I grew up singing. Literally everyone in my family sang, some good, some not. Regardless, singing played a significant role in both my formative and growing up years, for which I am grateful.

In highschool, musical theater was my passion, but at age 17 I became a Christian, and overtime everything about me gradually began to change, including the music I listened to and the songs I sang. Although I continued to enjoy other genres of vocal music, praise and worship had quickly become my new favorite, as it is today.

Through the years I’ve come to understand that my story, although unique to me, is also true of every child of God. While our life experiences may be similar, differ, or fall somewhere in-between, as followers of Jesus we all share the commonality of a transformed heart, mind, and yes, even song.

This is critical to understand, as before Christ many of us may have sung the songs of sadness, shame, pride, anger, rejection or fear, but now because of Christ everything has become wonderfully new. In essence, God has graciously removed the song of our past, and has replaced it with a completely new song!

This is indeed good news. Yet, practically living into this narrative is something that can only be understood through the lens of Scripture. For this reason, I am grateful that the Bible includes many wonderful passages that speak directly to the reality of our new song.

For Starters …

The New Song is Inclusive 

The new song is for us, but it’s clearly not about us. It is not a private revelation to contain, rather a public declaration to proclaim. The exhortation to sing this song is not exclusive to an individual, a community, a church or a distinct people group. Instead, it is an invitation to the whole world!

Sing a new song to the Lord! Let the whole earth sing to the Lord.
Psalms 96:1 (NLT)

Next…

The New Song is a Witness

When our life is transformed, our internal song changes as well. And these visual and audible transformations result in others witnessing the reality and evidence of God in our lives. The most effective method for sharing the gospel is not based solely on what we say, but far more significantly by how we live and what we do. When our life song unashamedly points to the goodness and grace of God, others will undoubtedly take notice.

He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord.
Psalms 40:3 (NLT)

Further…

The New Song is Inspired by Gratitude

In response to all of the amazing things that God has done for us, through us, and to us, songs of gratitude should be our natural and first response.

The psalmist summed this up accurately, declaring praise to be fitting. This literally means gratitude looks good on us, and most critically it is attractive and pleasing to God. In consideration of any clothing items we might choose to wear, what could possibly be more appropriate than garments of praise?

It is fitting for the pure to praise him.

Sing a new song of praise to him… 

sing with joy.
Psalms 33:1, 3 (NLT)

Continuing…

The New Song is to be Shared

One of the most treasured times in my week is experiencing corporate worship at church. There is something so incredibly uplifting about voices united in praise to Yahweh. While I am genuinely grateful for the gifted singers leading from the platform, I am equally blessed by the unified voices of the congregation. This beautiful surround sound of singing fills me with gratitude, reminding me of how loved and honored our God is!

Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful.
Psalms 149:1 (NLT)

And finally…

The New Song Continues in Heaven 

Have you ever pondered the song of heaven? It’s mind-blowing to consider what this will actually sound like. Since we have no reference point for this, it’s difficult to imagine anything exceeding the worship we have in the present, which to be honest is pretty amazing.

At the same time, through the revelation of Scripture and by the Holy Spirit, we are assured that the continual song in eternity will supersede by far even the most beautiful song on earth.

And as if it couldn’t possibly get any better, the song in heaven will also be completely and wonderfully new…

And They Sang  A New Song

And they sang a new song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. 

For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.”
Revelation 5:9 (NLT)

So perhaps this week, set aside some quality time to reflect upon the beauty of the new song God has given to you. Your song in essence is your unique, beautiful story, and that makes it powerful and incredibly worth singing!

God bless you my friends!

Carol

Extend grace to others! If you’ve been encouraged, strengthened, or edified by this week’s post, please consider sharing Grace Notes For You  with a friend.

For Reflection

  • Read Psalm 40:3. What does this verse reveal to you about your life song as a witness to others?
  • Are you currently living confidently in the reality of the new song of God’s grace and mercy in and over your life?
  • In what ways has your song changed through the seasons of your life?
  • Take some time to talk openly to God in prayer about this.