SURE OF YOU
(Charles & Jenny's Wedding Song)

I don’t know what the future holds
But I know Who holds the future for us
I can’t see where this road leads
But I trust who walked this road before us
And I am sure of you (I’m sure of you)
And I am sure of you

It’s hard to say goodbye friends who fade
In tears I pray again they’ll meet us
Down the line there may be lonely times
But I know there’s One Who’ll never leave us
And I am sure of you (I’m sure of you)

Sure of you, sure that you care
Sure that all you’ve done for me, I’m not even aware
In a world of people turning untrue
I’m sure of you

I will try my best to provide
A place where faith is always growing
Moving towards the Everlasting Source
I know through our love, He will be showing
And I am sure of you (I’m sure of you)

Sure of you, sure that you care
Sure that all you’ve done for me, I’m not even aware
In a world of people turning untrue
I’m sure of you

(solo)

Sure of you, sure that you care
Sure that all you’ve done for me, I’m not even aware
In a world of people turning untrue
I’m sure of you
I’m sure of you
(I’m sure of, I’m sure of you…)


Words and Music by Charles & Jenny Ciepiel
©1993 In The Meantime Music.

Sure Of You (Charles & Jenny's Wedding Song)

MR. SAVIOR MAN (Live from GraceFest) That time we "opened up" for Switchfoot… Here’s a hilarious blast-from-the-past “classic” of my band, Tiramisu, back in the day in Pensacola, Florida! The best part is when Caleb’s acoustic starts feeding back – a lot! Then he goes into his FAMOUS SPONTANEOUS SCAT SOLO! 🤣 (The reason he’s on my acoustic is because he broke string on his electric. He wanted to end the set early, but was a good sport.) So much fun! Drums: Timothy Very, Bass: Dan Cava, Guitar: James Caleb Stewart, Vox/Guitar: Yours Truly. #2001 #mrsaviorman #tiramisu #noordinaryband #gracefest #pensacola

lyrics...

MR. SAVIOR MAN

Please, Please Mr. Savior Man
I know You’re busy, So I’ll make this
As quick as I can, Mr. Savior Man
Ever since I heard about You
and all the awesome things You do
I started thinking maybe there’s hope for me
Mr. Savior Man

My heart’s been broken a time or two
I been let down, let go, left out, I been laughed at too
(Now tell me, has this ever happened to You? Well I heard it has!)
Mr. Savior Man, if there’s anyone who
could pick up the pieces
I believe it’s You!

I know it’s true, You are no ordinary man
You are God, and You’ve come
With salvation in Your hands
Mr. Savior Man!

Please, Please Mr. Savior Man
From this day forward I’m gonna follow You, Yes I am! (Your wish is my command!)
Who’d a thought You’d care for me
Enough to shed Your blood for me
Up on the cross, for the world to see
Mr. Savior Man!

I know it’s true, You are no ordinary man
You are God, and You’ve come
With salvation in Your hands
Mr. Savior Man!

Nobody else could… 
Change my heart, save my soul
Reach inside, make me whole
Satisfy, show me love
Salvage all that I am…
Mr. Savior Man!


Words & Music by Charles Ciepiel  10/23/00 
©2000 In The Meantime Music.
Additional arrangement by Dan Cava, Tim Very, & Caleb Stewart.

This song was actually written during a time of intense desperation. Salvation is all about running to God with our weaknesses, letting Him pick up the broken pieces and salvage our lives. No job is too tough for Mr. Savior Man!

https://youtu.be/CBAjrHm79dQ

Mr. Savior Man (Live at GraceFest)

TURN TO ME
(Psalm 86:16; 89:15; Isaiah 59:2;
Hebrews 10:19-22, 26-29; Revelation 2:4-5)

Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord
Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord

Here I stand in the shadows
I’m calling out for Your grace
One more time, one more time
Here I stand, in the shadows
I’m calling out for Your hand to save
One more time, one more time 

Lord, You know that I’m so grateful
For the price You paid
You know my desire is to please You
Everyday
And when I think of how my sin separates us
O Lord, my heart breaks

Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord
Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord

Here I stand in the shadows
I’m calling out for Your grace
One more time, one more time
Here I stand, in the shadows
I’m longing to see the light of Your face
One more time, one more time

Restore unto me the joy
Of my first love
Wash away my worldliness
With Your Heavenly blood
So when I wake up in the morning
Go to sleep at night
It’s You, I wanna be thinking of

Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord
Oh, turn to me, turn to me, turn to me
And have mercy on me, O Lord

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel   3/15/99
©1999 In The Meantime Music.
Luis Lopez on djembe.

Livingroom Worship

Turn To Me

"All scripture is God breathed, and is useful for teaching,
Rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness
So that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped
for every good work"

-2 Timothy 3:16-17

Music by Charles Ciepiel
©1991 In The Meantime Music.

This is one of the first verses I ever memorized. My brother Tony and his wife Tina spent 2+ years discipling Jenny and I (and our good friend Mikey C.) in the early 90's. We had the assignment of memorizing verses each week. This was one of them. Often we would make up little songs to help us remember them and show up at their door singing the verse (sometime in 3-part harmony!). This was one of our favorites that we still sing today, and even taught the kids. :)

All Scripture Is God Breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Our daughter, Julia, leading this beautiful song at Vista Church, August 28, 2022.

