That’s My King
The one who sings, prays twice. —Saint Augustine
This quote from Saint Augustine suggests that when we sing, we are expressing ourselves and communicating with God. It implies that music, particularly singing, can be a form of prayer, doubling the spiritual impact of our words and intentions.
Like many of you, I have experienced the profound impact of certain worship songs. These melodies and lyrics have a unique way of resonating with my soul, drawing me closer to my spiritual beliefs. I find myself in a state of endless shuffle, creating a continuous cycle of sound that deeply touches me. It's during these moments of solitude that I fully immerse in the spiritual journey these songs take me on, filling me with joy and a sense of connection.
Music, a universal language, holds a profound and unique place in all our lives. It's a tool for self-expression that transcends cultures and time. From the rhythmic beats of African drums to the haunting melodies of Indian ragas, music is intricately woven into our natural and spiritual fabric, reflecting our very existence. It accompanies us in our joys and sorrows, celebrations and mourning, prayers and meditations. This is the divine design of our Creator.
I believe music is not merely a human creation but a divine gift from God himself. As we delve into the scriptures, we uncover references to the pre-Edenic period, where it is hinted that Lucifer was entrusted with leading the heavenly worship band (Ezekiel 28:13, NKJV). The book of Revelation further illuminates this, providing vivid descriptions of heavenly worship (Rev. 5:9-14), thereby underscoring the profound significance of music in the divine narrative.
Music has been an integral part of worship since ancient times, even preceding the Edenic period. The New King James Version in Ezekiel 28:13 alludes to the association of music with Lucifer, hinting at the presence of music in pre-Edenic worship practices. This suggests that music was present even in the pre-Edenic period and was integral to worship.
You were in Eden, the garden of God;
Every precious stone was your covering:
The sardius, topaz, and diamond,
Beryl, onyx, and jasper,
Sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold.
The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes
Was prepared for you on the day you were created.
The book of Revelation tells us that:
And they sang a new song, saying,
“Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.
Rev. 5:9 (NASB)
The Bible has nearly twice as many references to music, praise, and singing as to prayer. This indicates a strong emphasis on the role of music and worship in the biblical context. For instance, the Psalms, often sung in worship, are filled with references to music and its role in praising God. This highlights the significance of music as a form of expression and devotion.
Before his passing, King David, known as the ‘Sweet Psalmist of Israel’, was filled with longing to construct a grand temple to honour and worship the Lord most fittingly. His Psalms, many of which were set to music, are still sung in worship today. However, God forbade him from carrying out this task and appointed his son, Solomon, to fulfil this divine commission.
In the concluding chapters of 1 Chronicles, we are presented with a poignant portrayal of King David, who, despite his advanced age, demonstrates meticulous attention to detail as he organizes and elucidates specific instructions for the conduct of worship in the planned temple. Chapter 25 delves into the profound intricacies of these instructions, providing a comprehensive insight into David's leadership and commitment to the sacred. However, we also read that music was crucial in the corporate worship conducted at the temple.
ALSO DAVID and the chiefs of the host [of the Lord] separated to the [temple] service some of the sons of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, who should prophesy [being inspired] with lyres, harps, and cymbals. The list of the musicians according to their service was:
1 Chr. 25:1 (AMP)
The role of music in the worship experience cannot be overstated. Its significance spans throughout history, from its importance to the people of Israel to its profound impact on the early Church and continuing as a cornerstone of the worship experience in the Church today. I fail to comprehend those within certain sectors of the Church who oppose using a wide range of musical instruments. They often manipulate Scripture, advocating for worship to be solemn, formal, and, let's be frank for a moment, unexciting. Even in the context of a music style characterized by a strong rhythmic element, it is important to recognize that solemnity and formality can coexist and are not mutually exclusive.
I spent my formative years in a Christian denomination that only permitted the use of piano and guitar during worship services. Any form of drumming was frowned upon and considered to have secular and unholy connotations. Despite these restrictions, I harboured a deep longing to express my devotion to God through a more diverse range of musical instruments, and this yearning continued to intensify over time. Because of my preference for a more upbeat worship music style and physical expression while worshipping, I was labelled as Pentecostal and Charismatic
Herbert Lockyer writes:
“Across time and space, cultures and geography, music and life are inseparable—and have been since music was born in the heart of God. Music affects us, deeply, powerfully, and prophetically.”
I stumbled upon a song by CeCe Winans titled "That's My King". Every aspect of it is remarkable and sends chills throughout my body. It has profoundly and powerfully affected me prophetically. These lyrics compel me to think deeply and bow down in worship:
It's the song of the angels.
Through all of the ages.
It's all of the earth
And heaven's symphony
Wonderful and beautiful
And glorious and holy
He is merciful and powerful
Who we talkin' about?
That's my King
The Chorus goes like this:
We declare the glory
Give Him all the honor
Altogether worthy
Who we talkin' about?
That's my King
There's no one before
You Yes, we will adore You
All of this is for You
Who we talkin' about?
That's my King
I'm so drawn to this song because it beautifully encapsulates the profound impact of Jesus Christ's sovereignty in my life. I love this song because it beautifully expresses the significance of Jesus Christ as the ultimate authority in my life. He reigns over every aspect of my existence, from everyday decisions and inner motivations to financial matters. According to Scripture, it is prophesied that Jesus will reign as the King of the world in the approaching millennium, signifying a momentous and awe-inspiring event.
When listening to this song, a profound and pivotal question arises about the role of Jesus in your life. Is He not only your redeemer but also the ultimate authority and ruler in every aspect of your existence? Is He genuinely and actively reigning in your heart and directing your life's path?
I invite you to experience the liberating power of worshipping God through music. From a young age, listening to more rhythmically-driven worship music resonated with me, leading me to actively engage in worship by lifting my hands while at Church. This personal expression of faith has led others to label me as a Pentecostal and Charismatic. With all due respect to my Pentecostal and brothers in the Charismatic movement, you do not become one by lifting your hands or moving your body to the rhythm of music. Our theology identifies us with a particular denomination, not how we express our worship.
I have chosen to openly express my love, affection, and devotion to my Lord and Savior in a manner that some may perceive as more “extravagant.” Although some might categorize me as Pentecostal and Charismatic due to my worship style, I wholeheartedly embrace this label. However, it's important to note that my decision to worship freely was made long ago and stems from a deep-seated desire to connect my spirituality genuinely and heartfeltly with my Creator.