One of the things I’ve discovered over the years that stirs my passion for God is listening to praise and worship music!
In Ephesians 5.18-19, the Apostle Paul wrote …
Don’t get drunk on wine, which produces depravity. Instead, be filled with the Spirit in the following ways: speak to each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; sing and make music to the Lord in your hearts … (CEB)
On a similar note, Paul wrote in Colossians 3.16 …
The word of Christ must live in you richly. Teach and warn each other with all wisdom by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (CEB)
The Psalms often urge followers to sing praises to God and to sing new songs, including …
- “He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise for our God.” (Psalm 40.3)
- “Sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth!” (Psalm 96.1)
- “Sing to the Lord a new song because he has done wonderful things!” (Psalm 98.1)
In the past, I’ve written about music, including: Songs for Leaders, “Songs for My Sons”, You Write the Words, Ordination Playlist, and Songs for the Valley.
Ever since Ethan was 2 years old (he just turned 6), I’ve had a playlist on my iPod with our favorite worship music. I’ve always tried to include songs the kids will like. Some of the kids’ latest favorites are “God’s Not Dead” (Newsboys) and “10,000 Reasons” (Matt Redman). The oldest songs on the list are “Trading My Sorrows” (Darrell Evans), “You Never Let Go” (Matt Redman), and “My Savior Lives” (New Life Worship) (one of my favorite memories occurred three years ago at a hotel playroom with another family in the room; Ethan was belting out the words of “My Savior Lives”: “Jesus you are the only way, my Savior, my Savior lives!”).
The newest songs on the list come from the latest (live) recording by Darlene Zschech, “Revealing Jesus.” So far, our favorite is “Victor’s Crown.” (I’ve always loved the worship music by Darlene Zschech and Hillsong.)
Looking back on my own journey with God, there seems to be a connection between the level of my passion for God and the practice of listening to praise and worship music. Knowing this, you’d think I’d be more consistent, but I go through stages where I neglect the practice. Sometimes I need reminded about the importance of listening to praise and worship music!
What songs stir your passion for God? Post a comment below with your favorite songs!