Today's Word 🌱

 

"And whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would pick up his harp and play, and Saul would become well, and the spirit of distress would depart from him."
-1 Samuel 16:23

Did you know that every year, the first day of March is used to acknowledge World Music Therapy Day? It was specifically set aside to recognize and celebrate the healing power of music. According to the organization 'Percussion Play', "music therapy uses music to reduce stress and improve mood and self-expression through listening, singing, paying instruments or composing music." I'm sure we can all identify a song or a genre of music that we tend to go to when we are feeling down or need our moods to lift. In fact, music has so much reach that it can also have a negative impact on an individual, causing or reinforcing negative emotions, thoughts or behaviours. Being able to harness the effective healing power of music for good is truly the skill of a music therapist.

Did you know there are also music therapists in the Bible? The Bible records David as being a skilled musician and songwriter, before he became king. While he probably didn't attend a renowned academy of music or earned a degree in it, his skill at playing the harp, a stringed instrument, was second to none. His abilities had earned him a reputation, so when King Saul began to be deeply troubled as the spirit of God left Him due to disobedience, and one of his servants advised that Saul employ someone to play the harp for him, and bring peace to him, David's name was recommended. As the scripture for tonight says: "And whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would pick up his harp and play, and Saul would become well, and the spirit of distress would depart from him." -1 Samuel 16:23. From this account, we see that music can play a vital role, in chasing away tormenting and depressing spirits, and subsequently lifting ones mood.

We may not all have a David to play for us, but throughout the Bible, we are encouraged to sing, play instruments, and worship God. Encouragements such as "Make a joyful noise to the Lord" (Psalm 100:1), "Sing a new song to the Lord" (Psalm 98:1), and "Lift up a song, strike the tambourine, play the sweet sounding harp and lyre" (Psalm 81:2), are just a few among many that direct us to the path of musical expression and joy. Through song and music of praise and adoration of the Lord, our faces, smiles and hearts are lifted up, we find a new rhythm to skip to, and a melody that keeps our heart delighted in the Lord. 

Prayer:

Our heavenly Father, and creator of all the universe, thank You for giving us the gift of music and song. We thank you for the opportunities to express our creativity, and also to enjoy that of others. In the process of our enjoying the gift of music, we ask You to guide with Your wisdom, in choosing and creating songs that are uplifting, that inspire and tune us in more to the joys of your path of righteousness. Satisfy us in Your ways, delight us with your lyrics, and move us with your steps. In Jesus' name, Amen.

--

Be blessed by the song below, specially selected, blending David's instrument of choice and one of the most cheerful songs I know, love and enjoy. I hope it becomes yours too. God bless 😊🙏🏼🎧

In my heart there rings a melody [Joyful Harps]