Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
Accomplishments in life, whether they are secular or spiritual, are almost always preceded by intentional actions. It is so easy to fall into the trap of simply living life with no intention of accomplishing something. We would call this “letting life happen.” I believe we serve a God that wants us to be intentional about everything we do. You may ask how I have come to that conclusion, and I would point you to multiple parts of Scripture where God gives us clear and concise instructions about life. “…Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
I want to talk briefly about one area of our lives in which I believe it is vital we are intentional: and that is with our music. I am amazed at the various philosophies people will have about music, when God is so clear on the topic. He gives the same outline twice (Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3) of the type of music He wants in our lives, yet sometimes we disregard His instructions or allow someone who doesn’t even read the Bible to determine our music.
May I remind you that we are created in the image of God; music is an attribute of God. Regardless of who you are, music is a vital element to life. The topic today is on how we can be intentional with godly music. Let’s look at four areas of application:
Let’s be reminded that the music in a church service is intentional. It is not a filler of time, nor is it a time to display talent of a musician. It is not a time of performance, but a time of proclamation. It is a time to bring the whole congregation of the church into a spirit that is ready to receive preaching from God’s Word. Let’s make sure to sing when it is time to sing and listen when it is time to listen. I remember my mom would often remind me to sing during our church service, and not only that—she would encourage me to sing out! Let’s not use the congregational singing, the special music, or the offertory as a time to have conversation with our neighbor. Allow God to use the music to prepare your heart.
Music in the home can be one of your greatest assets. It helps set the right spirit in the home. It is teaching your children biblical principles, and it reminds us of God’s presence. Studies have shown that employees and even customers respond subconsciously to the music that is being played in a public setting. Fill your home with godly music. I remember every year my family would go on a vacation, and almost always my mom would purchase a new Patch the Pirate album. We would listen to it while we would drive as a family. Those stories, truths, and songs are engrafted in my heart and mind to this day. What are we playing in our vehicles when we are driving around? What are we filling our children’s hearts and minds with?
David is probably the best example of using music during devotional time with God. As you read the book of Psalms you will see evidence that he wrote many songs during his time with the Lord. I would encourage you to meditate on some of the great hymns during your devotions. Read your Bible, pray, and afterwards find a hymn. Read the words slowly, think about them, and sing them. This has helped me develop such an appreciation for the old hymns in our songbook. Great Is Thy Faithfulness, I’d Rather Have Jesus, What a Friend We Have in Jesus—these songs will speak volumes to your heart during your time with the Lord.
In closing, I would encourage us to be intentional with the music we listen to, and that we play for our families. God wants His Word to dwell in us richly, and He has given us music to help us. Let’s use it and let’s be intentional about it.
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