Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

While the psalmist wept, his Babylonian captors demanded he sing a song of Zion.

What does it mean?

The words of this psalm were written from a broken heart while Israel was in captivity. It’s important to remember that God allowed His people to be driven from their homeland because they had repeatedly refused to repent. So, did the writer long for Jerusalem because it was the holy city where God dwelt or because he missed the sinful life he led there? He hung up his harp and refused to sing at the very time that the songs of Zion would have reminded him of God’s faithfulness, turned Israel’s hearts to the Lord, and witnessed to their pagan captors of their Almighty God.

How should I respond?

It’s much easier to sing along with the praise song on the radio when God’s blessing is evident in your life than when you’re overwhelmed with sorrow or anger. Has something stolen your joy? Don’t wait until you feel better – listen to music today that will remind you of God’s love and faithfulness. If your ability to praise the Lord is based on your circumstances, then there are times when your heart will grow cold. If your joy flows from knowing Christ and living to please Him, you will never be without a song in your heart (Acts 16:25). You’ll be an encouragement to other believers and a powerful witness to those outside of Christ.