Emily is Smiling

If you have not checked out yesterday's post, then please do so now, or you will have no idea what I am talking about, fair warning.

I thought I would start out with "The Good Song" because it is fairly easy to describe.  In fact, you probably know what kind of song that I am talking about. 

In the secular music industry, there are songs that carry great messages, no matter if they have a "Christian" label or not.  There are Good Songs in every genre of music.  No cussing or dishonorable topic, a good message, complete truth... they might even have lyrics, no matter how unintentionally, that will carry your thoughts to God. 

This may be an obvious example, but "Jesus Take the Wheel" by Carrie Underwood is a good country song with a great message.  "How to Save A Life" by the Fray is also a Good Song.  If you really want to go out on a limb, songs like "Dreams" by Van Halen have a good message, and the same with "In the Ghetto" by Elvis Presley, "Let It Be" by The Beatles, and "Man In the Mirror" by Michael Jackson. 

When you find a Good Song, even if it is by an artist that doesn't always produce the best music, then you can put that specific song on your playlist guilt-free.  However, you must be careful.  It is so easy to say, "Well, this is a Good Song..." because you like the song, and not necessarily because it is actually a Good Song.  Google the lyrics to your selected song choice... look up the meaning behind the words.  If the song is dishonorable, deceitful, untrue, or impure, then it doesn't make it into the list of Good Songs.  In fact, if it is "iffy" at all, then I wouldn't put it up there.  Instead, wait for Wednesday's post.   

Pretend that you are placing your song before God.  Is He going to turn away and close His ears, repulsed and ashamed, or is He going to enjoy the music?  If God would refuse to listen to your song, then you need to clear it off of your playlist.  As Christians, we are supposed to be "Little Christs," and listening to music that Christ disapproves of is not imitating Him.

I realize that it is difficult to only listen to pure and honorable songs... sometimes it seems like there aren't that many great Christian songs out there.  When you struggle with this, try to remember the sacrifices that Jesus made for you.  He suffered and died for you.  Don't you think that you can sacrifice the music that you listen to for Him? 

What are some Good Songs that you have found in the secular music industry?  What are your guidelines for a Good Song?  Leave a comment with your opinion.