Make a joyful noise

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music…

Psalm 98:4

An old country church had a 50-year-old man named Gary who attended faithfully for years. Gary had special needs, and the mental capacity of a 6-year-old. Not only that, he had one of the worst singing voices anyone had ever heard. He always slurred the words and never sang on key. And he didn’t have the social development to recognize his lack of singing ability. So he just sang loud.

One day, another church member took her seat, and immediately realized her mistake – she sat right in front of Gary. When the opening hymn started, Gary began singing loudly. She quickly started to become annoyed, and even angry with Gary for ruining her experience.

Then she realized her mistake. Gary’s voice, as loud and off key as it was, was a gift to the church. He wasn’t singing from his mouth, but from his heart. And every song he sang was one of sincere praise and thanksgiving to the Lord.

God hasn’t called all of us to have perfect voices – but He has called all of us to praise Him. So whether you’re a great singer, or can’t even carry a tune, let your heart be filled with praise as you make a joyful noise to the Lord!

 

Prayer Challenge

Ask God to give you a heart that desires to praise Him with your voice!

 

Questions for Thought

Why do you think God wants us to use our voices to praise Him?

How might your worship life look differently if you were a little more like Gary in this story?