YCCM PART 4 DETAILS CH27 MUSIC: A Spiritual Language
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YOU CAN'T CHANGE ME: Unraveling the Lie
PART 4
Chapter 27
MUSIC: A Spiritual Language
JANUARY 2017
Happy New Year, My Brothers and Sisters!
This year was created for you, because God has a plan for your life. There are people for you to meet, places for you to go and things for you to do that were designed for you to make a difference. Start out by taking time to listen to the voice of God to lead you.
Patience is needed for every living and growing creation of God. Taking time to be patient and listen is a problem in today's fast-paced society. We live in a world where most people want everything fast, for instance: fast food; fast online shopping; fast banking; fast ways to make money; fast business transactions; fast holidays; and even fast time spent with one another.
It appears that we don't have time to slow down or to be patient. However, this year, why not change the atmosphere? All things are possible when attached to The Vine, Jesus, who will help you to be patient and bear good fruit.
Patience is needed for every living and growing creation of God. Taking time to be patient and listen is a problem in today's fast-paced society. We live in a world where most people want everything fast, for instance: fast food; fast online shopping; fast banking; fast ways to make money; fast business transactions; fast holidays; and even fast time spent with one another.
It appears that we don't have time to slow down or to be patient. However, this year, why not change the atmosphere? All things are possible when attached to The Vine, Jesus, who will help you to be patient and bear good fruit.
Galatians 5:22-23 King James Version (KJV)22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
During this holiday season, I have experienced fast and I have experienced slow and due to the activity and demands of the season, it sometimes became a challenge to be patient and wait on the Lord. Trying to meet deadlines and mass produce can help you stay on task and be productive, but it is possible to completely miss your target and goals by rushing ahead of God.
Reading and writing require patience. A book is not always the best way to reach people, especially a book entitled YOU CAN'T CHANGE ME: Unraveling the Lie. It's title alone can automatically invoke the spirit of rebellion and many people aren't that committed to change to read the entirety of a book. However, this book is not just for those who are looking for self-help, but for those who believe in the power to change others through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit within us. This requires patience and steadfast faith. God often requires us to slow down, be still, trust, obey and have faith. Patience can be a true test of walking by faith and not by sight.
My most productive and quality time has been when I've slowed down and waited on God to show me the next step. And, that's what I have been doing, slowing down, taking my time writing and listening to God, along with trying to be a better servant and vessel by taking care of myself, also.
Reading and writing require patience. A book is not always the best way to reach people, especially a book entitled YOU CAN'T CHANGE ME: Unraveling the Lie. It's title alone can automatically invoke the spirit of rebellion and many people aren't that committed to change to read the entirety of a book. However, this book is not just for those who are looking for self-help, but for those who believe in the power to change others through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit within us. This requires patience and steadfast faith. God often requires us to slow down, be still, trust, obey and have faith. Patience can be a true test of walking by faith and not by sight.
My most productive and quality time has been when I've slowed down and waited on God to show me the next step. And, that's what I have been doing, slowing down, taking my time writing and listening to God, along with trying to be a better servant and vessel by taking care of myself, also.
Philippians 4:6-7 New King James Version (NKJV)6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;Yes, being patient can be a challenge at times, but the challenge can be met and the labor becomes fruitful. Wisdom is often gained with patience. God has reminded me of why the older generations loved the old slow-metered gospel songs and from them, I have gained an even better understanding from which to draw strength.
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
You see, most of those old slow-paced songs were born out of pain and suffering. They were meant to draw you into the presence of God, which was the only place these people could get understanding, strength, relief, and comfort. Those old songs were written and sung so that the words and music don't just hurry by or slide off of you. They have time to thoroughly wash over you, penetrate and sink way down deep to stir up your spirit and feel the manifestation of God's Holy Spirit working inside of you and through you, that is, if you've been reborn. And, perhaps, this is why we tend to cater to the fast-paced crowd, now, since there are just not enough people who have been born again.
The fast-paced crowd doesn't want to slow down and linger long enough to feel the power behind those slow melodies and words of Truth slowly rising up to Heaven, praising the great Jehovah God. The spoken words are so powerful, they grip your soul and make you weep and cry out to Heaven.
The moans and groans and singing drew the soul to repentance. One could hear the music resonating throughout the air to change the atmosphere, and no one worried about how long the song was, how it sounded, or who was singing it. And, somehow, even the children knew to be quiet, for the Saints were with God.
But, now...now, we often find that the fast-paced crowd has a time limit and a set schedule to keep, because they have their own agenda. Unlike those who worship in Spirit and Truth, the fast-paced crowd has no time and patience to tarry awhile to change lives and the atmosphere around them. There is a time limit for sitting in reverence to the Creator of the Universe, drawing strength, courage, wisdom, peace, faith, and even drawing the wayward and lost sheep to God.
