Let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. – Hebrews 13:15
Today’s verse refers to verbally praising God, and there are various ways to do that. Singing has played an important part in worshipping God throughout history. Of the 400 times singing is mentioned in Scripture, over 50 of them are directives such as, “Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless his name” (Psalm 96: 1-2).
God’s people engaged in music throughout the Old and New Testaments. Songs of victory, worship, and praise were recorded throughout the exodus from Egypt. Music had a principal place in temple worship. The book of Psalms is actually a songbook. In Matthew 26:30 and Mark 14:26, Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn after the Last Supper, just before He went to Gethsemane. The apostles regarded singing as a significant part of the Christian life.
Paul exhorted, “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).
Songs help people remember the message of Christ and identify with it emotionally. Hymns declare Biblical doctrine succinctly and beautifully. Modern choruses are relatable, attracting the attention of contemporary worshipers and directing them to the Lord. A broad range of music helps to express the entirety of the Christian experience, its joys, sorrows, and hope. As you pray and worship the Lord in song, lift up your needs and your concerns to the One who is worthy of praise and complete devotion.
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