Chapter 96—Uses of Music
Music was made to serve a holy purpose, to lift the thoughts to that
which is pure, noble, and elevating, and to awaken in the soul devotion
and gratitude to God. What a contrast between the ancient custom
and the uses to which music is now too often devoted! How many
employ this gift to exalt self, instead of using it to glorify God! A
love for music leads the unwary to unite with worldlovers in pleasure
gatherings where God has forbidden His children to go. Thus that
which is a great blessing, when rightly used, becomes one of the most
successful agencies by which Satan allures the mind from duty and
from the contemplation of eternal things.
Music forms a part of God’s worship in the courts above, and
we should endeavor, in our songs of praise, to approach as nearly as
possible to the harmony of the heavenly choirs. The proper training
of the voice is an important feature in education, and should not be
neglected.—
Patriarchs and Prophets, 594
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A Talent of Influence
There are those who have a special gift of song, and there are times
when a special message is borne by one singing alone or by several
uniting in song. But the singing is seldom to be done by a few. The
ability to sing is a talent of influence, which God desires all to cultivate
and use to His name’s glory.—
Testimonies for the Church 7:115, 116
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In Tune with Heavenly Musicians
When human beings sing with the spirit and the understanding,
heavenly musicians take up the strain and join in the song of thanks-
giving. He who has bestowed upon us all the gifts that enable us to
be workers together with God, expects His servants to cultivate their
voices, so that they can speak and sing in a way that all can under-
stand. It is not loud singing that is needed, but clear intonation, correct
pronunciation, and distinct utterance. Let all take time to cultivate the
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