The Psalms were the Jewish nation’s “songbook”. Scripture tells us a lot about music. Music is a gift from God, for the devil has no creative power whatsoever. Paul tells us that music is instructive and admonishing. He writes to the Ephesians about being filled with God’s Spirit and then goes on to give us one way that we can do that – by “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord”. So we can easily see that as far as God is concerned, there are a variety of forms or styles of music that bring us into His presence. Psalm 150 even gives us a typical worship band set-up!

We find so many references to songs in Scripture. For example, after crossing the Red Sea and seeing the defeat of the Egyptians, the freed Israelites burst into what was then a contemporary song. When Israel was “dry” and the Lord provided water for them, they lifted up their voices to Him in song. Also, God instructed Moses to write down and teach a song that He put into his heart. Deborah, a godly woman, sang a song of victory. David, the sweet Psalmist of Israel, composed many songs for many reasons.

God’s gift of music still plays a very important role in the lives of His children. Songs can be for thanksgiving, or prayer, or, as with Psalm 30, for dedication. They are to be played skillfully, and even with a loud noise! The Word of God even makes reference to musical instruments of God, and they include cymbals! Could a rhythm instrument used to keep a beat truly be in God’s will? Some would say no.

Of course, the highest form of music is praise and worship. Psalm 45 has been known by some to be a wedding song, or a song of love. But if you find you are unable to sing to the Lord, it could be that your heart is in some strange place. Right now is a good time to sing praise to God, no matter what time of day or night it is. Let the God of heaven inhabit your praise and fill your heart with His joy that is your strength. And may Jesus be your song both today and forever.