The moans and groans and singing drew the soul to repentance. One could hear the music resonating throughout the air to change the atmosphere, and no one worried about how long the song was, how it sounded, or who was singing it. And, somehow, even the children knew to be quiet, for the Saints were with God.
But, now...now, we often find that the fast-paced crowd has a time limit and a set schedule to keep, because they have their own agenda. Unlike those who worship in Spirit and Truth, the fast-paced crowd has no time and patience to tarry awhile to change lives and the atmosphere around them. There is a time limit for sitting in reverence to the Creator of the Universe, drawing strength, courage, wisdom, peace, faith, and even drawing the wayward and lost sheep to God.
Beginning in my youth, I have been privileged to witness and experience what some would call the supernatural orchestration of fellowship and communion with God; Believers bathing in the Light of God in harmony together. It is a spiritual symphony played before the angels and God. As the words and music linger on, there is a stillness, as God's presence commands Holiness. Music and voices swell and diminish, as the soul reaches for the hand of God and Holiness commands peace, while calmness, like fluid water flows throughout the Body, even as people rock from side to side, nod their heads, or clap their hands. There is a stillness, a blessed assurance that holds onto God's unchanging hand. With the naked eye, you can see souls waiting on the Lord in good courage with strengthened hearts. This is what the language of the spirit does. It has a common message, creating a sense of fellowship and goodwill that reverberates and resounds throughout the Body, because of the Mind of Christ and the presence of the Lord.
That is the DIFFERENCE ...the PRESENCE of the Lord. How can we worship God without knowing and feeling His presence? Our fast-paced world has distracted us from acknowledging the presence of GOD! We are distracted by people, things, places, events, holidays and music that make us feel good without CONNECTING US TO GOD!
Many attend places of worship just going through the motions of worship, but God wants to have a continuous connection and relationship with each and every one of us. The reward of rebirth is His divine presence within us, always. He wants us to ACKNOWLEDGE His presence! Even when He came with His Son, Jesus, did we acknowledge Him? Did we know Him? That is why He places a song in our hearts and words of praise upon our lips; not for show, not for just feeling good and a quick high, or comfort and temporary distraction from our day-to-day problems. There is so much more to the gift of music than wanting to sing and dance, applaud, and hand out awards.
Many attend places of worship just going through the motions of worship, but God wants to have a continuous connection and relationship with each and every one of us. The reward of rebirth is His divine presence within us, always. He wants us to ACKNOWLEDGE His presence! Even when He came with His Son, Jesus, did we acknowledge Him? Did we know Him? That is why He places a song in our hearts and words of praise upon our lips; not for show, not for just feeling good and a quick high, or comfort and temporary distraction from our day-to-day problems. There is so much more to the gift of music than wanting to sing and dance, applaud, and hand out awards.
Music is a spiritual language of emotion, like the moaning and groaning of the Holy Spirit as we pray. It is not just for our entertainment or the entertainment of God. When we pray and as we render song and praise, God hears and sees what is in our hearts and is able to look beyond our faults to see our need. Hallelujah, Glory to God!
This is not to say that fast-paced music is not spiritual or effective praise. When we are expressing feelings such as gratitude, victory or joy in the Lord, we are going to be enthusiastic, jubilant, vigorous and excited. God sees and hears what is in our hearts, even then, but we must be careful that it is spiritual language and emotion reflecting worship in Spirit and Truth, directed toward God and not the world and flesh.
There are people with an exceptional gift, who have the ability to not only hear music, but experience colors from the different tones. They are able to consistently associate each tone with a specific color as it appears within their mind, when the tone is played for them. This appears to be an extension of the spiritual language of music. For what purpose, or what effect it has over these individuals, perhaps only God knows, but it tells us that music is multifaceted, that is, having many aspects or phases. Perhaps, this is why music has the ability to effect us all in different ways. Think about that the next time you're sitting beside someone in worship, who appears to be unaffected by the music. Will forced worship change the spiritual language within their heart? Could God be affecting them differently through music? Could the Holy Spirit be working something out differently through their spiritual language and interpretation of music?
Having had the experience to worship with and being invited to perform for segregated and integrated congregations, I've always noticed the differences in styles and genres of music, whether it be Negro Spirituals, Southern Gospel, Contemporary Christian and so on. Typically, the music defines and exposes the minds and hearts of the people.
