Wednesday, October 4, 2006
1 Samuel 16:23 Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him.
THE GIFT OF MUSIC
Music is everywhere. It is on television, on the radio, in the shopping malls, and at the restaurants where we eat. All the joggers I pass on the road have a pair of headphones sprouting from their ears. There is no doubt that our society is highly influenced by music and song.
Music is a powerful tool for calming and relaxing a person. David used music to soothe King Saul when he was troubled. You can also be sure that when David played his harp, he sang the music of the Savior. That which Saul heard no doubt included the message of God's mercy, sins forgiven, and the resurrection of the dead. When one combines music with the word of God, it is indeed a strong remedy for human sorrow. Little wonder that Scripture encourages us: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God" (Col 3:16).
Sadly, some popular music today is empty of that which uplifts the soul and full of that which drags it down. The words of composer J.S. Bach are well taken which say: "The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul." Enjoy any sounds which do not harm your soul and thank the LORD for His gift of music!
