Our Source of Peace

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 Some days we just need some encouragement, don't we?  When the trials of life overwhelm us, whether it is people or circumstances, our hearts can get heavy.  Often our minds are too muddled to even think through the issues in front of us.  There are times that the only thing that seems to calm our frustrated or hurting hearts is music.  Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16 both tell us that we are to speak to one another (Christians) in "psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs." What are these three types of music?  If you look at these three terms, they are actually all referring to the Psalms of Scripture! They refer to three different types or categories of the Psalms.  There are some Christians who use these verses to argue that the words of the Psalms are the only lyrics that should be sung in the church.  
    I am not calling us to "solo Psalmody" in our church.  However, I do want us to consider that we are told by the Apostle Paul to turn to the Psalms when our hearts are overwhelmed (rather than turning to wine, to put Ephesians 5:19 in context). The Psalms are also given to us to teach and encourage one another -- and we are commanded to do so in Colossians 3:16.  In Colossians, Paul is giving us the keys to peace in our hearts (verse 15).  Often, we forget these clear instructions for living a life of peace and joy, even through the darkest and hardest times. The Bible really does have the answer for everything we would ever face!
    Why is it that Paul refers us to the Psalms? They are traditionally songs.  The Hebrews did not just read them, they sung them!  Music ministers to our spirits in a powerful way.  Further, truth brings freedom.  Hearing truth frees our mind and heart to rest in the Lord. How can we trust that the words are truth, that we are speaking?  By knowing that they are the God-breathed words of Scripture.  There is complete trust in that. Therefore, when our hearts are heavy and hurting, we can turn to the Psalms for encouragement and peace.  If we can listen to them in song-form, that is even better! Many of our worship songs are based on the Psalms of Scripture.  Look them up!  
    I am challenged to seek out those songs that are based on the Psalms and have them available for those times that I am hurting or sad.  We are also called to encourage one another with these same Scripture passages and songs.  
    Matt Redman has a version of Psalm 84 that I love.  It was my mother's favorite Psalm, so it has a special place in my heart.  

How lovely is your dwelling placeOh, Lord AlmightyFor my soul longs and even faints for YouFor here my heart is satisfiedWithin Your presenceI sing beneath the shadow of Your wings
Better is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhere
One thing I ask and I would seekTo see Your beautyTo find You in the place Your glory dwellsOne thing I ask and I would seekTo see Your beautyTo find You in the place Your glory dwells
My heart and flesh cry outFor You, the living GodYour Spirit's water to my soulI've tasted and I've seenCome once again to meI will draw near to YouI will draw near to You

May you find encouragement, peace and comfort for your heart in the Psalms today!

Soli Deo Gloria!
💓Heather Sparks💓



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