Bring Out The Band!

For the dedication of the new wall of Jerusalem, the Levites throughout the land were asked to come to Jerusalem to assist in the ceremonies. They were to take part in the joyous occasion with their songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, harps, and lyres. The singers were brought together from the region around Jerusalem and from the villages of the Netophathites. They also came from Beth-gilgal and the rural areas near Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built their own settlements around Jerusalem. [Nehemiah 12.27-29]

Bring out the band!

There is no way to separate the worship of God from music based on what is found in the Bible. Musicians and singers have long played an important role in man's relationship with God.

The musicians in the Bible were more often than not, seen as full-time employees of Temple worship. In some cases, we see that music was ongoing throughout the day. Many of the Levites (Temple workers) were musicians who served for that purpose only.

As I consider modern worship among God's people, it seems that music if definitely required, but little provision is made for the musicians. Few would ever even consider a worship service without musicians and singers, and yet, only the pastoral staff is on the church payroll. I cannot believe this is the way God wants it.

Has this neglect of those God has given the gift of music been the reason music has become so secular? Let's face it, music is a big business in the world today.

Father, help the Church to see the value of employing musicians so they might serve You with the gifts they have been given just the same as those who declare Your Word.