authentic Christian journey in song in hopes the music would touch those who are still trying to find the Lord? This song epitomizes that theme. The jury is still out.