The Bible and Music

When Professor McGrath asked us to select two psalms in preparation for our class last Thursday, two psalms came to mind. The topics of these psalms vary; as such, each psalm appeals to me in a unique way. The first psalm I selected, psalm 37 verse 4 reads, “take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (psalm 37:4). I have always appreciated this psalm. The sentiment expressed in this psalm is reflected several times throughout the Bible. This psalm expresses a belief that is very close to my heart. I do my very best to orient my life toward God and place my trust completely in Him. I believe that God loves His children unconditionally and rewards them for their obedience and faith. I also picked psalm 91, which is frequently cited as the Christian prayer of protection. It reads, “whoever dwells in shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (psalm 91:1-4). I think this psalm reveals the origin of my faith in God’s ability to protect His children. Psalm 37 alludes to trust in God while psalm 91 insists that there is a sound basis for faith in God’s protection and providence. Amidst the troubles and turbulence of the modern world, it is comforting to place my faith in divine protection.