IN JESUS NAME
(God Of Possible)

I speak the name of Jesus over you
In your hurting in your sorrow
I will ask my God to move
I speak the name 'cause it's all that I can do
In desperation I'll seek heaven
And pray this for you

I pray for your healing
That circumstances would change
I pray that the fear inside would flee
In Jesus name
I pray that a breakthrough would happen today
I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name
In Jesus name

I speak the name of all authority
Declaring blessings every promise
He is faithful to keep
I speak the name no grave could ever hold
He is greater He is stronger
He's the God of possible

I pray for your healing
That circumstances would change
I pray that the fear inside would flee
In Jesus name
I pray that a breakthrough would happen today
I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name
In Jesus name

Oh come believe it come receive it
Oh the power of His Spirit is now forever yours
Come believe it come receive it
In the mighty name of Jesus all things are possible

I pray for your healing
That circumstances would change
I pray that the fear inside would flee
In Jesus name
I pray that a breakthrough would happen today
I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name

I pray for revival
For restoration of faith
I pray that the dead will come alive
In Jesus name
In Jesus name

CCLI Song # 7186326
David Spencer | Ethan Hulse | Jeff Pardo | Katy Nichole
© BrentHood Music (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)
Centricity Songs (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)
Meaux Mercy (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)
Be Essential Songs (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)
David Spencer Songs (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)
Hulse House Music (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)
For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com
CCLI License # 11380662

In Jesus Name (God of Possible) - cover

YOU ARE MY ALL IN ALL

You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking you as a precious jewel
Lord to give up I'd be a fool
You are my all in all

Jesus,Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus,Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

Taking my cross, my sin, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down you pick me up
When I am dry, you fill my cup
You are my all in all

Dennis Jernigan
©1991 Shepherd's Heart Music.

Recorded March 6, 2014

You Are My All In All (cover)

POUR THYSELF THROUGH ME
Words by Leonard Ravenhill

Spirit of the living God, pray Thy mind through me
Nothing less than Spirit-power, do I ask of Thee
Purge me, urge me, guide me, hide me–
Spirit of the living God, pray Thy mind through me

Power of the eternal God, flow Thy power through me
Holy, Pentecostal power do I ask of Thee
Lowly, holy, for Thy glory–
Power of the eternal God, flow Thy power through me

Mercy of the living God, channel love through me
Nothing less than Calvary love meets the need for me
Love that’s burning, love that’s yearning–
Mercy of the living God, channel love through me

Grace of God, eternal grace, reach the lost through me
Tenderness for every race, do I ask of Thee
Love them, lift them, reach them, teach them–
Grace of God, eternal grace, reach the lost through me

Life of God, eternal life, pour Thyself through me
Nothing less than Thine own life, do I ask of Thee
Life compelling, life that’s telling–
Life of God, eternal life, pour Thyself through me


From Heart Breathings, in Poetry and Prose, by Leonard Ravenhill
©1995 Harvey & Tait Publications.
Based on the chorus “Spirit Of The Living God” by Daniel Iverson
©1935/1963 Birdwing Music.
Musical Arrangement by Charles Ciepiel
©2014 In The Meantime Music.

Reading through Leonard Ravenhill's Heart Breathings (poetry and prose) today, I found these words he wrote which seem to be based on the old chorus "Spirit Of The Living God". Felt inspired to make an arrangement and this rough recording. Leonard was first and foremost a man of prayer, and I'm really glad we have some of his prayers like this in print. I can feel it adding fuel to my prayer!

Pour Thyself Through Me (words by Leonard Ravenhill)

IN THE GARDEN

I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses

And He walks with me, and He talks with me
And He tells me I am His own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known

He speaks and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing

And He walks with me, and He talks with me
And He tells me I am His own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known

I'd stay in the garden with Him
Tho’ the night around me be falling
But He bids me go through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling

And He walks with me, and He talks with me
And He tells me I am His own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known

Words and Music by Charles Austin Miles
©1912 Rodeheaver Co.

So I didn't grow up going to a church that sang many of the old hymns, I grew up singing in bars... So whenever I get a request to sing one of these classics, people can't believe I never even heard the song! So, I've had some catching up to do, digging into this rich heritage of songs. Here's a hymn written in 1912 that I sang at a funeral yesterday. It's a real pretty one. Johnny Cash has a great version of it too. Here's my attempt.

In The Garden (hymn)

IN YOUR PRESENCE
(Psalm 16)

Their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
Their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
Oh their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
But all who trust in You will be glad

In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
Yeah-ee yeah-ee, Yeah-ee yeah-ee…

I will bless You Lord and glorify, walking down the path of life
I will bless You Lord and glorify, walking down the path of life
I will bless You Lord and glorify, walking down the path of life
Yes, I will trust in You and be glad…

In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah), Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah)…

No other god ever saved the lost
No other god ever paid the cost
No other god could take away my guilt
No other god could ever fill
My heart with such joy… complete!

In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
In Your presence, O Lord, there is fullness of joy
Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah), Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah)…

And I will praise You, Lord
Yes, I will praise You, Lord
I will praise You, Lord
Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah), Yeah-ee yeah-ee (ooh-wah)…

But their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
Their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
Oh their sorrows shall be multiplied, who chase after another god
But I will trust in You, and be glad...

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  4/17/00
©2000 In The Meantime Music.
CREDITS: Drums: Tim Very; Bass: Dan Cava; 
Lead Guitar: Caleb Stewart; Organ: Mark Coleman  
Rhythm Guitar / Vocals: Charles Ciepiel;
BGV’s: Jennifer Ciepiel and Heike Barth
Produced by Benny Johnson
From the Mr. Savior Man album
Available on iTunes.

