We have considered the heart not fully for God and not in tune with God, but what about the heart that is? Can that heart find the song even in challenging circumstances? Even in restraint, can the freedom to well up in song still be experienced? Can even a place of dampness fail to dampen the spirit of song? Could even the presence of darkness fail to keep the spirit of song from shining brightly?
Even after being beaten and thrown into a Philippian prison (Acts 16:23), we find Paul and Silas retained the spirit of song as we read. . .
“(24) Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. (25) About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, (26) and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.” (Acts 16:24-26 ESV)
Though Paul and Silas were in the discomfort of a Philippian prison — with even their feet fastened in stocks — they remained in the comfort of God. With the focus of their heart on Him, they did not lose the heart for song; “praying and singing hymns to God”. Their singing captured the ears of those imprisoned with them. It also obviously gained the attention of God and ultimately provided the opportunity for sharing the Gospel message with the jailer and his household. (Acts 16:32-34)
When we maintain a spirit of song even during the difficult times of life, we may also see doors open for sharing our faith with others. Those around us may marvel at the ability to praise God even when things are not going entirely well. Because of a heart for God — trusting Him to fulfill His Will on our behalf in His way and in His time — will work to sustain the song welling up from within us. May not where we are, but rather Whose we are sustain our spirit of song!
Have a great day WITH A HEART REVEALING OUR FAITH’S FOCUS!
Carl
