Monday, July 23, 2012

"How Does Music & TV Affect MY Life?"


Ok, so I'm going to get some people that are REALLY mad at me for this one. Why? Because I've worked in the music industry. I worked at at huge record label and I saw FIRST hand the behind-the-scenes of how "music" works. So people that may know me.. may be upset that I'm talking about this area that so many tip toe around. Before I get into this blog-- the ONLY reason I started working at a record label in the Marketing Department was to spread Christ. Everybody knew it. From my boss to the CEO. I didn't try to hide it. I made SURE everyone knew that I wasn't just some girl who was tryin' to "get on" -- I wanted them to know Christ. I had a curse jar, my bible out at my desk daily, and I'd bump gospel music ALL day long. I didn't hang out with them.. party with them.. or whatever else. I KNEW I went there to spread Christ & that was it. I honestly didn't want to work there. I really didn't . The Lord sure knew & so did my friends. I had to learn to be content during that season. It was hard because I knew what God called me to do.. and I'm like, why am I here Lord?! Such a season of developing.

Check out some old pictures from my record label days.
1. My girlfriends visiting my office
2. The company retreat with co-workers & the president of the company
3. The presidents & CEO of the company at that time




 

Let's all be clear. I'm real free from people. How can I serve them if I'm in BONDAGE to them? As much as I LOVE people-- especially those in the music business-- I STILL have a charge. That charge is to GUARD your HEART. I am MUCH more concerned about a person's heartbeat towards God then then their feelings getting hurt.  You may say that I'm "judging" you.. but if you're caught up in the music business.. the business has already judged you. Most likely, you drink with them, party with them, curse like them.. and you look like them. Although you hit church on Sunday.. your life looks NOTHING like Christ. And baby girl or boy..we have to do better. Life is more about you getting' your "paper" & in all honesty, as you sit at home after a long night.. you're even more empty then you were when you woke up. Only Christ can fill that void. 

 1 John 1:5 says: "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth." 1 John 2:15 says: Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

So.. I'm not saying this to beat you down.. so don't email me with angry messages. If THIS blog makes you mad.. that means that you need to evaluate THIS area because clearly, it's challenging you. This blog bothers you because you want to continue to live however you want to live and you still want me to say it's ok. Know that I won't. I won't ever agree with it. If we're going to really live like CHRIST-- we have to not LOOK and act like this world. And please, you're not being a light around those people as you hit the club with them.. you see.. you look EXACTLY like them. WHY would they want to serve your Jesus that has ZERO standards. Of COURSE you can get saved for real-- and live the right way.. but you have to "die" to some of your ways & let God lead your life.

MUSIC is POWERFUL. TV is POWERFUL. Why? Because it's setting an atmosphere in your living room & your eardrums that is planting seeds in your heart. Listening to certain songs and watching stupid reality TV shows begins the more YOU will start accepting that treatment into your own relationships. Yeah, he cheats on you, lies to you.. but he takes care of you. I mean, he pays your bills with his drug money or whatever money and he loveeeees you.. I mean you have that "ride-or-die" thug kinda love. Girl, please. Where did you get that from? We aren't 13 anymore. We're grown ups. And as a GROWN-UP-- we need to start having GROWN-UP relationships. Remember, your NEXT generation of CHILDREN could look like this man or woman. So stop complaining about this rebellious "generation" of kids when you're dating the main drunk & chick that is dropping it like it's hot at the club.
           
Before I get into the origin of music, Tupac used to be my favorite rapper. I had Thug Life painted on my wall as a teen. I LOVED rap & R&B. I LOVED ALL secular music. Until 2003.I got saved and gave my life to God-- for real. And being that I was a baby in Christ-- I had no idea that I wasn't supposed to listen to that music. Nobody "told" me. I remember-- sitting in my car one day-- and pulling out a secular CD from my CD player.. and thinking, this is garbage. It makes feel horrible and reminds me of my past. I can't listen to this crap anymore, it's not feeding my spirit in a good way.
From THAT day forward.. I stopped listening to that music, literally, listened-- one day & then next day, it's like God knocked the taste out of my mouth. So, since then.. I've listened to Gospel. My favorite artists are Kari Jobe, Kim Walker, Jesus Culture, Jimmy Needham, Hillsong and Matt Redman to name a few. So if you're struggling in this area.. as we ALL have areas where it seems like God delivers us quickly.. vs. us going through a process- GIVE that area to God & leave it there. Guard your heart. Do your part.

Lets look the origin of music.

The two Scripture passages that describe Satan before he fell are Ezekiel 28:12-19 and Isaiah 14:12-15. Satan was the “anointed cherub” (Ezekiel 28:14). He was adorned with every precious jewel imaginable (Ezekiel 28:13). He was “the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty” (Ezekiel 28:12b). Likely he was the highest of all angels. He was persuasive enough to convince one-third of the angels to join him in his rebellion (Revelation 12:4Satan fell because of PRIDE. He did not like being “second best.” He wanted to be God: “You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain’” (Isaiah 14:13). Satan knew how easily influenced we could be listening to music or being entertained-- being that it's a DOOR for him to creep into your heart, he'll glady take it if you don't know any better. 

Was Satan the head musician? This cannot be answered definitively. After researching scripture-- it does not say enough about what his duties were in heaven. Considering the fact that the angels constantly worship God (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8), it is possible that Satan led that worship. One thing is sure: for Satan to rebel despite having such an high position and close relationship with God, the devil is surely due his eternal destiny (Revelation 20:10).