In 1992, my first ever missions trip was to JAMAICA. I fell in love with those people - and the music! We've been back several times to minister and I always say... if I could do anything I would be grow dreadlocks and be a missionary to Jamaica! #ohjenny 😄 Here's a reggae song I wrote 21 years ago today. Hope you enjoy this lyric video from our Mr. Savior Man album.🇯🇲 #mrsaviorman #songiversary

https://youtu.be/mVqKBEe_Wpk
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mr-savior-man/id25262150

Mr. Savior Man

In Your Presence

MR. SAVIOR MAN

Please, please Mr. Savior Man
I know You’re busy, So I’ll make this
As quick as I can, Mr. Savior Man
Ever since I heard about You
and all the awesome things You do
I started thinking maybe there’s hope for me
Mr. Savior Man

My heart’s been broken a time or two
I been let down, let go, left out, I been laughed at too
(Now tell me, has this ever happened to You? Well I heard it has!)
Mr. Savior Man, if there’s anyone who
can pick up the pieces
I believe it’s You!

I know it’s true...
You are no ordinary man
You are God
And You’ve come
With salvation in Your hands
Mr. Savior Man!

Please, please Mr. Savior Man
From this day forward I’m gonna follow You, yes I am!
(Your wish is my command!)
Who’d a thought You’d care for me
Enough to shed Your blood for me
Up on the cross, for the world to see
Mr. Savior Man!

I know it’s true...
You are no ordinary man
You are God
And You’ve come with salvation in Your hands
Mr. Savior Man

Nobody else could… 
Change my heart, save my soul
Reach inside, make me whole
Satisfy, show me love
Salvage all that I am…
Mr. Savior Man!


Words & Music by Charles Ciepiel  10/23/00 
©2000 In The Meantime Music.
Add’l arrangement by Dan Cava,
Tim Very, & Caleb Stewart.
Title track of the album: Mr. Savior Man
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/mr-savior-man/id25262150

This song was written during a very intense time in my life, where I was literally asking God to pick up the pieces! Salvation is all about running to God with our weaknesses, letting Him pick us up and salvage our lives. And thank God, No job is too tough for Mr. Savior Man!

We had such a blast playing and recording this song back in the day with Dan Cava on bass, Timothy Very on drums, Caleb Stewart on lead guitar, Jackie Baker, Heike Barth, & Jennifer Ciepiel on background vocals, and featuring Mr. Mark Coleman on B3 and the shout at the end! Produced by Bennie Johnson.

We recorded this in the studio but wanted it to have a really "live" feel to it. I remember jumping around so much, playing my guitar and singing my heart out, to the point they had to duct tape the headphones to my head to keep them from flying off! :)

SIXTH DAY
(Genesis 1:24-31)

24 Then God said
“Let the earth bring forth
The living creature
According to its kind
Cattle and creeping thing
And beast of the earth
Each according to its kind”
And it was so

25 And God made
The beast of the earth
According to its kind
Cattle according to its kind
And everything that creeps
On the earth
According to its kind
And God saw that it was good

26 Then God said
“Let Us make man
In Our image
According to Our likeness
Let them have dominion
Over the fish of the sea
Over the birds of the air
And over the cattle
Over all the earth
And over every creeping thing
That creeps on the earth”

27 So God created man
In His own image
In the image of God
He created him
Male and female
He created them
28 Then God blessed them
And God said to them

“Be fruitful and multiply
Fill the earth and subdue it
Have dominion
Over the fish of the sea
Over the birds of the air
And over every living thing
That moves on the earth.”

29 And God said, 
“See, I have given you
Every herb that yields seed
Which is on the face of all
The earth and every tree
Whose fruit yields seed
To you it shall be for food
30 Also, to every beast of the earth
To every bird of the air
And to everything

That creeps on the earth
In which there is life
I have given every green herb
For food”

And it was so

31 Then God saw everything
That He had made
And indeed it was very good
So the evening and the morning were
The sixth day

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles Ciepiel  11/6/23
©2023 In The Meantime Music.

#Genesis1 #SixthDay #Cattle #CreepingThings #BeastsoftheEarth #Male #Female #BeFruitful #Multiply #SongReps #CreationSongs #Friday

Sixth Day (Genesis 1:24-31)

OH LORD, YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL

Oh Lord, You’re beautiful
Your face is all I seek
For when Your eyes are on  this child 
Your grace abounds  to me
(repeat) 

Oh Lord, please light the fire
That once burned bright and clear
Replace the lamp of my first love
That burns with holy fear


I want to take Your word and shine it all around
But first help me just to live it Lord
And when I’m doing well
Help me to never seek a crown
For my reward is giving glory to You…


Words and Music by Keith Green
© 1980 Birdwing Music / BMG Songs
That's Julia Rose joining me at the end! :)

Oh Lord You're Beautiful (cover)

SEVENTH DAY
(Genesis 2:1-3)

1 Thus the heavens and the earth
And all the host of them
Were finished
2 And on the seventh day
God ended His work
Which He had done

And He rested on
The seventh day
From all His work
Which He had done

3 Then God blessed
The seventh day
And sanctified it
Because in it
He rested
From all His work
Which God had created 
And made

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles Ciepiel  11/13/23
©2023 In The Meantime Music.

