In your prayer life, what do you most ask of God? For good health, for comfort and success, for world peace? Jesus said in Mark chapter 11, verse 24, “…all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them…” So in our prayers we ask as we have been directed, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7) and we offer thanks (I Thessalonians 5:18). But again, when you pray…what do you most ask for?
Baylus McKinney, a musician and song writer in the early 1900’s, penned the words to dozens of Christian hymns. But one particular song is a prayer seeking God’s blessing on the home. Though it encompasses only one request, “God give us Christian homes,” there are four different elements noted as we sing. What does it take to have a Christian home? What elements did McKinney see fit to ask of God as we seek this blessing?
First of all, we seek homes where the Bible is not only loved by the family, but taught to the children. Homes where God’s will is a priority and sought after on a daily basis. Another element of a ‘Christian home’ is one with a father who is truthful and strong. Strengthened to know the difference between right and wrong and leading his family heavenward. A father who teaches his family love, joy, and the importance of praising God in song. A third element of a Christian home comes by way of the mother who conducts herself with dignity, in ‘queenly quest.’ She lives so as to show all those who pass through her door that life is best lived following God’s word. A mother who brings glory and honor to the King of Kings. And finally, as we ask for a Christian home we must remember to pass on the legacy to the children. Children who know that Christ loves them and died for them. A Christian home where the children understand what it means to sacrifice. Not offering a lamb on a stone altar, but laying down our lives for the glory of our God.
For a Christian home, we need 1) God’s word, 2) a Godly father and 3) mother who will teach 4) their children God’s ways. We offer prayers daily; thanking our Father in heaven for His blessings and asking for His guidance. Today, when you bow your head in prayer, what will you ask for? Would that we individually and collectively pray for the fathers, mothers and children, that we strive to raise up Christian homes.
L.T.C. (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a focus for members of the Lord’s church for 25 years. A branch off the Lads to Leaders which began in 1968, L.T.C. has been preparing our young men to speak, lead singing and read scripture. Our young ladies learn how to lead women’s devotionals, sign for the hearing impaired and teach younger children. (Though the boys can do the signing and teaching challenge as well!) And this doesn’t even include chorus, drama, puppets, service challenge and a myriad of other areas for training.
Perhaps the primary focus for those who find L.T.C. (or Lads) a focal point in their year would be the preparation that goes into Bible Bowl. In this ‘event’ students from 3rd -12th grades study a pre-selected section of scripture, then take an oral test to determine their retention of the material covered. Some who dislike tests avoid this event, but to others it is a challenge to see if they can learn, remember and recall the scriptures.
Below are a few of the test questions from L.T.C. 2014, “Called Out”, as we studied the life of Moses (see Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy).
1. Where was the blood of the Passover lamb to be placed? (Ex. 12:22) a. the door frame b. the roof of the house c. the ground d. on the table
2. As long as Moses’ hands were held up, the Israelite army was _________ the battle. (Ex. 17:11) a. escaping b. losing c. winning d. surviving
3. How many days did the men, sent by Moses, explore Canaan? (Num. 13:25) a. 4 days b. 12 days c. 40 days d. 60 days
4. When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, he was not aware that his face was what? (Ex. 34:29) a. darkened b. radiant c. pale d. saddened
5. Who was asked to put a curse on Israel? (Num. 22:10-11) a. Balak b. Baal c. Balaam d. Bashan
6. How many men went to battle against the Midianites? (Num. 31:4) a. all of them b. 10,000 men of war c. only the Levites d. 1,000 from each tribe
7. What did God have Moses write down and teach to the Israelites? (Deut. 31:19) a. their history b. a song c. the scroll of law d. words from the stone tablet
8. What plague did Pharaoh’s magicians call ‘the finger of God?’ (Ex. 8:16-19) a. the water to blood b. the gnats c. the frogs d. the locust
9. Manna tasted like something made from _______ ______? (Num. 11:8) a. unleavened yeast b. wheat flour c. raisins & figs d. olive oil
10. In Moses’s final blessing, which tribe was referred to as a lion’s cub? (Deut. 33:22) a. Reuben b. Levi c. Dan d. Benjamin
This is just a sampling of the 100 questions the young men and women were given to answer this year at our local L.T.C. convention in Dallas, Texas. Several performed remarkably well and received high marks. And to be honest, others struggled. But knowing the answers to the questions is only half the battle. When we learn from God’s word that we have been ‘called out,’ we’ll know better how to serve our God and King. Leadership Training for Christ is a great experience, but applying the lessons learned from a study of God’s Word is worth it’s weight in gold, silver and bronze.
