The Gift of Music

“’Now bring me someone who can play the harp.’ While the harp was being played, the power of the LORD came upon Elisha.” 2 Kings 3:15 NLT

“Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.” Psalm 33:3 NLT

Music has a way of making all things right, at least to some people. I can testify to its effect on me in any given situation. I have been blessed with a wide variety of musical tastes therefore my selection of music is from a long list of genres. Therefore, whatever mood I am in and whatever I need the most to lift me up or settle my mood, I can always find it. The Lord has also given me a gift of recognizing the difference between true talent and the entertainment factor. Both have their place, but they don’t always work together. During my twelve years in radio ministry, I’ve seen people try to make it, as they say, in Christian music only to be disappointed. I’m thankful the Lord had given the opportunity to serve Him in sharing His music in the radio industry, for I can’t sing a lick, and my instrumentalist skills were mediocre.

Music is a gift to all of us from the Lord. Whether He has gifted you in singing, or as talented musician, or a songwriter, or just one who enjoys music as I do, His gift is for us to find enjoyment in it. The ability to change one’s mood emotionally either happy or sad through music is God’s working in musicians and song writers. It has the power to create a divine atmosphere in seeking the Lord, or asking for His help as the prophet Elisha did. He relied on the musicians gifted from the Lord to play the harp, inspiring Elisha to rest easy as he waited for the Lord to answer him. The book of Psalms is filled with praise songs most of them written by David throughout his life from a shepherd boy to king of Israel. God’s give of music through David has continued to bless others all through the centuries. The gift of music will continue right up until the heavenly kingdom where it will never end.

However, the Lord has gifted you in His gift of music to us, use it for His glory. Do not overreach beyond where He has gifted you. If you are a songwriter, write songs. If you are a musician, play skillfully. If you are a singer, sing well. If you are an entertainer, entertain with enthusiasm. If you are gifted in all these areas, don’t hold back and do your best for the Lord. I’ll just sit back and listen.