During a special sermon dedicated to a month of praise and worship, Pastor Christian Gisanura focused on the importance of music in the life of a Christian.
Drawing from Psalm 68:5-8, he emphasized that singing to God is not a gift reserved for a few, but an act available to every believer, carrying spiritual power and practical impact in daily life.
He began by explaining that God is righteous and merciful to those who love Him, referencing the scripture:
"Sing to God, sing praises to His name; lift up a song to Him who rides through the deserts. His name is Yah, rejoice before Him." — Psalm 68:5
Pastor Gisanura reminded the congregation that singing to God is both an act of worship and a way to open the path for God in our lives. He explained that praise songs allow spiritual freedom because God delights in being honored through music.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he shared a story from his high school days. His teacher, who also played music, would sing popular songs in Lingala during breaks.
The teacher once said, “Anyone who does not love music is a sorcerer,” highlighting the crucial role music plays in human life. Pastor Gisanura added that a world without music would be impoverished, affecting believers and non-believers, young and old alike.
He stressed that even those without natural singing talent can praise God. “It’s not about singing well, it’s about whom I sing for,” he said, explaining that God values the heart more than skill. When a song comes from the heart, God rejoices.
Pastor Gisanura also encouraged those who may not know how to sing to still listen to worship music. Frequent listening imprints these songs in the mind and heart, helping believers connect with God. In this way, even listening can be an act of worship.
Turning again to scripture, he cited Psalm 68:6: "God sets the lonely in families; He leads out the prisoners with singing."
He explained that God cares for the vulnerable, particularly orphans and widows, and that praising Him through song allows believers to draw closer to His protective and just nature.
He continued with Psalm 68:7: "God makes homes for the lonely; He brings freedom to the captives; but the rebellious dwell in a parched land."
Here, Pastor Gisanura illustrated that worship songs help believers enter into a personal relationship with God, bringing peace, liberation, and provision according to His will. Everyone has areas in life where they need God’s help, and singing becomes a path to access His support.
He reminded the congregation that both God and Satan are spirits, and that the decisions of the body originate from the spirit. When a person’s thoughts or feelings conflict with God’s will, they can unknowingly fall under Satan’s influence. For this reason, he urged Christians to engage with God in spirit through song, ensuring their choices align with His guidance.
Finally, he reflected on Psalm 68:8: "When You went out before Your people, when You marched through the wilderness."
Pastor Gisanura explained this as a reminder that God leads His people even in difficult times, like through deserts. Singing to Him is an expression of trust and joy in all circumstances.
In conclusion, Pastor Christian Gisanura encouraged believers to take time to sing to God, learn worship songs, and for those able, to learn musical instruments. These practices build a stronger relationship with God and lead to a life that pleases Him.