I couldn’t hold a note in a container with a lid on it. My father once told me I could sing and my mother told him to quit lying to me. My brother Steve tried to teach me. Told me about the count 4 beats, 8 beats, etc. Needless to say, that is not the gift that God gave me. Although talented singers do run in the family, my father, my mother, my oldest sister, cousins and both my daughters have beautiful voices. I told my sister once that if I could sing I would have to pay someone to make me be quiet.
That said, I was listening to music this week while driving. I put an eclectic selection on my phone. Gospel, contemporary Christian, rhythm and blues, and Motown sound are included; from the Four Tops, Patti Labelle and Smokie Norful to Nick Jonas and Adele. Yes, I even have a country artist or two. I mentioned eclectic earlier. Not saying I am most current, but true soulful music lasts forever. The right words and the right instrument combinations minister to the soul.
Satan was the minister of music before his downfall. Angels continue to sing praise before God. Music helps to calm, bring peace. Even David musically ministered to Saul when he had issues, ordained by God. When I am going through these issues of life, music does help. My appreciation for the talents of singers and musicians was renewed this week. Music will be used more often this year to calm, to get out of my own head when I get overwhelmed, to just enjoy.
Music is a ministry. And, when we listen to the music from our childhood, young adulthood, etc., it allows us to look back, reflect on the good and bad times. Music reminds us of who we are and from where we came. New artists allow us to see development and growth; especially the youth who appreciate the path made for them from those gone before. We have lost a number of truly great contributors in the past year, naming just Whitney Houston and BB King. To name them all would make this a long post. Beautiful voices and masters of song and instrument that enhance our lives, making it richer and more enjoyable. My favorite instrument by the way is the sax.
This is just a shout out to those that God has blessed and continues to bless for us. I thank and praise God for them.