Think about that moment you hear a new song for the very first time. It’s a melody that immediately catches your attention. The music, the tune, the words, the meaning have you captivated.  Something about the song grabs you.  You develop an insatiable appetite for that song so you relentlessly scan the radio looking for it.  You set your play list where it repeats over and over.  You memorize the words and find yourself singing it everywhere – in the shower, in the car, at work.  And then the day comes – you’re sick of the song.  You’re tired of hearing it, singing it, of others singing it, of the radio playing it. You’ve had that experience right?

Why? Because every new song eventually becomes an old song. Initially the newness, the freshness has your full devotion. But after a while it’s no longer novel and original. It becomes old and stale. It’s time for a new song.

Now there are certain songs (think 80’s) that span any decade and are worth listening to anytime. They arbitrarily play on a throwback radio station or randomly pop up on your playlist. When the unforgettable tune hits your ears, it’s like being transported back in time to that moment, that girlfriend, that summer, that vacation. But you don’t hold on to that song like an infant who won’t give up his pacifier. You’ve moved on to new songs.

Sing a new song to the Lord…Psalm 98:1

God loves for us to relish old songs – unforgettable experiences, remarkable encounters and spellbinding awakenings. But not at the risk of missing out on new songs – novel stirrings, unfamiliar happenstances and blooming revivals. How do we sing a new song?

Find the New by Giving Thanks

It’s easiest for us to focus on what we don’t have. Taking time each day to give thanks reminds us of what we do have. When we start recognizing things we often take for granted, our perspective changes. We find new (old) things to be grateful for.  Take a few minutes to offer up thanks to God for the things you see around you and see the new God parades in front of you.

Be thankful in all circumstances…1 Thessalonians 5:18

Find the New in the Everyday

We are often guilty of wanting the burning bush encounter or the Red Sea experience. No doubt those are breathtaking moments. But they are not necessarily everyday happenings.  There are everyday occurrences (like the rising and setting of the sun) that are just as jaw dropping but because we take them for granted we fail to find the new in the them.  Today, pause to marvel at God’s brilliant exhibition in the commonplace.

I am making all things new…Revelation 21:5

Find the New in the Small Things

It’s true what they say: good things come in small packages. God can surprise us with the new in just about anything – a scrumptious appetizer, a gentle breeze, or a timely visit from a good friend. Just this morning I received and email that was signed off by the tag line “Hope your day is filled with God surprises!” Me, too. Will I see them? Look for God’s surprises in the small things today.

For I am about to do something new. See I have already begun. Do you not see it?  Isaiah 43:19

 Sing a new song!