Many Christians struggle with this question. Many secular musicians are super talented. Secular music can be very entertaining. There are many secular songs that have catchy melodies, thoughtful insights, and positive messages. In determining if you want to listen to secular music, there are three things you must consider: 1) the purpose of music, 2) the style of music, and 3) the content of the lyrics.

1) The purpose of music. Is music designed solely for worship, or did God also intend music to be soothing and/or entertaining? The most famous musician in the Bible, King David, primarily used music for the purpose of worshipping God (see Psalm 4:16:154,5561:167:176:1). However, when King Saul was tormented by evil spirits, he would call on David to play the harp in order to soothe him (1 Samuel 16:14-23). The Israelites also used musical instruments to warn of danger (Nehemiah 4:20) and to surprise their enemies (Judges 7:16-22). In the New Testament, the apostle Paul instructs Christians to encourage one another with music: “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19). So, while the primary purpose of music does seem to be worship, the Bible definitely allows for other uses of music. And honestly, even if that person can play the flute really well-- if they are gay-- I ain't listening. It just is what it is. Because their LIFESTYLE doesn't glorify God-- that person is subject to satan and his spirits. I don't want his little spirits entering his music & then plant messy seeds in my heart. Just is what it is. Let me elaborate on this: WHAT is inside of YOU flows OUT of you-- you are a slave to whoever you serve (romans 6:16) so someone who is practicing homosexuality is a SLAVE to satan & sin-- I don't want that ON me. I worship and serve the Lord. That homosexual has perverted their gift and uses it to glorify satan and their lifestyle. So don't get all mad at me for calling it out-- somebody gotta say it. I LIVE for Jesus. MY standards are clear, THIS won't change, because you're mad that I said it.  So please, stop sending me your angry emails as if my stand according to the bible will change because of some humans view?! I LOVE you-- I really do, but I could care less about your "thoughts"-- I live according to the bible.


2) The style of music. Sadly, the issue of music styles can be very divisive among Christians. There are Christians who adamantly demand that no musical instruments be used. There are Christians who only desire to sing the “old faithful” hymns. There are Christians who want more upbeat and contemporary music. At the end of the day-- if it glorifies God, that's ALL that matters.

3) The content of the lyrics. Since neither the purpose of music nor the style of music determines whether a Christian should listen to secular music, the content of the lyrics must be considered. While not specifically speaking of music, Philippians 4:8 is an excellent guide for musical lyrics: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” If we should be thinking about such things, surely those are the things we should invite into our minds through music and lyrics. Can the lyrics in a secular song be true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy? So if you're struggling with getting over your ex-- you should probably turn off Adele. Yes, her voice is beautiful but every time it plays.. it reminds you of your little boyfriend or girlfriend. So do a music check & a TV show CHECK. Is what you're WATCHING glorifying God or is it painting this picture of what you want in a husband based on some basketball player or rapper? Is it HELPING your walk with God or is it HINDERING it?

Most secular music does not meet the standard of Philippians 4:8. Secular music often promotes immorality and violence while BELITTLING purity and integrity. If a song glorifies what opposes God, WE shouldn't be listening to it. However, there are many secular songs with no mention of God that still uphold godly values such as honesty, purity, and integrity. If a love song promotes the sanctity of marriage and/or the purity of true love—even if it does not mention God or the Bible—it can still be listened to and enjoyed. As I mentioned before, I still don't listen to those songs either, but that's just me. I like to LISTEN for the heart of the artist. Even with gospel singers.. your heart could be so far from God or homosexual & you're just a singing'-- I will turn you off. You don't know Christ, your heart told on you. WHEN you're spending a ton of time with God-- HE shows you that stuff so the crap that is on the inside of them, doesn't get on you. We must guard our hearts on who we hang around. So yes, if your hang around that music long enough-- you'll start looking like it. If someone is struggling with depression for YEARS or lust.. and they are just singing their little troubles in your ears.. guess what you'll be struggling with?!? STOP surrounding yourself around it. When we SPEND time with God-- HE shows us this stuff. 


Remember that the above applies as well for Television. It's the SAME thing. Check out the content, the words, the acting.. because if it's not glorifying God-- it's glorifying your flesh and most likely-- you're seeing results in your life. So if you're struggling with sex outside of marriage, you shouldn't be watching shows that have people shacking up. It just is what it is. 

Whatever a person allows to occupy their mind will sooner or later determine their speech and actions. This is the meaning behind Philippians 4:8 and Colossians 3:25: establishing RIGHT thought patterns. Second Corinthians 10:5 says we should “take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ.” These Scriptures give a clear picture of the kind of music we should not listen to.

And as I mentioned in ALL of my blogs-- we can all get saved & change. I am not throwing away "
anybody"-- I'm just challenging us to DO better.


So, let's do better. Let's give our carnal nature to God & really live for Him for real. I really love & I'm praying for you.

Also, I've gotten some nasty responses.. as I was sure that I would. If you read my other 100 blogs-- I'm sweet, kind, gentle-- YES-- but at times-- God charges me to be BOLD & blunt about certain areas. So if it bothers you... good honey. WE all have areas we need to work on.. including me. I'm a straight WORK in progress & desperate for GOD daily. I NEED His help & I'm LOST without Him.
And check out this links!

Pinky Promise Store (bracelets, ring, shirts) www.heatherlove.bigcartel.com
Pinky Promise Conference (register! Join me in Atlanta!) www.pinkypromiseconference.com
Pinky Promise Movement (Join a local group or start one!) www.pinkypromisemovement.com
For Speaking Engagements: Kristi@PinkyPromiseMovement.com

Lastly, SO sorry that I haven't been posting! :) Been super busy! But.. I'm back at it!


