Let The Music Play

Being a musician myself, any reference in the Bible to music or musicians holds a special significance for me. The first reference to music is found in Genesis 4 with a man named Jubal (which is where our word “jubilee” is derived) and was considered the father of all those who play the lyre and harp; and the references continue all through to the book of Revelation. There are over 300 references in the Bible to either singing or music (NIV); most of the 150 Psalms were meant to be sung as praise, worship and thanksgiving, with nearly all of them attributable to David. There is clearly an importance placed on music in God’s Word and in the history of mankind.

1 Chronicles 23 is an account of David, in his latter years of life, making his son Solomon king over Israel. He also set in motion that Solomon have a temple built for the Lord. He commissioned 38,000 men to take part in this construction….4,000 of which were to be musicians to “praise the Lord with the musical instruments”. Over ten percent of the builders were dedicated to providing music in honor of the Lord. That’s how important the role of music played in the lives and spiritual relationships back then…and should be today as well.

Clearly, as you read through the many passages, it was not the skill of the musician that became the focus but rather it was the anointing from God that led music to accomplish its purpose. Music became the function of solace as well as praise from kings all the way to down to the common laborer.

It’s really no wonder that God, as a creator Himself, has an affinity towards the creative process. I know when I’m composing there is an internal satisfaction that transcends the mere joy of writing music; it is tapping into a gift that God has given me to express my love for Him in ways that would not otherwise be possible.

Every morning at work I read my coffee cup which states, “God gave us music that we might pray without words.” That pretty much tells the whole story. The next time you hear or play music--any music--realize that a creative God has used this natural process for thousands of years to bring honor to Him. Want to make God smile?...play an instrument, sing a song, dance to a tempo, or simply listen with a renewed understanding that this gift from God has been placed on your life for a higher purpose...just as it has since the beginning of mankind.

Blessings!

Greg Morton
© December 1, 2012

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