Daily EncouragementSample

Music has a place in the house of God: “They ministered with music.” It should be an effective ministry, bringing glory to God and inspiring his people in their worship. It will never be a mere performance. As with the moving hymn or the mighty sermon, it will take us beyond ourselves to the Lord of glory. Singers and players must be spiritually fit, and choirs should be made up on the converted, not merely the capable.

But the ministry of music must be controlled: “These are the men David put in charge of the music in the house of the Lord.” The ministry of music must always be subservient to the ministry of the word, the organ to the pulpit, the choir to the congregation. In one sense music in worship must always be background music. (But please note that I am not trying to justify the dreadul practice of subdued music playing while the preacher prays!)

So musicians must be disciplined in the Lord’s house: “They performed their duties according to the regulations laid down for them.” This will present no problem to the soloist who comes to truly serve, nor to the group who truly seek to magnify God’s name, nor to the choir who genuinely offer praise to the Lord.