Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
Psalm 33:1-3 NIV
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
Praise the LORD with the harp;
make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre.
Sing to him a new song;
play skillfully, and shout for joy.
Sing joyfully to the Lord! Shout for joy! It is good for the Lord’s people to praise him with our voices and with musical instruments. But how often do I do that? Indeed, I do attend worship services every Sunday morning if I can. And I sing along with the songs. At least if I know them. But how often is it done with joy?
I do not get easily excited and do not readily express emotion. Part of that is just my nature; it is who I am. I would never be comfortable in a charismatic church with a highly emotional service. But regardless, I should sing with joy, lifting my voice in praise to the one who made me, redeemed me, and called me to serve him.
Whether gathering with other believers or alone with God, it is appropriate to sing with joy to our gracious Lord. Sing to him, not to the hymnal or overhead. Remember who he is and what he does for us. Praise him with a thankful heart. And let joy sneak out onto our faces. It’s OK. They won’t break. 🙂