#Genesis2 #SeventhDay #Finished #Rest #Blessed #Sanctified #SongReps #CreationSongs #Saturday

https://youtu.be/WmWMgMOpMOE?si=ud0Zkis1JMF0e-O8

Seventh Day (Genesis 2:1-3)

Dear Family & Friends, I just finished putting the book of Genesis, chapter 1 (and first part of chapter 2) to music. My goal was to write a song for each Day of Creation from NKJV. Here's an audio track with all 7 Days (in just over 17 minutes). These are just rough demos with piano and vocal. My hope is to develop further in collaboration with some music major students from Josiah & Julia's university. I hope these are a blessing to you and draw you closer to our Awesome Creator! #CreationSongs #SongReps

Creation Songs (Genesis 1:1-2:3) Complete

HOW CAN THEY LIVE WITHOUT JESUS?

How can they live without Jesus?
How can they live without God’s love?
How can they feel so at home down here
When there’s so much more up above?

Throwin’ away the things that matter
They hold on to things that don’t
The world has gone crazy but soon maybe 
A lot more are gonna know

For maybe they don’t understand it
Or maybe they just haven’t heard
Or maybe we’re not doing all we can
Livin’ up to His holy word

‘Cause  phonies have come and wrong’s been done
Even killing in Jesus’ name
So if you’ve been burned here’s what I’ve learned
The Lord’s not the one to blame...

For He’s just not religion with steeples and bells
Or a salesman who sell you the things you just want to hear
For His love was such that He suffered so much
Just to call some of us just to follow, follow, oh…

So many laughing at Jesus
While the funniest thing that He’s done
Is love this whole stubborn rebellious world
While their hate for Him still goes on!

And love just like that will bring Him back
For the few He can call His friends
The one’s He’s found true, who’ve made it through
Enduring until the end
 
The one’s He’s found true, who’ve made it through
Enduring until the end...

Words and Music by Keith Green
©1978 Birdwing Music / BMG Songs.

How Can They Live Without Jesus? (cover)

LOVE NOTES

Remember the days
Back in high school
When our love, was brand new
And peekin’ ‘round every corner
I’ll never forget the first time
I saw you

You captured my heart
With one glance
When your brown eyes, first met mine
I knew that I found a friend
While I was stumblin’ to ask you out…
You said, “YES!”

Those were days
Passing love notes
When a simple piece of paper
Folded just right
Could bring such feelings of excitement
‘Cause when I saw your handwriting
I couldn’t wait
To look inside

They were the highlight
Of my days
I would find, a quiet place
To read them by myself
Every word from you, sweet and true
They always put a smile
On my face

Those were days
Passing love notes
When a simple piece of paper
Folded just right
Could bring such feelings of excitement
‘Cause when I saw your handwriting
I couldn’t wait…

I’ve kept those love notes 36 years
In a shoebox
Somewhere in the basement
I confess
To anyone else
I know they’re not worth much
But to me they are
A treasure chest

Remember the days
Back in high school…

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  2/18/24
©2024 In The Meantime Music. 
For Jenny on our 30th anniversary (and 36 years dating)
Inspired by Nicky Gumbel’s  “Your Love Letter”
(The Bible, Day 49 | February 18)

Love Notes

NEW SCRIPTURE SONG: My Son Keep My Words (Proverb 7:1-5). For my son, Josiah, and for all fathers teaching their sons. 🙏🏼 #MySonKeepMyWords #Proverbs7 #BibleinOneYear #Day72 #SongsReps


MY SON KEEP MY WORDS
(Proverbs 7:1-5)

My son, keep my words
And store up my commands
Within you

Keep my commands
And you will live
Guard my teachings
As the apple of your eye

Bind them on your fingers
Write them on the tablet
Of your heart

Say to wisdom
“You are my sister”
 And to insight
“You are my relative”

They will keep you
From the adulterous woman
From the wayward woman
With her seductive words

My son, keep my words
And store up my commands
Within you


Music by Charles Ciepiel  3/13/24
©2024 In The Meantime Music.
NIV Bible. For Josiah. 

Commentary on Proverbs 7:1-5: God’s Loving Boundaries
God does not invite us to follow his laws; he commands. But these are not the commandments of a dictator, they are the commands of a loving Father, designed to ensure justice, peace and fullness of life.The writer of Proverbs is like a parent encouraging their children and passing on God’s commands to them. He urges his children: ‘Store up my commands within you’ (v.1); ‘Keep my commands and you will live’ (v.2a); ‘Keep my law... as the apple (the pupil) of your eye’ (v.2b, AMP); ‘Write them on the tablet of your heart’ (v.3b). This is what the Holy Spirit does. He writes God’s laws on your heart and gives you the ability to keep them (Jeremiah 31:33–34).God’s commands bring ‘wisdom’ – and wisdom should be our ‘intimate friend’ (Proverbs 7:4, AMP). They bring ‘insight’ (v.4), and they keep us out of trouble (v.5).
Prayer: Loving Spirit of God, you have written your rules in my heart. Help me to keep your boundaries and live life in all its fullness.
~Nicky Gumbel,  Bible in One Year, Day 72

My Son Keep My Words (Proverbs 7:1-5)

WHAT WE WERE MADE FOR

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
Everybody, join in the party!
Praise the Lord!

Clap your hands! Clap your hands!
Everybody, join in the party!
Clap your hands!

This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Coming together, makin' a big deal about God
This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Loving each other, lifting the Savior, higher and higher

Move your feet! C'mon move your feet!
Everybody, join in the party!
Move your feet!

Make some noise! Make some noise!
Everybody, join the Holy Ghost party!
Make a joyful noise!

