“Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” Psalm 100:1-2
Another form of self-care is listening to music or singing. Years ago, I came to experience the power in gospel music. When dad counseled people who dealt with oppression and depression, we found that listening to songs and the Psalms gave the listeners relief. I’ve used music on many occasions to minister to my own needs. I recall as a teenager; I came down with the flu. I was in bed singing when my dad got home. I heard him ask Mom, “What’s that noise?”
I heard Mom respond, “Oh, that’s just Dru singing?” That’s when the phrase “make a joyful noise” made sense to me. My noise was unimpressive, but I was singing to overcome my predicament and began to feel better emotionally, spiritually, and eventually physically.
There are studies that reveal that there are several physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits to singing and listening to music. Self-care should include music that brings joy to the soul. The imperative to sing (praise) is in multiple verses of the Bible.
Listening to music uplifts your spirit. When King Saul was inconsolable in his state of depression, the young lad David was brought to the palace to play music on his harp. Each time that the evil spirit was upon King Saul, David would minister to him with music. The scripture states that “…Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.” (1 Samuel 16:23b) Listening to gospel music reminds us of God’s truths and ways.
The Book of Psalms has 150 psalms (songs and poems). The Hebrew word for psalms translates to praises. Having the most chapters and verses in the Bible, The Book of Psalms signifies the importance of having praises or songs in our lives. The last section of the psalms is dedicated specifically to praises to the Lord and are stated as imperatives. For example, “Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights.” (Psalm 148:1)
Sing praises from your heart. As praises were stated as imperatives from the psalmists, Paul exhorts believers in his epistles to sing to encourage each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Singing comes from the heart and is a form of worship to exalt the Lord with a melody. God reaps the benefits of our praise, and our spirit is uplifted and reminded of His goodness and grace. According to James, when you are happy you will sing. (James 5:13)
“Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;” (Ephesians 5:19)
*In my research, it appears that there were more benefits to singing than listening to music. I know when I start by listening to music, I often break out in song. Sing to your hearts content and make a joyful noise to the Lord even if your singing is unimpressive. God will be pleased, and it is a great form of self-care.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for psalms of praise. My soul is uplifted when I read and hear of Your presence, promises, and the praise of Your goodness. Thank You for the old and new songs that remind me of You. Help me to listen intently to the messages in the words and to sing with exultation to You, for You are worthy of all praise. I love You and choose You above all else. In Jesus’ name I pray – Amen.
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