The year was 2008, and four men were running for their life. Their adversaries were all around, but they were prepared for this moment. They knew the routine and had visualized it (and done it) over and over and over. Then disaster struck. Two of the four men failed to complete their assigned duties. They failed to pass the baton. In a split second the aluminum cylinder skipped off the track and the hopes of a gold medal vanished. During the 2008 Summer Olympics, Tyson Gay and Darvis Patton failed to make the hand off in the 4×100 relay, but if the truth be told, an entire country felt the sting of disappointment when we failed to pass the baton.
But there are other areas in which failing to ‘pass the baton’ can crush hope. A teacher who fails to pass on valuable knowledge, drops the baton. A person of authority who knows truth and yet refuses to stand for what’s right, drops the baton. A father who fails to teach his child the truths of God’s word, drops the baton. As Christians, we have a unique responsibility when it comes to passing on the knowledge of salvation in Christ Jesus. The question is, how are we passing the baton?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, March 30, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Surround Us, Lord” – no book
“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people…” Taken from the 125th chapter of Psalms, this ‘psalm’ is a direct quote from the word of God. Would that we call upon our God to surround us with His love, mercy and protection…just as the mountains surrounded the city of Jerusalem.
“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869
A call for Christians to come, march (live a life) for Christ! Not in protest or defiance to the world, but to ‘let our joys be known.’ Please consider carefully the second verse and see where you are in this march. “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God, but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad (all around)…” How are you with your singing? Do you sing and speak of the joy you have in Christ? Remember, when you sing about the beautiful city of God, you’re helping pass the baton!
“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349
When we read the scripture, this song should have a different name. Matthew 26:53 states, He could have called 12 legions of angels. So perhaps a better title would be “Seventy-two Thousand Angels.” Never forget, Christ was (is) in control and we are all indebted to His sacrifice. They did bind the hands of Jesus and they did lead Him through the streets…but He allowed it. Take some time to remember that they did spit upon our Savior and He was pure and free from sin…think about Him as we remember the Lord’s Supper.
“Humble Yourself” – 745
Taken from James chapter 4, verse 10, “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Understand what it means to humble yourself. By definition, “showing submissive respect.” As we come together to worship God we are in His presence. Are you submissive and respectful of Him…or is your mind somewhere else?
“Lord, Speak to Me” – 771
As we consider this morning’s lesson, notice verse three of this hymn; “O teach me Lord, that I may teach the precious things Thou dost impart…” Understand that what we’re singing this morning is a prayer. We’re asking for God’s help as we run the race, teach others about Him, and pass the baton.
“Pass It On” – no book
An old youth song from Camp Blue Haven that reminds me of my youth. “It only takes a spark to get a fire going…I wish for you my friend this happiness that I’ve found…I’ll shout it from the mountain tops, I want the world to know, the Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.” Do we really want to pass it on, or are we waiting for someone to come and take it?
“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543
Before our lesson we’ll sing a ‘spiritual song’ that resounds with the idea of passing the baton. “Sweetly echo the gospel call…offer pardon and peace to all…Jesus, only Savior, sanctified forever!” We have wonderful words that give life, beautiful words of life, are we passing this message on?
“To Christ Be True” – 736
As the Olympic runner wins the race and crosses the finish line he runs another lap with the banner of his country flowing above him in proud display. If we are to be loyal and true we’ll pass on the message of Jesus Christ. We’ll be brave in His service of taking the message of salvation to a lost and dying world. We’ll ‘pass the baton’ being careful not to drop it. Then, as we sing, “…His banner be unfurled, and borne aloft till is secured the conquest of the world.”
