SOAP 09/21/2011; Psalm 137:4-6

Today's reading: Daniel 7,8; Psalms 137; Luke 4

S)" ⁴ How can we sing the LORD’S song
In a foreign land? ⁵ If I forget you, O Jerusalem,
May my right hand forget her skill. ⁶ May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth
If I do not remember you,
If I do not exalt Jerusalem
Above my chief joy."

Psalm 137:4-6 (NASB)

O) I'm going to let Trip Lee expound on this, but I love music. There was a time, though, when I was playing music only for myself. I was not worshiping God at all. Those were selfish, angry, prideful, jealous, and miserable times. Since I've begun serving God again, I can't imagine going back to music that is so separate from Him. This passage really does speak my heart. God has given me talent to praise Him with my drumming and I'd rather lose that talent than waste it on meaningless music. Even more simply, though, I never want my love for music to supercede my love for the LORD.

A) Acknowledgement, humility, and purpose. Those are the keys to holding myself to the above passage. First, I need to acknowledge that any skills that I have (drumming, teaching, headstands) are from the LORD. Second, in that acknowledgement, I need to lay down my crown at the throne of God and declare that I choose His will over mine. More than a musician's manager, He will be the Manger of my entire life. Third, I need to use my skills to serve Jesus Christ. I need to be active in the church and not sit idly on the gifts God has given me.

P) Father, how can I make music if not for You? I will not forget You, God, or else send Your Holy Spirit to remove all skill that I might have. If I am failing to acknowledge Your sovereignty in my life, LORD, then remove my ability to even sing, God! If I ever put my passion for music above my passion for You, Lord, then humble me however You see fit, Father. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.