the Balm of Gilead?

[irishman]

Music is as a soothing balm for the soul. The Lord would have us to have a joyful spirit, and not be in the doldrums all the time. In fact, unless we get our eyes off Jesus, we should never be in the doldrums, but of a cheerful spirit. Psalm 100 says "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord..." Don't you think He would rather see His children come into His presence with singing (v.2), rather than a gloomy outlook? Wouldn't He have us serve Him with gladness, rather than sadness (v.2)? Singing shows a glad heart; a glad heart shows contentment; contentment shows a Great Provider. It glorifies the Lord in the face of His enemies. Ephesians 5:19 says it best: "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;" Speaking to whom? Ourselves--that is keeping a song in our heart; unto Whom? The Lord, as we make melody and show a happy countenance. When we are not joyful, it is as if we broadcast that our God's joy is not sufficient for us; as if He did not care to make us happy...as if our God cannot please us! This is resultant of taking our focus off of Christ, for what sadness is there in Him? Keep a song always in your heart and on your lips, and praise God for that unspeakable joy. (1 Peter 1:8)