1 Chronicles 15:16

(1 Chronicles 15:16 ESV) David also commanded the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their brothers as the singers who should play loudly on musical instruments, on harps and lyres and cymbals, to raise sounds of joy.

SOUNDS OF JOY! The sound of that phrase just sounds like JOY to my ears! It delights me.

In 1 Chronicles 15, Kind David carefully prepares to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. The plans included the Levites carrying it in the right way, the consecration of priest, and the organization of music for JOYful worship in celebration.

This is prepared JOY! It is not spontaneous chaos. Worship services are planned, intentional, and structured so that God is honored. I am reminded of the reason for the beloved liturgy of my youth. I was disappointed back in the day of change-for-the-better with the familiar not being used much anymore.

The musicians and gatekeepers are even listed by name! Such detail took time. Why? David acknowledges that the earlier attempt in Chapter 13 when Uzzah died was a failure because they had not followed God’s commands. David had learned from past mistakes.

Musical instruments were important, but even more important was the loud and JOYful singing and voices. Why? God restored reverence in worship to include JOY. What a beautiful example of JOY in worship.

The music is not for entertainment. The sounds of JOY are for worshipping and honoring God. JOY in the heart becomes a spiritual offering.

David was so JOYful he danced in celebration with the people. The chapter ends with David's wife, Michal, despising him for his exuberant dancing. Sigh. There it is again. JOY in spite of STOOPIDTY is found in every Bible story thus far in this study. There is nothing new under the sun.

JOY in this story is shared. Shared JOY is contagious and multiplies as the whole community participates. Everyone has a role in this active worship.

Please pray with me.  Jesus, thank you for our Pastor and staff who carefully plan our worship services for the church. Thanks for reminding me that these services are prepared JOY intentionally structured to honor and worship You. I am thankful to share in worship with others. Amen.

Concordance H8057; 93 references in 89 verses to this certain word for "joy" . שִׂמְחָה is pronounced simchâh (sim-khaw) and relates to a religious or festival blithesomeness (cheerful disposition) or glee, which is fitting for this scene. H8057 is also translated in other Bible verses as exceeding(ly), gladness, joy(fulness), mirth, pleasure, rejoice(ing).

January 11, 2026