Sing

Rev 19:4-6

4 The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. And they cried:

"Amen, Hallelujah!"

5 Then a voice came from the throne, saying:

"Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!"

6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:

"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.
(NIV)

I remember when my daughter started singing in the youth choir. Let me tell you I have never been more proud of her in all my life. She is a great athlete, an honor student, and has received all kinds of awards, but seeing her singing praises to our God fills my heart with an inexpressible joy that I can not find the words to describe. As I was reflecting upon how the youth choir led the congregation into worship, I started thinking about how God was feeling at the time. I am sure He had a big smile as He looked down upon His children worshiping him. Just as I was proudly watching my daughter worship, God was looking at me worshiping Him. I was so encouraged!

Sing to make God smile! That is what kept coming to my mind. Sing to make the Lord smile with pleasure. We can sing to make ourselves feel better. We can sing for an audience to receive their praise. Or we can sing to God to please him. When I sing and worship I often close my eyes and imagine Jesus sitting on his throne before me. It is important for us all to have times of devoted worship, free of all distractions and interruptions so we can wholeheartedly worship Jesus. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I really worshiped Jesus?” Imagine yourself witnessing the passage above. It was loud! It was exciting and intense! A “roar of rushing waters,” “loud peals of thunder,” “shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.” When the church gathers and starts praise and worship, it should be no different.

Copyright 2006 Greg Graham