Tag: psalms

A Song Only the Redeemed Can Sing

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

Heaven will be filled with music unlike anything we have ever heard. Revelation 14:3 tells us that the 144,000 will sing a new song before God’s throne, a song that no one else can learn. This special hymn will belong only to those who have been saved, a melody shaped by their redemption.

This song will not be a repeat of earthly hymns but something completely new, a testimony of salvation. Its words will declare the victory of the redeemed, telling the story of how God rescued them. Voices will rise in perfect harmony, filling eternity with endless praise to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

This song will be so beautiful that even the angels will long to join in, but only those who have experienced salvation will be able to sing it. It will be a song of triumph, echoing beyond time itself. What a joy it will be to lift our voices in worship, celebrating forever the love and mercy of God!

As Psalm 96:1 reminds us, “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.” In heaven, that new song will never end.

The Essence of Praise in Church: Insights from Psalm 100

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

In the landscape of Christianity, the number of truly great churches appears to be dwindling. These churches are not defined by their financial resources, grand buildings, or large congregations, but rather by their commitment to serving the Lord and bringing Him glory. Psalm 100 offers a compelling framework for what it means to be a great church, highlighting the essential role of praise in the life of a vibrant community of believers.

The psalmist calls us to worship with unrestrained joy, urging us to make a “joyful noise” that includes singing, shouting, preaching, and praying. This exuberant worship flows from glad hearts that are fully engaged in expressing their love and adoration for our Creator. As verse 2 states, “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.” This invitation is not just for individuals but for the entire congregation to unite in joyful praise.

Our motivation for praise is deeply rooted in the character of God Himself. He is Elohim, the strong one; Jehovah, the self-existent one; and Adonai, our Master. As our Creator and Shepherd, He cares for us with unwavering love and attention. His goodness, mercy, and truth form the foundation of our worship, inspiring gratitude that naturally overflows into praise.

While we are encouraged to praise God everywhere and at all times, the church serves as a unique space for communal worship. The psalmist invites us to “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise.”

This collective expression of adoration brings together believers from diverse backgrounds and generations. As we reflect on our individual expressions of worship, it is important to recognize that our emotional responses may differ. Some may express their praise through tears, while others may do so with smiles or laughter, and still others may shout for joy. Regardless of how we choose to express it, our praise should be a sincere outpouring of reverence for the One who is truly worthy of all honour and glory. In this way, we can all contribute to a vibrant culture of worship within our churches and communities across Canada.

Greater Vision’s “God Wants to Hear You Sing” Celebrates 25-Year Milestone

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AMY TURNER

A Southern Gospel song that has encouraged countless listeners through difficult times is marking its 25th anniversary this week. “God Wants to Hear You Sing,” written by Rodney Griffin and performed by Greater Vision, has remained a staple of Christian music since its release in 1999.

In reflecting on the song’s lasting impact, songwriter Rodney Griffin shared his thoughts on why the message continues to resonate with audiences. “It’s hard to believe we’ve been singing that song for that long,” Griffin remarked. “It’s just one of those that stuck.”

The inspiration for the song came from the Biblical account of Paul and Silas singing praises at midnight while imprisoned in Philippi in Acts 16:25. This verse shows us the powerful example of Paul and Silas choosing to worship God even in the midst of their suffering, and how their faith and praise led to a miraculous earthquake and the prisoners’ chains being loosed. This teaches us the importance of praising God in all circumstances and the impact it can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.

Griffin drew parallels between Paul and Silas’ experience and modern-day challenges, noting how the act of praise can bring breakthrough in difficult circumstances.

“It just gives hurting people a source of encouragement,” Griffin explained, referencing the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” He pointed out how Paul and Silas demonstrated this principle through their midnight praise session, which preceded their miraculous deliverance.
The song’s theme centers on the power of praise during adversity, encouraging believers to lift their voices even in life’s darkest moments. Its message resonates with fundamental Christian teachings about maintaining faith and worship during trials.

Released in 1999 through Songs of Greater Vision, the composition has become one of Southern Gospel’s most enduring songs about praise through adversity. Its legacy continues to impact new generations of listeners, offering hope and encouragement to those facing challenging circumstances.

As the song reaches this significant milestone, its message remains as relevant today as when it first released.