“I will praise God’s name in sing and glorify Him with thanksgiving.” – Psalm 69:30

Grateful for Music

Music has always played a vital role in worship and in the church. As in biblical times, God’s Word continues to inspire composers to write, musicians to play, and people to dance and sing. Have you noticed that something incredible happens to you when you sing or listen to music? Filled with the Holy Spirit, we find ourselves shouting words of Thanksgiving and praising God our Father from somewhere deep inside. Does it sometimes surprise you how music can touch you so much that tears roll down your cheeks and joy fills your heart and mind? Do you find yourself singing all week long—a familiar hymn heard in church or a tune that sticks in your mind and repeats over and over?

Can music influence how we heal and learn, our attitudes and behaviors, our beliefs and values? A dear friend once told me that in times of uncertainty and fear, she sings familiar hymns. This seems to have an overwhelming power to soothe her anxiety and bring her peace and clear vision. Many scientific studies have proven that music can  affect us profoundly, and the research continues; people are fascinated and curious about the power of music on human behavior. Although music styles vary depending on the time and culture in which they are written, human response has always been both emotional and physical. We inherently respond to musical instruments and human voices.

Many biblical references uphold the importance of music in worship. The Psalms are known as the hymnbook of the Bible; these verses with music added were sung in Old testament times and are the words of the many songs we sing today. The Reformed Church in America says, “The Psalms bear rich testimony that in joy and sorrow, in praise and lament, the faithful raise their voices in song to God.” Paul says in 1 Corinthians 14:15, “…I will sing praise with the spirit, but I will sing praise with the mind also” (NRSV). Songs teach us the concepts and wisdom of the gospel. Words of praise and thanksgiving as we sing in worship allow our hearts to speak to God.

Because of its power and personal impact, music is essential in the ministry of our church today. As families and friends gather across our nation to celebrate the humble holiday of Thanksgiving, let us remember to give thanks for the gift of music.

by Elder Sally Robson