What’s in a Song?
When choosing a church, what are your criteria? Which components make your short list? Many stick to denominational lines. Others may ignore the denomination as long as they agree with what the church believes.
I’m not as concerned with denomination. One aspect that does affect my thoughts is music. I’m addicted to music. It speaks to me like no other media. Music enters into my soul and alters my point of view. I have had some of my most worshipful experiences during or after a powerful praise song.
Here’s my question: Does it matter what type of music is being played? Could you worship as well with a traditional hymn as you could with contemporary Christian? Does a praise and worship team get the job done for you, or do you have to have a gospel choir to get your praise juices flowing?
I’m one of those people who enjoy most music types. I can usually find
a few songs to love in any musical genre. With that being said, I do have
preferences for some over others. I’m big int instruments, so I prefer beautiful piano accompaniment over pipe organs. I prefer drums to a guitar. I love wind instruments and brass more than bells. When does preference begin to impede one’s ability to worship in any environment?
If the heart of the music is the words, is it wrong if you feel hindered in worship because you find it impossible to like the song regardless of the potent lyrics? I struggle with this a lot and would love to hear your opinion.
One Comment
karen
My sister and I have had this conversation many times. I find that I can worship in most settings, although sometimes I have to think really hard if I'm singing a hymn, because I don't alwyas understand the words (didn't grow up in church, and haven't ever regularly attended a church that is more traditional). However, I tend to get very distracted if the quality isn't good, or if the sound isn't mixed well, or if the leader makes mistakes. I think this is wrong, and I don't like that it happens, but having grown up in a very musical family, quality was always important. I'm getting better at ignoring it, always remembering that I am not perfect and neither is whoever is leading.
It shouldn't be about the style of music – who knows what music in heaven will sound like… what is beautiful to God's ears? I know that God is more interested in my heart than my song, so I'm trying hard to not put that same pressure on others.
It's a constant battle for me. I'm looking forward to other comments on this subject.