“Heavenly Sunlight” – 611
Completing this service we’ll remind each other of our walk on this journey, that we’re pressing our way to mansion’s above. And though this journey may lead us over the mountains or through the deep valley, our Savior will never forsake us. We rejoice with that assurance…“Hallelujah!”, but we must always be ready to pass the baton!
As a child your parents undoubtedly told you when to go to bed, when to get up, what to wear and where to go. That’s the job of a mom and dad. And as a child, you did what your parents told you to do…or at least you should have.
But what happens when you grow past the point of being told…it’s time to brush your teeth and get ready for bed? What do I do when no one tells me to make my bed, will I? No one says, ‘pick up your clothes.’ Will I? For most young people today who are out on their own, they will eventually have to answer the questions. But to be honest, that’s only the beginning of the questions they’ll have to face. Outside of the hours they’re going to sleep or what they’re going to wear, they are faced with that first time realization of who am I going to be?
Who I am will be strongly determined by who my friends are. My choices in life will be closely linked with the influences and attitudes with which I associate. On Sunday, March 23rd, the sermon at Waterview church of Christ (Be Careful Who Your Friends Are) offered a strong understanding of this concept. (Click on the website to listen to it www.waterview.org.) From the earliest age of our children, we must help them decide what kind of friends they’ll have. Those early choices will eventually determine what kind of life they’ll live and what kind of ‘god’ they’ll serve. It is my strong opinion that the friends you choose will form the life you live. And the life you live will determine the God you serve. As our young people set their priorities, my prayer is that they will ask this one simple question; “What will I do?”
The question is not new, it’s been asked for generations. On an early morning over 2000 years ago this question was asked about our Savior, Jesus Christ. He was on trial before Pilate, and Pilate (being no friend of the Jewish leaders) was called upon to determine the fate of the “King of the Jews.” Since Pilate was a man of authority, he did what any legislator would do; he questioned, investigated, interviewed and then drew his conclusion. According to Luke chapter 23, verse 14 he said, “I have found no guilt in this man…” And, he knew what should be done with an innocent man; release him. But his decision was met with massive disapproval. Now consider this; have you ever made a thoughtful decision only to have your ‘friends’ disapprove? If the choice you make is godly, and your friends don’t like it…you might want to reconsider your friends. At the same time, if your decision is ungodly and yet your friends like it…still, you might want to reconsider your friends.
When the leaders of the Jewish people pushed back with their opinion concerning Jesus, Pilate broken down and asked the same question concerning the Messiah, “…what shall I do with Jesus?” (Matt. 27:22) Pilate’s decision is documented within the pages of the Bible, but the jury is still out with many of our young people today. Most have grown up in homes that give specific directions. They are taught and told what to do and when to do it. But as adults we all have to make the decision concerning life, friends and God!
Jesus is standing in Pilate’s hall – Friendless, forsaken, betrayed by all: Hearken! what meaneth the sudden call? What will you do with Jesus? Chorus: What will you do with Jesus my friend? Neutral you cannot be; Some day your heart will be asking, “What will He do with me?”
Jesus is standing on trial still, You can be false to Him if you will, You can be faithful through good or ill: What will you do with Jesus? Chorus:
Will you evade Him as Pilate tried? Or will you choose Him, whate’er betide? Vainly you struggle from Him to hide: What will you do with Jesus? Chorus:
Will you, like Peter, your Lord deny? Or will you scorn from His foes to fly, Daring for Jesus to live or die? What will you do with Jesus? Chorus:
“Jesus, I give Thee my heart today! Jesus, I’ll follow Thee all the way, Gladly obeying Thee!” will you say: “This will I do with Jesus!” Chorus: What will you do with Jesus my friend? Neutral you cannot be; Some day your heart will be asking, “What will He do with me?”
Have you ever stopped to consider how words, though spelled alike, have a different meaning? It’s easy to see how words like post can mean something you write or something you dig a hole for. Or how stalk, can be a part of a plant or it could mean to follow someone. How about the word yard, or jam, or left, or right, or match, or crane…you see the list goes on and on. These words are commonly referred to as homonyms; words that are both spelled and pronounced the same, but have different means.
