Nehemiah 12 reminds me of a musical production. In a way it also reminds us of the importance and purpose of music. From the beginning of time, music was used to praise God. Music has a special place in the heart of God because it breathes life into words. When lyrics are combined with music the results can be unforgettable. How many of us still sing our “ABC song”? While I am not one who believes today’s music is evil, I am sure that Satan can and does corrupt anything for his own purposes. I will say simply that words have meaning and no matter how skillfully performed, we should be aware of the words behind the beat. I will even go as far as saying the words will affect your mood and your attitude. In my life, I have found that even a short shout of praise can change everything. The chapter today begins with the opening credits, “These were the priests and Levites who returned with Zerubbabel… and with Jeshua” as the names scroll down the screen. The only commentary about the people on the list reference musicians! “Mattaniah, who, together with his associates, was in charge of the songs of thanksgiving … And the leaders of the Levites were… and their associates, who stood opposite them to give praise and thanksgiving, one section responding to the other, as prescribed by David the man of God“. Note an attitude of thanksgiving creates a desire to worship God.
The chapter continues with the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem. “At the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem, the Levites were sought out from where they lived and were brought to Jerusalem to celebrate joyfully the dedication with songs of thanksgiving and with the music“. This was not some boring ritual and recitation; it was a multi-stage sight and sound extravaganza! “I had the leaders of Judah go up on top of the wall. I also assigned two large choirs to give thanks. One was to proceed on topof the wall… The second choir proceeded in the opposite direction. I followed them on top of the wall“. “The two choirs that gave thanks then took their places in the house of God… The choirs sang under the direction of Jezrahiah“. This production was not random, music is structured, and it requires togetherness and direction to be effective. Many people struggle with that same point in life. Do you know the director of your life? “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).
The chapter ends with a reminder that like the priests, our praise to God is an act of worship. “And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away.” It is clear these songs were not for entertaining the people, but for worshipping God. Psalm 50 calls our songs of worship a “Sacrifice of praise“. Understand Jesus paid the price for our sin by willingly laying down His life. That sacrifice does not need to be paid again. The only sacrifice we can offer is thanks. Hebrews 13:15 says, “let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise the fruit of lips that confess his name“. The chapter also mentions once again that “all Israel contributed the daily portions for the singers and gatekeepers. They also set aside the portion for the other Levites“. All ministry requires financial support to continue. I am convinced that giving financially is another way we have to express our thanks. Giving under obligation produces resentment, but giving with thankfulness produces great joy. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says very simply, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver“. There is a part for you in God’s great musical. Come find your place.