“When the priests came out from the holy place (for all the priests who were present had sanctified themselves, without regard to divisions), and all the Levitical singers, Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun, and their sons and kinsmen, clothed in fine linen, with cymbals, harps, and lyres, standing east of the altar, and with them 120 priests blowing trumpets.” 2 Chronicles 5:11-12
There is a significant difference between noise and music. Noise is often random, loud, and jumbled, with no rhyme or rhythm; music shares the same goal, with intentional sounds that bring together different elements to create a unified piece. In music, the instruments do not share the exact same sound, but they share a purpose. When the Israelites came together, they joined their instruments to create beautiful worship to God. What would happen if everyone was too hesitant to play, worried that they would mess it up? No song would be heard! Likewise, if every instrument was played at the exact same volume and time, it would be no more than deafening noise. But working together, the instrumentalists and singers all played their part to glorify God.
Psalm 150 says, “Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty expanse. Praise Him for His mighty deeds; praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with stringed instruments and flute. Praise Him with loud cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals. Everything that has breath shall praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!” This is the goal we share, regardless of our place in worship, whether we are in the sound booth, singing in the congregation, or playing an instrument in front of everyone. We share the goal of praising God, and all contribute to this goal together.
- What is your typical role in musical worship? Do you feel like the part you play is important? Why or why not?
- What is a way you can grow in worshiping God—through music or otherwise? How can you do this with other believers?
- Pray and ask God to help you grow in worship of Him.
