I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. Psalm 40:1-3
Have you ever been going about your business, when out of the blue, a song enters your mind and is constantly replayed? You know a musician is fairly gifted when they can get a song stuck in your head. This happens to me on an almost daily basis, though sometimes it is an old song, or a song that has been there before, but often it is a new one stuck on repeat. This is not always a bad thing if the song is encouraging or praises God. But it can also be annoying if you don’t want it there or encourages you to worship something other than God, such as money, sex, power, hate, etc. which are plentiful in popular music, even if paired with a catchy tune.
I don’t know about you, but when I am upset or my attitude stinks, there is not a lot you can say that can change my mind very quickly, but I just need time. The only thing that seems to help at times is to listen to a worship song that reminds me of the truth of God’s character. When I am reminded of the depth of his love and grace toward me, the petty things I am upset about seem to fade away. My selfishness turns to thankfulness. I remember one Summer years ago, I started the drive to work every day playing the same album, and often sang along with it. It was a good way to start each day.
So maybe you don’t have a new song on your radar. One fun way to discover a new song is to just listen to your local Christian radio station, or online streaming station, as there is undoubtedly something new on there from time to time. You can explore online for lesser known groups on Noisetrade, or just searching out a new group or artist you have heard of on Youtube. As long as we live, there will be new songs that are sung and new ways to praise. If you dare, you may even sing a new song to God that you come up with that will never be sung again. It is a unique offering.
When you are stuck in a rut, in despair, or at the end of your rope, call out to God and more often than not (in my experience), even if the solution is not obvious, he will give you a new perspective on things, he will give you hope. And when you have hope, your heart changes direction and the natural response is to be thankful…even to sing praise to Him! Even if you are not normally known for your singing, He can put a new song on your heart and mind. When you have hope in a situation that seems full of despair, Joy tends to overflow in ways that you may not expect. You may be extra kind toward strangers, you may feel compelled to write, to sing, or even just to listen to songs of worship. Whatever the direction he is leading you, follow the new song that his Spirit has placed in your heart.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
Strength and Courage in Christ,
Clark
