Sing (Part 2)

By Daniel Henderson

A Chinese proverb states, “A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song.” Similarly, philosopher William James wrote, “I don’t sing because I’m happy; I’m happy because I sing.” The power of song to express our soul and change our perspective is an often forgotten truth of the Scriptures.

Last week, we looked at some of the biblical exhortations to sing and took a glance at David’s resolve to lift his song to the Lord from Psalm 59. (If you missed it you can read it by CLICKING HERE). Now we want to dig a little deeper in understanding the times and themes of singing that can help each of us grow through troubled times.

Sing resolutely!

Actor Harry Belafonte noted, “You can cage the singer, but not the song.” David illustrated this. From the privacy of his home, while surrounded by assassins on assignment from Saul, the King of Israel, David declares, “But I will sing…” Here is my application of that decision: “Regardless of what I feel and what I face, I will choose to fill my mouth, my mind, and my soul with a song to my God.” Recently, I noticed 18 different verses in the Psalms that declare David’s resolve to sing in any circumstance. I am not sure what you are experiencing right now, but I hope you will learn from David and resolve to sing.

Sing early!

David then writes, “Yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning.” How we start the early moments often sets the course for the entire day. Regardless of his circumstances, David knew the value of taking command of his soul to focus on the Lord with a song. Sadly, we often set the morning agenda with our own depressing thoughts or fill our minds with the noise of television. No wonder our days are miserable. Get a grip on your soul and sing to God as you start the day. See what might change – within you and around you.

Sing meaningfully!

Of course, David chose his lyrics carefully. Here is a simple breakdown of what we see in Psalm 59:16-17.

God’s Unchanging Character – David focused his songs on God’s character: “But I will sing of Your power; Yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning.” Here, he declares God’s power and mercy. Another translation describes God’s strength and constant love. Imagine the transformation we might experience as our soul, voice, and mind worships accordingly each morning.

God’s Past Exploits – David declares, “For You have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble.” His song remembers the many times God has proven Himself to be his defense and refuge. Let your voice declare the things the Lord has done for you all along your journey.

God’s Present Help – David then says, “To You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; For God is my defense, my God of mercy.” David knew that in that moment, God would be his strength and defender, showering him with mercy (or unfailing love). Today, the Lord wants to lavish us with His amazing strength, His sure defense, and the assurance of His unfailing love. What more could we need?

Sing daily!

In Don Quixote, Miguel de Cervantes wrote, “He who sings frightens away his ills.” Another writer noted, “The singer has everything within him. The notes come out from his very life. They are not materials gathered from outside.” Emory Austin stated, “Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway.”

An ancient proverb reminds us, “Those who wish to sing always find a song.” Will you choose to sing today? The God who sings over us wants us to experience and enjoy the powerful gift of singing every day. While we may not serve in the choir or even find the right notes during the songs at church, we can sing every day to the Lord. You may not “play an instrument”, but God has given you an essential mechanism for your survival and victory – your voice. Use it for His glory and your good. Let it be a heartfelt, resolute, early, God-focused expression of your soul to God and see how He might use it to change your heart and your life.