God loves you like crazy,
Heather Lindsey

102 comments:

  1. Thank you for sharing the truth.

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  2. Well put. I struggle to explain my selective nature regarding music and T.v with people at times but this sums it up perfectly. You have to guard your heart and put on the armor of God even when listening to Gospel music. Some artist are just working a job while others put their whole heart into worshiping and glorifying God. The more you get to know Christ, the easier it is to tell the difference.

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    1. Amen:)) Had the same issue, but again God will alwys be there to lead & guide you. God Bless.

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  3. Wow, I have been dealing with this for forever! I used to think that listening to secular music was okay as long as I didnt let it mess with my mind. Psh! Yeah right! As soon as I put a slow song on I was "in my feelings". Little do people know ,what goes into your spirit will eventually come out.

    This blog was reassurance! Thank you!

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  4. I thank the lord for answering my prayers on this topic. If you only knew how long.... But it's all in his perfect timing.

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  5. TRUTH! Many ppl dont realize that music and tv has an effect on us spiritually! SOme gospel artist are even gay and sing for God but at the end of the day if their lifestyle isn't lined up with CHrist, then their just singing a bunch of melodies and their heart isn't in it! Movies too, just like the shooter in Colorado, he looked at the batman and wanted to become like the joker, a spirit possessed him and he wanted to live out his fantasy and make it reality. I dont listen to secular music, i barely watch tv(nothing but junk on) and the movies these days are more evil than ever.

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  6. This is just amazing :)) I'm glad God used you to talk about this. God Bless You ABundantly.

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  7. This is definitely true! I stopped listening to secular music after I got saved also. I no longer had the desire to listen to it. I love to listen to worship music, a few of my favorites are Shekinah Glory Ministries, Nicole C.Mullen, Charles Jenkins, Marvin Sapp, and Casting Crowns.

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  8. Yes! God-sent! Thanks Heather

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  9. This is a good read esp if you are struggling with music or television, but rights wrongs, dos, dont, lets not frustrate Gods grace (gal 2:21). Lets also not be too exclusive that souls cant be saved.

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    1. OF course they can be saved-- but the focus of this is being honest & guarding our hearts-- calling some stuff out & bringing one to repentance.

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  10. Love this! Hopefully having a program like this at school! :)

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  11. Romans 12 instructs us to no longer be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our mind that we may be able to test and approve what the perfect Will of God is. The reason why many if us are not able to identify and walk in the will if God for our lives is because we are still walking in conformity to this world through what we take into ourselves as entertainment.

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  12. I think you touched on a subject that people don't really think to discuss very often, among other topics, within Christian communities. For the people who really struggle with what forms of media they enjoy, this post is extremely helpful. I can definitely atest to discerning what music I could listen to. I cannot listen to love songs, particularly R&B from the 90s and early 2000s. I listened when I was really lonely, and those songs fed my "thirst" for a relationship when I was younger. I have become a believer since then, and I have to be careful sometimes. Some secular music doesn't effect me personally cuz I'm not about that life, but i get upset because i listen to the words on top of those banging beats, and the lyrics are just so far away from God, so i get irritated. Now TV is another issue. I know you like to attack Love and Hip Hop because that's the popular show at the moment. I can see where you're coming from with seeing images and desensitizing your mind, but what if it doesn't? I don't watch it because I generally don't watch reality TV, but i have seen clips. I just get upset. I'm a weird girl, so many things I see I may have a different reaction from other people. It's women dealing wih these trifling men with money, and they just keep staying with them for some reason. It makes me sad too. I don't aspire for that kind of life. But reading this helped me realize that maybe there are people out there that really may want what they see on TV. They may not see the bigger picture and the entire situation of who these people are really dealing with. If you don't struggle with relationships, is it possible to watch such shows and be ineffected? I know what exactly what to guard my heart from, but what about stuff that had no relation to me? What then?

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    1. I LOVE what you said! "there are people on TV that want what they see"-- that's GOOD! You pretta preach! Honestly, my favorite shows are Design Star, Wedding shows.. and other fun "safe, sappy" stuff! lol

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  13. Thank You for posting this. It was always a dream of mine to work in the music business. In fact, I would tell people I am going to own my own record label one day. As I started to grow in Christ he showed me how I need to guard my heart against such things. I am just praying that God guides me in what I am supposed to do now because at one point I felt as though that was a part of my destiny!!

    Thank You Again!!
    and May God continue to bless you for sharing the word and being so honest!!

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  14. Honey I wake up with christian music in my head! I wouldn't have it any other way!!

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    1. So do I! And I feel so joyful and at peace... why listen to anything else?

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  15. Thanks for sharing Heather, definitely needed this.

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  16. You can't even listen to a flute if it is a homosexual playing it?? Doing [all types of] the most!!! So I guess you would berate yourself if you found out after the fact...I agree with your article but in the future Are you going to make sure that the artists whose music pieces your son or daughter learn from (e.g piano lessons) didn't have homosexual tendencies? Goodluck with that one...

    You'd be that parent pulling their child out of the best class in school because their teacher is a homosexual...yikes!!

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    1. Actually, I'm homeschooling my children & I will put them in programs with other Christian homeschoolers. I learned piano growing up and my woman teacher-- was not gay! :)

      The focus is guarding our heart. I will protect & guard my child's heart until they are at an age where they will be JUDGED by GOD. If not-- I WILL be judged for what I PUT in front of my child's FACE. Blessings.

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    2. Nice reply, Heather! I'm homeschooling my children as well. Can you subscribe to my natural hair blog please? I'm trying to make people aware of it, and you have like, a million followers. LOL http://www.curlsofinnocence.blogspot.com/

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    3. Heather that is so true. We must guard our children's hearts until they can themselves and continue to be a example for them as they grow up. I'm an educator and it makes me so sad this day and age to see these young children calling themselves gay and dressing up as the opposite gender/ flirting with the same sex and their parents accepting it or even celebrating it.

