Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. - Colossians 3:16 NIV
About 40 years ago, I worked with a young man who was attending Indiana University. When I asked what he was studying, he replied, "music therapy. He explained it is the use of different kinds of music to promote wellness and healing. It helps treat anxiety, depression, as well as other medical conditions.
There is a Biblical example of music therapy in 1 Samuel 16:14-23 when David is brought before Saul to play the harp to calm his evil Spirit. Music has the power to lift our spirits when we're blue and creates in us the desire to sing, play, and dance—one of God's many gifts.
Today's verse encourages us to use music as a way to connect with God. To use all types of music -- anything that speaks of God's grace, mercy, and power to praise him. We can sing psalms and hymns as we do in church, contemporary gospel songs, or Gregorian chants (if so inclined), lifting our hearts with gratitude for the message of Christ spoken through music.
Awesome and Mighty God, we give you thanks for your message of Christ in music. You have inspired writers with words of wisdom and melodies that uplift and sometimes admonish. In these songs, we experience your unconditional love. May we go through our days with songs and joy in our hearts, offering you the praise you rightfully deserve. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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