I confess I am not a musician. I don’t know a middle C from a B flat. I can’t sing (well, I actually can and I love to do so but no one wants to hear it). As is often said, when God handed out musical abilities, I was definitely in the wrong line! But, I still love music and singing.
One day recently when I was feeling out of sorts with the Lord and felt a need to be in His presence and admit (for who knows how many times) my constant need for Him, I was drawn to a hymnal in my office. I began thumbing through and enjoying seeing so many familiar hymns which had so often resonated with me. But, who uses a hymn book anymore? Apparently, the old hymns have gone away just like dressing up. Now everyone wears jeans, baseball caps and tennis shoes as if attending a sporting event. The songs being sung are now relatively new and unknown verses displayed on a giant screen.
Someone once referred to these verses as 7/11 songs: 7 verses repeated 11 times which can become almost hypnotic. I realize some of them are sung in a heart-felt way, but why have the hymns been put on the shelf to do nothing but gather dust?
As I perused the old hymnal, I was struck by the fact that every page, every hymn was based on a verse in the Bible. The hymns were awash with Scripture, or having their basis in God’s Word. They were and are deep theological treatises.
Holy, Holy, Holy: Revelation 4:8 “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty”
Amazing Grace: John 9:25 “One thing I do know: I once was blind but now I see”
May The Mind Of Christ My Savior: Philippians 2:5 “Your mind should be the same as that of Christ Jesus”
The Solid Rock: Matthew 7:24 “A wise man…built his house on the rock”
Have Thine Own Way, Lord: Isaiah 64: 8 “We are the clay, You are the potter”
I’m not against the other songs as I do appreciate some of them: Majesty or Spirit of the Living God, for example. But, have we become so conditioned today that even in our faith we settle for substitutes and not the real deal?
“Teach me Your way, O Lord…” (Psalm 27:11)
That was your BEST EVER!! Being part of our church worship team, I couldn’t agree more. It seems everyday I wake up with a hymn I learned many years ago running through my head (Thank you Mom!)
Most excellent observation, Teri.
Keep up being a blessing!
These thoughts have haunted me from time to time, as well. Thank you!
I haven’t touch my piano in years but you have just re-enforced what I’ve been thinking—if I want to hear the old hymns, I need to “brush up” and sing to the Lord.
I haven’t touch my piano in years but you have just re-enforced what I’ve been thinking—if I want to hear the old hymns, I need to “brush up” and sing to the Lord.
I wasn’t raised on the old hymns but love them and admire the people who know these by heart. I also like some of the new songs, too. But, the old hymns also have a legacy which I think the new songs will not acquire. Teri, always glad to hear from you and read your devotionals.
Amen! So agree! There was/is great substance, truth and great music in those old hymns. Thx again Teri
Preach it sister!!!! 🥰❤️🙏🏻
Soso true!!! Hymns are so refreshing !! Love music and my soul is touched ! Wish I could sing or play the piano. But still enjoy worshipping the King!!!! Thank you!!🙏
Amen 🙂