The word “selah” is frequently found in the Psalms, and stands for a musical sign, meaning “rest” or “pause.” Now the life of the Church and the believer resembles a psalm composed and set to music by the One who was “anointed with the oil of gladness above His fellows.” Such a view suggests some helpful truths for us:
1) A “Selah,” or pause is found in the life of every believer. It may come in sickness and enforced retirement from the family, the business, and our daily calling. Don’t be surprised, then, when you meet with a “Selah,” a call to rest in your daily life.
2) A “Selah” is placed in the music, and in our lips, by the Composer. He knows where and when it is needed for the perfection of the psalm of life and for its effect on the listener. When it comes, however trying it may be, remember to say, “He placed it there.”
3) A pause is part of the music. We may think that only sound is music, when a “rest” is often as effective as the full chord. Therefore when any “pause” comes in your life, and your activity for the time ceases, remind yourself that this is also part of the music and be comforted by it.
4) A “Selah,” or pause does not hinder the work of the singers who don’t have to pause. If our part is to rest, it will bring into prominence the work of the other singers, and the beauty of the psalm. So when we are laid aside, we hear other voices taking up the harmony of the church, home and daily life, and in our resting, we are glad.
5) A “Selah” should lead the resting one to “count time.” When the singer is silent for a while, he is still in harmony with the others, and also part of the whole, so while he waits he enjoys the harmony. Remember, silent times are thoughtful, counting times! “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Ps. 90:12).
6) A pause shows the “resting” singer eagerly waiting to go on. Isn’t this the truth, seen in many a sick room, or place of retirement, and in many a silenced worker’s life? He says, “The psalm needs my voice,” and soon his silence becomes song.
7) A “Selah” obliges the singer to keep his eye on the music and on the leader, so that he may begin in time–neither too soon nor too late. Remember this, beloved child of God, when you are commanded of Him to be still! He who leads the song will give the sign for a fresh beginning to the watchful one. The “selah” with its silent meditation, and the “service” with its harmonious sound, alike make music, when He is the Leader!