This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Coming together, making a big deal about God!
This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Loving each other, lifting the Savior, higher and higher...

Lift Him higher, higher and higher...

This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Coming together, making a big deal about God
This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
Loving each other, lifting the Savior
Building the Kingdom, tearing down barriers
Giving everything we’ve got for the Glory of God!

This is what we were made for!
This is what we were made for!
C’mon, c’mon rise up, all ye people of God!
This is what we were made for
This is what we were made for
C’mon, c’mon rise up... all ye people of God!

Coming together, making a big deal about God!


Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  6/6/06
©2006 In The Meantime Music.
Verse melody inspired by traditional Jamaican melody.

What We Were Made For

THE REASON WE LIVE FOR

Reach out and feel
Feel how the sun can burn upon the sand
And driven rain
Can cleanse the soul and sting the hand
There is a reason to be

Reach out and see
The reason for giving life today
And reason for turning it gray 
A reason to be

Look out and see
See how the years can turn the gold to white
And how the night
Can chill the fire and blind the sight
There is a reason to be

Reach out and find
The reason for giving worth to pain
The promise that peace will remain

And when we love
It’s the reason we live for
The reason for peace and to fight for
The reason to give without wanting at all
And if we lose love for only a moment
No matter how short is the moment
It’s just too long
It’s just too long

Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah…

Words and Music by James P. Grady
©1969 / 1973 20th Century Records

The Reason We Live For (Featuring my brother, Vito Ciepiel)

SOMEONE

She’s someone who I am thinking of
My someone all day and night 
She’s someone
Who brightens my life

She’s someone who is one of a kind
She’s someone who’s warm and dear
She’s someone
Who I need to be near

Her tender kisses, her loving smiles
Her understanding way
Her warm caresses, her loving eyes
When she looks at me that way

She’s someone who’ll always be right here 
Beside me through all my life
She’s someone
Who I’ll make my wife

Her tender kisses, her loving smiles
Her understanding way
Her warm caresses, her loving eyes
When she looks at me that way

She’s someone who’ll always be right here 
Beside me through all my life
She’s someone
Who I’ll make my wife

And I’ll thank the gods above for her
Yes, I’ll thank them them oh so much 
For when I meet my someone girl
I’ll be happy in this life

She’s my someone
My lovely someone
She’s my someone
My lovely someone
She’s my someone…

Words and Music by Victor C. Ciepiel
©1975 Victor Ciepiel Music.

Someone (Featuring my brother, Vito Ciepiel)

YOU LOVE RIGHTEOUSNESS 
(Psalm 45:7)

You love righteousness
And you hate wickedness
Therefore God, your God
Has anointed you

Because You love righteousness (You love righteousness)
And you hate wickedness (You hate wickedness)
Therefore God, your God
Has anointed you…

With the oil of gladness
With the oil of gladness, yeah
With the oil of gladness
And joy

You adore truthfulness
And you detest deceitfulness
Therefore God, your God
Has exalted you

With the oil of gladness
With the oil of gladness, yeah
With the oil of gladness
And joy


Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel   11/23/08
©2008 In The Meantime Music.

You Love Righteousness (Psalm 45:7)

(10) YOD
73 Your hands have made me and fashioned me;
Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.
74 Those who fear You will be glad when they see me,
Because I have hoped in Your word.
75 I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.
76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.
77 Let Your tender mercies come to me that I may live;
For Your law is my delight.
78 Let the proud be ashamed,
For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood;
But I will meditate on Your precepts.
79 Let those who fear You turn to me,
Those who know Your testimonies.
80 Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes,
That I may not be ashamed.

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles J. Ciepiel
©1997 In The Meantime Music.

10 (Yod) Your Hands Have Made Me (Psalm 119.73-80)

(09) TETH
65  You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD,
According to Your word. 
66  Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
For I believe Your commandments. 
67  Before I was afflicted I went astray,
But now I keep Your word. 
68  You are good, and do good;
Teach me Your statutes. 
69  The proud have forged a lie against me,
But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart. 
70  Their heart is as fat as grease,
But I delight in Your law. 
71  It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes. 
72  The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands,
Of coins of gold and silver.

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles J. Ciepiel
©1997 In The Meantime Music.

09 (Teth) You Have Dealt Well (Psalm 119.65-72)

(08) HETH
57  You are my portion, O LORD;
I have said that I would keep Your words. 
58  I entreated Your favor with my whole heart;
Be merciful to me according to Your word. 
59  I thought about my ways,
And turned my feet to Your testimonies. 
60  I made haste, and did not delay
To keep Your commandments. 
61  The cords of the wicked have bound me,
But I have not forgotten Your law. 
62  At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You,
Because of Your righteous judgments. 
63  I am a companion of all who fear You,
And of those who keep Your precepts. 
64  The earth, O LORD, is full of Your mercy;
Teach me Your statutes. 

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles J. Ciepiel
©1997 In The Meantime Music.

08 (Heth) You Are My Portion (Psalm 119.57-64)

(07) ZAYIN
49  Remember the word to Your servant,
Upon which You have caused me to hope. 
50  This is my comfort in my affliction,
For Your word has given me life. 
51  The proud have me in great derision,
Yet I do not turn aside from Your law. 
52  I remembered Your judgments of old,
O LORD, and have comforted myself.
53  Indignation has taken hold of me,
Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law. 
54  Your statutes have been my songs,
In the house of my pilgrimage. 
55  I remember Your name in the night,
O LORD, And I keep Your law. 
56  This has become mine,
Because I kept Your precepts. 

