I grew up going to church (whether I liked it of not). It was the old style church where we all sang hymns together with an organ or piano. There was no praise band or performance except for the choir which just sang along with those same hymns and was made up of whoever felt like singing in it, myself included for a brief time.
Music was a big part of my childhood church experience, but unlike the churches I’ve attended in recent times, it was very participatory. Everyone was expected to sing whether they could carry a tune or not. From hymns during the church services to children’s songs at Sunday School or Vacation Bible school to summer camp by the fireside, I learned an awful lot of Christian songs!
At the time I didn’t really think much of it. I enjoyed singing but barely even listened to the words. But I’ve found as an adult now, these songs come back to me all the time. Many of them are based on Bible verses and helped me to memorize scripture without even trying. God speaks to me through these songs at times when I really need to hear from Him. I am so very grateful to the people who taught me and sang with me and played the organ and led the singing.
Today’s verse talks about how important music is in our corporate Christian experience. God’s word should “dwell richly among us” and what better way than by singing it together. The Israelites did it all the time. And I’m so fortunate to have had that experience as a child.
Dear God,
Thank you so much for music. What an incredible invention! Thank you for giving me a community of Christians who saw the value of singing to God, singing the word of Christ to each other. Show me if there is a way I can promote this kind of devotion to your word through song in my life. In the meantime, guide me to the right songs to sing at the right times for encouragement and wisdom.
CamDevo 