It is generally considered
something simple or easy to give out a hymn; therefore it happens that some are
quick in opening their hymn books to suggest a number, as if any number would
do. Should we not rather realize that this is a solemn act that needs much
dependence on the Holy Spirit? To recognize the right hymn for the right moment
we need His guidance. How often it has happened that the course of a meeting
has been disturbed or interrupted by a hymn that was not in line with the
character of the meeting.

We see from the above, that the
giving out of hymns is not as light a matter as it may seem. When we are
gathered together for worship, we should be especially careful that the hymns
selected are definitely those for worship. Whereas, when we come together for
ministry, gospel or prayer meetings, we have a larger selection of hymns that
give expression to our pilgrim journey, our needs, our trials, and the comfort
and help found in our God and Father. These hymns should never be sung at a
worship meeting. (Hymns . . . for the Little Flock are arranged so that hymns
for the gospel and other special occasions are grouped in the Appendix. These
are not generally deemed suitable for use in meetings of the Assembly. See the
hymn book preface for a fuller discussion of this by the compilers.)

To
worship is not to be occupied with our sins or with ourselves, but rather with
the Lord Jesus, Who has put our sins away and has reconciled us to God. To
worship means to for-get self completely and to be filled with God’s thoughts
concerning His Son. If our worship bears this character, the hymns will be
chosen accordingly