The apostle in the church of Ephesus says, “Speaking to admonishing yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:19-20. Here we see
that sacred hymns are indeed part of the Christian walk, and that we must embrace them as gifts.
The word ‘Hymn’ originated from a Greek word ‘hymnos’ which means “a song of praise”. A sacred hymn is a reverently and devotionally conceived lyrical script poetically designed to be sung, which portrays the singer’s attitude toward the Holy God or God’s plans for His people. Sacred hymns usually take the form of simplicity and the truth or message expressed should be so direct and so immediately apparent as to unify a congregation while singing it.
Having a rich treasure of truth given to us by the Shepherd’s Rod Message, the Eleventh-hour church hymns therefore significantly express these rich truths as they shine brighter. Thus, the hymns must testify of the truth professed, literally in style, genuinely solemn, fit for the occasion, beautifully melodious, reviving, comforting and godly.
“…we should endeavor, in our songs of praise, to approach as nearly as possible to the harmony of the heavenly choirs… Singing, as a part of religious service, is as much an act of worship as is prayer. The heart must feel the spirit of the song to give it right expression.”
Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 594.3.
Some hymns are meant to be sung on special days and occasions, and this is acceptable. We are admonished that:
“Those who make singing a part of divine worship should select hymns with music appropriate to the occasion, not funeral notes, but cheerful, yet solemn melodies. The voice can and should be modulated, softened, and subdued.”
ST, June 22, 1882.
Moreover, sacred hymns have several uses and applications to a true Christian. From the example of the psalmist, hymns are meant to praise God (Ps. 104:33), to appreciate God’s love (Ps. 89:1), to express our freedom in Christ (Ps. 68:6), to express our joy and happiness in the Lord (Ps. 132:9), just to name a few. In addition, singing sacred hymns is something a true Davidian should be doing in his darkest times for we are told that “… Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.” — Acts 16:25.
Through singing, our faith is strengthened as we wait patiently for God to answer our petitions. David in expressing just how powerful sacred singing can be in soul winning says, “And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.” Ps. 40:3. As the unbelievers witness the holy atmosphere brought about as you lift your mind and voice in song, many hearts can be melted that would otherwise not be reached by Bible studies.
He who aims to be accounted worthy for the soon coming kingdom will not dishonor God by singing empty words while the heart is far from Him. The apostle says “… I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding” 1 Cor. 14:15. The words we sing must resonate with our understanding of the present truth so that a sacred link is established in our mind and heart. In this way, we will gladly rejoice knowing the beauty of the plans God has for us.
“…There is nothing more offensive in God’s sight than a display of instrumental music when those taking part are not consecrated, are not making melody in their hearts to the Lord. The offering most sweet and acceptable in God’s sight is a heart made humble by self-denial, by lifting the cross and following Jesus.”
RH., Nov. 14, 1899.
“God is glorified by songs of praise from a pure heart filled with love and devotion to Him…”
Testimonies, Vol. 1, p. 509.
May we be blessed as we meditate on the words of the following hymns
Add a Comment