“On that day David decreed for the first time that thanks be given to the LORD by Asaph and his relatives” (1 Chr 16:7).
It was a decree. And one that would be remembered as a decree throughout the generations (Ezra 3:10; Neh 12:45-26).
The decree was this: There is always to be joyful singing and thanksgiving give to the Lord with musical instruments and celebration. In fact, it was an official function:
“With them were Hemen, Jeduthun, and the rest who were chosen and designated by name to give thanks to the LORD–for His faithful love endures forever” (1 Chr 16:41).
There was to be joyful worship before God. Lament too, but the purpose of worship was and is to thank God and celebrate His goodness. It included singing, instruments, dancing and more.
And yet I think of the church in the last 100 years.
“Don’t run in the church, it’s the house of God.”
“Only organs and hymns in solemn worship.”
And almost every song feels oftentimes like funeral music or lament.
But one thing I’m seeing more and more is that God wants us to worship! With singing. With musical instruments. With celebration! When was the last time church felt like a place of celebration? Culturally in the last 20-30 years it is coming more into that. And it’s a good move.
God’s love is the place of joy.
