vendredi 3 novembre 2017

The Inspirational Hymns That Motivate People

By Cynthia West


Devotional songs are often associated with worship, but they can also be secular. Sometimes they celebrate allegiance to cause or country. In America, the word is taken to mean church music, and the list holds many of the most beloved songs we have. Hymns that motivate us to take care of what is important - belief, country, family, or friends - remain a popular subject for songwriters.

The very word, which comes from the Greek, means a song of praise. Early religious music of the ancients has been found; historians have recovered odes from the Greeks and devotional songs of Egypt. Most churches have collections of songs and music called hymnals that are used in worship services.

A good example of a motivational hymn written for a secular purpose is 'The Battle Hymn Of The Republic'. It was written by Julia Ward Howe in the middle of the American Civil War, using a traditional tune and 'Glory, Glory, Hallelujah' chorus. This hymn, written to equate the Union cause with the judgement and victory of Jesus as found in 'end times' books in the Bible, was immediately popular and has remained so. Most 'Baby Boomers' learned this song in school.

'Amazing Grace', another beloved song, speaks of salvation from a state of wretchedness to one of 'saved by grace'. The story of this song is as inspirational as the words. John Newton, a sailor and later slave trader, cried out to God in desperation during a violent storm at sea. He became a clergyman and wrote this song to reinforce a sermon. The tune that Americans love was settled on later. Newton became an ardent abolitionist and helped to bring about the end of the slave trade in Britain.

Today television, radio, and the internet are great resources for those who love this kind of music. Gospel hours, spiritual classics, and popular Christian music flood the airways. Cable television has special channels for traditional and modern worship music and song. YouTube has great renditions of favorite songs and clips of talent shows when a contestant wows the audience with a hymn of praise. You can visit Mennonite churches, monasteries, and convents to hear amazing renditions of songs of faith.

A hymn can extol the majesty and worthiness of God, the love of Jesus, or the price the Lord paid for sinners of every tribe and nation. Children learn 'Jesus Loves Me' and 'This Little Light Of Mine'. "The Old Rugged Cross' and 'At The Cross' remind us of Jesus' last gift to mankind, and 'What A Friend We Have In Jesus' celebrates the treasures of salvation.

People have written about their personal relationship to God, and others use their words to express similar feelings. "I Come To The Garden Alone' and 'Blessed Assurance' speak of the peace of knowing god and accepting Jesus as savior. Many songs are Psalms set to music, and singing scripture back to God who inspired it is a special pleasure.

Children and adults love Christmas carols. One of the best things about Easter is the triumphant music sung on that special Sunday morning. Fall harvest is celebrated in song. Funerals are made more bearable and memorable by playing favorite and traditional hymns. These songs enrich our lives in all seasons of the year and of life.




About the Author:



Aucun commentaire:

Enregistrer un commentaire