Do you listen to praise and worship songs? Does your church focus on the old hymns? Or maybe your church uses a combination of old hymns and contemporary praise and worship songs in service? There are different ways to praise the Lord. Music is one of those ways. Why do Christians sing praise and worship songs? One reason Christians sing praise and worship songs is to share the love of Christ. Another reason is that by singing those types of songs, our faith can be strengthened as we are reminded of the love God has for us.
People who write songs share how a special event in their lives prompted them to write words praising God. Also, they may share how certain situations made them want to write songs of worship, to thank God for who He is and what He has done, and how He continues to show His love.
My family enjoys listening to music and singing along. I listen to praise and worship songs while taking a walk in the neighborhood while cleaning the house, and while riding in the car.
I’ve turned up the volume and motioned my way through the songs. Although some of us don’t have the gift of a beautiful singing voice, I believe God smiles when He hears His children singing praise and worship songs.
Whether the praise and worship song is instrumental or filled with heartfelt words, singing can be comforting and uplifting. A song can change the mood of the person singing or listening.
Why Do We Sing Praise and Worship Songs?
Christians pray together or alone. The words may be spoken out loud, whispered, or shared in thought. God always hears our prayers. When we sing praise and worship songs, we are acknowledging our struggles and the peace that comes as we know God is in control. We sing to give praise to God and to thank Him for the many blessings and mercies He gives every day. We sing to show that we worship God and not things.
When our voices are lifted in song, we are showing reverence and love for the Lord (Colossians 3:16).
Perhaps you have favorite praise and worship songs. Have you researched the story behind each song? Why did the author write those particular words? What was happening in the life of the author of the song? Some songs have different versions sung by different people. Have you ever been affected emotionally by listening to a praise and worship song?
The book of Psalms is filled with words of worship and praise. Also, there are words of lament. The Psalms are often referred to as a book of poetry written over many years.
Scripture tells us to sing about the wondrous works of God (Psalm 105:2).
Music has also been known to have a positive effect on the brain. Listening to praise and worship songs can encourage and comfort. Praise and worship music is often used to relax the mind and body.
Nursing homes sometimes share this special music with the residents. Various songs have been shown to have a calming effect.
What is the Difference between Praise Music and Worship Music?
Praise music often recognizes thanksgiving for something God has done. Worship music is most often filled with words about worshipping God for who He is and not what He has done. The two can cross over and be found in one verse or song.
Have you heard the words “praise band” at your church or another church? We are more likely to hear “praise band” instead of “worship band.” In some churches today, the “praise band” is responsible for sharing more contemporary Christian music than the old hymns. In other churches, the “praise band” will share both types of songs. A “praise band” often offers live music during service. Various types of instruments may be included in the band (2 Chronicles 5:13).
While some churches prefer to only have a choir, others have both a choir and a “praise band”. The ability to have both types of musical offerings allows all ages to enjoy the selections of music.
Some churches encourage people to stand and move as the music leads them, while other churches prefer a more sedate approach.
How Praise and Worship Songs Build You Up
In my life, music has always been a constant source of joy. As a young child attending Sunday School and church, I started learning simple songs of praise and worship. Some of those songs stick with me today and I sing them out loud. From singing a song about Jesus loving me, to a song about Jesus loving everyone, to another about shining His light to the world, each song made an impact on my life.
Listening to praise and worship music at a funeral can help those who are grieving. Older hymns and newer songs have the ability to bring people together in worship and praise.
Today, I listen to the old hymns that my parents taught me. Also, I listen to the Christian radio stations that play songs of praise and worship for God. Some of those songs bring me to tears as I consider how the words could reflect my own life. Other songs make me want to get up and move as I think of the joy of the Lord. Listening to these special songs every day brings me hope and comfort.
Maybe you have favorite praise and worship songs. Do you share your choices with your family and friends? Do you listen to Christian radio stations? Music can be an act of worship (Ephesians 5:19). Music can allow us to praise the Lord.
How They Help You Fight Battles?
Have you ever listened to a song and been brought to tears? I definitely have experienced tears while listening to a song that touches my heart and soul. There are numerous songs about facing battles with the help of the Lord. We must remember we are never alone. God is always with us. He can speak to us through the words and music of a song.
When we listen to a song about someone journeying through a difficult situation, we may relate because we have faced that same battle. Or we can find comfort in the words through knowing others have experienced heartache and pain, and yet, God never left their side. God will never leave us.
How They Give You Joy?
As I mentioned earlier, praise and worship songs bring comfort and joy to me. When certain songs come to mind, or if I hear those special songs, I am filled with emotion. I’m thankful for the songwriters who take the time to put their love for the Lord into words for a song. While there are some songs that remind me of sad occasions, most of the praise and worship songs bring smiles and joy. Listening to the words or singing the words can remind us of the joy of the Lord (Psalm 118:24).
Beginning the day by praising God and continuing the day by worshipping Him through our words and actions can bring joy.
Some people begin their day by singing words of praise. Whether you sing, speak, or think those words, give praise to the Father. Praise and worship songs can bring hope to everyone.
Father, thank You for giving the gift of songwriting and singing. Thank You for the many ways we can praise and worship You. May our words and actions show Your love to others.
For further reading:
What Does it Mean to Praise God?
What Does it Mean That the Word of God Is Alive?
What Does it Mean That God Inhabits the Praise of His People?
What Is the Difference Between Talent and Spiritual Gifts?
3 Things to Remember When Worshipping
What Are the Psalms of Praise?
Photo Credit: ©SparrowStock
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