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles J. Ciepiel
©1997 In The Meantime Music.

07 (Zayin) Remember The Word (Psalm 119.49-56)

(01) ALEPH
1 BLESSED are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the LORD!
2  Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart! 
3  They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways. 
4  You have commanded us to keep
Your precepts diligently. 
5  Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes! 
6  Then I would not be ashamed when I
Look into all Your commandments. 
7  I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments. 
8  I will keep Your statutes; oh
Do not forsake me utterly! 

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV)
©1982 Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Music by Charles J. Ciepiel
©1997 In The Meantime Music.

=====

PSALM 119
Meditations on the Excellencies of the Word of God (NKJV)
Solo piano and vocal meditation on Psalm 119 by Charles Ciepiel, recorded in 1997.

Dear friends, I pray this recording stirs you and causes the scripture go deep inside–  that its noble themes would take residence within you and bring about supernatural transformation of your heart! 

In 1995, a pastor challenged me to memorize all of Psalm 119. Desiring to become a student of God’s word, I gladly took on the challenge. Little did I know, it would become such an anchor in my life! My first time reading thru the 176 verses of this Hebrew acrostic was overwhelming how in the world could I memorize this? For me, I knew music was the key!  (I liken music to a heaven-sent “funnel” enabling the Word to flow deep into the “river” of our hearts.) The process of composing and memorizing this “saint’s alphabet” took a year to complete and was one of the most spiritually exhilarating things I’ve ever done! Focusing on 1-2 sections a month, I would write them on index cards, sing them in the car, and best of all– I’d pray them! David Livingstone, the great pioneer missionary to Africa, also memorized 119 when he was only 9 (and for it he won a Bible in his Sunday school class!) Now, if he could do it– we can too! Come on, I challenge you to memorize  all of 119! Turn off the noise of this world– focus on THE WORD!  
~ Charles Ciepiel

=======

REVIEW:

“Without question this is the most important – and treasured – CD that I own or listen to. At a time when popular Christian worship is too often shallow, uninspired, and market-driven, Charlesʼ version of Psalm 119 is a radical and welcome gift to the body of Christ.  The poignant music, played only on the piano, carries the ancient lyrics of the Psalm into contemporary hearts powerfully, uniquely, and simply. And Charlesʼ passionate singing surely captures its spirit. Itʼs easy to hear him rejoicing in hope and crying out in affliction right along with the Psalmist, as if the Lord originally breathed out the Psalm with Charles in mind! To the authentic saint, only one thing matters in the midst of lifeʼs changes and challenges – that Godʼs Law find living, embodied testimony in us His people, just as it did in His Son, Jesus Christ, the Word-become-flesh. Thus Charles has taken Psalm 119 and given us a modern, melodic prayer so that todayʼs struggles can be redeemed by the biblical cry, ‘only perform your Word through me!’  Often have I sung all or part of this song and received strength I badly needed in difficult times.  It did not take me very long to memorize the entire Psalm. My wife is even teaching it to our children through this CD as part of our home school curriculum. As the Psalm itself says, it is indeed true for us: ‘Your statutes have been my songs… in the house of my pilgrimage.’ My prayer is that it will be true for you as well.”
~ Robert Gladstone

01 (Aleph) Blessed Are The Undefiled (Psalm 119.1-8)

Dedicated to my friend, Pastor Jack Overbey, who went home to be with the Lord on last Friday...

A PERFECT HEART

Morning sun, light of creation 
Grassy fields, a velvet floor 
Silver clouds, a shimmering curtain
He's designed a perfect world
 
I'm amazed at His talents 
Stand in awe of One so great 
Now my soul begins to sing out 
To the source from which it came
 
Bless the Lord, who reigns in beauty 
Bless the Lord, who reigns in wisdom and with power
 Bless the Lord, who reigns my life with so much love 
He can make a perfect heart

Words and Music by Reba Rambo and Dony McGuire
©1981 Bud John Songs, Inc. / Makanume Music / Ooh’s and Ahh’s Music.
Always - Vivid Heart Painting by Sharon Cummings

A Perfect Heart (hymn)

FIFTY NIFTY UNITED STATES

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas
California, Colorado, Connecticut
Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii
Idaho, Illinois, Indiana

Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine
Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan
Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana
Nebraska, Nevada

New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York
North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio

Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania
Rhode Island, South Carolina
South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas

Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington
West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming


Words and Music by “Ray” Charles Offenberg
©1961 Roncom Music Company.

Fifty Nifty United States (cover)

YOUR LOVING ARMS
(Matthew 23:37)

You know, everything about me now
And You see, everything that's going down
I don't have to try and find the words to explain
You hear the cry of my heart, here today

And I think what I need now is more than words
And I think what I need now is to feel Your loving arms

Your loving arms, around me
Your loving arms, to calm me
And Your tender voice, to say
That everything will be okay
That's what I need

And You know every dream that I have dreamed
And You see every desire tucked away
I don't have to try and be something that I'm not
You know I'm willing to give everything I've got

To just be near, to be near You, Lord Jesus
To just be near, and I refuse to depart
I refuse to depart

Your loving arms, around me
Your loving arms, oh how they calm me
And Your tender voice, to say
That everything will be okay 
That's what I need, that's what I need
Your loving arms, Your loving arms
There's life in Your arms, there’s life in Your arms
Your loving arms

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel   5/4/17
©2017 In The Meantime Music.
https://youtu.be/8lxZJcAG5G4

