Think a Sacred Song

One Sunday in 2013, the author and composer of this song, Marlene Summers Merkling, was serving as a substitute in Primary. When the children began singing, Sister Merkling thought about how songs teach important lessons in such a memorable way. As she had this thought, words and a melody began coming into her mind. And when she got home from church, she went to the piano to write them down. The result was “Think a Sacred Song,” a simple but powerful testimony of the spiritual strength available to us through sacred music.

Several years later, Sister Merkling needed that strength after having heart bypass surgery. “I had a very hard time sleeping at night,” she recalls. “I would lie awake and think of the words of hymns, which were very comforting to me.”

“Think a Sacred Song” teaches that the blessings of sacred music include not only the power to overcome temptations and difficulties, but the Spirit’s comfort and encouragement during our trials. For as the Savior promised, “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. … Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:18, 27).

Find lyrics, sheet music, and recordings for Think a Sacred Song

Scriptures

Principles

Sacred music invites the spiritual power of the Holy Ghost.
The Holy Ghost can guide our hearts and our minds.
Singing either aloud or silently can help us feel God’s comfort.

Questions to Ponder

How can songs about Jesus Christ and His gospel help you feel happy?
What are some sacred songs that bring you comfort?
When has music helped you to feel God’s love?

Related Gospel Study Guides

From Topics and Questions, Gospel Library:

Activities for Families

Testify of the power of sacred music. To help your children understand that sacred music can bring comfort, sing or listen to the first verse together. Ask them what feelings they had while singing. Invite them to share other songs that bring them comfort and help them feel God’s love. You might sing or listen to those songs together, too. Testify that sacred music invites the Holy Ghost and can bring peace and comfort when needed.
Use sacred songs to help in everyday situations.
- Listen to this song often throughout the week to help your children learn the melody and message. Help them recognize that thinking about the messages in sacred songs can invite the Holy Ghost and help them make good choices.
- Talk about simple scenarios your children might face, like feeling angry at a sibling, seeing someone who is lonely at school, feeling scared while home alone, or being tempted to do something they know isn’t right. Ask them to think of a song that could help in each situation. They can also act out what they would do. You might sing or hum the song throughout your discussion.