Singing in the Dark

SINGING ANYTIME OF DAY

The cheerful sound of birds singing brings me joy. I live in a residential area, but the nearby forest is home to many feathered friends. I hear their melodies from morning until night, some even before sunrise. 

I’ve often considered the birds’ example, given how music flows through my days. I’ve loved singing since childhood—anytime and anywhere, whether in school groups, around the house, in the car, or at church. 

I wish it were still that way. Due to chronic jaw pain, singing has been nearly impossible for over six years. I have experienced brief periods of improvement, but it has been a long, hard journey. Since worship in song is noted throughout the Bible, I know I can’t give up despite the struggle.  

SINGING THROUGH SUFFERING

Psalm 13:6 depicts a decision to sing in response to God’s abundant goodness: I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.

However, the singing in Psalm 13:6 occurs amid great suffering. The preceding verses reveal deep sorrow, with four repetitions of “How long?” From there, the author shifts to the Lord’s love and salvation, determined to give thanks regardless of his situation. 

I’m reminded of Paul and Silas in Acts 16:25-26, singing in prison at midnight. Like birds raising their voices before dawn, Paul and Silas sang while it was still dark. They had no idea the Lord would respond with an earthquake, opening every door and breaking every chain.

MAKING MUSIC IN OUR HEARTS 

Years later, during another imprisonment, Paul wrote: Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19)—no prerequisites needed, only a continual choice to praise God.

In Edges of His Ways, author Amy Carmichael comments on this exact Ephesians text: “Never be afraid of singing too much. We are much more likely to sing too little. There are times, however, when we cannot sing aloud. This verse covers the inward singing that so often lifts the heart heavenward. God makes us a singing company.” 

When my jaw hurts too much to vocalize, I can recite lyrics in my mind. I can also hum along to songs others sing, grateful for the musical gifts of brothers and sisters in Christ. Classic hymns (some I have known since childhood) often bring comfort. Chronic Joy’s Hymns: An Enduring Journey of Prayer printable provides an overview, including favorites such as Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Great is Thy Faithfulness, and Be Still My Soul. I invite you to explore this rich legacy of our faith.

Some people say they don’t sing because they cannot carry a tune, but God’s Word never mentions staying on pitch. The Lord cares most about the “tuning” of our hearts. Declaring His character and goodness, however we can, infuses us with fresh strength and hope. Let’s follow the birds’ example and continue singing, even in the dark. 

PRAYER

Gracious God, thank You for the countless examples of singing provided in Your Word and in nature. Thank You for how music can express our joys, sorrows, and concerns beyond mere words. Please remind us to lift our hearts and voices, however we can, knowing You will meet us with grace and compassion. Thank You for Your steadfast love. In Jesus' mighty name, amen.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• What most often prompts you to sing to the Lord?
• If you are uncomfortable with singing (whether aloud or silently), what can you do to ease your discomfort?
• How can you incorporate uplifting music into your days?