Our young daughter has developed the habit of singing whenever I cut her toenails. Her musical expression seems to shift her focus from the instinct to pull her foot away to the joy of happy melodies. Research has proven the physiological, neurological, and emotional benefits of singing. So belting out your favorite tune will help elevate your mood, boost your immune system, and benefit your brain.
On the other hand, a lament is a sad song or poem set to music—a passionate expression of grief born out of regret or mourning and, although gloomy, can also bring hope and peace. The prophet Jeremiah, often referred to as the weeping prophet (Jeremiah 9:10), expressed laments following the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of his people to Babylon (Lamentations 1:1-4).
Jeremiah admitted that his nation’s deliberate disobedience led to the awful consequences faced by the people of Judah and Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:5). He frequently warned them of God’s wrath, urging repentance and a turning back to Him (Jeremiah 6:10-11; 18:11-12). But they refused to listen and so found their city destroyed and their families taken into Babylonian exile (1 Chronicles 9:1).
The prophet cries until the tears will no longer come. His heart is broken and his spirit poured out in agony as he sees the desperate plight of his people (Lamentations 2:11). Jeremiah experiences hope, however, as he remembers God’s faithful love that never ends and His mercies that never cease (Lamentations 3:22-24).
In your darkest hour when all hope seems lost, sing and make music in your heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19). Even a lament will remind you to put your hope in a faithful God who’s working everything together for your good (Romans 8:28).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Exodus 9:8–10:29
More:
Read the laments found in Psalms 13 and 30, and see how the psalmist encourages us to put our hope in God no matter the circumstances.
Next:
What song of hope will you sing to God today? How can you help others see the hope we have in Jesus?
Ruth O'reilly-smith on February 8, 2016 at 3:15 am
As I drove the children to school this morning, I found myself singing out loud to the Lord. At the start of a new week, and as I contemplated all the responsibilities that lay ahead, I felt a flood of peace wash over me as I sang. There are many references in the Bible to singing: Psalm 96:1 “Sing a new song to the LORD! Let the whole earth sing to the LORD!” Psalm 40:3 “He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the LORD” and, Psalm 98:1 “Sing a new song to the LORD, for he has done wonderful deeds.”
Gary Shultz on February 8, 2016 at 6:35 am
Scripture agrees with you Ruth. I love music and for an old buzzard I like most of the latest “Contemporary Christian” songs that really have a glorious expression. Each generation needs to lift praise from a transformed heart. Many none believers are drawn to it. Nothing like a worship service started with songs of praise. You probably even sound pretty good, thanks Ruth.
gagirllive on February 8, 2016 at 7:54 am
We are incredibly blessed to be given the gift of song…whether or not we can carry a tune in a bucket. My heavy heart is always lifted when I sing to the Lord…sing of His goodness, grace, and love. Listening to hymns and praise songs helps too, but for me, something shifts in my heart when I actually open up my own mouth and sing. It’s the best anti-depressant for me…Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace. Thanks, Ruth, for this sweet reminder.
Tom Felten on February 8, 2016 at 8:24 am
Ruth, I’m so glad you had that spontaneous “concert” for the Lord in the car. That type of singing truly reflects a heart that is filled with joy and gratitude in Jesus!
vmarip on February 8, 2016 at 10:34 am
When God Called forth All Creation, did He just speak it out? No; He SANG it out! That is why there is Vibration in everything, from the very largest to the very minuscule; there is a natural 4-count beat; it is how Time was Created; it is how gravity continues, and the Ocean is able to dance. Hear the trees in percussion with their waving through the air! Sing out People! I have been researching the Ancient Aramaic that Jesus spoke. This language is patterned; as a poem, and a sing-song. Imagine how beautiful the Lord’s Voice is; how lovely to the ear! So as He spoke, as He Blessed, His words went forth in melodious soft, lifting tones; delighting those listening…. Music is one powerful weapon the devil uses to destroy Man… because he use to be in charge of it in heaven, so he understands it’s importance in Creation…. that is why people who follow satan use ear piercing, unsettling music… not soft and uplifting, not melodious, or Loving; or they don’t have music in their lives at all….Use your voice to Bless others, and sing out your words; when you do, you are calling forth the Power of Heaven into yours and their lives…..You will notice that your heart will be blessed right away. When you speak in the Spirit, you will find it sings out of you; it doesn’t mean that you are singing a full course opera; but more a soft, easy, loving poem. The more you do this, the easier it becomes. God wants His People to enjoy all He has for them; and it is ALL GOOD.
sdwise on February 8, 2016 at 10:54 am
When I read Psalm 13 and Psalm 30 three songs came to my mind. Psalm 13 “I Will Trust in the Lord” serves as encouragement when I am going through difficulties to trust God, “Trust and Obey” also tells me to obey Him. Psalm 30 “Great is Thy Faithfulness” reminds me to praise God for all He has already done for me. Thank you God for inspiring us to remain in center of your will as sing songs reflective of you Word!