Most segregated congregations adhere to the music genre or style of musical interpretation of their own race. They feel comfortable and just in doing so, because of the race and ethnicity of their congregations. I've even been asked to stick to performing the songs of my own race when invited to a segregated congregation. It took some time for me to allow God to extract my disgust, outrage, frustration and discouragement, having been asked to do so. Now, with better understanding and grace, I marvel at their unbelief and pray for the veil of ignorance to be lifted from the eyes of God's people.
Throughout my young life I was struggling between what seemed to be two different worlds at odds with one another; worlds which had no intention of trying to understand one another, or try to truly experience what was in the hearts and minds of the other world's people. I guess I was somewhat like a biracial child, who felt they had no real place in either world.
One would think that things would have changed by now, but they haven't. Buildings, landscape, social and economic conditions have changed, but thinking remains the same, because the minds of many in the younger generations have been imprinted by the bound and imprisoned minds of the generations before them.
It makes one wonder, when God hears the music and song being lifted up to Him from these congregations in bondage to lies and prejudice, when He hears the spiritual language of their hearts, are they worshipping in Spirit and Truth, having been born again with a renewed mind? Is God pleased?
Psalm 33:3
Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
Psalm 40:3
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.
Psalm 96:1
O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
Psalm 98:1
O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.
Psalm 144:9
I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee.
Psalm 149:1
Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.
Isaiah 42:10
Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof.
Revelation 5:9
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
Revelation 14:3
And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.
Why were these new songs composed? Why were they sung just for God? And why could no man but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth learn the new song?
Satan is crafty and of course we know he is a liar. We find his lies in anything and everything to distract us and turn us away from God. He tricks us into believing we can get around, detour from the Truth and still somehow be right.
He has tricked many Believers into believing that new and contemporary is better and more anointed. Old music is out of style, for the older generation, or it has served its purpose. Many often misinterpret scripture in the Bible, describing God's people bringing forth a new song. Many even have been tricked into believing worship and praise music is for their liking and the more new and contemporary we keep it, the bigger crowds we'll draw and the happier God will be.
But, how do music and new songs TRANSLATE TO AND FROM THE SPIRIT? What language does it speak? What does God hear and see from the heart? Were the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth able to understand the spiritual language of the new song? Did their REDEMPTION count them worthy as men to render it unto God?
As we read into God's Word, these NEW SONGS seem to be SPONTANEOUS musical renditions of joy, gratitude and praise; spontaneous expressions from the language of the heart, an integral and innate form of worship to the Almighty Jehovah God.
Yes, music, as it was meant to be from the beginning and continues to be, is an integral part of our worship, as it speaks to and from the heart, with the purpose of pleasing and glorifying God. We can bring new songs into our worship, but is God PLEASED? Is the music releasing the petitions of the spirit and communing in holiness with the Holy Spirit of God? Is there worship in Spirit and in Truth?
In Truth? Let us meditate on that when we sing a new song to God. What makes the song new is the NEW REVELATION OF TRUTH being shared from our hearts unto our Father because of Truth that has been revealed and received from Him. We see new songs in the Book of Revelation because the TRUTH OF THE LORD IS ABOUT TO BE REVEALED, A REVELATION OF THE POWER, GLORY AND REDEEMING GRACE OF YAHWEH. Thus, we HONOR Him with a new song from our hearts as only He is WORTHY of the Praise and a new song is offered for the Lamb of God, Who alone is WORTHY to open the Book of Life.
The new songs aren't for OUR entertainment. As the heart of the composer speaks, and the Body is directed in unison, it is intended to glorify GOD. So, why should we come to worship looking for a new song to satisfy and tickle our ear, when it is our heart that should be rendering a new song to God for the message of TRUTH He has REVEALED to us to keep us from day to day?
TRUTH NEVER GETS OLD and revealed to the blind it is NEW SIGHT!!! HALLELUJAH! That's how we should look at songs of faith and worship. Even an old song becomes new when it departs Truth and Revelation to a blinded soul! A soul can still cry out in revelation, at the sound of Amazing Grace,"I ONCE WAS LOST BUT NOW I'M FOUND! I WAS BLIND, BUT, NOW I SEE!!!" THANK GOD! THANK GOD! PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME!
God wants us to sing a new song of TRUTH from our hearts as it can only be sung by us about our lives and our need for Him in our lives. THEN SHALL THE PRAISES GO UP AND THE BLESSINGS COME DOWN !!!
Many people can compose a new song and many people can sing a new song, but are they communing in a spiritual language from their heart? Is their new song OUR new song?
People are eager to sing the newest songs by the most popular recording artists. People want to point out and label anointed music and anointed musicians, misconstruing the meaning of being anointed by God and chosen for a specific purpose. But the anointing comes with a broken and contrite (repentant) heart --a humbled spirit--reborn and an unchained and a renewed mind.
