July 27, 2014.

I have been to two different singings in the past three days and they were both really good. Over the years I have learned to appreciate why God loves singing so much. There is something almost mystic when it comes to music. It has been studied for many, many years and captivates all times and cultures. It is almost as if there is something musically innate within us. Music can often express emotions and tones things that the simple reading of a text cannot. When you partake in congregational singing, voices blend to one and a connection is felt that would be hard to feel otherwise. It is no wonder, then, that James wrote this:

“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.”
(James 5:13)

Singing runs deep in the culture of God’s people. Songs are most commonly found in the book of Psalms, but we have a few recorded in other books, such as the song of Moses in Exodus 15. They are expressions of joy, anger, sorrow, despair, elation, and many other emotions. Perhaps the most profound musical writer in the bible is King David. Jesus and his disciples are recorded to have sung a hymn right after the institution of the Lord’s supper and before his betrayal in the garden.

But singing does more than just expressing emotion. It can also teach and admonish, along with give praise to the Lord.

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart[.]”
(Ephesians 5:18-19)

Have you ever considered yourself teaching whilst singing hymns? Certainly we can see how the book of Psalms acts not only just as a book of the inner workings of the psalmists’ hearts, but also a book of teaching, revelation and prophecy. Singing can both sooth the soul and stir it up to repentance. There are some who might consider going to a singing a waste of time, but in reality, they are missing out on a expression of communal praise that is not found many other places.

Have you ever been to a singing? I’m not sure if these gatherings are popular outside of our fellowship, but if you have never gotten the chance to go to one, I would encourage you to find one. Two are held in Diana, Tennessee every year that are quite popular, if you are in the area. You can find out more about the Diana singing here. If this is not close to you, just do a google search and see if there are any around. If worse comes to worst, host one yourself! Singing praises to our Lord God Almighty is a wonderful experience that can be beneficial singularly or communally. It was used as an affirmation of the salvation from Christ Jesus in Psalm 22, cited and explained in Hebrews 12:

“For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering. For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brothers, saying, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.”
(Hebrews 2:10-12)

Do you have a favorite hymn or spiritual song? I do (well, I actually have a lot because I’m no good at picking favorites, but I can label one favorite at least). “It is well” penned by Horacio Spafford and put to music by Phillip Bliss. It is a beautiful song with a tragic backstory (I’ll let you research that on your own).

Bothers and sisters, let us sing praises unto the coming the Lord, then to forever praise his glorious name.

“And they sang a new song, saying,“Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” And the four living creatures said, “Amen!” and the elders fell down and worshiped.”
(Revelation 5:9-14)

Suggested Daily Reading: Psalm 96, Hebrews 2, Revelation 4-5.

Praise be to His name.

-Walter