Here's a song I wrote 4 years ago today called, "YOUR LOVING ARMS." I was going through a difficult season, really struggling for A WIN! That's when I heard a message by my friend, Eric Gilmour. He said something so simple, yet it changed my life... "Don't struggle... SNUGGLE!" I know it sounds funny, but the truth is, when we find ourselves in situations beyond us, the best thing we can do is stop, give the Lord all of our attention, and worship Him. He is our peace in the storm! I also want to dedicate this song to my Mama Louisa. Today is her birthday! She was a real worshiper - and a great snuggler! :) I miss her so much. One of my fondest memories of her during the last few years of her life, she would lift up her hand and say, "Look Chucky, whenever I lift my hands in worship, I can immediately feel His presence! He's right here!" #happyheavenlybirthday #maythe4th #songiversary #yourlovingarms #dontstrugglesnuggle

Your Loving Arms

THERE IS A RIVER
(I WILL REJOICE)
 
There is a river whose streams
Make glad the city of our God
There is a river whose streams
Make glad the city of our God…

And I will rejoice, I will rejoice
And be glad
I will rejoice, I will rejoice
And be glad

There is a fountain full of grace
And it flows from Emanuel’s veins
It came and it healed me, it came and refreshed me
It came and washed my sin away

And I will rejoice, I will rejoice
And be glad
I will rejoice, I will rejoice
And be glad

Words and Music by Jessie Rogers
©2002 Music Missions Publishing.

There Is A River (cover)

AY YAHWEH KUMAMA
(O LORD, Be Glorified)
(Leviticus 10:3; Isaiah 66:5; John 14:13; 2 Thess. 1:11)

Ay Yahweh
Ay Yahweh kumama
Ay Yahweh
Ay Yahweh kumama
(repeat)

Kumama, kumama, kumama
Ay Yahweh kumama
(repeat)

===========================

Translation in Tamil (South India):

Ah-ha Yahveh
Ah-ha Yahveh muggie-muy
Ah-ha Yahveh
Ah-ha Yahveh muggie-muy

Muggie-muy, muggie-muy, muggie-muy
Ah-ha Yahveh muggie-muy

From Congo-Zaïre, Africa.  
“Kumama” means “Be Glorified” in the Lingala language.
There are approximately 8.4 million Lingala speaking people in the world today, including 300,000 in Congo-Zaïre.

Ay Yahweh Kumama (song from Congo-Zaïre)

HOLY IS THE LORD
(Isaiah 6:3; 1 Chronicles 16:31; Revelation 19:6)

Holy is the LORD
Holy is the LORD
Holy is the LORD

Let the whole earth be filled
With Your glory

Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
The LORD reigns!

Words & Music by Charles Ciepiel 4/21/12
©2012 In The Meantime Music.

Holy Is The Lord

BLESS THE LORD
(A Meditation based on Psalm 103)

Bless the Lord, O my soul
And all that is within me
Bless His holy name
(repeat)
I will bless the Lord

And forget not all His benefits
Who forgives all of my sin
Who heals my heart and redeems my life
Who crowns my head with lovingkindness
I will bless the Lord
Yes I will bless the Lord, O my soul

Bless the Lord, O my soul
And all that is within me
Bless His holy name
(repeat)
I will bless You Lord

And forget not all Your benefits
How You forgive all of my sin
How You heal my heart and redeem my life
And You crown my head with lovingkindness
I will bless You Lord

High as the heavens are over the earth
Strong is Your love to those who fear You
Far as the east is from the the west
You removed our transgressions…


Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  5/20/12
©2012 In The Meantime Music.

Bless The Lord (Psalm 103)

BE NOT AFRAID
(Isaiah 43:2-3; Luke 6:20)

You shall cross the barren desert
But you shall not die of thirst
You shall wander far in safety
Though you do not know the way
You shall speak your words in foreign lands
And all will understand
You shall see the face of God and live...

Be not afraid
I go before you always
Come follow Me
And I will give you rest

Blessed are your poor
For the kingdom shall be theirs
Blest are you that weep and mourn
For one day you shall laugh
And if wicked tongues insult and hate you
All because of Me
Blessed, blessed are you!

Be not afraid
I go before you always
Come follow Me
And I will give you rest

Words and Music by Bob Dufford
©1975 Robert J. Dufford SJ.

Be Not Afraid (hymn)

EYE HAS NOT SEEN
(1 Corinthians 2:9)

Eye has not seen
Nor ear has heard
Nor has entered in
To the heart of man
The things that God has prepared
For those who love Him
For those who love Him

And I love You, Lord
Yes I love You, Lord
You know I do

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  9/21/18
©2018 In The Meantime Music.

Here's a scripture song I wrote and recorded on my guitar, while sitting in the park a couple years ago in late September of 2018. My Mama Louisa wasn't doing too well at the time and this was kind of a spontaneous lullaby for her. I wanted to encourage her that because she loved the Lord with all her heart she had nothing to fear in leaving this place. Like this scripture says, she could be confident knowing God was preparing something so much better for her. I played this for her over FaceTime and she loved it, even lifting her hand in worship. Mama Louisa passed about 6 weeks later on November 5th. I hope this song helps you draw near to our wonderful Creator today. He has great things for you too! #eyehasnotseen #1corinthians2v9 #sunsetpark

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLA5VREBlbI

Eye Has Not Seen

COME TO YOU

Lord I come to You
Burning with passion, for You
Oh my one desire
I call to You and You set my soul on fire!
I call to You and You set my soul on fire!

