Daily Devotional

“On that day David first delivered this psalm into the hand of Asaph and his brethren, to thank the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:7). 

Did you know that dozens of research studies have shown music to be one of the most powerful mood-modifying tools known to humans? For instance, music has been used successfully to alleviate depression, anxiety, and some of the behavioural changes seen in such conditions as autism and Alzheimer’s disease. Of course, the wrong kind of music can have strong negative effects, while the very best music uplifts us as it draws our hearts in praise to God. 

Asaph, the son of Berechiah, was chosen as part of a special group of musicians and singers commissioned by King David to perform in sacred services and lead the people in the worship of the Lord in song. 

Asaph must have been quite talented, as he is credited with writing or contributing to at least a dozen of the Psalms, and he took part in per- forming some of David’s psalms as well. His preferred instrument was, apparently, cymbals. It seems his entire family possessed similar musical gifts, as Asaph’s descendants formed one of the guilds who regularly provided music for the temple in Jerusalem. 

Music can calm or it can excite. It can buoy one up from the depths of despair, or it can bring discouragement and gloom. It can promote peace and happiness or it can cause agitation and aggression. It can be a blessing or a curse. Accordingly, it can bring out the best or the worst in those who listen to it. 

Because of sin, much of our music has been distorted into something ugly and harmful. But God intended music to be a great blessing to man- kind, a creative way to express our joy and gratitude to each other and to our Creator. 

How can you use music this week in a way that will benefit you and those around you? 

Dear God, thank You for the gift of music. Guide me in choosing music that will inspire and bless.