Making a Joyful Noise

I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress. 

— Psalm 59:16   

 Charles Wesley, now known for writing hundreds of classic hymns, was once a less-than-enthusiastic preacher and a failure as a missionary. He could be haughty and demanding, and he usually read his sermons to a bored congregation. He often took more comfort in the public houses of England than in the church. 

 All that changed in 1738. Under the teachings of Peter Boehler, both Charles and his brother John were transformed. Charles found a new peace and strength in his faith. He began to preach without notes and spoke of the Lord wherever he could, even taking the message into prisons. A year later, he wrote an eighteen-verse hymn, praising God’s strength and power, His refuge in a time of trial, and His unending love. When John finally published his brother’s hymn almost thirty years later, he cut it down, beginning the song with verse 7 and a familiar line for long-time church goers: “O for a thousand tongues to sing.” 

 Charles and John Wesley both learned that God will always be our refuge and our safety. His love never leaves us, and when we fully welcome Him into our lives, our joy can easily erupt into songs of praise and adoration. Let’s turn to Him every day, praising His name, and letting that joy fill us with hope.   

Today’s One Thing 

Sing! No matter what your voice is like, find a time today to sing a favorite song of praise. 

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