I listened to a radio broadcast of a concert by a gospel singing group. There was singing, laughing, storytelling, and the message of the gospel shared. The group was called Soul’d Out and I really enjoyed the music.

After one story, the speaker shouted, “Play your song Michael Howard!” Michael Howard is the pianst for this group and when given the opportunity, he shines.

Yes, he can sure play the piano, but what caught my attention is that my youngest brother’s name is Michael Howard. So I chuckled while thinking of my brother playing the piano. But each time I hear Michael Howard (the pianist) play a tune on the radio, I have the opportunity to remember Michael Howard (my brother).

And it just so happens that today is Michael Howard’s (my brother) birthday! So happy birthday little brother. I love you!

Since today is also Monday Musical Musings, I suspect I should share some music. Michael Howard (the pianist) brings life to the group he plays for and when given the chance to share his talent solo, is able to bring the piano to life as well.

I share three pieces that I’ve found and the links to listen to this talented artist. I pray that you will join me in lifting up this young man as he continues to lift up our Savior to audiences around America.

“The Great Medley” can be heard at this link.

“How Great Thou Art” can be heard at this link.

And finally a piano duet of “Goodbye, World” can be heard at this link.

I am so thankful for the talented people in this world who use their ability to share God’s message with others. I find great joy as I listen to music lifting the Name of Jesus above all others. My soul is stirred to action as I hear the Gospel shared through music.

We see throughout Scripture how important music and musicians were in celebrations, worship, and gatherings. There were temple musicians who ministered with music. There were appointed “musicians to make a joyful sound with musical instruments: lyres, harps and cymbals.” (1 Chronicles 15:16 – NIV)

The Book of Psalm is filled with praise to God through music. In a section of Psalm 27, we find that we are to make music to the Lord as we are safe within the shelter of the tabernacle.

When we are steadfast we are to make music. In Psalm 57:7 (NIV) we read these words. “My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will make music to the Lord.”

When all we have is in God we are to make music. “As they make music they will sing, ‘All my fountains are in you.’” (Psalm 87:7 – NIV)

At all times, it is good to make music to the Lord. “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.” (Psalm 92:1-3 – NIV)

Our joyful hearts are to praise God through music. “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—should for joy before the Lord, the King.” (Psalm 98:4-6 – NIV)

We see other instances of praising God through music in Psalm 144:9; Psalm 147:7; and Psalm 149:3.

We do find examples of praise through music in the New Testament. Ephesians 5:18-20 (NIV) says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

All of these passages lead me to one conclusion. I believe we are supposed to praise God through music.

I pray that today you will be able to find some time to sing, make music to God, or simply listen to the Gospel through a song or two. It will lift your spirit and draw you closer to God. And it just might put a smile on your face.

It’s a good day. My brother is celebrating another year and my family is blessed that we have this spry young one in our midst. Happy birthday Michael Howard (my brother)! Make it a good day and play your song Michael Howard.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

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