Many a time, I do not understand why Christians still argue over secular music; but for the sake of those who sincerely pursue righteousness and strongly desire to please God, let us analyze this.
Are there songs by non-gospel artists that are inspirational and educative? Definitely yes! Beautiful sounds that express how you feel deep within about nature, government, friendships, food, high school, etc. But is this true for all secular songs? Is it possible that some of these music do nothing other than defile those who listen to them? How did Jesus teach us to discern what is of God and what is not of God?
By their fruits you shall know them -Matthew 7:20
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What are the Fruits to Assess?
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law. -Galatians 5:19-23
Now assess yourself:
- Which of these fruits do your favourite secular songs produce and support?
- Do they help you hate sin more?
- Do their music stir up a love for God in you or do they make you want to calm down on this ‘Jesus thing’ and ‘live life a little’?
- When the song makes you look deep within yourself, what do you feel? Are you hopeful that you can be a better person or do you want to give up on changing and just be the ‘not so good’ person you are?
- What does the artiste stand for or believe in? Does the artiste profane the name of Jesus?
- What are the primary fruits in the life of this artiste?
If you sincerely answer these questions, you will arrive at a proper conclusion.
Defilement and purity lie before you. Make a choice! Scrutinize what you listen to.
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