According to British religiousnews provider Christian Today, the track Arms that Hold the Universe came about following a shooting at a Maryville church in March 2009 as a reminder that "when you factor in God to any circumstance, you will find hope". With regard to the project, lead singerSteve Fee said "We are thrilled that the success of the first record is giving us a platform with 'Hope Rising' to inject God into the equation of tragedy and uncertainty going on in the world".