Obviously, we find homonyms in some of the songs we sing as well. You might remember singing the word ‘beguile’ in a song or two. This is a word we must know what it means if we’re going to sing it. Notice the second verse of the song, Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen:
“When somebody has been so unkind to you, some word spoken that pierces you through and through. Think how He was beguiled, spat upon and reviled, let the beauty of Jesus be seen in you.” The word beguiled means to trick, deceive or cheat. Could it be said that when Jesus was on trial he was cheated? Certainly; taken by night, accused by false witnesses, lied about. We can see how ‘he was beguiled’ but what about another song with the same word, could we possibly be using the same meaning?
“Sing on, ye joyful pilgrims, while here on earth we stay; let songs of home and Jesus beguile each fleeting day…” The word beguile means to trick or deceive or cheat. Would that mean songs about home and Jesus are nothing more than a deception? You know that using that definition would be a misrepresentation of Jesus’ love. Instead, this is where the ‘other’ definition comes in. Beguile can also mean, ‘to pass time pleasantly.’ We sing about our home in heaven and remember our Savior; and those thoughts alone can help us pass the time pleasantly in our life.
But let’s consider another song with a more obscure homonym, The Lily of the Valley…(verse 2) “Oh, He all my griefs have taken and all my sorrows borne; in temptation He’s my strong and might tower. I have all for Him forsaken and all my idols torn from my heart and now He keeps me by His power. Though all the world forsake me, and Satan tempt me sore, thru Jesus I shall safely reach the goal…” Though you might have noticed more than one homonym, let’s see what Satan is doing to us directly. We sang, “…though Satan tempt me sore…” What kind of sore could that mean? Is it referencing what most would consider ‘causing sorrow or misery?’ Though Satan does cause me sorrow and pain in temptations, perhaps there is another meaning to this ‘sore.’
Written in 1881, Charles W. Fry was in his mid-forties and only months away from death. As he would have been familiar with a more rustic and rural life style, Fry may have also seen a different meaning to the word sore. Truly he would have known this to be a word depicting pain, but perhaps he also knew this word had another connotation. He may very well have known that sore(d) meant to, ‘mutilate the legs or feet of (a horse) in order to induce a particular gait in the animal.’ With this added definition let’s consider the message of the song; “…though all the world forsake me and Satan tempt me (so as to make me walk the way he wants me to), thru Jesus I shall safely reach the goal…” Satan does ‘tempt me sore’ that’s true. But we should never let him change from our walk with Christ!
And it’s true, we do hurt when we face trials and temptations, but know that Satan wants to do more damage to you other than just ‘making you hurt.’ He is trying to change your gait (a person’s particular manner of walking). His evil desire is to ‘mutilate’ your legs (your heart) so badly that you will eventually change your way of walking. But that’s when we remember the next line of this hymn, “….thru (with) Jesus I shall safely reach the goal.” There are more to our psalms, hymns and spiritual songs than we sometimes realize. Spend time reading, learning and understanding the words you sing as you praise God and edify one another.
Terry Harmon, my good friend and brother in Christ, has begun a new work with his family in Denver, Colorado. He has served more than 20 years in the mission fields of Russia and Ukraine, but in the last few years has been drawn back to the states where he worked as a pulpit minister. Just this year, however, Terry has returned to preach to the Russian speaking people, only this time on American soil. He and his family are involved in a work that specifically reaches out to the Russians living in Denver.
This article from Terry features a glimpse at the work that God is doing through him and his wife as they strive to serve the Lord and spread His word. Thanks to my brother and friend for his example of service and devotion as he shares THE story of salvation.
In the Russian language, like some others, there is no use of the articles ‘a,’ ‘an’ and ‘the.’ When you and I speak we find it necessary to specify an item as being general (a song we sang last week) or to be specific (the song we sang before the lesson).When the Russian speaks, they think about their sentences being specific or general, but their language doesn’t express it. As foreigners learn to speak English or enroll in an English class they take the time to discuss and explain the phraseology of the English sentences using these articles.Understanding the difference between ‘a’ or ‘an’ being non-specific while ‘the’ has a specific meaning is important to properly communicate with each other. Another example we might give is, “This is a dog” compared to “This is the dog.”
