New Songs

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things;

his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

Psalm 98:1

A repeated command found throughout the Psalms is, Sing a new song to the Lord. ‘A new song’ refers to a song that is not common to this world. In other words, the follower of Jesus learns songs that the world cannot teach.

All people, including believers, encounter various experiences, circumstances and trials. Some people go through these experiences and never learn any songs. Instead they become worried, frustrated, depressed, angry or even bitter. Yet the believer who turns to God in times of difficulty and who keeps his focus on God comes away from those encounters with a new knowledge about God and with a new song in his heart.

What are some of the new songs the redeemed of the Lord learn?

In times of temptation, the believer learns the song of God’s deliverance.                                                In times of grief, the believer learns the song of God’s comfort.                                                            

In times of rest, the believer learns the song of God’s peace.                                                            

In times of suffering, the believer learns the song of God’s sufficiency.                                              

In times of laughter, the believer learns the song of God’s blessing.                                                           In times of lack, the believer learns the song of God’s provision.                                                         

In times of weakness, the believer learns the song of God’s power.                                                           In times of personal sin and betrayal, the believer learns the song of God’s forgiveness.                     

In times of brokenness, the believer learns the song of God’s healing.                                                 

In times of serving, the believer learns the song of God’s equipping and joy.                                      

In times of uncertainty, the believer learns the song of God’s sovereignty.                                                In times of disloyalty, the believer learns the song of God’s unconditional love and faithfulness.   

                                      

Though none of us want to experience difficulties, it is often in the darkest of times that the light of God’s character shines the brightest. It is in those times of clinging to God that we come to know Him more intimately.

God has a new song He wants to teach you and me about His character and deeds. Let’s cling to Him, learn from Him and let our voice ring out!

Jan Burkhart