Choose to Sing
The Lord… helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. – Psalm 28:7
With a terrible voice and an impossible dream, Florence Foster Jenkins achieved her impossible when she sang to a sold-out crowd at Carnegie Hall in 1944. Reportedly, one month later before her death, she said, “People may say I couldn’t sing, but no one can ever say I didn’t sing.”
Do you sing? If not, what is your excuse? Bad voice? Nothing to sing about?
Paul and Silas chose to sing while chained in the dark, dank dungeon of a Roman prison. They had been stripped and beaten, yet even in the midst of such torture, they drew out of the depths of their being musical praise to the God who was with them in the hardest of places. God gave them songs that were used to change heaven and earth as God sent an earthquake to free them and draw both prisoners and warden to the Source of all music. (See Acts 16.)
In the midst of another dark time—the Civil War—Robert Lowry wrote a hymn reminding us to make the same choice:
What though my joys and comforts die? The Lord my Savior liveth.
What though the darkness gather round? Songs in the night He giveth.
No storm can shake my inmost calm, While to that Rock I’m clinging;
Since Christ is Lord of heaven and earth, How can I keep from singing?
Someone once said, “She who sings prays twice.”
I have discovered that singing can change a whole atmosphere. Singing along to the standards of Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland while I’m cleaning the house reminds me of my childhood and brings great memories of my parents. Singing along with praise music or hymns in the midst of a funk raises my spirits. Singing aloud to and with my grandchildren makes us all feel joyful and connected. And yes, I close every single speaking presentation by singing/praying over my audience.
As long as I am able “I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love.” Psalm 59:16
Lord, You have given me a voice—one to use, no matter the musical quality. May the sounds that come forth always be pleasing to You, while at the same time directing others to the great Source of all beauty and music. Truly it is a healing power. Amen.
May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the friendship of the Holy Spirit bring you comfort and strength, Lucinda
“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity and Strength”
©2021 Lucinda Secrest McDowell www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” She has authored 15 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” and “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most.” She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
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Yes, I did need that word today. I’m supposed to be having radiation this week, but assorted glitches has stalled it, and short of a miracle, I could well be on my heavenly escalator. Reason enough to sing! : )
Ellie, I was just about to leave a comment on this post myself when I read yours. Stopping to pray for you right now!
This post made me smile. .we saw the movie about Florence Jenkins..quite a Character but she had a lot of sadness in her life. Choir in our church is canceled still…I miss singing group arrangements…such beautiful blend…but the CDs are on the stereo and in my car! Sing it
Dearest Ellie, You know I’m praying for you, as is our whole reNEW alumni group. May God hold you close and give His peace, presence, and provision in every way. May you “rest beside the weary road and hear the angels sing…” Hugs!
Thank GOD for that word i need it today all day. the devil comes to steal our Joy but it is our strength