"Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises."
Psalm 47:6
Do you remember the song lyrics by The Carpenters..."Sing, sing a song, sing out loud, sing out strong, sing of good things-not bad, sing of happy-not sad...Sing, sing a song, make it simple to last your whole life long, don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear, just sing, sing a song."
If you know me personally, then you know my voice isn't but a whisper. My voice has been in decline most of my life. When I was 20, I had vocal cord surgery twice in hopes of improving my voice's volume...it did not and worsened it. I still have a voice and will use it till my last breath.
This blog is intended to encourage you to use your God given voice--good or bad. We have all heard the voice of Creation--trees rustling, birds singing, waves crashing, etc., as it praises God. I believe God wants to hear from us as well, especially in songs of praise. "Praising God has power to change our thoughts, our hearts, and our lives."
When we sing aloud, not just listen, the words make an imprint on our brain. Lyrics can get stuck in our head and we can recall them later in times of joy or need. Music is a great way to memorize Scripture too. Any way we can let go of our inhibitions and praise God is pleasing to Him. Song lyrics can soothe our soul, uplift our downcast spirit, and change our perspective to a more godly outlook.
"Singing illustrates unity as we agree on the lyrics, chords, and rhythms. Singing can also promote unity as it binds us together in peace, proclaims God’s power through praise, and demonstrates God’s glory to the world." [odb.org]
As for myself, I used to ask to sing solo in my church at age 5. Time changes things so, now you will not 'hear' me sing in church or elsewhere, but you will 'see' me singing with all my heart behind the air mask. God hears and sees me, so my audience of One is all that matters to me.
May your voice reach to the heavens as you worship and praise God, above all things and opinions of the world. Praise God for who He is, Honor God for what He is doing and done, and Thank God for everything.
For a thousand tongues to sing
My great Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of His grace. —Wesley