      This post reminded me of my cousin who grew up in a dysfunctional family and didn't have parents to protect his heart. He actually had a piano teacher that was supposedly gay and later we assumed he "influenced" him but it was a hush hush issue in my family. Today my cousin is a cross-dresser and has had a very tragic lifestyle. We really must be vigilant with our children and most importantly ask God to give us discernment!!! And lots of PRAYER, WORD and strong household/ parent and child bond so that the enemy cannot sneak in. Molestation is a commonality for many people who are LGBTQ. Sadly this is not "politically correct" to talk about because of the "born this way" phenomena. But its true, many gay people were sexualized at a young age. Donnie Mcclurkin called it a pandoras box a child is forced in. So no, I will NOT have my child with a teacher who is gay no matter what credentials they have. And I pray for the children who don't have a choice in the matter due to ignorance on the parents part or lack of funding for home schooling.

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  17. Amen amen amen!

    The debate with whether or not to listen to Christian music that has secular beats is kind of making me question some of the music...however, if its glorifying God, should I still listen to it (i.e. Andy Mineo has a mix tape with old school instrumental tracks but he remixes it a ton)?

    And with television - well, there's not much to watch on tv anyway, so netflix it is. lol.

    Good post and thank you!! =D

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    1. Hey lovely! I super encourage you to be led by God! HE will show you if you ask Him!! There's no formula to this thing.. just spend a ton of time with God & HE will lead you!

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    2. Right! Growing up I was taught that God gives us all that's good, and music is good. Thus, all genres of music are God's music. Man will take what is good and pervert it with sin. So I wouldn't be too concerned about the fact that it's remixed... it's like taking what was sullied and making it clean again. But as with all things, and to repeat what Heather said, let God lead you on this one.

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  18. God bless you. You may not know what you have done but you have saved a soul from the hands of the enemy n even opened the eyes of a saved Christian. God is pleased with you and is elevating you to new levels

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  19. This is do tru!!! I was wondering can you explain more about a women of god being and dressing modest!!! Goin into god words a d explaining more of how a godly women should be dressing!!!

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    1. Yes! I'm going to be posting a blog on that next week!

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  20. This is great!! God bless you for your courage and honesty!

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  21. You just hit a homerun LOL... SPEECHLESS RIGHT now! I know this struggle, music was my addiction. It is powerful, at one point I was a very big Janet fan I love her and pray for her from afar now, can't listen to her because of the sexual nature of her music. And it could very easily lead me to my downfall. I GOTTA BE WHOLE! I am a singer so music was my life, at 18 I wanted nothing more than to BE Mariah Carey but God had other plans for this gift that he gave me

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  22. Fantastic! Thanks for sharing personal thank God I have not struggled with this. Maybe because I love music that gives love to people and not hate. I grew up listening to music from my daddys generation. When I got saved I started listening to christian rap and RnB love worship music its my favorite. I love new gospel music it's cool and exciting. TheWallsGroup is my new favorite gospel group talented your people honoring God.

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  23. Heather, let me just say that I agree that music can be dangerous and you should definitely take a good look at what you're exposing your ears/heart to, but that homosexual playing the flute thing just took me aback. I don't agree with the homosexual lifestyle and am pretty vocal about it. But being that both of my sisters are dancers, I have met some beautifully talented homosexual dancers and I don't feel convicted at all watching them dance (tastefully that is). I believe that their talents are God given and they just took a wrong path in their life. So, don't you think that refusing to listen to a homosexual play the flute or dance a piece is a little harsh? I mean as long as the flutist is not playing "It's raining men" I don't see the issue.

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    1. Let me elaborate on this: WHAT is inside of YOU flows OUT of you-- you are a slave to whoever you serve (romans 6:16) so someone who is practicing homosexuality is a SLAVE to satan & sin-- I don't want that ON me. I worship and serve the Lord. That homosexual has perverted their gift and uses it to glorify satan and their lifestyle. So don't get all mad at me for calling it out-- somebody gotta say it. I LIVE for Jesus. MY standards are clear, THIS won't change, because you're mad that I said it.

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    2. I totally agree with what you are saying regarding guarding your heart. I also agree with what you are saying regarding the homosexual lifestyle, it does not glorify God at all, but nor do other sins or lifestyles.

      What about one who steals for a living or a pathological liar who was playing the flute? You more than likely would not know they are either, but their lifestyle also makes them a slave to satan, they are also practicing sin.

      My thing is we all have flaws, no one is perfect nor can uphold all the expectations of Christ at all times, so to be so harsh with these people is sad to me.

      Jesus himself was associated with prostitutes and those whose lifestyles He did not approve of, but he showed them grace, and loved them anyway.

      I think it is our place as Christians to be around people enough so that we know their life story, and not judge, and use our faith to bring them closer to God, not to alienate them, which is what the devil wants.

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    3. Hello,
      The bible TELLS us to judge righeously. If someone is in my face, stealing as well-- I won't be hiring them either. It just is what it is. I still LOVE them, I pray for them, I'm HERE for them, but when it comes to my one-day child, I'm going to protect my child during their flute lessons. I don't want some man or woman to get an idea & start rubbing on my child.

      Jesus had 72 disciples (that she sent out)& hung out with 2 men. Let's be clear when we read the bible-- He didn't hang with everybody & he OFTEN WENT to the sinners with a PURPOSE-- to bring the LIGHT. SO let's stop tip toeing around this area and just call it out. It's WRONG. There will NEVER be anything right with it. It just is what it is.

