My parents loved music, specifically music that uplifts your spirit and keeps you focused on the positive benefits of following Jesus. In fact, when I was very young, we didn’t have a television because they felt that it wasn’t the best way for us to spend our time and brain power. In retrospect, they may have been right. 😊 But anyway, they had our stereo system with the radio connected by speakers in all the rooms where great Christian music and kids programming would play all day in the background where we could hear them. I have to say, the words and music were so good for me and truly influenced my life. I love music, and God uses it in my life to this day.
Music is powerful. More powerful than most any other element in our world. It can be calming, healing, inspiring, motivating. For me, there is no better way to connect with God.
Music bypasses a person’s brain and mind and goes directly to the heart. It has brought great strength, encouragement, comfort, and perspective to me personally.
It can change your mindset. It can help you reframe your thinking. It can powerfully shape your perspective and mood. Maybe you need to listen to some powerful God-focused and honoring music today. In fact, maybe you need to make music an intentional part of every day.
It makes a difference.
The Bible tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from God. James 1:7 says that every good and perfect gift comes from our Father. That certainly describes music. In its purest form, music is a precious blessing from God, designed to direct our thoughts to noble and godly themes. Throughout mankind’s history, God has used music and musicians to motivate, inspire, and elevate us ....
The book of 1 Samuel in the Bible tells us a story of how music was even used to drive away evil spirits. King Saul became oppressed by depression and evil spirits. David was a shepherd boy who had come to the notice of the king and his councilors because he was brave and courageous and killed the giant Goliath when no one else (including King Saul) was willing to face him. David was brought into the palace because he had also become well known for his music and songwriting. Psalm 23 is one of the most amazing songs he wrote, of great comfort, reflecting on his time as a shepherd. David was ordered to regularly play his lyre (like a guitar) and sing to Saul when he was depressed and troubled. There are numerous accounts in First Samuel where David played as requested and the evil spirits fled.
Ephesians 5:19 describes the incredible opportunity music gives followers of Jesus as “singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart.” It is to Him and about Him that we sing! Singing has such a unique way of bringing your heart, soul, mind, and strength together to focus entirely and completely on God. It is such a great way for God to work with me when I am in community with my church family and together we lift our voices to God.
One of music’s functions is to ease the soul and come into the presence of God, having Him illuminate His love and wisdom for us. It can promote healing and help erase fears. Research shows that music can be as effective as many medications in helping heal a variety of issues, including mental health issues, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease.
Music is definitely one of the most powerful gateways to connect our God-given spirits to our Divine Source for growth in Him. Invest some time in music this week. See what God will do through His gift.