Lord I come to You
‘Cause You first came after me
Lord I’m loving You
‘Cause You never stop loving me
I am beside myself just knowing
I’m going… to see
My King!

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel   6/28/01
©2001 In The Meantime Music.
Additional words by Caleb Stewart

Come To You

YOU DELIVER
(Psalm 116; Psalm 119:65; Romans 12:1)

Lord I love You
You have heard my cry
You came to my rescue
You are the reason I'm alive
ooh and…

CHORUS:
You delivered my soul from death
You delivered my eyes from tears
You delivered my feet from falling
You delivered me

What can I do
To show my gratefulness?
I will offer You gladly
My body, a living sacrifice
ooh and…

You delivered my soul from death
You delivered my eyes from tears
You delivered my feet from falling
You delivered me...

You have dealt well, with Your servant, O Lord
(You been so good to me)...


Words and Music by Charles J. Ciepiel  5/23/99
©1999 In The Meantime Music.
Luis Lopez on percussion.

You Deliver

YAHWEH IS SALVATION
(Psalm 79)

Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation

Lord help us
O God of our salvation
For the glory of Your name

Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation

Oh deliverer us, O Lord
Provide atonement for our sins
For the glory of Your name
Your name

Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation
Yahweh is salvation

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel  12/24/07
©2007 In The Meantime Music.

Ciepiel Christmas Album 2007
(Connecticut Christmas)

Christmas Unplugged

Yahweh Is Salvation

Here's a song originally from Nigeria that I first heard in 1999 when I was ministering with my dear mentor, John Cava, at a church in the neighboring nation of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). The congregation sang this chorus during the offering processional. I'll never forget the African women in their colorful African dresses marching up the center isle dancing, singing, and proclaiming, "I have a VERY BIG GOD-O... He's always by my side..." It was one of the most joyful moments in worship I ever experienced. When I back home to Pensacola, Florida I shared the chorus with our music director, Bill Ancira. He said, "I LOVE THAT SONG, but we need to add a verse or two!" (When I heard the song they just sang the chorus over and over...). In a matter of seconds, Bill sang out... "GOD IS BIG ALL OVER ME..." and the verse came together in seconds. Then I added, "Man's love is so small, is so small is so small..." bridge. The rest is history. The song in this form became a big hit at Brownsville and I have received videos from around the world of people singing and doing the hand motions to this most joyous song. This recording with Jasson Martin on drums and Keith Askins on bass is from one of our rehearsals for a crusade we did in Ogbomosho, Nigeria. When we did the song there was 350,000 people joining in!

Lyrics...

BIG GOD O

CHORUS:
I have a very big God O
He's always by my side
A very big God O
By my side, by my side


God is big - all over me
God is big - all over you
God is big - all over us
God is big - all over the world!


Bridge:

Man's love is so small, is so small, is so small
Man's love is so small, is so small, is so small

God's love is so BIG, is so BIG, is so BIG
God's love is so BIG, is so BIG, is so BIG


African tag:

O-Shay, babba lu-wah, O-Shay
O-Shay, babba lu-wah, O-Shay

Merci, Seigneur Jésus, Merci
Merci, Seigneur Jésus, Merci

Traditional Chorus from Nigeria
Verse and Bridge by Bill Ancira & Charles Ciepiel
©1999 In The Meantime Music.

Big God O

This is the first cut from our WISEGUYS cassette... 

ADVANCE FOR THE DANCE FLOOR

Why don’t we get up on our feet
And be the first ones on the dance floor?
And who cares if everybody stares
We gotta dance, can’t sit here no more

Got to advance for the dance floor
This ain’t the time or place to stand around
Got to advance for the dance floor
You don’t need an invitation here to get down

Why don’t we get up on our feet
And be the first ones on the dance floor?
And who cares if everybody stares
We gotta dance, can’t sit here no more

Got to advance for the dance floor
This ain’t the time or place to stand around
Got to advance for the dance floor
You don’t need an invitation here to get down

Ladies and gents, no offense
But what’s the point of standin’ around?
Yo! Pump up the bass, we’re gonna rock this place
And dance to the Wise Guys sound
C’mon cut it loose, there’s no excuse
Hit a beat till it feels real fine
Everyone advance for the dance floor
We’re gonna have a real good time
Let’s go!

Got to advance for the dance floor
This ain’t the time or place to stand around
Got to advance for the dance floor
Got to advance for the dance floor

Words and Music by Charles Ciepiel and Michael Cavanaugh
©1990 In The Meantime Music / Michael Cavanaugh Music / Joey Songs
Additional words by Joey DiBello

Advance For The Dance Floor

Charles Ciepiel is a worship leader and pastor with a passion for the nations and a love of sharing from his years of multi-cultural experience. Through his work with Christ for All Nations (CfaN) and other ministries, Charles has led hundreds of thousands of people around the world in praise & worship of Jesus Christ. He is a gifted multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and songwriter. But, he'll be the first to tell you that talent is not the priority - making disciples is! With that in mind, he keeps his focus on raising up worship teams with a focus on excellence that honors God and His Church and attracts those who don't yet to know Jesus. His praise is effortless, his worship immersive and his enthusiasm is contagious. His albums, Psalm 119, Mr. Savior Man, and Fuoco (Italian Worship) are available on iTunes. Charles lives near Denver, Colorado with his wife, Jennifer, and their two amazing children, Josiah and Julia.

Charles Ciepiel

Pinned to spotlight

Popular tracks