Music and My Soul
I have heard it said throughout my lifetime, “music soothes the savage beast.” In reality, I have no idea how music influences savage beasts. However, it does seem to me that music has an effect on humans. In my own life journey, I know that I have experienced moments of incredible bliss and tranquility from a broad range of music. From symphonic music to hymns, from ballads to contemporary worship music, all have brought me peace during moments of trial and conflict.
One old favorite hymn of mine, which many people know by heart, is “Amazing Grace.” And while all of the verses speak to my heart, the third verse, in particular, gives me a sense of calm and reassurance:
“The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.”
On the “contemporary” side of the aisle, there is a lesser-known song by Helen H. Lemmel, “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus.” This song also has a way of calming the troubled waters of life. When I hear the chorus (see below), I experience peace and calm even when the world is in turmoil around me.
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace.”
So, if (or when) you are having “one of those days,” when life is not going your way, consider taking a “time out” to listen to some of these songs or others to calm your soul as you prepare to enter your prayer closet to “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.”
And you might take a moment right now to close your eyes and contemplate some of the songs or hymns that soothe your soul, and then give thanks to God for the gift of music.
