Melodic Mondays
Those of you who know me know that I love music even though I am not musical myself. I listen to good music as often as I can. It is beneficial to the brain, valuable to the vocabulary, and strengthening to the soul. Isaiah 12:2-3 is a lovely passage that includes this soaring statement of surety: “The Lord JEHOVAH [YAHWEH] is my strength and my song.” This could be translated, “God is my mountaintop and my music.” Yes, He is! Each Monday, I want to study this subject and suggest a song to listen to. Anyone reading this devotional has easy access to any song. (I am an exception because I do not go on a computer or other information device.) If you do not like my suggestion (and we all have different tastes), you can think of or search for one that speaks to you. Then, it can become a source of encouragement throughout the week.
Believers throughout the ages have struggled with the difficulties of life and have asked, “Why, Lord?” Asaph wondered why the wicked prospered (Psalm 73). Psalm 10:1 is even more pointed: “Why standest Thou afar off, O LORD? Why hidest Thou Thyself in times of trouble?” The Psalmist felt this way, expressed his confusion, and received strength to trust in God’s abiding goodness (verses 16-18). Similar examples are found throughout Scripture. The Gospel song “Why Me, Lord?” asks an entirely different question, wondering how God could be so good to a wandering, wayward person. This song is the personal testimony of Kris Kristofferson, but I much prefer the version by Johnny Cash. His venerable voice well matches the contemplative words.