Stop just singing...

Some of us feel that God is pleased when we sing. Well, He isn't.

Of course singing is good and we benefit* emotionally, socially and physically from singing:

Emotionally

1. Increase in self esteem and confidence
2. It increases feelings of wellbeing
3. It enhances mood
4. Useful as a stress reducer
5. Encourages creativity
6. It can be energizing
7. It can increase positive feelings

Socially

1. It enables you to meet more people
2. It brings people together and encourages a sense of community
3. It offers opportunity for giving and receiving positive feedback
4. It is a forum for fun, laughter and even support
5. It provides a safe environment to try new skills
6. Singing is an ageless enjoyment – you are never too young or too old

Physically

1. Singing exercises our lungs. It tones up our intercostal muscles and our diaphragm
2. It can improve our sleep
3. Our facial muscles get toned
4. Our posture improves
5. We can become more mentally alert
6. Our immune system is given a boost enabling us to fight disease
7. It can help reduce anger and depression and anxiety

But our singing is of no value to God... absolutely none. However, it is a stepping stone...which is why I said "Stop just singing" not "Just stop singing."

2 Chronicles 20.22 tell us: At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. (NLT)

Did you notice the words I emboldened and italicized for emphasis? Well, it's only when we praise and worship God that we have His attention and affection. I know God loves us unconditionally and even loves sinners - though He hates their sin. However, we enjoy a deeper level of affection when we move beyond singing to praise worship Him for Who He is.

We see another example of how Paul and Silas got God's attention in Acts 16. Verses 25 - 26 say:
²⁵ About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, while the other prisoners listened. ²⁶ Suddenly a strong earthquake shook the jail to its foundations. The doors opened, and the chains fell from all the prisoners (CEV)

Without doubt, every worshipper accesses help from God - help into, out of, up are all available.

We all have an opportunity to worship the Lord with others this weekend at the greatest event of the year...

Reference:
* Benefits excerpted from http://www.moresingingplease.com/benefits-of-singing