I have been reading two essays by Francis Schaeffer. They are both in a little book entitled Art and the Bible. I would recommend this book to ALL artists. This quote stuck out to me. "So you might say to David, 'David, why do you sing? Just to amuse yourself? Only the little white-faced sheep will hear.' And David will reply, 'Not at all. I'm singing and the God of heaven and earth - he hears my song and that's what makes it so worthwhile.'" I'm sure you are thinking by this point, "Duh! and how long have you been a church musician?" I would agree with you. It was a "duh" moment for me, but here is the real crux of the matter... we all know the right attitude. God is who we should do this for, but is it just me or do you feel you have to be reminded of this many times a week? It is so much easier to get wrapped up in the praise and accolades from people because they are immediate and something tangible. I grant they can be an encouragement, but are they necessary? If all the praise and accolades went away, would I still do what I say God has called me to do? The answer for me - Yes! What's your answer?
Take time this week to examine that question, again, for the hundred sixty-eighth time. Would I continue to pursue what I feel God has called me to if I got no praise or encouragement from people? If you have read this devotional and have no idea why you do what you do, take the time this week to get with God and ask Him to reveal to you what He wants from you. It may not be an easy road but God promises that it will be well worth it in the end.
SCRIPTURE READING
Psalm 127:1, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Galatians 1:10, Colossians 1:9-14, 3:17, Hebrews 6:9-12
BOTTOM LINE
It is better to sing for One than it is for one thousand.