Let’s be honest. Secular artists make the best music. OK, maybe that’s a bit of an overstatement, but there is a reason so many Christians feel conflicted and confused about whether it’s OK to listen to secular music instead of Christian music. There is a reason people are drawn to it rather than just the Christian artists in our bubble. 

It’s good music. But is it good music?

While the sound, rhythm and beats might be enjoyable, is the content of secular music right for you? Ultimately, no one can tell you what music is right for you except for you. However, if you’re uncertain about a certain song or artist, there are some questions you can ask yourself that help you decide before hitting play.

Questions to ask yourself about the music you listen to

• Are the lyrics healthy? — Words are powerful. Even when we tell ourselves that we don’t care about the lyrics of a song, we still absorb them in our heads when we listen to it. How many songs do you know that have questionable lyrics that you can recall from memory? If you can recall questionable, unhealthy lyrics, then that means they are literally, physically preserved in your brain! Is this what you want from unhealthy lyrics even when you tell yourself you don’t care about them?
  
  There is bound to be an effect, even on a subconscious level. Now, we’re not going conspiratorial and suggesting that artists are trying to brainwash you or plant subliminal messages. But we do believe that all words are powerful and it’s important to feed yourself with good content rather than something unhealthy.

• Do I want to support this artist? — Does the artist make morally objectionable decisions or comments on a regular basis? No musician is perfect. They are flawed people who will make mistakes like the rest of us. However, if a musician exhibits a pattern of self-destruction, harm against others, hate speech or other negative behaviors, you might want to avoid supporting them by listening to them.

• Is my problem with the genre? — It’s wild how many Christians today still believe that there is no such thing as Christian rap because the genre is supposed to be somehow intrinsically evil. This is simply false. There is no evil music genre. Music has no thoughts or feelings. People do. If you have a problem with a certain song or artist, it is with the song or artist, not the genre.
  
  Don’t miss out on great music or criticize your friends and family for enjoying a genre you don’t.

• Do you feel convicted? — Do you feel a weight in your heart or head when listening to certain songs? Do you feel like God would want you exposing yourself to certain music? If the answer is no, you might be feeling convicted about the music you’ve chosen. In these circumstances, we suggest taking a break from the music, praying for guidance and talking to people you trust for advice.

Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey

At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. We are currently going through a new sermon series titled “Crazy Like Us.” It’s all about what we imagine Jesus would want to undo in today’s church to rebuild it to better fit His image and His teachings. 

Do you feel like the church has lost its way and could use some restructuring? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.