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    4. I'm not mad I'm just confused. I just think we should be loving especially to sinners whenever we can. Rather than me walking out of a homosexuals musical or dance performance not because of the content or lyrics, just simply because they are gay could send them the wrong message and make them even more hostile to Christians and I don't want that! I truly was just trying to see where you were coming from. I thought that I phrased that comment as respectfully as I could. I apologize if it didn't come off that way.

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    5. Christa- I'm not saying not to be LOVING towards sinners! Of course-- be loving towards them but don't sit & rub their back & tell them their lifestyles is ok. I have def. gone out to eat with those that are homosexual in efforts to share Christ-- but most people practicing that lifestyle.. dont' wanna be saved. THEY LIKE living in sin. Love them from a distance but be CLEAR in your stance-- and that is that God has a beautiful plan for their life but they have a part to play, and that is to give their struggles to Christ.

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  24. this is so true....when I was in my wordly ways my fav artists were Rihanna,Beyonce and 50 cent,looking back it surely affected my life, I would dress and act like Rihanna, messing around wid boys not caring how they looked at me only caring that I looked like Ri-ri ,being in a relationship everytime we argued I would play Beyonce and become so emotional,I would play "if I were a boy" and this and that,I would try to run my man,then we both was listening to 50 cent, he cheated on me , cuz 50 says "dont love them Ho`s" everytime we had a fight I would try to hurt him cuz 50 says" u fk wid me I get to you" all this affected my life and my relationship with others I didnt know until Christ set me free!

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    1. Wow! So glad that God showed you the truth! Beautiful!

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  25. Praise the Lord. Just as Annette Karanja said in her response, I too have struggled with trying to explain my selective mix of gospel, r&b other styles of music. I have two professions, one of them being a music teacher, and I share my love of all things music to my students. I've led worship teams and choirs before, but my love life, thoughts and concerns would always be led by a song that reminds me of my current situations. Its hard for me because there are so many lessons to take from these secular artist and their artistry. My students are aspiring singers and I know about the music industry to an extent, so I educate them on what I know. I've begun to entertain the thought that my connection to secular music is a bigger monster than I can handle. I understand the risks with listening to love and sex songs, and though I'm a virgin, I tend to always be on the brink of wanting sex, masturbation, pornography -- anything that will satisfy for that time, then I'm still yearning. I thank you for your boldness, your honesty, and the truth of God flowing through you. I will make an effort in Christ to change my patterns. Though I won't be perfect, I believe that my willingness and heart towards wanting change will honor God and HE will work on my behalf to guide my steps, whether I like it or not. It's for my own good.

    God bless, pretty lady!

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    1. Aww! Praise God honey!! Thank GOD that He showed you the truth & that you accepted it & are living it. God has such a beautiful plan for your life. <3

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  26. I am a lover of music and I grew up with all kinds. I did call myself playing both sides of the fence and I thought I was okay until one day I had listen to secular music for hours and my spirit felt different. It almost felt like God was not speaking to me. I didn't like that feeling so I decided to give secular music up! One particular artist that I got a revelation about was Brian McKnight. I loved me so him!! One day I was in Walgreens and his song was playing and I figured out that his songs are "depressing" and no wonder I would be sad a lot. Thank God for deliverance!!

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  27. Stephanie GonzalesJuly 24, 2012 at 11:16 AM

    What is your stance on Christian artists who use well-known secular beats in their music? I used to be a part of a gospel singing group, and our producers mixed in a very popular beat (at the time), it was Bubba Sparks, and when that beat came on, the audience went nuts. We were young, and thought it was "hyped", but you could sense the change in the atmosphere when that beat came on. I began feeling convicted that I was on stage encouraging people to throw down and dance to this beat that reminded people of its original secular content....for the "glory" of God...lol. But anywho, there is an independent gospel rap artist that is very talented, and he regularly puts out mix tapes that feature well known beats, namely Drake, Jay Z etc, while the lyrics shed light on the secular artists sinful lyrics and deceit...the Christian artist flips the song for God's glory and lyrically, the content is pure and holy. But does the "secular" beat pervert it??

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    1. Yeah.. SAME thing. I wouldn't mess with their beats either. It is birthed from the WRONG heartbeat. Again, MORE than any "formula" is being "led" by God. We have to make sure the Holy Spirit is leading us and if we're listening to "things" that are planting seeds in our heart-- we have to make sure we shut it down!

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  28. Hey Heather, I completely agree with this blog! I came to understand that if someone isnt living righteously and theyre using their gifts "for the Kingdom" it can be VERY dangerous because as you said youre allowing spirits..evil spirits to interfer just like alter call and such you have to be careful who you allow to lay hands on you because spirits are transferrable so i completely understand where youre coming from people probably dont see it as a big deal but its that serious but I have a question? okay, I'm like the only one in my family thats actually saved like my family believe in God and Jesus some go to church and such but they arent dying to self and i dont have a car so if Im in the car with my mom and her boyfriend or whomever and theyre playing secular music what should i do? it happened recently and i wanted to say something but if you knew my mom lol so i just kept quiet and told God Lord you know i dont like this music i dont know what to do and i just cried because i wanted to escape from it. Any suggestions in such situation?

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    1. Hey love,
      Do you have earphones? You can always stick those in & listen to the music of your choice.
      Continue to pray earnestly for your family. Be a light & an example.
      Praying for you,
      Heather

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    2. Good call! I rarely use them but I'm going to start carrying them around everywhere I go for "emergencies". I will...thank you so much Heather. God bless you as you contine to serve our Father

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    3. Smart!! :) Guard that heart honey! Pack a book as well!

