Daily Devotional for Tuesday, December 5

The Music

“And David and all the house of Israel played before the Lord on all manner of instruments made of fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals,” 2 Samuel 6:5.

One of the often-debated topics in the Lord’s churches today surrounds our worship services. Discussions abound about whether the music should be contemporary, traditional or a blend of styles. Everyone has an opinion, and unfortunately, Satan has used this seemingly simple topic to cause division and disruption in some of our congregations. Whether you are in favor of contemporary Christian music, the old gospel hymns, using instruments in church or singing a cappella, hopefully, the one thing that we can agree on is that worship of our God through music is important and scriptural!

The Scriptures are full of examples and admonitions to worship God in song. “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing” (Psalm 100:1, 2). This entire psalm is about praising God. At the dedication of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem, the Bible tells us the Israelites incorporated music into that special service. “And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps” (Nehemiah 12:27).

Paul even tells us that our music can minister the gospel. “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” (Colossians 3:16). Frankly, I do not understand how someone can call himself a Bible follower, but not adhere to God’s Word in the area of musical worship.

JUST A THOUGHT: Is your opinion on musical worship based on God’s Word or your own preferences? Remember, biblical worship is not about honoring your wishes; it is about honoring and glorifying God.

Chris Floyd