1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.“
It is such a privilege to be part of The Salvation Army’s music ministry. Most of us acquired our musical expertise in the Army, and this is where our gifts were developed. The commitment to regular practice sessions, music camps, and all other musical programs helped us become better musicians.
However, being in music ministry requires much more than just playing an instrument or singing. It involves our God-given responsibility to draw people closer to Him.
Musicians play a vital role in the church. It is important to understand that we are helping to create the right atmosphere, warming up the holy ground with sweet melodies that also contain sound Biblical teaching.
How do we create the environment of worship? We need to prepare our hearts by reading the Bible, soaking ourselves in prayer, loving and embracing the calling to serve God through our musical abilities, and by living an exemplary life in the communities where we live. We are to be people of good character, so that our lives reflect our relationship with God. If all these aspects are combined, they produce an aroma that is pleasing to God.
Like a soldier on the battlefield, it requires courage to be able to withstand the enemy. When we are full of doubt and hopelessness, we sing songs of victory, songs of praise and worship, and in so doing, we find strength. God gave us the power and He will equip us to do more for His kingdom.
As God said to Joshua: ‘Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go’ (Joshua 1:9).
I leave you with these powerful words by J. H. Gilmore from his 1862 hymn:
He leadeth me,
He leadeth me.
By His own hand He leadeth me.
His faithful follower I will be.
For by His hand, He leadeth me.