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    4. Any Christian based books in mind? And one more thing(although this is the wrong post lol)I'm about to start eating more healthy...God's been giving me so much confirmation to do so but I'm a college student and we can't have blenders in our dorms so I can't make any Smoothies for breakfast(college life :( lol)so do you have any other suggestions?

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  29. I agree with this post Heather! We have to remember that NOT everyone is a child of God! Yes! You are either a child of the devil of a child of God (1 John 3:10 - So now we can tell who are children of GOD and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God. Those who are children of God will HAVE the Spirit of God (1 John :24). Those who belong to the devil allow evil spirits to occupy them. Believe it or not, there are spirits behind music! Yes! That's how a song can evoke sooo much emotion out of us. Music is a topic that I try to be careful in. If the song does not lift up purity and the things of God, then that song is influenced by emotions and spirits that are contrary to God. Music is an area that many believers are conflicted in. Remember 1 Corinthians 10:23 -You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. We have to use discernment in everything that we do. Just because something isn't "blatantly" evil doesn't mean that it's NOT (1 Thessalonians 5:22 - Abstain from ALL appearance of evil). And another thing...When Jesus was around the prostitutes and such, He didn't conform to their patterns. Instead, He would influence them with His light. He would tell them the Good News and preach righteousness. I'm sick of hearing ppl use the excuse that Jesus was always around sinners. You're greatly mistaken. He was around them but they were not apart of his inner circle. That's a BIG difference. You may have an associate at work that's a slave to sin, you as a believer do not have to shun them (of course be loving), but should that person be apart of your inner circle? NO. Do not be deceived...BAD COMPANY CORRUPTS GOOD MORALS (1 Corinthians 15:33). Don't think that becoming close to a habitual sinner will not influence you, because it WILL.

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  30. Hi Heather,

    very insightful blog. My question is... is music more powerful than movies or anything else secular, in the way it affects our souls? Because it seems like it if even the lifestyle of the artist is questionable the music is deemed questionable. What about movies with actors who are not christians, does that make the movie questionable or not (even though nothing else in the movie was questionable) ? Or does their lifestyle not affect our spirits the same way? Just wondering.

    Lee

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    1. Movies apply as well! So yes! Any "entertainment" that is secular applies. The focus is guarding our heart.

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    2. What about the movie "Hunger Games". That movie is pretty violent. Is that fine to go see?

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    3. If you struggle with watching it & it creates wars in your mind-- dont't watch it.

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  31. Hi Heather,
    In the years prior to 2008 the youth Pastor at the church I attended did a study on music and why circular music is dangerous to our souls. But of course I didn't take heed & continued listening to my circular music. But I still said I love Jesus and remained blind to How this music was destroying me.After graduating high school in 2008,God reminded me & I decided on MY OWN to stop listening to secular music,but I was weak without Christ doing it with me & before I knew it I backslided.
    From that year up until the end of 2009 everything in my life took a turn for the worse (Circular music was not the only thing that separated me from Christ.Once I let go of those things completely God begin to open my eyes to the darkness I was in and why I couldn't see or hear Him calling me out of that darkness.I got rid of all circular music I ever owned & I started to pray again,I repented.& Personally for myself I decided not to make any exceptions for certain songs because I soon realized if the source is not God & does not glorify God it's most like corrupt.Even after all that there was one song I failed to get rid of "SPOTLIGHT" By Usher. That song was on my phone playlist. Sadly I had spend most of my life listening to circular music, I barely knew any gospel music or artist. Mind you I listening to music on a daily basis, so you can imagine the filthiness I planted in my heart.I got frustrated not knowing where to begin or where to find gospel songs that truly represented Christ, instead of praying I decided that it was okay to listen to the one song I had left "spotlight", as I was listening I convinced my guilty conscience that it was okay, it's not like they were cursing or anything. I was with a few friends of mines that day, as I was listening I heard loudly "PSALM 6" my heart dropped to my stomach and I freaked out. I couldn't believe my ears, so I played it again and heard "PSALM 6", I was sooo scared as I thought this song has nothing to do with God why would they say Psalm 6, my spirit was so troubled. I asked my friend to listen to the song and tell me what she heard and she said she heard psalm 6. I got even more scared and thought I should have never been listening to this God is most definitely angry with me. Still scared when I got home I told one of my little brothers what happened and he told me, well, maybe God just wants you to ready Psalm 6, and I was like what! you know that song is circular right. One of my friends had said she would look up the lyrics of the song, she did it and it says "ZONE 6" & then I thought I'm going crazy for sure. I deleted the song.I remembered what my brother said so I pulled out my Bible and read Psalm 6.It made no sense to me. Before I fell asleep I prayed & ask God to forgive me for listening to the song and if He truly said to me what I knew I heard take away my confusion & help me understand.When I woke up the next day God lead me to my Bible and He said read psalm 6 and I did. As I was reading the Holy Spirit ministered to me and brought me understanding.I got really still afterwards & just listen to God. It was then God made it clear to me He wanted me to stay away from circular music, the world, & all that's in it. I could let the past go & all I experienced,He heard my cries and I had to let go of all of my garbage & surrender to Him. I was in tears, I couldn't believing God had spoken to me, that He always wanted to have a relationship with me, I had never known joy & peace like I knew it at that moment. Words can not describe what I felt that day.
    & God is faithful in the beginning of the year 2010 I experienced the revival of the Holy Spirit in my life and it's never been the same sense. & your comment about the flute reminds me of Psalm 1.God wants us to be separated from all things that can & will keep us from Him.God bless you Heather! The truth is what we all need!
    -Tara A.

