“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, NIV)

It was quiet this morning. There were no added distractions playing in the background. It was just me in a quiet home making coffee. Without thought, I found myself singing. Somewhere from deep inside my heart, mind or soul, a song welled up and bubbled out.

It was a simple song I have known for many years. It was the chorus “Beautiful”, written by Dennis Cleveland. This song was on the Kids Praise 4 album. I listened to this album with my kids many times and we also sang this song together in our homeschool.
T
he kids didn’t love this song as much as I did. When they weren’t paying attention or didn’t sing, I would call them out and have them sing a solo. This is the song they had to sing as a solo. It was simple and had a great message. I wanted it to stick in their heads so I encouraged (or maybe pushed) them to sing it.

Well out of nowhere, this song popped into my head and I started singing it. The memories came back and the Lord used it to speak to me. He reminded me that I haven’t been paying close attention to Him. I also haven’t been singing songs of praise and gratitude, so He called me out and asked me to sing a solo. I was reminded that I am easily distracted and I forget to sing.

As I reflected on my lack of singing, I remembered this verse from Colossians. It seems that singing is not a choice, it is a command and God is going to call me out if I am not doing it! Today I will sing with a grateful heart as “Jesus makes beautiful things of my life”.

Thank you, Dennis Cleveland and Maranatha music for the inspiration. Thank you, Jesus, for reminding me to sing and be thankful.