It is not easy to sing with brethren during worship when they are using another language beside English. We understand the apostle Paul teaches us to sing with the spirit and with the understanding, and it is imperative this takes place. If one’s brethren of another nationality are singing in their language, but using a tune or melody we are familiar with, then it becomes possible to sing together, expressing the same concepts of praise and instruction while teaching and admonishing one another in spiritual hymns even while using different words and phrases. If one does not recognize the melody however, forget it. It’s not going to happen.
Unfortunately, there may be a discordant tone that ascends heavenward to clash in the ears of our Lord, when brethren are singing the page, the line, the measure or the note they personally choose to sing without consideration of the direction and leading of the great “Conductor.” When brethren do their own thing (because they can) without due and proper consideration for Jesus, His wishes, His will and His purposes, it becomes difficult, yea impossible, for His disciples to blend in sweet, perfect harmony.
Some sing with their heads bowed down. They never look up to see whether Jesus is smiling on them, or whether His heart is breaking from their failure to love, appreciate, adore and follow Him.
Some are unwilling to sing with and follow the great “Conductor.” Rather than sing together on the same page, same line, same measure, etc., they either “run ahead” or “fall behind” the “Leader.” Some seem to think the only thing that matters is that they are singing, without regard to place and time.
Brethren, there are elders, deacons, preachers, Bible class teachers and members in general that need to turn to the page Jesus has “announced,” and we need to wait for His lead and follow Him. He will not “drag” us through the song, but He will lead us cheerfully and triumphantly through it as we march together “to Zion, the beautiful city of God.”
