Music, Worship, Prayer; Opportunity for Intimacy with God

In both the Old and New Testament times, the Jewish culture used music to accompany their worship and prayers to God. Many of the Psalms were written to be said or sung with music. When the Church was born at Pentecost, that practice carried over to the gatherings of believers. Paul especially exhorted the churches he planted and oversaw to include singing as part of their worship.

Back in the early 2000’s, I was introduced to the practice of combining worship with prayer. I was sort of familiar with having periodic times of “soaking” as quiet music was played, but actually using a time of music, singing, and praying to love on Jesus was new to me. My practice of prayer up to then was confession, repentance, thanksgiving with praise, and asking for needs for myself and others. The idea of spending time with Him, listening, telling Him how I love Him, recording His words and thoughts towards me was not as much common practice for me. But I was both intrigued and a bit desperate to know how to have the type of intimacy with God that I saw in other people who were engaging in this method of prayer. My prayer life didn’t have the same dynamic as theirs.

As I began to pursue these times of quiet, meditative music that quieted my heart, I began to change. The Scripture that I was reading as I sat in that environment became alive in my spirit, deepening my relationship with God. Prayer became enjoyable, not dry and burdensome. I developed new language with which to express my worship and devotion to Father. One of the greatest gifts was that I began to hear His thoughts and emotions for me. Priceless.

Psalm 24:14 says, “The secret of the LORD is for those who fear (reverence) Him, and He will make them know His covenant.” (NASB, emphasis mine). The word secret there literally means “intimacy” …into-me-you-see is the etymology of that word. Transparent. Nothing to hide. No hidden agenda, just trust, familiarity, and a comfortable exchange of personal information and feelings. Such a reward for an investment that only costs me a TV show, a video game, or other me-time!
Starting next Thursday, October 23rd, and every other Thursday night from 6:45-7:45, Church Alive will offer a place of quiet meditative music for such a time to love God and let Him love you back. No expectations of public prayer, teaching, or discussion. Just me, the keyboard, maybe some intermittent singing, you, your Bible and a notebook. Come join me and minister to the LORD as He ministers to you.