In all reality, this is what the ultimate goal is in teaching the difference about God’s Church to the Russian speaking people. It may be a bit of a surprise to Americans, but many Russians are very ‘religious,’ with some of them knowing the Bible quite well. They may be wondering why there is a need for another church. Our intent (the inner-city Russian ministry in Denver, Colorado) is to help people not to be part of a religious group, or to be associated with an organization that is following the Word of God in part, but to read the Scriptures and be completely convinced that we must be THE Church that we read about in the Bible. We must teach and preach how one becomes a Christian accurately, then how one is able to remain faithful, and finally how we must worship the Lord the way He intended.
It is critically important that all people (Russian & English speaking alike) understand that we do not get to decide how we want to worship Him.Rather, we have an obligation to respect and obey the ways God wants to be worshiped. No more and no less. While we can never be perfect, God’s Word is!And if we will simply read it and obey it, all people will respond as Peter did in John 6: 68, 69 “Lord, to whom shall we go?You have the words of eternal life.We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.” (NAS)We long to share with the Russian people that they can be part of His church, the Church that Jesus died for and established (Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23). And just as Aquila and Priscilla took Apollos aside and taught him the way of the Lord more accurately (Acts 18:24-26), so we want to do the same, so that as many might be saved and have eternal life.
Thanks Terry, for the reminder of how important a single, ‘three-letter’ word can be.
Some things only come around ‘once in a life time.’ We look forward to those opportunities when we can ‘make our mark’ or share some level of expertise that will effect that one-time, life-changing event. So what would you do when that time comes? Do you know when that moment will be?
Maybe we should ask, ‘can we prepare for that once in a life time event?’ How much training would it take to be ready? Then again, you would need to know what to train for and how to prepare for that opportunity. So consider this…what if someone asks you about Christ? Could that be ‘the opportunity of a life time’ and would you be ready?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, September 1, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Doxology” 66 “I Sing Praises” – 97
A simple medley that combines a traditional hymn (1709) with a contemporary hymn (1989). The key signature is the same, but the message is what makes this a powerful duo. As the congregation sings, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…”, we continue with the assurance that we will “…sing praises to Thy name, O, Lord…” A beautiful combination of praise to our God.
“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387
Many have sung this old spiritual song their whole life (written in 1880), and we have heard the singer tell about Christ on the Cross. But not just the cross, we also tell about the grave were Christ was ‘buried’. Yet without the next line our song would come to a sad conclusion. But then, as the Son rises, we sing, “tell that He lives again…”(Notice, we are singing the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection.) The third verse holds an emotional plea to, “…stay, let me weep while you whisper, ‘Love paid the ransom for me…” Think for a minute, when was the last time you cried when you considered Christ’s sacrifice?
“My Eyes are Dry” – 792
Listen to the message from this rather recent spiritual song/hymn; “My eyes are dry, my faith is old, my heart is hard, my prayers are cold…” A fearful situation to be sure, but how true is it for those who come together every Sunday morning? How many just go through the motions of being a Christian and never take inventory of their spiritual well-being. Without Jesus…we are lost. We all need to be ‘softened up’ with the spirit of His love and ‘washed anew’ in His blood. So…when was the last time you cried when you thought about His love?
“A Charge to Keep I Have” – 58 “People Need the Lord” – 660
Another medley we’ll sing before our lesson that combines the traditional (1832) with the contemporary (1983). In a dangerously lost world, it doesn’t take much to see that people need Jesus. And we, as children of God, have a charge, a responsibility to tell the world about Him. We may realize, but do we care that, “people need the Lord?”
“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659
We talk about all the things we love in life, but before our lesson we’ll sing about ‘loving to tell’ the story of Jesus Christ. You have certainly sung the song, but will you do what you sing? Each of these verses are filled with the reason we should not only sing about our Savior, but look forward to telling others about Him too. You can never tell when that ‘opportunity of a life time’ will come to you.