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  32. Ive been turning this thought over and over in my head for days now about music,movies,tv and actors. Thanks for letting God use you as a vessel and confirm everything ive been thinking about and the verses were definitely a plus. Ive been trying to tell everyone that the channels being cut off were a blessing. But they brush me off as being a Jesus freak or something.

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    1. Girl, there's a ton of "Jesus" freaks out there. WE take Christ's death on the cross pretty seriously.. so of COURSE we are gonna live this thing. The way you feel is temporary-- as you continue to trust God-- the voices of others will become MUCH smaller. Rest honey. <3 You're not alone.

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  33. Great post Heather. It burns me how often people throw around the word "judging." I remember listening to my Trey Songz, J. Holiday and so many others when I was getting ready for a lustfilled weekend. Now if I walk into a store and they have some secular music on it almost hurts my ears. I too have chosen to listen to only music that glorifies God. I love Kari Jobe. Her music just gets me in the mood for Christ! :) I love her heart.

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    1. I TOTALLY agree!! I love her heart too! That's what I listen for!

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  34. Thank you Heather, God bless you, your ability to convey such a strong and controversial message with conviction, unapologeticaly and with LOVE, is astounding.

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  35. Great post Mrs Lindsey! May God continue to bless and minister to you as you preach the truth of God. Keep it up God bless you.

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  36. This may be a little deep but I'm gonna ask anyway. I want to prepare for my future. Eventually I will get married, so what are appropriate songs to listen to when being intimate with your spouse? I like to listen to Kem, Jill Scott, India Arie and artist like them every now and then. Is that wrong or should music that only glorifies God be played?

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  37. I thought this was a good article about how Music isn't neutral & how it affects the human body in a subtle and powerful way. Pretty long but it ties in with what Heather Lindsey says about Music.
    http://vigilantcitizen.com/vcboards/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=15705

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  38. Great blog. Just a quick question I'm wondering about if it was a process for both you and your husband? I might be wrong but as far as I remember at least your husband does enjoy various kinds of old school music and love songs from watching some of your youtube videos.... and wasn't there some secular music you chose for your wedding reception?

    I've gone through the stage of throwing out all my secular music once I first got saved and then slowly collecting such music back. This blog was very insightful.

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  39. For some reason, music went away really easily for me. I just lost the taste for it. However, my love for gossip TV was another thing. I even caught myself watching the Wendy Williams show last week a few times and had to confess to my accountability sisters during our weekly meet up. What we put in front of our eyes and expose our ears to is so important. It can plant all sorts of demonic seeds in our heart without us even realizing it. Thank you for sharing. :-)

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  40. Hi heather, I love this article! It's definitely something I've been thinking about recently, especially since watching this sermon by montel jordan : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NCOTsZmST0&list=FLs2ss9ELe5L4jbxX-2O8fSg&index=8&feature=plpp_video

    I'm a music student studying at university. I wanted to ask, I usually try to take a stand when I have to sing certain songs at uni that I dont want to sing because of the content (example: lady marmalade). However, what about watching gigs at uni in which my fellow students play secular music? I mainly go there to support them and their talent, but do you think it's wrong to be in the same environment as that music?

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  41. I really liked this article. Thank you for sharing. The truth hurts so of course people will be upset with you. The Bible that the word is like a sharp two-edged sword. I always knew secular music to be this way and also television. My mother basically was the one always saying these things that you mentioned in the article. I watch some shows but they don't bother me to that extent and listen to a little bit of secular music but not all. I listen to the ones that inspire me and as a singer I feel that I should listen to certain people as an influence so I can sing all different types of styles when it comes to gospel. I only want to sing for Jesus and not for the world anyhow.I feel that if it bothers that person then they shouldn't do it but if not then do it moderately. My question to you is what about the books that you read? It goes the same for that as well. Thank you for sharing and may God continue to bless you.

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  42. I posted this up on twitter and some expressed that it was bit harsh. I believe that if this article truly bothers your spirit, it's conviction!

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  43. This is the truth. Why do you think people say"baby making music?" it makes you feel like having sex. I totally believe certain music projects a certain spirit.

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  44. me too Heather, my fave tv shows are Design Star & Wedding shows.. I can't watch all that other stuff like I use to.. it doesn't help me at all in my walk ... I just think of it as another device the enemy has to keep my focus off of the things of God. Great Post!!!

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  45. God bless you for this.

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  46. This really blessed me. I am curious as to how you feel about playing secular love songs with your spouse? Thanks and God Bless

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  47. I stumbled across your page and I do want to say I totally agree with what you are saying. I remember when I gave that type of music up. The reasons you gave were my exact convictions and it was why I had to surrender it all to God. I ask that God continue to use you in your ministry. Praise God for telling it as it is!

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  48. Wow! Wow again! I thought secular music was only rap music. But I understand that slow jams and love songs can change your thinking and your mood. It will have you thinking about your ex that you tried to close the chapter on and have you depressed all over again. I'm going to erase that music off of my phone now. Thank you for opening my eyes. This really shined a light in my life. When I was in Minnesota with my college friends I would drink, party, and have a good time. But when I'm home in Chicago I'm seen as a good wholesome Christian. I can't live a double standard life and look like Christ it won't work. And I know better. I need to do better...thank you , thank you, thank you for this blog and other blogs Mrs. Lindsey. You just don't know how thankful I am of these blogs. I lived of life of turmoil and it was all because of what I let enter my body and eter my spirit. Ok I won't go into detail. Praise God and bless you Woman of God.

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  49. God really uses you to write blogs and put it in a way that i soooo understanding. Go girl! and if they're made then you did your job!

