The Gift of Music ***UPDATED***

"Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him." I Samuel 16:23

Something so precious happened yesterday afternoon that I must share it with you. Halfway through my day, my doorbell rang, and "David " arrived, not with harp, but another stringed instrument was played. My friend Carol came with a priceless treasure...her gifts and herself.

I sat in a rocking chair positioned in front of my piano, eyes closed, as she began to play worship music that lifted my heart from it's terrified prison of fear to heights of freedom. She sang songs about God as my refuge. She tenderly sang of my life being held in His arms of love. She encouraged me with a simple word of hope and a gentle word of grace. She reminded me through song, that God did not despise a broken spirit and contrite heart. Her voice rang with the promise that God is a shield about me and the lifter of my "plane". The notes crescendoed to the truth that God is real and faith is stronger than what you feel. He is all the power I need.

It is said that music calms the savage beast. Martin Luther writes, "Music is a gift and largess of God, not a gift of men. Music drives away the devil and makes people happy; it induces one to forget all wrath, unchastity, arrogance, and other vices. After theology I accord to music the highest place and the greatest honour. We note that David and all the saints used verse, rhymes and songs to express their godly thoughts." Music is most often the way the Lord speaks His deepest Words to me.

I have never received such a gift. She was willing to fight any doubts or insecurities and share what the Lord had placed on her heart to minister to me. It was the most beautiful act of Christ-likeness I have ever witnessed or been blessed to receive. The gnawing ache in the centre of my stomach has abated. The Lord has regained His rightful place on the throne in my life and my heart is filled with overflowing gratitude and praises to the One who holds all my days in His hands.

Carol, sometimes silences speak louder than words. I pray in some small way the Lord will give you a glimpse of what your friendship means to me and how God used you mightily yesterday to calm my heart and bring me His peace. You are dearly loved my friend.

In the orchestra of life we all have been given instruments to play for His honour and glory. Play on!

Humbled by His amazing goodness to me,







**Updated**

After reading Lysa's blog today, thought I'd add a picture of my new look after coming home from the stylists! I might have some traces of fear on the inside, but my hairdresser said I'm looking good on the outside! HAHA!!!