We have all had hard times. Hard times are a part of life. Its unfortunate, but the reality that we face in this fallen world. Thankfully there are “moments” that give us a beacon of hope, light at the end of the tunnel, a silver lining or a reason to look at the glass half full. If it weren’t true, there wouldn’t be so many clichés about it. I would guess that most people would think that their favorite genre of music is one of those outlets. As a matter of fact, I think it is biblical to think so.

I identify music as a reflection of my mood. Sometimes, I like an upbeat happy song, and sometimes, I like slow almost sorrowful song. Like it or not, your emotions are a part of you. They are part of what the bible calls “the flesh.” We should all be very careful that our emotions don’t make decisions for us. Fear, anger, delirium and melancholy are fleeting and once you have a rest or a sandwich, you may just feel differently. I suggest that we you feel angry or depressed that you use music as a means of talking yourself into feeling happier. When you are down, listen to happy music, when you are angry listen to a slow jazz song. Yes, I am suggesting to use music to manipulate your mood.

He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear with great reverence Psalm 40:3

King Saul in 1 Samuel 16 had an evil spirit that “tormented” him. The only thing that would calm him down was when David would play the lyre for him. Saul would find relief and he would begin to feel better.

Sometimes, music is a way of saying what you want to say, without having to actually come up with how or what to say. Have you ever listened to the radio and thought “Wow, does that person have a hidden camera on me?” Some emotions are universal and songs are a way that we can find and feel common emotions. Songs appeal to the core of our humanity. We can relate with one another and someone else did the work. Different people have different gifts and a musical gift is one of the most desired gifts from God. Imagine being anointed to tap into a person’s heart and soul with your words or music. What a great blessing.

Even if we only remember the chorus of a song, it can be a simple form of meditation. People often think of meditation as an eastern philosophy of emptying the mind. Christian meditation is more of an intentional filling of your mind with thoughts that are meaningful and powerful. Words matter, positive thoughts matter what kind of thoughts are you meditating on?  

Recently I have been feeling an anxious or tormented spirit in my own life. Sometimes life can be a lot, everyone has trials and tribulations, that is something that the bible promises. It also promises that even when you do face struggles, you don’t have to go through it alone. I want you to know that I do practice what I preach. When I feel this tormenting spirit come upon me, I sing a song of worship whether in my head or out loud. It is always the same song and I find comfort in it.