Find Comfort: Music’s Role in Tough Times

By Veda Green

What is your song with or without words? For many, music is more than just a series of notes or lyrics—it’s a powerful force that can soothe the soul and provide comfort during life’s toughest moments. Whether you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, facing the end of a significant relationship, or simply enduring the daily stresses of life, music can be a refuge and a source of strength.

Music as a Source of Comfort and Healing

Listening to music can significantly lessen pain and, in some cases, even take it away. It has a unique ability to help you manage difficult situations, providing a soundtrack to navigate through grief and loss. Whether you have lost a loved one, a job, a home, a friendship, or a relationship, music has the power to transport you to a place where it’s just you and that song. A certain melody can evoke memories, bringing smiles and tears alike, and offer solace like nothing else.

The Personal Connection to Music

Music’s impact is deeply personal. It can make you turn up the radio and sing along with abandon, especially after a rough or a particularly good day. With today’s technology, music is more accessible than ever, available anytime and anywhere through earphones and earbuds. Whatever your preferred style or genre, let it carry you to a place of comfort and peace.

A Personal Testimony

Music has kept me from losing my mind. For years, I served as a choir director, even though I couldn’t read notes. God gifted me with the ability to hear and teach the parts—soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, and bass—with the help of musicians. The words of a song can be incredibly powerful. As a choir director, I had to learn the words thoroughly to teach them to the choir, and by the time we presented the song to the congregation, those words were embedded in my soul, offering understanding and encouragement through every situation.

Music as a Balm in Times of Grief

My mom was ill frequently and underwent many surgeries. Music was a significant part of her pain management and emotional comfort. Her favorite song was “Never Would Have Made It” by gospel singer Marvin Sapp. The lyrics resonated deeply with her, expressing everything she felt. When my mom died unexpectedly, I was devastated. Losing my best friend and confidant was incredibly painful, and I didn’t know how I would cope.

During my mom’s Homegoing Service, a young man sang her favorite song. It was the song Never Would’ve Made It by Marvin Sapp, and the song provided me with hope and a sense of my mom’s presence. Even eight years after her passing, that song remains a source of strength for me. The words echo my journey of resilience and faith:

Never would have made it
Never could have made it, without You
I would have lost it all
But now I see how You were there for me
And I can say
I’m stronger, I’m wiser
I’m better, much better
When I look back over all You brought me through
I can see that You were the one I held on to
And I never, never would have made it
Oh I never could have made it, never could have made it without You
Oh I would have lost it all
Oh but now I see how You were there for me
I made it through my storm
And my test because You were there
To carry me through my mess
I would have lost my mind
I would have gave up
But You were right there
You were right there
I would have lost my mind
I would have gave up
But You were right there
You were right there
Never would have made it
Never could have made it without You

What’s Your Song?

Music has the extraordinary ability to connect us to our deepest emotions and experiences. It can be a powerful tool for healing and encouragement, reminding us that we are never alone. What’s your song? What melody or lyrics have helped you through the challenges of life? Share your story and let the music take you to a place of comfort and peace.

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