It has been said that where you find Christians, you inevitably will find them singing. Our songs have filled royal halls and mud huts. Our songs do not have to adhere to certain styles. They are found all over the world, expressing diversity in the kingdom of God. Yet, for all our songs to be Christian, they must birth from something the common man does not have. They are more than songs for the rising charts. The Bible tells us so…
A Gift of God’s Grace
There are many parts of the body of Christ, many members, and many gifts. Paul expresses this truth to the Corinthians, as he tells them how important it is to recognize spiritual gifts in one another and to use the gifts that God has given to build up the church (1 Cor 12:4, 12-26). The ability to take the truths of scripture and form songs that God’s people can sing is truly of grace. It is an ability, empowered by God (12:6). The New Testament tells us in multiple places that the music and singing of the church is to be used as a spiritual blessing from God to encourage and mature the body of Christ (Col 3:16).
Fueled by the Word
As I’ve mentioned, scripture must inform our songwriting. In our flesh, we are tempted to write songs based on experience and our finite ideas of God. It is displeasing to ascribe the glory due to God in a manner we prefer. I too have learned this and am thankful for his patience throughout my ministry. The gift of songwriting comes through faithful interaction with the Scriptures. If you’re wanting to write a song, draw from the well of truth. We expand and grow the gift by filling our minds with the Word and experiencing renewal in our thinking and working.
A Ministry to God’s People
The songs of the church not only present truth but teach it. Writing is a tool of grace in you, but also through you. Some people are called to sing songs that are not accessible for a congregation. However, if you write for the church to sing with you, consider how you might lead them. When sitting down to draft a melody, we do not write as entertainers, but leaders and servants to help God’s people sing! Our songs can encourage, heal, restore, and build up the lives of God’s saints.
We serve and lead the bride of Christ in order to honor and worship the Bridegroom. If you have a passion to write music for your local church, I encourage you to stay steeped in Scripture, remembering it is all from God, for his people, for his glory!
