As a lifelong Christian, I’ve always found solace in singing praise and worship songs both at home and in church. I believe that singing is a powerful tool that can deepen our relationship with God. Recently, as I hummed my favorite worship songs while doing some chores, I started to ponder on what the Bible says about singing and where it first appears in the scriptures. Later that day, during my Bible study, I was delighted to find that my studies were focused on this very topic, beginning with the question, “How many times is singing mentioned in the Bible?”
Singing is mentioned over 400 times in the Bible, depending on which Bible version you’re reading. In the instances that singing appears, it’s used as a means of expressing joy, thanksgiving, and lamentation. The Psalms, in particular, contain numerous references to singing and are themselves intended to be sung.
In this article, I invite you to join me as we delve into this discussion and uncover what the Scriptures say about singing. To also learn why Christians sing praise and worship songs and the benefits of singing praises to God, stick around to the end.
What does the Bible Say about singing?
The Bible emphasizes that singing is an important aspect of praise and worship. For instance, the entire book of Psalms is a collection of hymns and songs that were used in worship with references like Psalm 95:1. In the New Testament, for instance, in Ephesians 5:19, singing is also mentioned in the context of worship and praise and is seen as a way to express praise and gratitude to God, as well as to encourage and edify one another. Theologians suggest that singing is also a way to express faith and connect with God, and although it’s often associated with joy and celebration, it can also be a means of expressing sorrow and lamentation.
Where does singing first appear in the Bible?
The first mention of singing in the Bible is found in Exodus 15:1-21, which is commonly referred to as the “Song of Moses,” and this song was sung by Moses and the Israelites after they had crossed the Red Sea and witnessed the destruction of Pharaoh’s army. The Song of Moses is a celebration of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, and it begins with a declaration of praise to God for His triumph over the Egyptian army and then moves on to recount God’s faithfulness to the Israelites throughout their journey in the wilderness, and ends with a declaration of God’s sovereignty and a call for all the nations to worship Him. According to theologians, this song also emphasizes God’s power, faithfulness, and mercy and highlights the importance of trust and obedience in our relationship with Him.
Biblical references about singing
Among the numerous verses that reference singing include Colossians 3:16, which encourages believers to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude and sincerity. Also, Revelation 5:9-14 describes a heavenly scene in which the angels and saints sing praises to the Lamb of God, highlighting the importance of singing in heavenly worship and providing a glimpse of what eternal worship will be like.
Psalm 100:1-2 instructs us to come into God’s presence with singing, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God with joy and thanksgiving. Additionally, Psalm 96:1-2 calls on believers to sing to the Lord, declaring His glory among the nations, emphasizing the universal nature of God’s sovereignty, and calling on all people to worship Him.
Psalm 98:4-6 – This psalm encourages believers to celebrate the triumph of God over evil and His faithfulness to His people through singing. 1 Chronicles 16:23-25 describes a song of thanksgiving sung by King David and the Israelites, emphasizing God’s greatness and faithfulness and calling on all people to give thanks to Him. Finally, James 5:13 encourages believers to sing songs of praise when they’re joyful, highlighting the importance of using music as a means of worship and expression in all seasons of life.
Why Do Christians Sing Praise and Worship Songs?
Christians sing praise and worship songs for a variety of reasons, including expressing gratitude and love for God, strengthening our faith, building community among believers, and creating an atmosphere of reverence and awe in worship. Also, praise and worship songs are a form of prayer that allows us to express our deepest emotions and desires to God and to communicate with Him in a way that engages our minds, hearts, and bodies. Additionally, singing praise and worship also helps us remember God’s goodness, faithfulness, love, and power, thus strengthening our trust in God’s goodness, even in difficult times.
What are the benefits of singing praises to God?
One of the benefits of singing praises to God is that it’s a way to express gratitude and worship to God for who He is and what He has done for us. Also, singing praises to God brings joy and delight not only to our hearts but also to God’s heart. Singing God’s praises can also lift our spirits, as implied in 1 Samuel 16:14-23, where David plays the harp and sings to Saul to soothe his troubled soul. Singing praises to God can have a similar effect on us, as we’re reminded of His presence and love amid our struggles.
Singing God’s praises can also help us remember God’s promises and to trust in His faithfulness, as implied in Deuteronomy 31:19-22, where God instructs the Israelites to write a song that’d help them to remember His covenant with them. Finally, singing praises to God can unite us in worship and remind us that we’re part of a larger body of believers who are all seeking to honor and glorify God, as implied in the vision in Revelation 7:9-12.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.