God Gives You a Song

Vincenzo Bellini had a gift for writing brilliant music for the voice. The great Italian composer, Giuseppi Verdi, acknowledged his debt to Bellini, in particular his “long, long melodies, such as no one has written before.”

Born in Catania, Italy, on this day in 1801, Bellini lived a relatively short life. In his only thirty-four years, he wrote ten memorable operas, creating characters still beloved by singers and opera-goers.

Although well-trained, what set him apart was that instinct for writing melodies that have stood the test of time. The impact could be overwhelming. Attending the opening night of one Bellini opera, composer Mikhail Glinka described how “the singers themselves wept, and carried their audience along with them.” Glinka himself “shed tears of emotion and ecstasy.”

The Bible confirms the great power of music. This particularly is true as part of our worship, and central to our experience of God Himself. How we are to express our praises with “melodious song” (Psalm 98:5).

In amazing ways, music can have a powerful impact and even help change our attitude. The Bible describes how the psalmist could sing songs to the Lord “through each night,” when feeling uncertain and worried.

Like Moses, we can sing to the Lord, knowing that He is our strength and song (Exodus 15:2). Like Isaiah, music can help us find comfort, even in the wilderness, to know that “joy and gladness will be found there. Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air” (Isaiah 51:3). Like David, we can sing to Him when we are rescued from trouble (2 Samuel 22:1). Like Paul and Silas, we can sing even when trapped in prisons (Acts 16:25).

Do you have a song in your heart? Has God blessed you? Don’t hold back. Sing to the Lord. Sing His praises!