They say music speaks in any language. In the United States, if you walk through a park, you’re likely to hear at least 3 or 4 different styles of music.

I grew up in the 60s and 70s, so you don’t have to wonder too much what music I like best. I am also a musician and play 4 different brass instruments. I’ve also played jazz in a big band and do enjoy most of the “Greats” from the era: Glenn Miller, Harry James, Buddy Morrow, and the Dorsey Brothers, to name a few.

Although there are many different styles of music that can stir up memories, there is only one style that will bring my soul to worship. That style is the Hymns of Faith.

Have you ever just taken a hymn book and, without trying to think of the rhythm, just sat and read what’s written? There is so much truth and life, praise, and worship from those words. Most of the hymns were written by authors who had experienced sadness and hardships, while others arose from triumphs and victories. All hymns have one purpose behind them: to glorify and praise the Lord and Savior.

I have 2 favorite hymns that, whenever I hear them, I just have to stop what I am doing and listen, mainly because I can relate so well to what the author of the hymn was trying to say.

My 2 favorite hymns are “In the Garden” and “It Is Well With My Soul.”

The hymn “In the Garden” reminds you to take time and slow down from your busy life. Take time to talk to God. God wants to walk and talk with you, whatever comes your way. It’s a reminder that God is always near, always ready. He is just waiting for us to ask for help.

“It Is Well With My Soul” has a very traumatic story behind it. I won’t get into the details, but the author lost everything he owned and even lost 3 children. Yet, even through the tragedy, he still never forgot who God was. He could have blamed God and asked why, but instead, he just simply said, “God, You are in control, and whatever else can happen and what has happened, I trust You; it is well with my soul.”

Talk about someone having deep faith. This song is a reminder to me that God will never give us more than we can handle, and just total trust in Him will see you through.

The difference in hymns compared to all other music is that it hasn’t changed through the centuries, simply because the message was true then as it is today.

Sadly, many churches have gone away from hymns, and I think they are missing out. That’s not to say that church music of today doesn’t have a place; it can still bring your soul to worship.

What really matters is that music can help you bring your heart to worship, or it can be a playground for Satan.

Music will definitely bring up emotions, good and bad, so we need to be on guard regarding the type of music we listen to.

May God’s peace always be with you.