From scriptures we understand that there are different genres of music. In no classical sense, we can talk of music of celebration. This idea is from James who recommends that believers should sing when they are happy. (See James 5:13). If we go by the experience of Paul and Silas, we may conclude that there is music of deliverance. After a demon possessed girl had been delivered, her masters raised false accusations against the apostles and had them committed to jail. In the middle of the night, they sang praises to God. The result was the earthquake that shook the foundations of the prison, and their chains were ripped apart. The story of Saul would also confirm that there is music of deliverance. When he suffered bouts of attacks, they sought a man who was skilled in playing music. As often as David played, Saul was relieved of the tormenting evil spirit.

The summary is that music is indeed powerful, and must be used with discretion…Be sure that your choice of music is edifying and not defiling you.

Our text points to a different category of music. Call this music of invocation, if you like. The children of Israel needed direction and a word of assurance when faced with battle. They contacted Elisha who asked for a minstrel to play. The moment the music started, the hand of the Lord came on him. That hand of the Lord was God’s Spirit who showed them what they needed to do. Of course, they were victorious in that campaign. The summary is that music is indeed powerful, and must be used with discretion. If a category of music brought the hand of God to bear, it is not in doubt that Satan may also manifest if the choice of songs appeals to him. Be sure that your choice of music is edifying and not defiling you.