Christian music used to only be slow, gentle hymns sung in worship to God on early Sunday mornings, and many believe that is the place it still belongs. However, today, Christian music has worked its way into top charts, huge concert venues, and even some of the top radio stations all over the country.

         While the lyrics can be repetitive and may not always be as catchy as new pop or country hits, Christian music has a place in our lives, and that place should extend out the doors of the church and into the places where joy and love are desperately needed.

         Many Christians raise their hands in praise to God while in church but then proceed to hop in their cars and flip on popular rap or country music, blasting songs with lyrics less than redeemable. Belief in morality, love, and grace should go further than just the way we treat people in church. Inappropriate and pessimistic lyrics should not rule the lives of Christians after they pledge their lives to Jesus. If God calls his followers to honor and glorify him in all things, why should music be an exception to that?

         “Christians should want to listen to Christian music. Even if you don’t listen to a bunch of pop or rap, it’s a good break from the usual stuff and is spiritually good for us,” said Journee Henry, sophomore.

         Most people argue that Christian music is simply not of the same quality as other music. Actually, Christian music today sounds almost identical to many pop songs and other genres because new Christian artists are emerging everyday, targeting both the young population and all ages who enjoy fresh and new music. Dozens of Christian singers are grabbing listeners’ attention, including the popular hip-hop and rap artist, Lecrae, who uses his platform to share the truth about his faith.

         “I like the tune of Christian music because it sounds like other pop music,” said Madison Tucker, sophomore.

         While others may acknowledge that Christian music is usually just as good quality as other genres, some people have trouble with the fact that Christian is the only genre that is labeled based on the lyrics and not the sound. However, this is for a good reason. If other genres were categorized by lyrics, the groups would be incredibly alarming due to the topics of most songs today. This would bring all of the negative and inappropriate themes to light.

         “Christian music is good to listen to because it’s edifying. It’s good and healthy to take a break from the typical pop/rap stuff that people blast in their ears 24/7,” said Henry.

         Most importantly, Christian music keeps us connected to God in times when we barely have the energy to pray or even call out to him for help. Sometimes it just takes a simple three minute song to remind us that God is there and has made a promise to stand by our sides. People forget that we need God in every moment- not just church, chapel, and prayer. Christian music allows us to keep ourselves grounded in our faiths and focused on what matters.

         “Christian music keeps us focused on God,” said Henry.

         By no means should all secular music be cut out of life; Christian music should simply be a frequent alternative. After promising their lives to God, Christians should choose to change their lives to best fit what the Bible says is right, and music is an essential part of daily life today. So, by welcoming Christ into even the small areas, like music, Christians can set an example to non-believers, showing them how Christ influences all of life for the better.