Singing Praises To God

Singing Praises to God

Q: What instrument did Miriam play to praise the Lord?

• a. drum
• b. cymbal
• c. tambourine

In the 1980s there was a popular Christian song that said, “The horse and rider thrown into the sea.” Someone had set these words to a new tune, but it wasn’t a new song. Moses, Miriam, and the Israelites first sang similar words after God sent the Red Sea crashing down on the Egyptians who were pursuing them.

Miriam, Moses’ sister, played the tambourine, and all the women followed her with tambourines, dancing and singing, “Sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously; he has hurled both horse and rider into the sea.”

Moses and Miriam knew the parting of the Red Sea was a miracle God used to show he was looking out for the Israelites. They wanted to praise him, and singing was an important part of praise. It was also a way to remember God’s works and pass them down the generations. Some think this song of Moses’ is the oldest written song. People sang before this, but no one may have written down any of the words. With all the people singing to God along with Miriam and the other women playing tambourines and dancing, this was an event that would be long remembered.

Churches today often begin their services by singing praises to God. This is a good way to focus on what he’s done for us and to prepare our hearts for the pastor’s message.

For You

Singing praises to God after a time of trouble—or even during trials—is a good way to keep your focus on God and off of yourself. You can also make singing or listening to worship music part of your daily time with God. Why not try it this week?

Answer: c

Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine and led all the women as they played their tambourines and danced.   Exodus 15:20

(The Whole Story: Exodus 15:1-21)