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1 Chronicles 15:16 "David also commanded the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their brethren as the singers who should play loudly on musical instruments, on harps and lyres and cymbals, to raise sounds of joy."

 

The Levites were the priests, so they had some pretty heady responsibilities. But David recognized that if the priests didn't exhibit their great joy in God, the people would not feel that joy. The Levites' priestly responsibilities flowed from their close relationship with God, they were chosen by Him to know and serve Him in a unique way. And knowing God always brings joy, even when He asks us to do some heavy lifting.

 

David gave the Levites permission here to show their joy with music and song. I can understand how priests might sometimes think they should not behave "frivolously" with music and dancing. They are, after all, to be an example of holiness to the people, and they might think that singing loudly and joyfully could undermine their example. But done in the right circumstances, and with the right intention of praising God, there is nothing more uplifting than beautiful music.

 

I have heard it said that music is the language of heaven. I think David and his harp would agree.