a piano and hymnal

But get me a musician. And then, while the musician was playing, the power of the Lord came on him.

2 Kings 3:15

In one version of the Bible I found over 800 references to music, musician, song, sing, instruments, and/or specific instruments.  I once read that in creation the river provided the music and the birds sang the chorus.  Music is a gift from God, and He speaks to us through music.  When I am frustrated or angry, music calms my mind and my heart.  When I am sad or discouraged, music lifts me up.  When I sing about the love, grace, and mercy of God, music causes me to raise my heart and hands in praise.  Ephesians 5:19 says, “…as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts…”  We find God and learn of His wisdom and truth through Sermons and Bible studies.  Hymns and sacred music often remind us of what we have learned in a way that keeps Him in our hearts.  At least I know that’s how it is for me.  There’s within my heart a melody Jesus whispers sweet and low:  Fear not, I am with thee, peace, be still, in all of life’s ebb and flow.  Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, sweetest name I know, fills my every longing, keeps me singing as I go. (There’s “Within My Heart a Melody”, words and music by Luther B. Bridgers).

Paula Cadden