Music

Why does music play such an important role in our lives? Evidence is growing that music has many positive benefits. But music can be a tool for evil as well as good.

A recent study, for example, reported that listening to the wrong kind of music can spark violence and foster anti-social behavior. But, according to another study, the right kind of music actually “can alleviate stress” and improve health.

Music also can play a role in our spiritual lives. Consider the case of Elisha. He had been requested to provide a word from God. He asked them to bring him a musician. And when music was played, “the hand of the LORD came upon him.”

We see another impact of music in the way it soothed Saul’s tortured soul. Whenever Saul felt discouraged or depressed, David would play his harp, and Saul would be refreshed (1 Samuel 16:23).

God has given you the gift of music, but not just for enjoyment or entertainment. He can use music to calm your spirit and provide the background for you to draw you closer to Him. Music can help strengthen your spiritual life.

Look for ways to foster music that provide an environment in which God can speak to you. Lift your voice in praise and worship with “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19).