A Different Kind of Song

Psalm 40:3 is one of my favorite psalms in the bible.  Over the years I have written songs that declare the attributes and results of this verse.  At one point, I even started a business with this scripture as the foundation and vision of everything we produced.  In this psalm written by David to the choir director, we are instructed to “put a new song” in our mouths, with the result being that “many shall see it and fear, and shall put their trust in the Lord.” (KJV)

There are many interesting truths in this small, but prophetic verse.  A better translation of the word that is stated as “fear” in many bible versions is probably best seen in the Contemporary English Version since the original use of that word here actually meant reverence, honor or respect.  This modern translation declares that after seeing this new song that unbelievers “will honor and trust you, the Lord God.”  

So what is this verse actually telling us?  The 4Oth psalm begins by testifying about where many of us have been and how God pulled us out of the pit of despair and placed on a ROCK where our feet won’t slip.  Then the third verse tells how that because of this, He has put a new song in our mouths which sings forth the praises of our mighty loving heavenly Father.  Then one of those interesting parts comes up.  The author doesn’t say that many will “hear” it, but instead that many shall “see” it and turn their lives over to God.

It is telling us that our Christianity is not just words, but that our actions must match what we say, or sing in this case.  It has become very evident to me that people in the world are watching us a lot more than we may think that they are.  That new song that we sing and demonstrate through our daily actions most likely seems very weird or strange to them.  Most time our reactions to the events in our lives, especially the negative things, is totally different than they would react.  The Message Bible calls what our new song is based on a “mystery” to those outside of the faith.  It declares that “more and more people are seeing this (and) they enter the mystery, abandoning themselves to God.” (Psalm 40:3)

I believe that people who have nothing to hold on to except for what society says is right and/or the only way for us to follow, are just waiting for us to fail so that they can see something that will agree or bring comfort to the restlessness that they feel inside.  But when they see our new song repeatedly bring peace, love and joy into our lives, they develop a hope and hunger for what we have, and at some point that intense desire will cause them to “enter the mystery” and abandon the emptiness they feel while they discover God’s wholeness for their lives!

So what will you sing today?  Will it be the normal worldly song of fear, doubt, unbelief and hopelessness?  Or will it be the mysterious new song that declares the goodness, abilities and love of our heavenly Father?  Just what do you want those around you to “see” in and about you?  Have a great day!  Stay in tune to His Word, and keep asking yourself… “What SONG am I expecting people to SEE me SINGING today?