Singing Lessons for Christians

“Jesus is far more concerned that your heart is in tune with him – than how good a vocalist you are…”

Ben Slee, Music Pastor & Songwriter, Christ Church Mayfair, Delight Podcast Episode 7, October 2021

In Episode 7 of Delight Podcast we asked Ben Slee what it means to sing as a Christian. But if we want to get some lessons on how to grow as singers – what we actually need is to give our heart some lessons instead.

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

Colossians 3:16

1. Sing so that the word may dwell richly
We all have songs that instantly bring back a memory of a day, a time or an event, vividly taking you back to that situation. So surround yourself with music that is rich lyrically with the Holy truth of who God is and what He has done. It will vividly take you back to the truth of the Gospel. It matters what you sing. What’s on your playlist and what do you listen to? It’s the classic cliche – what goes in, comes out. Let your lips always have the words of truth humming on them.

2. Sing to God
Our creator God is so worthy of Praise and worship and God wants to hear us sing. Psalm 40:3 tells us that He has put a new song in our mouths, so this is not just a jolly sing-a-long. We’re singing to an all knowing, loving, just, merciful God.

3. Sing to each other
Football matches are filled with groups of people singing together, to support a team and as an act of unity. And it’s full of energy and intention. How much more then are we united when we sing together to the God who created us, loves us, saved us and so much more. We sing to encourage each other of the truth of the bible, to teach each other, to be united in praise. And if you feel more enthusiastic about singing at the football, maybe take a moment to ponder why.

4. Just sing!
Singing is a command. Psalm 47:6-7 says “Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise” No confusion in that verse there is there? Does knowing we are commanded to sing change your feelings in any way?

5.  Singing is not just speaking
Singing helps us engage with our emotions in the word. Well lead, ‘undistractingly excellent’ music will lead to God being glorified and us knowing and feeling that truth in our hearts.  God gave us a whole book of Psalms! He really knows singing is different to other forms of communication.

6. When it feel impossible to sing, that’s okay
Life is hard. And sometimes, singing is just too much. That’s okay. Listen to your brothers and sisters sing, put on a playlist, pray the words in your heart, and ask God to help you sing again,

7. And if you want actual vocal tips – drop us an email, and in the mean time here are some resources:
Sovereign Grace Music, lots of free, quality sources
Ben Slee Music, Music Pastor & Songwriter, Christ Church Mayfair
Joyful Noise UK, UK based fresh songwriting
Music Ministry UK, equipping the church to sing