"The Bible says that Jesus Christ was anointed by God with the Holy Spirit to spread the Good News and free those who have been held captive by sin (Luke 4:18-19; Acts 10:38). After Christ left the earth, He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). Now all Believers and those who follow Christ are anointed, chosen for a specific purpose in furthering God's Kingdom (1 John 2:20). "Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee" (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)."(gotquestions.org)
We must not confuse gifts and talents with the HOLINESS of God. Nor compare or judge one anointed over another; for God has chosen the anointed and God has chosen their specific purpose. Although, two people may have the same gift or talent, they may not have the same anointing.
Within the institutional church, we often usher in pride, jealousy, bitterness, strife and all manner of corruption, instead of stirring up the gifts in each individual and allowing GOD'S anointing to direct their purpose. Why does this happen? Because of a lack of HOLINESS. This is why corruption took hold of Satan, Lucifer, a gifted and adorned Archangel created to fill Heaven with Beauty and Music, but, alas, he lacked the Holiness and Righteousness of God. Ezekiel 28:12-19, Isaiah 14:12-15
Now, on earth as he did in heaven, Satan continues to stir up strife and division, creating layers of division within institutional churches because he corrupts minds to confusion, jealousy, comparison, judgement and discrimination, so that the gifts, talents and the anointed cannot be used for their specific purpose.
WHAT COLOR IS MUSIC?
There are people with an exceptional gift, who have the ability to not only hear music, but experience colors from the different tones. They are able to consistently associate each tone with a specific color as it appears within their mind, when the tone is played for them. This appears to be an extension of the spiritual language of music. For what purpose, or what effect it has over these individuals, perhaps only God knows, but it tells us that music is multifaceted, that is, having many aspects or phases. Perhaps, this is why music has the ability to effect us all in different ways. Think about that the next time you're sitting beside someone in worship, who appears to be unaffected by the music. Will forced worship change the spiritual language within their heart? Could God be affecting them differently through music? Could the Holy Spirit be working something out differently through their spiritual language and interpretation of music?
Having had the experience to worship with and being invited to perform for segregated and integrated congregations, I've always noticed the differences in styles and genres of music, whether it be Negro Spirituals, Southern Gospel, Contemporary Christian and so on. Typically, the music defines and exposes the minds and hearts of the people.
Most segregated congregations adhere to the music genre or style of musical interpretation of their own race. They feel comfortable and just in doing so, because of the race and ethnicity of their congregations. I've even been asked to stick to performing the songs of my own race when invited to a segregated congregation. It took some time for me to allow God to extract my disgust, outrage, frustration and discouragement, having been asked to do so. Now, with better understanding and grace, I marvel at their unbelief and pray for the veil of ignorance to be lifted from the eyes of God's people.
Throughout my young life I was struggling between what seemed to be two different worlds at odds with one another; worlds which had no intention of trying to understand one another, or try to truly experience what was in the hearts and minds of the other world's people. I guess I was somewhat like a biracial child, who felt they had no real place in either world.
One would think that things would have changed by now, but they haven't. Buildings, landscape, social and economic conditions have changed, but thinking remains the same, because the minds of many in the younger generations have been imprinted by the bound and imprisoned minds of the generations before them.
It makes one wonder, when God hears the music and song being lifted up to Him from these congregations in bondage to lies and prejudice, when He hears the spiritual language of their hearts, are they worshipping in Spirit and Truth, having been born again with a renewed mind? Is God pleased?
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW
Psalm 33:3
Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
Psalm 40:3
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.
Psalm 96:1
O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
Psalm 98:1
O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.
Psalm 144:9
I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee.
Psalm 149:1
Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.
Isaiah 42:10
Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof.
Revelation 5:9
And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
Revelation 14:3
And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.
Why were these new songs composed? Why were they sung just for God? And why could no man but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth learn the new song?
Satan is crafty and of course we know he is a liar. We find his lies in anything and everything to distract us and turn us away from God. He tricks us into believing we can get around, detour from the Truth and still somehow be right.
He has tricked many Believers into believing that new and contemporary is better and more anointed. Old music is out of style, for the older generation, or it has served its purpose. Many often misinterpret scripture in the Bible, describing God's people bringing forth a new song. Many even have been tricked into believing worship and praise music is for their liking and the more new and contemporary we keep it, the bigger crowds we'll draw and the happier God will be.
But, how do music and new songs TRANSLATE TO AND FROM THE SPIRIT? What language does it speak? What does God hear and see from the heart? Were the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth able to understand the spiritual language of the new song? Did their REDEMPTION count them worthy as men to render it unto God?