“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543
Let’s stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800′s. Not a typical invitation song, but the message couldn’t be clearer, “…sinner, list to the loving call,” “Wonderful words of Life; offer pardon and peace to all…” How eager are you to ‘Sweetly echo the gospel call…?” You never know when someone might be ready to listen to those wonderful words of life.
“Will You Not Tell It Today” – 628
As we leave the auditorium Sunday morning we’ll sing the question that has be asked for generations, “If the name of the Savior is precious to you…will you tell it (the good news) today?” But notice the ending to each of the three verses; “…will you not tell of your gladness today?”, “…will you not, my brother, the story repeat (the story of salvation)?” “…will you not tell them (the lost) the cheer-bringing word?” If you’re honest with yourself, every day you have the opportunity of a life-time.
Whether it’s Oliver Twist asking for more gruel in the orphanage, or a young boy asking about ‘mo’ -lasses for his hotcakes; we all are looking for more of something. As we conclude this three part study asking if ‘we want more’, we will examine the last verse of Phillip Bliss’ old hymn, “More Holiness Give Me.”
As you may recall, this hymn contains the word more a surprising twenty-four (24) times in only three short verses. Let’s conclude our study as we dive into verse three to examine Phillip Bliss’ inspiration of wanting more.
In verse three we sing about wanting (needing); more purity, more strength, more freedom and more longing. A desire to be more fit, more useful, more blessed & holy and more like the Savior. In the third part of this three part study we’ll consider one by one the ‘mores’ we’re seeking:
1) More purity give me…Purity is an interesting word. To be pure, by definition, is to be ‘unmixed.’ When we strive to have more purity, we are asking (praying) for God to keep us clean. Romans 3:23 reminds us that we “…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…”, we’re all dirty. Its our decision is to seek salvation or remain in sin. God’s children belong to Him, therefore we shouldn’t be mixed with the world. Living in a sinful world, we need more purity.
2) More strength to o’er come (overcome)…When faced with an obstacle we’ll either walk away from it, or work to ‘over-come it.’ But what does that mean? Bliss states it clearly, if we are to over come our struggles (obstacles), we need strength. Strength that we currently do not have. We might consider ourselves strong and capable to ‘overcome’, but that’s exactly where the devil wants us. Comfortable and over confident. To stand for Christ we need His strength if we are to ever overcome.
3) More freedom from earth-stains…Remember the need for purity? When we’re ‘mixed up’ in the world we become stained, soiled, dirty. To be free from stains we need a cleansing agent. Tide* might get the stain out of our clothes, but only Christ can remove ‘earth-stains’. Do you want more freedom?
4) More longings for home. Perhaps we have to be away from home for a while to realize how much we long for home. But then again you have to ask yourself…where is home? You’ve heard the saying, “Home is where is your heart is.” OK, then where is your heart? If our heart belongs to God, then heaven is our home. Are you longing to go home or have you given your heart to someone else?
5) More fit for His kingdom. Take a square peg and try to ‘fit’ it into a round hole; you know it doesn’t belong there. It doesn’t fit. To make that square peg do it’s job, you’ll need to shave off the corners. Round the peg off and smooth it to the same size as the hole. Then it will fit and be ready to use…you could say it will be ‘more fit’ than it was previously.
6) More useful…The idea of being useful and fit go hand in hand. Once the corners of the peg are carved off, smoothed down and shaped to fill the hole, it will be useful. But how can it be ‘more’ useful? We all have a responsibility in some form or fashion. Consider how well do you do your job? We work for a reason, to get the job done. We want to be useful in our daily task. But you need to ask yourself; “In God’s kingdom, am I being as ‘useful’ as I could be?”
7) More blessed and holy…8) More, Savior, like Thee. These last two are joined together for a reason. As we strive to be more like Christ in our life, we will be focused on living a holy life. In turn, we’ll be more blessed and ultimately we’ll be more like our Savior. Make no mistake, this song is a prayer. And in our prayers we ask God to give us good health, peace of mind, and patience. But be honest, do you want to be more holy and more like Jesus? That’s a prayer we should all be praying
This 140 year old hymn serves as a full, 24-point sermon on seeking more, but not what the world seeks. The world is focused on self, and it wrestles for more status and position. The child of God is focused on heaven and their desires more Christ centered. We have sung about being more godly…now we need to live ‘more, Savior, like Thee!
