By Christy Shipe

Christy shares from her experience.

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Q. A couple of years ago I listened to N'Sync, Backstreet Boys, you know, all those bands. I gave them up several times because God convicted me. For over a year or two now, I have stayed away from any non-Christian music like it was the plague. But is there anything wrong with those kinds of bands? - Anonymous

A. When I was in high school, I really struggled with the issue of music. I spent tons of time studying it from every angle, so I'm happy to share from my experience. Let me emphasize from the start that this is an area for personal study and conviction from the Holy Spirit. The Bible tells us to use music to worship God (Ephesians 5:19-20), but it never explicitly forbids us from singing or listening to secular music. I can tell you what I believe and what principles I follow, but since the Bible gives no specific commands, I cannot say that you are sinning if you believe differently than I do.

Let me also say that until you're an adult, your parents are the ultimate authority on this issue. If they have told you not to listen to a certain type of music, then you should cheerfully obey them even if you personally disagree. God will honor your obedience and bless you for it (Ephesians 6:1-3). And you will have plenty of time in your adult life to listen to whatever music you choose.

So here are my opinions:

I don't think any particular style of music itself is sinful (although I know Christians who would disagree with me on that). Neither do I think that secular music is always sinful. Songs like Row, Row, Row Your Boat or Old MacDonald are surely not sinful. Just because something is secular does not necessarily mean that it is sinful.

The main issue for me is the lyrics. If a song has any lyrics that go against the principles and laws of God, I think it is wrong to listen to that song. Lyrics that have bad language, are sexually explicit or suggestive, or that encourage sinful behaviors are all on my taboo list. Some modern rock music actually takes direct shots at Christianity itself. I used to like the band Live. But then I read their lyrics and discovered that many of their songs blatantly slammed Christianity.

I also consider the appearance, behavior, and lifestyle of the artist. I don't listen to Ricky Martin because I am offended by the blatant sexuality of his music videos and performances. Also, his lyrics are mostly about sex. Even if the words of the song are OK, you might want to look at what the artist is like before running out and buying an album. Is the musician a good role model for godly teens? If not, I wouldn't give them my money by buying their music or buying tickets to their concert.

Finally, I take into consideration whether or not the music is really beneficial to me. The Bible says, " 'Everything is permissible for me' - but not everything is beneficial. 'Everything is permissible for me' - but I will not be mastered by anything." (1 Corinthians 6:12) Even if something is not sinful, it may not be helpful. It could just be a waste of your time. And even good things become bad when they start to control you.

I have recently begun to try to listen to more Christian music. Music tends to stick in your head, and I'd rather have words about God stuck in my head than words about something else. I still listen to and enjoy secular music, but I don't saturate myself in it. I don't let it control me. And sometimes, I cut it out altogether when I feel a particular need to focus solely on God for a period of time.

It is possible to appropriately enjoy secular music, but you should never let your guard down. Always approach secular music carefully; examine the words and the artists; take time to decide if it is OK. If God leads you to rid your life of secular music for a time, obey His leading without condemning others who do choose to listen.

And don't forget to "Sing to the Lord, you saints of his; praise his holy name." (Psalm 30:4) He loves to hear the songs of His children.