As we read into God's Word, these NEW SONGS seem to be SPONTANEOUS musical renditions of joy, gratitude and praise; spontaneous expressions from the language of the heart, an integral and innate form of worship to the Almighty Jehovah God.
Yes, music, as it was meant to be from the beginning and continues to be, is an integral part of our worship, as it speaks to and from the heart, with the purpose of pleasing and glorifying God. We can bring new songs into our worship, but is God PLEASED? Is the music releasing the petitions of the spirit and communing in holiness with the Holy Spirit of God? Is there worship in Spirit and in Truth?
In Truth? Let us meditate on that when we sing a new song to God. What makes the song new is the NEW REVELATION OF TRUTH being shared from our hearts unto our Father because of Truth that has been revealed and received from Him. We see new songs in the Book of Revelation because the TRUTH OF THE LORD IS ABOUT TO BE REVEALED, A REVELATION OF THE POWER, GLORY AND REDEEMING GRACE OF YAHWEH. Thus, we HONOR Him with a new song from our hearts as only He is WORTHY of the Praise and a new song is offered for the Lamb of God, Who alone is WORTHY to open the Book of Life.
The new songs aren't for OUR entertainment. As the heart of the composer speaks, and the Body is directed in unison, it is intended to glorify GOD. So, why should we come to worship looking for a new song to satisfy and tickle our ear, when it is our heart that should be rendering a new song to God for the message of TRUTH He has REVEALED to us to keep us from day to day?
TRUTH NEVER GETS OLD and revealed to the blind it is NEW SIGHT!!! HALLELUJAH! That's how we should look at songs of faith and worship. Even an old song becomes new when it departs Truth and Revelation to a blinded soul! A soul can still cry out in revelation, at the sound of Amazing Grace,"I ONCE WAS LOST BUT NOW I'M FOUND! I WAS BLIND, BUT, NOW I SEE!!!" THANK GOD! THANK GOD! PRAISE HIS HOLY NAME!
God wants us to sing a new song of TRUTH from our hearts as it can only be sung by us about our lives and our need for Him in our lives. THEN SHALL THE PRAISES GO UP AND THE BLESSINGS COME DOWN !!!
Many people can compose a new song and many people can sing a new song, but are they communing in a spiritual language from their heart? Is their new song OUR new song?
People are eager to sing the newest songs by the most popular recording artists. People want to point out and label anointed music and anointed musicians, misconstruing the meaning of being anointed by God and chosen for a specific purpose. But the anointing comes with a broken and contrite (repentant) heart --a humbled spirit--reborn and an unchained and a renewed mind.
"The Bible says that Jesus Christ was anointed by God with the Holy Spirit to spread the Good News and free those who have been held captive by sin (Luke 4:18-19; Acts 10:38). After Christ left the earth, He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). Now all Believers and those who follow Christ are anointed, chosen for a specific purpose in furthering God's Kingdom (1 John 2:20). "Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee" (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)."(gotquestions.org)
We must not confuse gifts and talents with the HOLINESS of God. Nor compare or judge one anointed over another; for God has chosen the anointed and God has chosen their specific purpose. Although, two people may have the same gift or talent, they may not have the same anointing.
Within the institutional church, we often usher in pride, jealousy, bitterness, strife and all manner of corruption, instead of stirring up the gifts in each individual and allowing GOD'S anointing to direct their purpose. Why does this happen? Because of a lack of HOLINESS. This is why corruption took hold of Satan, Lucifer, a gifted and adorned Archangel created to fill Heaven with Beauty and Music, but, alas, he lacked the Holiness and Righteousness of God. Ezekiel 28:12-19, Isaiah 14:12-15
Now, on earth as he did in heaven, Satan continues to stir up strife and division, creating layers of division within institutional churches because he corrupts minds to confusion, jealousy, comparison, judgement and discrimination, so that the gifts, talents and the anointed cannot be used for their specific purpose.
LITTLE DAVID PLAY ON YOUR HARP
With the heart of a child, little David played upon his harp, while the sheep grazed in the fields and God was pleased by his worship.
While watching over his flock, the shepherd boy, David, sang and played praises to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, whom we all know was the God of Ishmael and the God of what later became many scattered tribes of Israel. This same Almighty God gave the Prophet, Warrior, Poet, Musician, and King of Israel, David, son of Jesse, many spiritual gifts and musical talents--the ability to compose music and lyrics, play instruments, sing and create musical instruments to interpret the spiritual language within his heart (spirit).
David, the psalmist, singer and musician, knew he needed different instruments to produce specific sounds to express this language of feelings that spoke to him in various emotions in a spiritual language --a language from one spiritual being--His Father and God, who sat upon His throne on High, to another spiritual being.
