Music Soothes the Soul

I grew up with music in my household. Four sisters and a mom who encouraged us to sing was a recipe for a musical family. If you want to see a Christmas concert with all the old Christmas songs, find a seat at our table on Christmas Eve. Music speaks to my soul. Every note played and every word sung wells up a strong emotion inside of me and often brings me to tears. Have you ever been in worship and just couldn't contain yourself? When everyone around you is singing in one accord with hands raised, praising our Father it feels like a slice of heaven on earth. And in that moment all worries fall to the wayside. In that moment anger subsides. In that moment the name of Jesus is lifted up and His presence is ever so near.

Our Father gifted us with music as one way to express our praises to Him. Sometimes when I am alone and praying I begin to sing a familiar hymn out loud. Often it is just words that are on my heart. "My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you- I whom you have delivered." Psalm 71:23. I can be in turmoil over problems at work, worried over my daughter's health, or afraid of what the future may hold, but as I begin singing His praises a peace sweeps over me and I know all will be well. Those situations may not change immediately, but my soul is soothed with an overwhelming sense of peace. Psalm 103:1 conveys the message perfectly - " Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his Holy Name."

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of music. Thank you for knowing what I need and for a way to express my praises to you through song. When words are not enough, you shower me with your beautiful melodies. Oh how I praise your Holy Name!

Scripture: Psalm 57: 1-9 "My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music, Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples."