“I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify Him with thanksgiving.”      Psalm 69:30 (NRSV)

Music is very important in our lives. I would venture to say that we all have a few songs that are special to us. Maybe a break up song reminding us of our first heart break, a happy song used for celebrating, or a love song reflecting the innocence of that first love. When I listen to the radio, songs from the past bring a flood of memories – good and bad. 

As a literature teacher, I assigned my students a project when they completed reading a novel. The project required them to create a soundtrack for the book we read. They had to choose one song that best represented each chapter of the book and explain why it was the best choice. I was always excited to hear those soundtracks. Each was unique with very thoughtful reasons behind each song choice. So much meaning can be found in just 3 minutes of music and lyrics.

Music is important in the Bible too. There are numerous verses referencing song and singing not to mention whole books of songs like Psalm and Song of Solomon. We are called to “make a joyful noise” to “sing to the Lord” and to “praise God with thanksgiving.” 

The history of music is deep and rich making it no surprise that it is at the center of many things we do. We celebrate with music: birthday songs, wedding marches, and graduations with pomp and circumstance. We include music in sadness as well during funerals. Most of us don’t get in the car without turning on the radio or visit the pool or beach without our music on some sort of device.

Considering my appreciation and love for all types of music, I wonder what a soundtrack of my life would include. Would it reflect my love of God and His immeasurable love for me? Would it sound self-centered and greedy? 

I imagine when listening to my life’s soundtrack you would easily be able to hear the high and low points in my journey. Unfortunately, I can’t say it would always reflect a Christ-centered life; however, I hope that I have enough life left to change that. I hope to add more tracks focused on God and how He is working for the good in my life. 

What will the soundtrack of your life include? Is it filled with praise and thanksgiving or self want and self pity? 

Consider what God would want reflected through your life – what meaning does it hold? I am positive there is a song out there for it!