In the spring of 2009 this group of young men came together to praise God with their voices. They practiced for weeks on end to learn how to harmonize and lift before the Father several songs of praise. These boys were ‘devoted’ to giving God the glory and sought to encourage those who listened. Though the years have passed and they’ve ‘grown and moved away,’ they continue to uplift and edify God’s people with songs of praise. Take a few minutes to hear their voices and listen to them as they praise the Father. A memory from the 2009, Leadership Training for Christ.
LTC (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a constant focus for the Waterview church of Christ for more than 30 years. Students have studied, practiced and devoted months to reading the scripture, Bible bowl, singing with small groups, and song leading as well as public speaking (sermon preparation), sign language and many other areas of preparation to serve in the kingdom of God. All the while, these young people are being trained and encouraged to give God the glory.
In 2009, seventeen young men (now in college or college graduates) came together to sing 3 songs with the hope of edifying the congregation and glorifying their God. These men sang three songs, Surround Us, Lord, and a medley consisting of Poured Out Like Wine, Make Me New, Teach Me Thy Ways and I Am Mine No More. They concluded with a song taken from the text of Galatians 6:2 and Romans 12:10-13, Be Devoted.
My prayer is that you will enjoy listening to these young men as they praise God with the voice of youth. The first song, Surround Us, Lord comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 125, verse 2… “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the Lord surrounds His people From this time forth and forever.” When times are difficult and the way seems hard, don’t forget; the Lord surrounds His people!
The concluding song, Be Devoted, took lots of practice and work. As noted earlier, the words are taken from Galatians 6 and Romans 12. Notice how clearly this passage speaks to our relationship with each other: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Carry each other’s burdens Carry each other’s burdens And in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ
Chorus: Be devoted to one another in brotherly love Be devoted to one another in brotherly love Honor one another above yourselves Never be lacking in zeal Keep your spiritual fervor Keep your spiritual fervor Serving the Lord
Love one another Serve one another Pray for each other Encourage one another And build each other up
Chorus:
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Thanks guys for the reminder from years gone by. My prayer is that you will stay faithful to God’s word and honor your song to be devoted in brotherly love. We are reminded by your song that we are to be poured out before the King, commit ourselves to being new (putting off the old self) and then seek to have Him teach us His ways. When we do that, we will no longer be our own. May God bless each of you and your walk with Christ.
Last week, in his article about Hymnology, Richard Dent sited 7 rules for congregational singing. Taking a deeper look into these principles might inspire us to consider how we sing on Sunday morning, and how (do) we prepare ourselves to sing.
We mentioned the book by John & Charles Wesley from the early 1700’s, “Selected Writings and Hymns”. This collection of ideas and prayers comes from the founder of Arminian Methodism, yet some of his ideas shared here speak to us today. We’ll consider the exact wording and explore it’s deeper meaning. Keep in mind, our focus concerning words of directions for congregational singing must come from the word of God.
John Wesley’s Rules for Singing
From John Wesley’s Select Hymns, 1761
1) Learn these tunes before you learn any others; afterward learn as many as you please. The encouragement here is for the reader to learn Wesley’s songs as printed in his book. We would agree with the premise to ‘Learn these tunes…’ provided the tunes are scriptural in content. If we find a psalm, hymn or spiritual song that doesn’t resonate with the truth of God’s word, exercise caution before adding it to your repertoire. Learn as many as you please is good advice. But the basis for this charge is to sing songs of praise to God. If we would do that one thing alone (sing to God) our nation would be turning more toward Him.
2) Sing them exactly as they are printed here, without altering or mending them at all; and if you have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon as you can. Unfortunately I don’t espouse the language in this ‘rule’ for singing. Though spoken as a true musician, the lay singer will often adjust the melody line or add supporting harmony to a song. God’s instruction to us when we sing is to sing with our hearts, not our vocal cords. Often times we get caught up in the sound of it rather than focus on the heart of singing.
