Keep Singing

"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing."  Psalm 98:4-5

I love music; lively praise music that gets me excited about God and quiet worship music that moves me into His presence.  I've been on the worship team at church for several years and just recently I've been asked to lead worship.  Music is an instrument God uses to usher in His Spirit.  While I'm always listening to music, somewhere along the way I stopped singing.

"I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted."  Exodus 15:1

I realized last week that I wasn't singing anymore.  I was still singing at church - with all my heart, but at home, my song had ceased.  Like I said before, I love music, so I am always looking for new praise or worship songs.  I found a song recently that absolutely moved me into the throne room of God, and as I was listening to it, I began to sing.  As soon as the first note came out of my mouth, my spirit lifted. 

"Sing to the Lord, you saints of his; praise his holy name."  Psalm 30:4

I felt God's presence all around me and I couldn't help but cry.  For the next few days I was singing all the time, and I began to notice changes in me.  My heart was softer and I began to pray with more passion.  I was more compassionate, more thankful and more in love with God.  But then I stopped singing.

"I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me."  Psalm 13:6

This morning I was praying and realized that my prayers seemed strained.  I was talking to God about it and asked Him to soften my heart again.  After my quiet time, I went to my room to get ready for the day.  I turned on my worship music, and began to sing.  Immediately I felt God's presence flood that room.

"But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy."  Psalm 5:11

There's something that happens when we begin to praise.  It has nothing to do with the quality of our voice.  I believe it has to do with submission.  In the book of James, chapter three, James talks about the tongue.  It is a small part of the body, but it can cause great harm.  "Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.  My brothers, this should not be."  James 3:10.  When we open our mouths to sing to the Lord, we are taking control of our tongues and using it to glorify God.  It is an act of submission; a breaking of our will.  Satan knows the power of praise, so he has used my pride to keep me from singing.

"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.  Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord."  Ephesians 5:19

The Bible is full of scriptures about singing to the Lord; I've listed just a few in the blog.  Spend some time reading them, then open up your mouth and sing!

Is any one of you in trouble? 
He should pray.  
Is anyone happy?  
Let him sing songs of praise.
  James 5:13