Reading through more lists of names and assignments in the Old Testament, I’ve confessed before and now reiterate my confession that I sometimes find them challenging (probably “boring” is more accurate but not sure I should use that word when referring to God’s Word). To redeem myself while sensing those emotions, I also pray regularly that God would teach me something valuable from these portions of Scripture, even when I sometimes wonder what that something could possibly be.
The other day, however, 1 Chronicles 15:16 jumped out at me; here’s what it says: “ And David spoke to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren to be the singers with instruments of music, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.” (KJV)
One thing became very clear: it was me that was “dull”, not God’s Word nor David’s instructions to his musicians! Although the cymbal, on its own, produces a far from pleasing or melodic sound, when in its proper place and order alongside the other members of the orchestra, its contribution is most valuable.
As believers in Christ and, importantly, as part of the Body of Christ, we need each other to compliment a sacred offering of harmony to the Lord. He loves and deals with us individually but He also instructs us to recognize and contribute to the collective ministry He has given us to do. While our “instrument” may not seem as important or visible as that of others, God has given us the exact talents He wants us to use for His glory.
“For, dear brothers, you have been given freedom: not freedom to do wrong, but freedom to love and serve each other.” Galatians 5:13 (Living Bible)
I believe that David, an oft-victim of unkindness, would add a hearty Amen!
Clang away, cymbals!
