The Jennie Allen Podcast The Cost Of Obedience with Joe L Barnes
Oct 30, 2025
Joe L. Barnes, a Grammy-winning worship leader and songwriter known for his deep connection with God, explores profound themes of obedience and intimate faith. He shares how one pivotal decision to follow God's voice opened doors to his calling. Joe reveals the significance behind his project Good Shepherd, inspired by Psalm 23, and discusses the healing metaphor of anointing with oil. With candid reflections on grief, marriage, and the importance of collaboration in songwriting, he emphasizes legacy over platform, aiming to be remembered as a loving husband and father.
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From Church Kid To Worship Songwriter
- Joe L. Barnes describes growing up in a ministry family and choosing to follow God at age 20, which redirected his life and career.
- That obedience led to friendships and doors that later enabled him to co-write major worship songs like "Promises."
Creativity Thrives In Communion
- Barnes says humans were made for communion and collaboration, which fuels creative songwriting.
- Songwriting often emerges from relational connection before technical process begins.
How "Promises" Was Born
- He recounts writing "Promises" with Karrington Gaines, Kayla Alvarado, and Linwell Marin from honest conversation about waiting and faith.
- The chorus and lyrics evolved through communal discussion and many revisions before recording.
