A Time to Sing

Psalm 100 is a short, but powerful psalm. It is a call for all to sing joyful songs of praise to the Lord. In the span of 5 verses, the author gives us the commands of worship and the reasons for worship. This psalm reminds us of the importance of music to worship.

The commands of worship are simple. He calls us to "shout for joy to the LORD." We are to worship the Lord with gladness. We are to come before his with joyful songs. We are to know that the Lord is God. Finally, we are to give thanks and sing praises.

He gives us the reasons we should sing to God. We are to sing because he made us. We are his, and he cares for us like a shepherd with his sheep. The Lord is good, his love endures forever, and his faithfulness continues from generation to generation.

Music is an important part of worship. Here are some thoughts concerning music.

• Music is to be part of worship (Eph. 5:19-20).
• Music has a long history. Adam's first recorded words were a poem, possibly a song. In Genesis 4:21, we are told Jubal was the "father" of all those play the harp or flute. From early in human history, music has been a part.
• Music is nearly universal. Music has been part of every culture.
• Music can have a powerful affect on people.
• Music aids in memory.
• Music can be medicinal.