God's words flooded his heart, spilling into his being and he needed to interpret them into an understandable language to express joy, sorrow, pain, faith, victory, and the goodness of the Lord. He needed instruments that could interpret and be understood by the heart (spirit), regardless of the language the tongue spoke. Within the psalms of the Bible, we find designated instruments to express and enhance the lyrics provided.
God's words flooded his heart, spilling into his being and he needed to interpret them into an understandable language to express joy, sorrow, pain, faith, victory, and the goodness of the Lord. He needed instruments that could interpret and be understood by the heart (spirit), regardless of the language the tongue spoke. Within the psalms of the Bible, we find designated instruments to express and enhance the lyrics provided.
1 Chronicles 23 New King James Version (NKJV)The Divisions of the Levites
23 So when David was old and full of days, he made his son Solomon king over Israel.
2 And he gathered together all the leaders of Israel, with the priests and the Levites.
3 Now the Levites were numbered from the age of thirty years and above; and the number of individual males was thirty-eight thousand.
4 Of these, twenty-four thousand were to look after the work of the house of the Lord, six thousand were officers and judges,
5 four thousand were gatekeepers, and four thousand praised the Lord with musical instruments, “which I made,” said David, “for giving praise.”
2 Chronicles 7:6 New King James Version (NKJV)And the priests attended to their services; the Levites also with instruments of the music of the Lord, which King David had made to praise the Lord, saying, “For His mercy endures forever,” whenever David offered praise by their ministry. The priests sounded trumpets opposite them, while all Israel stood.
David is God's example of an anointed, favored, and versatile individual possessing spiritual gifts and talents to be used by God as He chose, when He chose, because David, humbled himself, repented, prayed and sought God's face, surrendered, and became a willing vessel and servant.
We can say that David was in touch with his Inner Man or Spirit Man. He knew that the spirit must be fed and it was created to express itself in praise and tribute to God. He became known as the King who danced somewhat naked before his people, praising God and celebrating the return of the Arc of the Covenant.
We can say that David was in touch with his Inner Man or Spirit Man. He knew that the spirit must be fed and it was created to express itself in praise and tribute to God. He became known as the King who danced somewhat naked before his people, praising God and celebrating the return of the Arc of the Covenant.
It is no surprise that Satan continues to mimic God, disguised as light, while he corrupts music, because he knows the characteristics of man's spirit. He continues to introduce false gods for man to worship and corrupt himself through music.
We can most assuredly say that not all music stirs or empowers the Spirit to holiness and righteousness, or manifests God's Holy Spirit, but is intended for distraction and self-glorification. Corrupted music can be found in every genre, for not all music speaks Truth and Light and often it is the one rendering song who corrupts and taints what was intended to glorify God and not man.
We can most assuredly say that not all music stirs or empowers the Spirit to holiness and righteousness, or manifests God's Holy Spirit, but is intended for distraction and self-glorification. Corrupted music can be found in every genre, for not all music speaks Truth and Light and often it is the one rendering song who corrupts and taints what was intended to glorify God and not man.
Does this mean God frowns upon us enjoying different genres of music? We must seek the answer to this question within God's purpose for music and how it affects us as individuals.
Music keeps us communicating with one another in the world. Music acts as a narrative of our lives and culture, helping us to understand one another. Music heals and comforts through the Holy Spirit. Music helps us express our Inner Man, communicate with God, and extol praise and gratitude to God.
Music keeps us communicating with one another in the world. Music acts as a narrative of our lives and culture, helping us to understand one another. Music heals and comforts through the Holy Spirit. Music helps us express our Inner Man, communicate with God, and extol praise and gratitude to God.
Still, there are things in this world that can be corrupted to distract us and lead us from the narrow path to separate us from God. Music in any form is one of them. Through music, the adversary can persuade us to idolize music and musicians, use us by making us an idol in the eyes of others, or use us to idolize ourselves and follow the desires of the flesh (self). Therefore, we must be on our guard and turn from anything that tries to separate us from God and cast out the enemy who seeks to pollute that which is intended for good and for the glorification of God. We must examine our hearts for our intent, so that all is done in love for the glorification of God and His Kingdom.
I suppose this is why there are religions that ban music and instruments from their worship, as the musical Archangel Lucifer, was banned from Heaven. Such is the trickery of Darkness, disguising itself as light; for within the Garden of Eden were the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life. These trees were not corrupt, but Lucifer, the Prince of Darkness, the fallen angel, who allowed his pride to corrupt him, used what was created for good to stir up pride and invite confusion, rebellion, sin, and corruption into Adam and Eve.
