Asaph is one of those less-known biblical characters who made a huge contribution, for lack of a better word, behind the scenes. Asaph was one of the composers and singers in the king’s court. If you’re familiar with the book of psalms, then you must have come across the name Asaph. Even though much hasn’t been documented about him in the bible, other accounts mention him, either in-depth or vaguely. Let’s take a closer look at Asaph and why he was very important.
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What is the story of Asaph of the Psalms?
According to the scriptures, the Asaph of Psalms is believed to be a descendant of Levi (Gershon’s father). He was also documented to be a bona fide member of the Levites. Besides being a great composer and singer, Asaph of the Psalms was also a leader. He served as an official in the king’s palace for decades. His tenure started with King David and stretched to King Solomon.
King David was the first king to take note of Asaph and his singing talents. As a result, King David appointed him with two other Levites to take charge of the singing once the house of Yahweh was established. The other two Levites were Ethan/Jeruthun and Heman. Of course, Asaph didn’t disappoint – which explains why he stayed worked in the king’s court for a long time.
One of the most significant tasks carried out by Asaph of the psalms was leading the singing and dancing when King David captured the ark of the covenant and returned it to its rightful place in Jerusalem. Asaph is also believed to be a pioneer of singing together in the same room. Apart from being an incredibly gifted singer and composer, Asaph was also a seer. That’s according to 2nd chronicles 29:30 where he is referred to as hozeh.
More about Asaph and his gifts have been written in detail in 1st Chronicles 639, 1st Chronicles 15:19, and 1st Chronicles 15:17. Feel free to make time and read more on this incredibly gifted man. Though not clear, it is believed that Asaph was either the father or ancestor of Joah. It’s hard to tell at this point because it isn’t much about Asaph’s life or family tree beside the little information they provided in the bible.
After serving in the king court for so long, Asaph saw his fair share of good and bad officials. Unlike most officials who chose to look the other way, Asaph stood firm and spoke against corruption and rot; something that earned him a good number of enemies. But, having enemies didn’t make him falter even a single bit.
What tribe did the Asaph of Psalms hail from?
Asaph, son of Berechiah, hailed from the tribe of Levi.
Did Asaph write Psalm 74?
Yes, he did.
What lessons can Christians learn from Psalm 74?
For the umpteenth time, Asaph wasn’t a prominent bible character. But, we can still draw a handful of lessons judging by how the man lived his life. For starters, Asaph was a gifted composer and singer. Many Christians have a talent for singing and composing. Just like Asaph, they can always use their talents to praise God as he did during the times of King David as well as King Solomon.
Christians can also learn a great deal from Asaph of the psalms as far as obedience is concerned. For starters, Asaph accepted to be in service the moment King David called upon him. Asaph knew jolly too well of how tasking the task was by still proceeded to not only do it but do it meticulously.
It’s believed that because of his obedience and hard work, God chose Asaph to be a seer. Even though he isn’t listed among the major or minor prophets of the bible, Asaph’s prophecy came to pass just like God intended.
Asaph also had principles and lived by a code. The latter is shown when he spoke openly about the rot and corruption amongst the king court without fear.
Of course, the latter made him a lot of enemies, but that didn’t stop Asaph from speaking the truth. Christians can learn the importance of standing by the truth because, in the end, it’s the right thing to do. God rewards those who speak the truth, as we can bear witness to what He did in Asaph’s life.
Last but not least, Asaph was known for his meticulous organization. The latter explains why King David appointed him as the organizer and leader of the temple choir. Asaph was meticulous in everything he did, he even taught the Levites how to sing in harmony while in the same room. The latter was something that hadn’t been done before the establishment of the hose of Yahweh.
Therefore, Christians can learn a great deal from how Asaph lived his life. If they are meticulous and honest, and hardworking, then God will most certainly shower blessings in their lives.
