Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. – Colossians 3:16 NKJV; …be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. – Ephesians 5:18-19 NLT
Have you ever wondered if Jesus did certain things while He was here on earth? Did He have time for “earthly” or human frivolities?
Well, I have in times past and most very recently wondered if Jesus ever laughed, cracked a joke, danced, or sang.
In the New Testament, there are a few times that we see where some individuals and groups sang for whatever reason. For example, Mary’s song of praise when she visited her relative Elizabeth in Luke 1:46-55; and Paul and Silas’ hymns of praise to God while imprisoned in Acts 16:25.
Jesus and the Disciples also sang a hymn after supper – “Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives” Matthew 26:30 (NLT). I can just imagine the sound of 12 men plus a few women singing in unison!
We don’t know the words of the hymn they sang. Some commentaries have suggested it was most likely taken from the Psalms, with some suggesting that it’s probably from Psalms 113-118.
In today’s scripture text, we are encouraged to let the word of Christ indwell us richly. Teaching and warning or cautioning one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. I don’t know what Paul means by “spiritual songs” but what is important is that our singing should come from our hearts.
God is not interested whether you’re a trained, professional singer or whether you can’t sing for toffee. God delights to hear you sing His words back to Him.
Whenever you think of His saving grace and faithfulness, sing songs of praise, thanksgiving, and gratitude to God. When you’re feeling down, discouraged, disappointed, sing songs of faith, hope, joy to yourself. But let the words of the song be based on scripture. This will build your faith, restore hope and bring encouragement.
I love to hear children sing. They’re so natural and uncomplicating. They can be very encouraging, so get them involved.
Is there a song in your heart, open your mouth and sing. Don’t make comparisons and don’t knock yourself down because you think you can’t sing. You’re not singing to impress anyone in some talent show or competition.
Remember, you’re singing to the LORD not to man. Don’t wait for the worship team’s endorsement, validation, affirmation, or approval, just sing!
I admit I don’t sing as often as I used to do but I’ve been seriously challenged by this message. I’ve therefore decided to go back to the songs I’ve written for over 30 years and begin to worship and praise God with them.
Perhaps you’ve lost the joy of singing, it’s not too late to start again. So, turn your favourite scriptures and your prayers into a song and sing them to the LORD.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 