Genesis 4 tells us about people who established occupations still in existence today.  In addition to husbandry and metal working, the earliest musician is mentioned: “His … name was Jubal. He was the first person to play the harp and the flute.” (Genesis 4:21 Gods Word).  It’s logical for God to provide people with skills to produce food and create the tools essential to mankind’s existence. It’s enlightening that he also provided a musician.  He realized that we have needs that go beyond food and work!

Music has a way of speaking to both the mind and emotions.  Words that speak loudly on their own are magnified when placed to music.  Music may lift our hearts, or move us to tears. Some melodies have become synonymous with milestones of life – Pomp and Circumstance at graduation, or the Mendelssohn Wedding March as the recessional at a traditional wedding.  Even nature seems to be musical when we hear the whistling of the wind, the singing of the birds, or the babbling of a brook.  Maltbie D. Babcock’s hymn comes to mind.  “This is my Father’s world, And to my listening ears, All nature sings and round me rings The music of the spheres”

Is it any wonder that the Psalmist encouraged us to use music in our worship of God?

“Sing to the Lord, all the earth!  Sing of his glorious name!  Tell the world how wonderful he is.  How awe-inspiring are your deeds, O God!  How great your power!  No wonder your enemies surrender!  All the earth shall worship you and sing of your glories. Come see the glorious things God has done…” –Psalm 66:1-5 Living Bible