Music has always been a part of the fabric of human culture. Psalm 94:4 instructs us to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. In Genesis 31:26-28, we find the words ‘joy’ (śimḥâ) and ‘singing’ (šîr). The Hebrew word, šîr means music or song. It can also refer to singing, instruments, or musicians, depending on the context. In the New Testament, we read in Ephesians 5:19 that we are to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. And to sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.
Meaning of Making a Joyful Noise
We should praise God and God alone when we worship. That includes singing in church, singing alone, or quietly singing to yourself. Some have the talent to use musical instruments to praise God. God doesn’t care if you sing off key or you’re unable to sing at all. He deserves our worship nonetheless. Perhaps it should be ‘sounds’ instead of ‘noise.’ What do you think?
Listening to Joyful Noise
It’s no surprise that music affects the brain. One of the most remarkable effects music has on the human brain is that it stimulates the release of dopamine, a brain mediator that lifts your spirit. Since music does impact your brain, it’s important to guard your mind against worldly influences. In the New Testament, Paul always wrote to believers to guard their minds against worldly impact. This includes the type of music you listen to.
In my most played list on Amazon Music, you’ll find the following stations: Praise & Worship, Classical Covers, Classical Piano, and 80’s Rock. Full disclosure, there are many Christmas albums on that list because I sequence light shows to Christmas music for various clients.
I often sing hymns before falling asleep or doing chores around the house. This is often true on Mondays when a hymn we sang in church sticks in my mind. This is the Holy Spirit guiding me in praising My God.
My Favorite Joyful Noise
One of my current favorites is Raise A Hallelujah by Bethel Music. I find myself singing that more often lately. I appreciate the words, and they echo how I feel.
Verse 1
I raise a hallelujah, in the presence of my enemies
I raise a hallelujah, louder than the unbelief
I raise a hallelujah, my weapon is a melody
I raise a hallelujah, Heaven comes to fight for meChorus
I’m gonna sing, in the middle of the storm
Louder and louder, you’re gonna hear my praises roar
Up from the ashes, hope will arise
Death is defeated, the King is aliveVerse 2
I raise a hallelujah, with everything inside of me
I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the darkness flee
I raise a hallelujah, in the middle of the mystery
I raise a hallelujah, fear you lost your hold on meBridge
Sing a little louder
In the presence of my enemies
Sing a little louder
Louder than the unbelief
Sing a little louder
My weapon is a melody
Sing a little louder
Heaven comes to fight for me
With everything going on in this world today and trying to make sense of it all, this song speaks to me. Death is defeated, the King is alive
Featured image: Photo by Marius Masalar on Unsplash
Jyll Stuart wrote today’s post. You can read more about Jyll on our Guest Author page.