Loud Praises

Saint Ambrose became one of the most important church leaders in the fourth century. Born in AD 340, he served with distinction as the Bishop of Milan from 374 to 397. In particular, he was known for his passion for preaching. A serious student of the Bible, he helped guide the church through difficult times. Confident in his relationship with God, he fearlessly confronted those who advocated doctrines that were contrary to Biblical truth.

Ambrose stressed the importance of worship, particularly music and congregational singing. To help underscore the importance of music, he wrote many hymns himself, some of which still are sung today.

Historian Paul Johnson has described how Ambrose felt it was important that Believers learned to sing loudly! Ambrose “thought the volume frightened the devil, while the harmonics and the beauty of the melodic line were pleasing to God.” Ambrose once wrote, “From the singing of men, women, virgins and children, there is a harmonious volume of sound, like the waves of the ocean.”

Ambrose echoed a central theme taught throughout the Bible. Yes, there are times for quiet singing and silent meditation. But we also are commanded to “sing loud praises to Him who rides the clouds.”

The Bible describes Heaven as a place where the praise is loud. In his vision, John “heard a sound from heaven like the roar of mighty ocean waves or the rolling of loud thunder” (Revelation 14:1).

In your life, don’t be intimidated by what others may think or say. And don’t hold back or be timid. Express your praise to God. Think of all that He has done for you. Sing to His name. Shout with a voice of triumph! Proclaim His greatness! For He is great, and greatly to be praised!