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  50. This was a wonderful post! I too have struggled with this in my life. I remember when I was younger, my parents wouldn't let me listen to secular music or watch BET for that matter, but I would sneak and do it anyway. As I got older and lived on my own, secular music was all I listened to, especially 90's R&B. But now that I'm saved and both a wife and mother, if I just happen to hear some of the songs that I used to listen to, I'm like "What was I thinking?" I'm like "I was 13 years old talking about "I wanna sex you up"! I cringe at the thought. And today's music is even more blatant. I have a blended family and our older children are teenage. We've talked to them about why don't allow them to listen to certain music or watch certain TV shows. I can tell they hear me, but don't necessarily agree or care for that matter. It's easy for me to set the tone for my household, but when they are with the other parent, there are different rules and they are exposed to it constantly. I know that all I can do is pray that what my husband and I have taught will really sink in like it did for me. Thanks again for your boldness and truthfulness on this subject.

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  51. Every since I can remember my mother has always said "garbage in garbage out" growing up she didn't let us listen to secular music. She always said "if it don't glorify God, why are you listening to it?" I am grateful for a mother who was diligent. Even though I did get caught up in listening to secular music for a season, I now desire Worship music above any other kind. There is something about Worship that moves me, challenges me and changes my heart and focus and puts it back on God. I crave Worship!

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  52. when i got saved,i had a song that reminded me of Jesus.When ever i heard it I would think if the Lord.It was like a love song between me and the Lord.Its Could I knew you were waitng,by George Micheal and Areather Franklin.Guess what hes gay.Homosexualty is a sin,if we didnt listen to music because that artist had sin in there life then we wouldnt beable to listen to anyones music.For all fall short.I do agree however we must be carefull about the kind of lyrics we listen too.Love and blessings.

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  53. Heather, I love this post! I write gospel music and I sing...In church. But I was one who was never opposed to listening to other types of music from time to time- if there were no curse words. However, as I drew closer to God, I realized that my spirit man did not agree with secular music but rather longed more for christian music. I can explain this concept because I have lived it. The devil fights firmly and firstly for our minds and many times we end up going to bed sad, lonely, or depressed because of what we hear and see throughout the day without even realizing it. I have been through so much in my life and finally, this is what I did... I tuned in to a christian radio station and for more than 2 years now, that is the only thing I listen to in my car. What a difference it made! Sometimes, we feel judged when people are doing "the most" for God. But as God's creation, our purpose is to... serve God and keep his commandments for this is the whole duty of man....Ecclesiastes 12:13. This takes a lot of purging but as we grow spiritually and focus our attention on God, the answer to this mystery behind music (which is such a battle ground) becomes obvious. No one can serve two masters.... Matthew...6:24. Everything depends on one's choice and we should remember that "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is constructive....Ist Corinthians 10:23. This topic is critical because as humans we tend to accept duality in many areas of our lives and we continue because we live in a world full of worldly things. As the new year starts, I am trading even more of my worldliness for God's godliness. I trust him fully and since I was created by Him, I must continue to strive to be like Him. We are all under construction, lets take up the whole armor of God and spend more time with the Holy Spirit. As we do more of that, secular music naturally starts to become more tasteless. For anyone who struggles in this area, or who is unsure about Heather's post or my post, take up this challenge... listen to a great christian station for 30 days. It will change your life as it changed mine completely!

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  54. LOVED this blog! Thank you for making it plain!

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  55. AMAZING POST LINDSEY!

    John 8:32
    New King James Version (NKJV)
    32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

    This is that kinda TRUTH post! Thank You God, for such wisdom and revelation! Praise be to Jesus Christ.

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  56. The remark about being around someone struggling with depression struck me. That was a struggle for me. Praise God it's been broken off of me! But if people left me because me and others who have battled depression "are just singing their little troubles in your ears," I wouldn't be here. Satan would've won over my life a long time ago. I know the Lord has placed people in my life to show sincere love and compassion to me when I was being attacked in that respect, so I can't agree with that statement. It's not a fair one to make. I do respect your boldness in the Lord, but at times it comes off as blatantly judgmental and almost ruthless. The truth does need to be told though, but I think the church in America is so quick to either be standoffish toward those struggling with depression or to just tell them to "pray it away". It's a spiritual attack! That's something that needs to not just be prayed over, but broken off of the person!! And the individual mus continue to guard their thoughts and seek the wisdom of God in continuing to guard themselves. The Lord has TONS of angels at His right hand ready to be sent to us as we ask! (Psalm 91:11)

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  57. Great Blog! before i really love to listen to secular music. But I realize, it just make me depress or empty. That's why i chose to listen to worship songs and my taste for secular music has gone. Now, Everytime i feel sad i just listen to worship songs and it makes me better afterwards:) Being in the presence of God refreshes my soul.

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  58. I really enjoyed this entry! I reflect on certain artist's interviews I've read or watched. When questioned about certain songs, some say the poured themselves into the song, so if they have a lot going on the moment they are singing that fails to glorify God, it gets transferred to the listener. Makes me think twice about certain playlists I had when I was fornicating or prepping to step out.

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  59. So what type of music would be appropriate to listen to while spending time with your spouse? I love my gospel music,hymns,and spirituals, but what if I want a romantic dinner and to be mushy with my husband to set the mood.What music would I be able to use for that occasion since R&B and neo soul is also classified as secular music and wrong. I personally don't want to bump amazing grace while engaging in "active worship" lol with my husband.

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  60. Thank you for sharing the truth Heather, God bless you.

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  61. I love this and every other blog entry of yours. I thank God for you.

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