Song review: ‘Smile until the devil cries’ by Juliana Ehada

Juliana Ehada’s new single, ‘Smile Until the Devil Cries’, released October 20, 2024 is a refreshing and powerful addition to the contemporary gospel music scene. This track is a bold declaration of faith and an anthem of resilience, packed with lyrical depth, infectious energy, and an unwavering message of victory through Christ.

Lyrical Themes: Victory, Faith and Joy
The strength of ‘Smile Until the Devil Cries’ lies in its simple yet profound message: no matter what trials or opposition one may face, God’s power and faithfulness ensure that His children will always come out victorious. Right from the opening verse, Juliana asserts a position of confidence:
“Nothing can ever steal my Joy away, / I have a God who takes my pain away.”
This is not just an expression of joy but a spiritual defiance against anything that seeks to disrupt peace or joy. By juxtaposing God’s sovereignty with the believer’s victory, the song encapsulates an essential gospel theme—the steadfastness of faith in the face of adversity.

The pre-chorus builds on this theme: ‘The devil wants to see me fail / But Jesus won the victory.’
Juliana presents a clear message: though the enemy might attempt to thwart our success, the battle has already been won by Christ. It is an empowering reminder to listeners that they are not fighting for victory but from a place of victory. This pre-chorus primes the listener for the anthemic, declarative chorus.

Chorus: A Declaration of Defiance
The chorus, “I will smile until the devil cries,” is as bold as it is infectious. The repetition of the line not only makes it memorable but reinforces the core message—choosing joy and faith in Christ is a weapon against spiritual opposition. This phrase reflects a joyful defiance, a spiritual resilience that refuses to give in to the enemy’s schemes.

The decision to “smile” becomes a symbol of unshakable trust in God, even when faced with challenges. In a broader sense, this reflects a key principle of Christian living—choosing joy and hope in the face of trials. The chorus is both a personal affirmation and a rallying cry for listeners to embrace faith no matter the circumstances.

Bridge: Bold Affirmations of Identity and Power
The bridge is a standout section of the song, as it moves from the personal to the declarative, with affirmations of faith that are rich with scriptural references:
“You can’t steal my Joy, / You can’t steal my peace, / I know who I am / The child of I am.”

Juliana firmly asserts her identity as a “child of I Am”—a clear reference to God’s name, Yahweh. This affirmation of belonging to God empowers believers, reminding them that their identity in Christ is unshakeable. The bridge goes on to highlight God’s sovereign power over circumstances:
“You can’t tell me No / When God tells me Yes / You can’t shut the door / When God opens it.”
This brings to mind verses like Isaiah 22:22 “What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open”, grounding the song in biblical truth. The defiance here is not rooted in arrogance, but in the firm assurance of God’s promises. Juliana masterfully weaves in these scriptural principles, offering listeners not only a song to enjoy but also spiritual declarations to hold onto in their own lives.

Melodic and Vocal Delivery
Juliana’s vocal performance in “Smile Until the Devil Cries” is compelling, delivering both intensity and warmth. Her voice soars confidently over the upbeat tempo, embodying the strength and joy the lyrics convey. Her delivery in the chorus is particularly striking, as she embraces the power of repetition, driving home the key message of victory with each refrain.

Musically, the song’s arrangement complements its message of resilience and joy. The rhythm is driving yet uplifting, with bright instrumentation that gives the track an unmistakable energy. The uptempo beat of the chorus, in particular, makes the song both a worship anthem and a motivational soundtrack. Its fusion of contemporary gospel with elements of praise and worship ensures its appeal to a wide audience.

Furthermore, the song’s affirmations of faith and declarations of God’s power are deeply resonant in today’s world, where many people face uncertainty, discouragement, and opposition. This track serves as a timely reminder that faith in Christ is the ultimate anchor, and it equips listeners with a powerful tool—joy in the face of adversity.

Final Thoughts
‘Smile Until the Devil Cries’ is an outstanding piece of gospel music that encourages, uplifts, and empowers its listeners. Juliana Ehada has once again proven herself a master of combining a strong spiritual message with accessible, joyful music. This song has the potential to become a favorite anthem in churches and personal worship playlists alike, thanks to its memorable chorus, dynamic energy, and profound message.

Juliana’s ability to connect with her audience both lyrically and musically is undeniable. ‘Smile Until the Devil Cries’ is more than just a song—it is a testimony of triumph and an invitation for listeners to embrace joy, faith, and victory in their own lives.