Daily Devotional
Saul, Part 2
“And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him” (1 Samuel 16:23).
More than 15 million American adults suffer from major depressive disorders. The average age for the onset of depression is thirty- two and is more common in women. People with depression are four times more likely to develop a heart attack and, after an attack, are at a higher risk of death or a second heart attack. Depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States and accounts for over $70 billion in medical expenditures, lost productivity, and other costs.
King Saul’s depression affected his ability to rule Israel. It was so crippling to him that his own staff suggested he do something about it. They couldn’t prescribe an antidepressant. Saul’s servant recommended music therapy. “Let our master now command your servants, who are before you, to seek out a man who is a skilful player on the harp. And it shall be that he will play it with his hand when the distressing spirit from God is upon you, and you shall be well” (1 Samuel 16:16).
Music therapy has been shown to improve the mental health of people with depression. Researchers in Finland have found that three months of music therapy lowered the symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients. A study involving children in Ireland also showed music therapy to be helpful in increasing self-esteem, communication skills, and reducing depressive symptoms. Researchers at Beth Israel Medical Centre found live music lowered the heart rate of fussy premature babies.
When Jesse’s son, David, was brought in to skilfully play his soothing harp music for the distressed king, is it any wonder that “Saul would become refreshed and well” (verse 23)? The Bible repeatedly instructs: “Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His” (Psalm 30:4). We are told to speak “to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19).
Dear Jesus, when my heart is low, I will lift my voice in praise to You for all the blessings you bring.
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