God has not banned music and instruments from Heaven, but told us to make a joyful noise, as there our songs of praise rendered before Him in Heaven, without end. "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
God has not banned music and instruments from Heaven, but told us to make a joyful noise, as there our songs of praise rendered before Him in Heaven, without end. "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven."
Psalm 100 King James Version (KJV)1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
2 Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Let us not deny God of that which He, alone, is worthy--Praise. In return for His unconditional, perfect love, all He ask for is to commune with His children, daily. We gain so much from being in His presence, we can never meet or surpass His giving. He has created so many ways to communicate with us, even if we are blind or deaf. Still, so many people in the world remain unaware of His presence. We, too, become so busy, we fail to acknowledge His Spirit living within us and among us, communing with our Spirit in the same language.
Man offers the argument that God is dead, a fairy tale, or a figment of the imagination, because He can't be seen, but, the eyes are earthly bound as is the bound soul of an unbeliever. May God have mercy upon their soul!
SLOW DOWN! TARRY A WHILE AND WAIT ON THE LORD! HUMBLE YOURSELF IN PERFECT SUBMISSION AND SEE WITH YOUR HEART THE GLORY OF THE LORD! SEE HIS DIVINE MAJESTY POURED OVER THE EARTH AND THROUGHOUT THE UNIVERSE!
Truly repent, pray and seek His face. Perhaps, then, you will hear His melodious voice calling to you and the spiritual language of your heart can answer, "Here I am, Lord! Save me, a poor sinner."
Man offers the argument that God is dead, a fairy tale, or a figment of the imagination, because He can't be seen, but, the eyes are earthly bound as is the bound soul of an unbeliever. May God have mercy upon their soul!
SLOW DOWN! TARRY A WHILE AND WAIT ON THE LORD! HUMBLE YOURSELF IN PERFECT SUBMISSION AND SEE WITH YOUR HEART THE GLORY OF THE LORD! SEE HIS DIVINE MAJESTY POURED OVER THE EARTH AND THROUGHOUT THE UNIVERSE!
Truly repent, pray and seek His face. Perhaps, then, you will hear His melodious voice calling to you and the spiritual language of your heart can answer, "Here I am, Lord! Save me, a poor sinner."
Psalm 51: 7-10 King James Version (KJV)7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
THE OLD LANDMARK
As the old song goes, "Let us all go back to the old landmark and stay in the presence of the Lord." As we offer music to God, let us not forget where and when we first saw the Light. As we lift up our voices in song, let us not forget Gethsemane and the agony Jesus suffered for us to be able to sing a new song. As we play upon our instruments, feed upon God's Word, fellowship, as we walk in His Light and commune with God, spirit to spirit, let us not forget the old ways of worship, separated by the veil, with blood sacrifices and burnt offerings, but, now, we have Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
If we remember, we know that it is worth us slowing down, stilling our heart, allowing our spirit to absorb, interpret and offer worthy praise to our Heavenly Father, lest we miss out on our blessings; for as they say, when the praises go up, the blessings come down.
If we abide in JESUS, He who has suffered and died for our salvation, which by His blood, we have become worthy to lift up our hearts in praise to the One and only Triune God of ALL people and nations, we will always acknowledge our Father. It is through JESUS that our faith, heart, and worship is perfected! Glory to God!
If we remember, we know that it is worth us slowing down, stilling our heart, allowing our spirit to absorb, interpret and offer worthy praise to our Heavenly Father, lest we miss out on our blessings; for as they say, when the praises go up, the blessings come down.
If we abide in JESUS, He who has suffered and died for our salvation, which by His blood, we have become worthy to lift up our hearts in praise to the One and only Triune God of ALL people and nations, we will always acknowledge our Father. It is through JESUS that our faith, heart, and worship is perfected! Glory to God!
My friends, if you want this year to be a better year for you, start out by making it a year of praise, praying, worshipping and communing with God in Spirit and in Truth!
The next time you sing, play, or listen to a song or musical piece, ask yourself what will God hear from the spiritual language within your heart. Are you communing, sharing your life, putting God first, speaking truth, and having a relationship with Him? Will He be pleased with what is in your heart? Even if you are troubled, have you come to your Father like David, with the heart of a child, humbled, repentant, prayerful, seeking His face? Do you know that within Him is healing, comfort, restoration, peace and love? Do you know and follow His Son? Do you really want a relationship with Him because you love Him and want to obey Him, or is your hand out just looking for something in return for your worship?
I look forward to bringing forth the many things God has placed upon my heart to share with you. I pray "It is well" with you. May His Spirit keep you within His Will and Way, as He keeps you within His care.
