March 13

" T hese are the singers, heads of the father’s houses of the Levites, who lodged in the chambers, and were free from other duties; for they were employed in that work day and night."

1 Chronicles 9:33

Is singing work? It is certainly not labor in the sense of toilsome effort. But we read of the “service of song.” And when our hearts are lifted up to God in praise and our lips sing thanksgivings to His name, it is indeed a work in which He finds delight. He has said, “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me” (Psalms 50:23). Of old the Levites, who were set apart for the special ministry of song, were “employed in that work day and night.” It is no light thing to be appointed to lead the praises of God’s people. It is a blessed and joyous service in which the heart must be continually occupied. Paul and Silas were true singing Levites, even in a prison cell with their feet fast in the stocks. It is God alone who gives songs in the night.

When shadowed in the darkness,

And pressed by every foe,

Then let your gladdest carols

And sweetest anthems flow;

The praise so sweet to Jesus,

The “sacrifice of praise,”

Is when no earthly sunshine

Pours forth its cheering rays.

‘Tis then your song is wafted

All human heights above,

And mingles with the angels’

In realms of perfect love;

‘Tis then the God of Glory

Makes Satan fear and flee,

And sends a mighty earthquake

To set His ransomed free.