Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 WEB
In the preceding verses, Paul encourages the Colossian church to actively display many positive traits. Among these, Paul instructs the church to be loving, compassionate, and kind. In addition, Paul teaches that they should live in humility with forgiving hearts and the strength of perseverance. Specifically, in the preceding verse of Colossians 3:15, Paul writes “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body, and be thankful. WEB”
The verse we study in this devotion adds to these traits the quality of allowing the word of Christ to live richly in each church member. This indicates a deep understanding of God’s word and an intimate, daily devotion to developing a relationship with Christ.
Also, Paul encourages his readers to admonish one another with spiritual songs, “singing with grace in your heart.” The word admonish means to correct, advise, and encourage one another to live godly lives. The idea is that the church should grow in faith and understanding with the practice of praising the Lord with church hymns.
Songs of Praise
Paul’s mentioning of teaching and admonition stress the value of the wisdom of God’s word for instruction and correction. The third aspect Paul mentions is musical which enhances enjoyment and encourages retention of subject matter. In other words, singing hymns and songs of praise to the Lord leads to a richer and more memorable worship service.
We easily recall songs we sang years ago but sometimes it is difficult to remember the name of a person we have just met. Paul’s advice for enriching the church members in Christ with various musical elements is unquestionably valid. Singing the psalms helps us to learn God’s word. Singing hymns of praise with “grace in your heart” demonstrates gratitude to God for his providence and our salvation while the word of God penetrates deeply into our hearts and souls.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your grace. Thank you for the wisdom and correction that comes from your holy word. You keep a song in my heart and inspire praise from the deepest part of my soul. Help me to love others as you love. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Encouragement of the Scriptures
