Over the last few days we have noted, the heart not fully for God nor in tune with God and the difference of a heart that is. That is the heart which can sustain a song for God wherever we might be. This is because that with which we are filled is what will flow from our life. Even as the psalmist David wrote in that beloved twenty-third psalm. . .
“(5) You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalm 23:5 ESV)
Despite the presence of his enemies, focused on God and what He had prepared for him, David’s cup overflowed. Joy remained His. Blessing of God remained His.
Writing to the church at Ephesus, Paul exhorted. . .
“(18) And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, (19) addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,” (Ephesians 5:18-19 ESV)
With what are we filled? What is truly influencing the flow from our life? As wine would have its effect on the thinking, the speech, and the manner in which one walked, so it is with the Spirit of God. Being filled with God’s Spirit — also noted as the “Spirit of truth” (John 14:17; 1 John 4:6) — will compel what is in tune with God. Drawing from His Spirit, life’s godly melody will well up from the heart! With the heart in tune the life will be in tune.
What begins in the heart is so important. Similarly addressing singing in his letter to the church at Colossae, Paul urged. . .
“(15) And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. (16) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:15-16 ESV)
Is the peace of Christ ruling — having sovereignty — in our heart and so giving rise to thanksgiving? With His word richly dwelling in us, we are enabled to teach and admonish in a proper manner; even in the beautiful spirit of song. As we continue taking the Word to heart — surrendering to it living in and through us — we will be drawn to sing together in the most beneficial manner with thankfulness in our hearts to God! May we retain a heart for God enabling us to sing with both the spirit and the mind. (1 Corinthians 14:15)
In the words of Paul. . .
“(13) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13 ESV)
Have a great day JOYFULLY SINGING ON!
Carl
