Christian Living

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By Lynn Wallace

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:14).

After my husband’s heart stopped beating, God’s presence filled my heart with music.

My aloneness cast me on the Lord. Though I knew I wouldn't see Leon again in this life, my heart was filled with praise. I cannot explain except to say God comforted me in my hour of trial.

Praise pulled me toward the Lord. When King Jehoshaphat led his people in praise, God set ambushments against God’s enemies. Songs of praise pleased Him, and He gave Israel the victory.

God broke my heart at times, leaving me speechless as I wept. Then humility and harmony struck a symphony in my heart. He promises, "I dwell with him also that is of a humble and contrite heart" (Isaiah 57:15 KJV).

Leon and I lived in the church building when we first moved to Dallas. Leon worked nights. One night I arose at midnight to let him in, and saw a light in the study. My pastor, P. D. Taylor, prayed at this hour and got his heart in tune with God.

How can this man radiate such joy in the midst of all his trials? I had often wondered. Now I had discovered his secret.

Charles L. Thomas, my former pastor, yearned over his brother who faced amputation of his leg. He could die. “I wish I had power as the apostles to heal him,” he said. Compassion stemmed from the melody in his heart.

When Brother Thomas preached, the rhapsody in heaven struck a chord with his sermon.

Some claim they can worship God out-of-doors or at home. They say, “I do not need the church.” If I neglect the church, my heart sounds a discord. I cannot disobey His command and live in harmony with Him (Heb. 10:25).

When I have disregarded the Bible, God has convicted me and drawn me back. Once again the notes of joy sound in my heart.

Memorization helps me ponder on God’s sonatas. I can carry His tuneful phrases with me. In this way the Spirit can use the Word in keeping my heart from a jangle instead of a song.

It was not just the maps, the overhead projector, and the blackboard which made Brother Taylor a great Bible teacher. Any Sunday School teacher can use these aids. He knew his Bible and let the master musician play His tune in his heart.
As Brother Taylor counseled me, he quoted one verse I cannot get away from, "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10, KJV). He wanted His joy to ring out from my heart. Instead, my burdens stole my song. When I finally grasped the fact that "nerves" and burdens were the same, I enjoyed harmony with the Lord.

My body waxed weak for lack of exercise; I had to walk to build up my calcium. Lack of spiritual exercise likewise steals our songs. We exercise the spirit by obeying God’s commands. Brother Taylor encouraged me to write an application based on what the Scripture says. Then I incorporated it into my prayers. When I do what God says, then I play a melody in my heart.

I endeavor to press on "toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" by praise, a broken heart, fellowship, prayer, and the Word (Philippians 3:14). In this way I hope to reach my goal of harmony with my blessed Lord.

Dear Lord, May I sing and make melody in my heart to the Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


Printed in Crystal Rainbow, February 1990

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