Day 136: The Song That Teaches – A Biblical Pattern for Music

Biblical Principle: Absolute Truth from God’s Word
Truth: Music is God-given and is all about Him.

On Day 136, we pause to consider one of God’s greatest gifts to mankind: music. It is more than sound; it is more than lyrics. When rightly understood through the lens of God’s Word, music is a holy vehicle—created by God and meant to return to Him in worship and truth.

The Song of Deborah and Barak in Judges 5:1-12 provides a stunning example of what good, godly music looks like. This song is not entertainment. It is not for show. It is truth, worship, remembrance, and a call to righteousness. It is, in every sense, a theological declaration in melody.

The Biblical Pattern for Music

The song begins with Deborah and Barak praising God for His deliverance and the willing hearts of His people. This sets the foundation: good music begins and ends with God.

“I will sing unto the LORD; I will sing praise to the LORD God of Israel.” (Judges 5:3)

This is not a general sentiment of gratitude. It is directed, specific praise—rooted in God’s actions and His glory. Good music, like this song, magnifies God’s greatness, recounts His righteous acts, and reinforces our desperate need for Him.

Three truths this song teaches us about godly music:

1. It reveals the greatness of God.
   “The mountains melted from before the LORD…” (Judges 5:5). God’s power is displayed and praised. The song lifts His might and majesty.

2. It exposes the need of man.
   “They chose new gods; then was war in the gates…” (Judges 5:8). Music, when it reflects truth, does not shy away from our sin. It reminds us of our waywardness and our need for divine intervention.

3. It declares the plan to reconcile man to God.
   Deborah and Barak recount God’s acts of mercy and deliverance. They do not merely recall history—they highlight redemption. This is the core message of the gospel in song form.

Practical Application: Music that Teaches, Uplifts, and Submits

Ephesians 5:17-21 and Colossians 3:16-17 further solidify the role of music in the life of a believer. Good music is:

• The Lord’s will – Not worldly, not self-centered. It aligns with God’s heart and purpose.

• Spirit-led – It flows from a life filled with the Spirit, not one filled with emotionalism or artificiality.

• Christ-centered – The lyrics, the melody, and the message all exalt Christ above all else.

• Submissive – True worship is always humble, always willing to yield to God and serve others.

“Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord…” (Ephesians 5:19)
“Teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs…” (Colossians 3:16)

Music is not just personal—it is communal. We are called to teach and admonish one another with our songs. Music becomes a tool of discipleship and encouragement when it is rooted in Scripture and aimed at the heart.

Conclusion: Awake, Awake, Utter a Song

As Deborah calls out in verse 12, “Awake, awake, Deborah: awake, awake, utter a song…”, we too are called to awaken our hearts to sing—not just for enjoyment, but for eternal purpose. Let our music reflect our theology. Let our melodies mirror the majesty of God. And let every song we sing point others to the greatness of the One who gave us the gift of music in the first place.

May our hearts be tuned to truth, and may our lives echo the song of the redeemed.