Many times in the Bible there are references to singing to the Lord – especially in the Old Testament. It has not become obsolete in the New Testament, but the thought and practice was so thoroughly taught in the O.T. that it did not need to be repeated often in the New Testament.

The above verse tells us that it is still a needed practice today. Singing to the Lord has power because it can focus our hearts on Him through the day, drive away discouragement and depression, and help us to be joyful as it reminds us of His goodness, salvation, and present power.

• The word “sing” is found in 102 vss. in the Bible;
• “sing unto the Lord” is found in 16 vss.;
• “sing praise” is found in 12 vss.;
• and “singing” is found in 25 vss.

God takes joy in our singing to Him when it is from the heart. Moses, David, and others sang “new songs” when there was a victory and blessing – and David often wrote songs even when discouraged. All of the Psalms are actually songs – words intended to be sung with music.

The Devil hates to hear God being praised. He wants it for Himself. This is why when Saul was oppressed with a demon, he later had David play a harp for him, which we are told drove the demon away (I Samuel 16:23). When you are discouraged and tempted to quit – sing unto the Lord and get the victory. Pray unto Him for help, too, and you will strengthened to resist.

Christians would be blessed if they start the day by reading a hymn as part of their devotions every day. Put a song in your mind, as well as Scripture in the morning, and let them help you through the day.

The writer of this Psalm knew that blessedness (happiness) comes from drawing near to God. He loved being close to the Temple and frequently going to it. His experience at this place of worship was enough that he claimed to “dwell in thy house.”

New Testament believers did the same. Luke 24:53 tells us that they “were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.”

Being with other Christians in church where the Word is preached strengthens believers as they worship with others. It renews a Christian perspective of the world (temporary) and God’s power to help. They can also find that burdens are still lifted at Calvary and His grace is still more than sufficient for every need.

Being blessed is when you have God’s help and strength for victory over sin, as well as power to be His witness. You can only have this when you spend considerable time in His presence in prayer. Will you be in church today?

The children of Israel were in the wilderness. It was a desert place and it was barren and very dry. Everything they needed had to be supplied for them and God graciously met all their needs. He even prevented their clothes and shoes from wearing out!

They were not satisfied with what God gave them and they wanted more. They lusted for more and they complained to Moses about it – again and again. Finally – God gave their desires to them.

Along with fulfilling their desires, they did not realize it right away, but there was barrenness in their soul. They got what they wanted but lost what they needed most. They sought the material things to feed their bodies but forgot that the soul also has spiritual desires and needs.

Like Samson, they woke up one day and discovered that the Lord was not with them anymore. The best blessings were missing. They no longer had the peace of God, His joy, and His comfort – all of which cannot be replaced by human effort.

Sometimes, God may give you what you want most, but it may cost you close fellowship with Him. Blessedness comes from wanting His will, His pleasure with you, and His presence; barrenness comes from wanting something else.

Christian, what is it that you want most right now? Will it lead to blessedness or barrenness? There is a price to pay for wrong or poor decisions. Lot also got what he thought he wanted – but he ended up penniless living in a cave with two daughters.

Pray carefully over your decisions and make sure that God is the center of them and that He has the right to say “No” if He wants to. When you are where He wants you to be and doing what He desires, He will supply your needs – and guide you – and you will know He is pleased.