I often joke with our church congregation that, while I may hold the microphone, they really don’t want to hear me sing. I’m more of a holy hum kinda girl. Even if I did have an adorable set of pipes, I’m useless at remembering the words of a song. For this reason, when I hear a worship song playing on repeat in my mind perfectly—word for word, beat for beat—it has always been a big hint to me that the Holy Spirit is responsible.

 

In fact, Scripture tells us that God loves to encourage us through song. Zephaniah enthusiastically declares, “Do not fear, Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:16-17 NIV). 

 

Prophetic music and songs have a unique ability to tug the strings of our souls, powerfully influencing our mood and mindset. It might be only one line or a whole chorus, but they can shift our focus onto God’s goodness and encourage us deeply.Songs that direct our attention to who God is will remind us of his goodness and greatness. For example, when my family were struggling to buy a home, the lyrics of a popular worship song reminding us of the miracles God has done before and would do again, repeatedly sprang up. A friend was praying for us and God even highlighted the same song to them! 

 

These are not themes of anger and judgement but speak of God’s love and delight in us. Since the Holy Spirit is not an external influence but dwells within us, as He rejoices over us with singing and fills our hearts with God’s Truth, it can also resound in the form of praise from our own lips. This is why Paul encourages the church to “be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:18-19 NIV).

 

When you recognise God rejoicing over you with singing, listen up! “Do not fear . . . do not let your hands hang limp.” Instead, lift your hands and voice in praise.