It's the Heart That Counts
by Glenn Moriyama
If you’ve ever refrained from worshipping the Lord in song because you believe you have no musical ability, here is some very good news. Your heavenly Father isn’t looking exclusively for gifted musicians and singers; He is seeking “true worshipers” who will worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23). God has not said, “Come before My presence with talent.” Rather, He invites us to “come before His presence with singing.” (Psalm 100:2).
Have you ever wondered what does the Lord hear when we sing about Him and to Him? The Scriptures have convinced me that He hears and sees our hearts first, foremost and always. The notes and lyrics that fall from our lips are meaningless unless they are connected to our hearts (Isaiah 29:13 and Matthew 15:8-9). And our Creator, in His infinite wisdom and glorious wonder, has given us music as a vastly creative vehicle for carrying the expressions of our hearts.
Perhaps a glimpse of how our Heavenly Father views our heartfelt and heart-initiated worship can be found in “refrigerator art.” You know what I mean. Those hand-drawn pictures that a child (probably your own) thoughtfully and purposely produced for you and you alone. There they are, proudly displayed on the door of the fridge. As far as you’re concerned, these are masterpieces, not so much for the degree of artistic talent involved, but because of the heart behind the effort.
Now back to singing. The late Rich Mullins, a highly gifted and talented musician and songwriter (“Awesome God”, “Step By Step”, etc.), must have understood God’s heart toward the hearts of His true worshipers. Rather than being offended, Rich loved to stand near the singing saint who––although a bit off-beat and out-of-tune––nevertheless, was pouring out a perfectly tuned heart of love and adoration.
One more image. Imagine a child making her way into her father’s lap and proceeding to sing a song just for Dad. Her immature, untrained voice is squeaky, cracking, and gloriously off-key. Her rendition defies every tenet of music theory. Nonetheless, this child is focused on her Daddy, gazing into his eyes, hugging his neck, and literally singing her heart out. Will he set her down, point out her serious lack of ability, and tell her to come back when she’s got it right? Of course not. How much more will our heavenly Father receive the fruit of our lips––in whatever color and shape––that is springing forth from a heart that is rooted and nourished in true love and adoration?
“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of God.” And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:14,16)
Copyright 2003 by Glenn Moriyama. Used by permission. For more articles on worship and discipleship, go to LITEhouse Christian Bookstore.