Singing from the Heart – Understanding with the Mind

Across the United States and around the world our worship services have been significantly altered by the coronavirus pandemic. Handshakes have been replaced by elbow bumps and close fellowship has given way to sitting in every other pew. But the most disturbing changes in our worship have to do with singing. Concerns over whether or not it’s safe to sing have led many churches to suspend choirs and modify song services.

As a song leader, I can say that this aspect of corporate worship is greatly missed by all. A large part of our worship service is dedicated to praising God as we lift our voices together in song. This integral part of worship must not be minimized or neglected for it serves several purposes. Besides an offering of praise, our singing serves as an excellent way to teach and reinforce sound doctrine. In addition, these scripturally rich songs help us to internalize the Word of God so it may dwell richly in us as Colossians 3:16 commands.

The Importance of Singing

Given the importance the Lord places on singing, we must be sure we sing in a way that is pleasing to the Lord. The condition of our heart is of major concern as we sing. Too often, as believers, we find ourselves singing words that are not a reflection of the attitude of our hearts. In other words, do we really mean what we are singing? How many times have we sung “Have Thy Own Way” or “I Surrender All” when our heart is far from a point of surrendering to His will? We should never be guilty of the senseless singing of words without an inward look at the heart.

The Lord is also pleased when we take time to sing with understanding and comprehend the meaning of the words in the songs we sing. Paul said, “I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding,” (I Cor. 14:15). This type of singing requires a bit more time and effort but it is necessary.

To help us understand the words we sing in some of our more common hymns, I’ve compiled a list of unfamiliar words and their definitions.

May the songs of praise we sing truly come from a heart that exalts God!