In the spiritual language of music, may your heart be blessed and your soul rise up to higher heights to rest upon the harmony of peace.
your servant and soldier, by the sacrificial blood of Jesus, united with the One in peace and harmony,
mishael
Once again, when we look at Jesus' parables, He is challenging us to examine where our heart lies. Closely examining your heart, answer the following questions.
DISCUSS your answers with a mature Believer who can guide you in your spiritual relationship with Jesus and our Father, and/or have group discussions to learn from those who have different experiences and perspectives.
QUESTIONS: Write down your questions and discuss them with a mature Believer or submit them to:
https://fsasw.blogspot.com
https://fssw-followers.weebly.com
THE PRESENCE OF GOD
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Psalm 51 King James Version (KJV)
1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.
Psalm 96 King James Version (KJV)
1 O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
2 Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.
4 For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens.
6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
7 Give unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength.
8 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.
9 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.
10 Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.
11 Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.
12 Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice
13 Before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Ezekiel 28:12-19 King James Version (KJV)
12 Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.
13 Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.
14 Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.
15 Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.
16 By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire.
17 Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.
18 Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffick; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee.
19 All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more.
Isaiah 14:12-15King James Version (KJV)
12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!
13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.
15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
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SELF REFLECTION: A Look in the Mirror
Once again, when we look at Jesus' parables, He is challenging us to examine where our heart lies. Closely examining your heart, answer the following questions.
DISCUSS your answers with a mature Believer who can guide you in your spiritual relationship with Jesus and our Father, and/or have group discussions to learn from those who have different experiences and perspectives.
QUESTIONS: Write down your questions and discuss them with a mature Believer or submit them to:
https://fsasw.blogspot.com
https://fssw-followers.weebly.com
THE PRESENCE OF GOD
- How often do you acknowledge the presence of God within you? Within others?
- When you take time to acknowledge God's presence, does it change you? --The atmosphere around you?
- What is your outlook on the year ahead of you?
- Do you believe God has a plan for your life?
- Has God revealed to you His plans and your specific purpose?
- Have you made plans this year to change your life?
- How do you plan to go about making changes in your life?
- Do you believe your plans are within God's Will?
- Is God included in your plans?
- Do you pray and talk to God daily about the changes you want to make?
- Do you need to slow down and not rush so much in your decisions and/or activities?
- How do you plan to slow down?
- Do you have decisions or situations in which you need patience or require you to be still and wait on the Lord?
- What do you do to try and be more patient? If Jesus can command the winds and waves can He calm the storm within you?
- How do you see this year being different or better than last year? In what ways?
- How do you determine better? What will make it better? Will you bear "good fruit"?
- What type of music do you listen to?
- Does your music reflect your mood and feelings, thoughts, experiences, race, ethnicity or culture?
- How does your music make you feel? What messages are you receiving?
- Do you acknowledge God while you're listening to music?
- What do you think He hears and sees in your heart? How does this make you feel?
- Do you idolize music, musicians, or recording artists?
- If God cannot be a part of your music experience, are you putting your music above God?
- If your music reflects divisiveness, exclusion, or prejudice, are you putting your music above God?
- Does your music reflect anger, hatred, violence, abuse, obscenity, profanity, promiscuity, misogyny, love of money and the world? Are you putting your music above God?
- Do you participate in praise and worship when you fellowship with others?
- Do you feel pressured to take part in praise and worship? Why or why not? How does it make you feel?
- Have you witnessed others being pressured or criticized for not taking part?
- What genre or style of music is typically used in your worship services? Why?
- Is more emphasis placed on contemporary, new music than older music?
- Has the worship music become more for the people and less of how they worship and commune with God?
- Has a lack of holiness caused contention and strife within your music ministry?
- What can we do as individuals to make our music more about communing with God and pleasing God?
- Can Jesus help us to change within and change the spiritual language within our hearts? How? What must we do to be like the hundred and forty and four thousand? Are we redeemed through Christ?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Psalm 51 King James Version (KJV)
1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.
Psalm 96 King James Version (KJV)
1 O sing unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the Lord, all the earth.
2 Sing unto the Lord, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.
4 For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens.
6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
7 Give unto the Lord, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength.
8 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.
9 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.
10 Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.
11 Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.
12 Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice
13 Before the Lord: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Ezekiel 28:12-19 King James Version (KJV)
12 Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.
13 Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created.
14 Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire.
15 Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.
16 By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God: and I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire.
17 Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.
18 Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffick; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee.
19 All they that know thee among the people shall be astonished at thee: thou shalt be a terror, and never shalt thou be any more.
Isaiah 14:12-15King James Version (KJV)
12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!
13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:
14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.
15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Audio Version
Audio No.1
Audio No.2
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