July 22

Surrender Leading To Song

And Hezekiah ordered that the burnt offering be sacrificed on the altar. When the burnt offering began, the song of the LORD and the trumpets began as well, accompanied by the instruments of David king of Israel. — 2 Chr 29:27 BSB

The Hebrew Psalmody became renowned throughout the world. Even their fierce conquerors recognized the sublime beauty of the Hebrew temple music. By the rivers of Babylon, their captors urged them to sing one of the Songs of Zion, not realizing how impossible it was for the exiles to sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land. For sixteen long years, no song had been heard from the sacred temple. King Ahaz had shut the doors, scattered the Levites, and allowed the holy building to fall into disrepair, left unlit and unused. There were no sacrifices on the altar, no sweet incense in the Holy Place, no blood on the Mercy Seat, and no Song of the Lord!

Sadly, this is a picture of the spiritual state of many Christians. The soul, which was meant to be a holy temple for God, shows signs of neglect and disorder. The lights of faith are unlit, the incense of prayer does not ascend, and the doors that open to fellowship and service remain closed. Outwardly, religious practices may be maintained, but inwardly, silence and darkness prevail, where sinful thoughts intrude. Thorns and weeds have overtaken the courts of the Holy Place, where once the praises of God resounded. The Song of the Lord has faded from heart and life.

Why continue in this miserable condition? Why not today be cleansed from sin and neglect through the blood of Christ? Come back to fellowship with God, who waits eagerly to forgive and restore you. Surrender yourself completely to Him now. Be specific in your consecration—dedicate yourself to helping those who need it most. Don’t just offer words, but deeds and sacrifice. Merge your life into the life of Christ, as a small stream merges into the vast ocean. As you yield yourself to Christ and to those in need for His sake, you will find the Song of the Lord rising again in your heart like a spring that had been choked with debris.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we ask You to cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, so that we may love You perfectly and honor Your Holy Name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.