Bless the Lord oh my soul (Psalm 103:1 KJV)

During my childhood I had measles and doctors think that this was the cause of my hearing loss. I have worn hearing aids since I was eighteen and I am so thankful for the NHS and the audiology team for all their support over these many years. The aids have made such a huge difference, as they have prevented me from living in a totally silent world.

Now technology and I don’t go together! But a few years ago my aids were upgraded and they now have ‘Bluetooth’. Wow! what a blessing. I am now able to listen to instrumental music or favourite hymns and songs directly into the aids and this gives me immense joy. I am thankful to God for this technology! As I listen, especially when I walk my dog, I feel drawn into God’s presence as the Holy Spirit touches my spirit and my soul is lifted.

The hymn and song writers take scripture verses and biblical themes, enabling us to express our love, praise and worship to God in ways we might not be able to do ourselves. The words enable us to proclaim the unchanging character of God: His Holiness, His greatness, His goodness and faithfulness. They help strengthen our faith by reminding us of His promises towards us and his countless blessings in our lives. They shift our focus from our circumstances to God, changing our perspective and enabling us to praise and worship Him in the midst of difficulties and struggles. They bring us closer to God and help create sacred moments in His presence, wherever we might be.

Hymns and songs like Great is thy faithfulness, The Lord’s my Shepherd, How can it be, When I survey the wondrous cross, Be still and know, 10,000 reasons: so many inspiring lyrics and tunes that touch our hearts in different ways. Let us have thankful hearts for all the talented writers, who inspire us to lift our praises to our God.

Each of us will have our favourites, so whatever your circumstances, however you are feeling today, listen or sing your favourite hymn or song and join with the Psalmist : “Bless the Lord, oh my soul: and all that is within me, bless His Holy name”. (Ps 103:1) Allow the Holy Spirit to touch your heart and draw you into God’s presence and encounter afresh His love, joy and peace. As we give Him the glory that is due to Him, we join the angels in heaven: “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honour and power and strength be to our to God for ever and ever Amen!” (Rev 7:12) Hilary Smith