DEUTERONOMY 31:19-22
Alexander Hamilton was an American statesman, politician, legal scholar, military commander, lawyer, banker, and economist. He was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He was the main author of the economic policies of George Washington’s administration. Surprisingly, most Americans knew little about him – until 2015, when Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote his hit musical ‘Hamilton.’ Now schoolchildren know Hamilton’s story by heart. They sing it to each other. He has become a favourite founding father.
God knows the power of music, and He told Moses to write down a song and teach it to the Israelites and have them sing it (Deuteronomy 31:19). God knew that long after Moses was gone, when He had brought Israel into the Promised Land, they would rebel and worship other gods. So He told Moses that the song will testify against them, because it will not be forgotten by their descendants (Deuteronomy 31:21).
Songs are nearly impossible to forget, so it is wise to be selective about what we sing. Songs improves mood. Listening to music or singing can benefit overall well-being, help regulate emotions, and create happiness and relaxation in everyday life. One of the ways we make the most of every opportunity is when we speak in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our hearts to the Lord (Ephesians 5:15-19).
What we sing will influence what we believe, so choose wisely and sing loudly.
“O for a thousand tongues to sing
my great Redeemer’s praise,
the glories of my God and King,
the triumphs of His grace!”
(Charles Westley, 1739)
