4 Nov, 2010
Bar None to Praising God
Has anyone ever told you that you have the voice of a prisoner? Wait for it….wait for it…..you know, because you're behind a few bars and searching for a key.
My dad told me this joke last week and I still think it’s funny. I can’t believe how many times a day I find myself humming a song and I don’t even know why it’s in my head. Someone can mention a phrase or word and off in my head goes the tune and words to some song that I connect it with.
I’m a musical person. I’ve been singing practically as long as I’ve been talking. There are times when the only thing that makes me feel better is going to the church and singing, singing, singing. There’s something about singing from your heart (and soul) that encourages you and lifts your spirit as your worship the Lord.
Nothing was going to stop Paul and Silas from making a joyful noise and praising God even in the midst of jail. They didn’t let their surroundings dictate their attitude. I like the fact that they weren’t singing “Woe is me” songs or “Why me, Lord” type hymns. I believe they belted out and sang loudly to God. They praised Him. And a miracle happened while they praise the Lord (you’ll want to keep reading the story in Acts 16).
God removed them from their bondage – literally! Their chains were broken! They were set free, yet stayed and continued to minister to those who were in need.
Listen to praise songs. Find at least one that speaks to you or seems like it comes straight from your heart. Forget what you may know about Christian or worship music. There is a variety of styles of Christian music that you can find on line…rap, country, pop and more.
Take a cue from David and other psalm writers from the Bible and write a song. Journal your feelings and thoughts onto paper. It doesn’t have to rhyme; just put down why you believe God is worthy of your praise.
If singing's not your thing, you can dance to the Lord, draw or paint, or somehow creatively praise the Lord. Determine not to let what might imprison you to keep you behind bars. Sing a psalm or song. Belt it out! Dance to Him! Let your artist side glorify God.Let God put a song in your heart. Tell your friends what spiritual song(s) means a lot to you and why you can sing songs of hope and praise even when you’re having a bad hair day or a bad week.
Read the entire story of Acts 16. Then share what you read with a friend. Ask them what they do when they feel they’re held captive. And then let the song of praise that God gives you be your key to freedom….beyond the bars.
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