3) Sing all. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. Let not a slight degree of weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing. This is sound advice! ‘Sing all’ is a call for everyone to sing. Not just those who can or have the ‘best voices’, but all should be singing. Our culture seems to focus on the ‘idols’ and glamorize the talent, but when we read Colossians 3:16, the instruction is to be ‘…teaching and admonishing one another…singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.’ Paul doesn’t say, ‘if you want to,’ the command is for us to sing; and so we should, sing all!
4) Sing lustily and with a good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, than when you sung the songs of Satan. Two thoughts here; be of good courage and sing lustily (powerful or strong) are a great admonition. While some refuse to sing, others sing with apathy in their voices. And yet how often do we sing out the songs of the world, but mumble or refuse to sing songs of praise? Considering this was written almost 250 years ago, I find it interesting Wesley refers to worldly songs as ‘songs of Satan.’ Can we find praise to God in secular tunes (western, rock, rap, etc)? Perhaps, since many of those musical numbers carry us away from God, then Wesley was right in saying they are songs of Satan. And yet those are the songs that are sung to establish the ‘best singers’ in our society…do we need to rethink our singing?
5) Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard above or distinct from the rest of the congregation, that you many not destroy harmony, but strive to unite your voices together, so as to make one clear melodious sound. Almost seems like a counter to the previous rule to ‘sing lustily’, but consider the reason for singing with modesty. Do we come together to out sing each other? Are you singing tenor so others can hear you for your praise? Sopranos might have the hardest time with this ‘rule’ in that they have the lead voice. We must be aware that our songs are not for us, but for our God. Remember that we are offering ‘…a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.’ Will we offer that sacrifice with strength and power or with selfish intentions?
6) Sing in time. Whatever time is sung be sure to keep with it. Do not run before nor stay behind it; but attend close to the leading voices, and move therewith as exactly as you can; and take care not to sing too slow. This drawling way steals on all who are lazy; and it is high time to drive it out from us, and sing all our tunes just as quick as we did at first. Again, I’m not convinced this is of the utmost importance. What IS important is the encouragement to sing together. In addition, there is a clear understanding, as Paul stated in I Cor. 14:40 that we are to do, ‘all things…properly and in an orderly manner.’ This is case in point as to why we have song leaders in our worship services. Someone to lead our singing so the congregation can sing together without some running ahead or sing ‘whatever song they want.’ The 14th chapter of I Corinthians helps us understand this idea more clearly.
7) Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself or any other creature. In order to do this attend strictly to the sense of what you sing, and see that your heart is not carried away with sound, but offered to God continually; so shall your singing be such as the Lord will approve here, and reward you when He cometh in the clouds of heaven. I couldn’t say it any clearer. As we sing on Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings and Wednesday nights (or anytime for that matter) we’re praising God. The question is, where do you focus? We are a blessed people to have the hope of heaven. Let’s sing in our congregations to the glory of God and not to satisfy our opinions.
And just in case you were wondering; here’s one more quote from John Wesley, “I have no objection to instruments of music in our worship, provided they are neither seen nor heard.” Updated from What Did Early Christians Believe About Using Instrumental Music in Worship. http://www.bible.ca/H-music.htm
In your prayer life, what do you most ask of God? For good health, for comfort and success, for world peace? Jesus said in Mark chapter 11, verse 24, “…all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them…” So in our prayers we ask as we have been directed, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7) and we offer thanks (I Thessalonians 5:18). But again, when you pray…what do you most ask for?
God’s will is a priority and sought after on a daily basis. Another element of a ‘Christian home’ is one with a father who is truthful and strong. Strengthened to know the difference between right and wrong and leading his family heavenward. A father who teaches his family love, joy, and the importance of praising God in song. A third element of a Christian home comes by way of the mother who conducts herself with dignity, in ‘queenly quest.’ She lives so as to show all those who pass through her door that life is best lived following God’s word. A mother who brings glory and honor to the King of Kings. And finally, as we ask for a Christian home we must remember to pass on the legacy to the children. Children who know that Christ loves them and died for them. A Christian home where the children understand what it means to sacrifice. Not offering a lamb on a stone altar, but laying down our lives for the glory of our God.
