Times of Eswatini

What do you listen to?

- PRUDENCE LEMONADE

+( ear is one of the most powerful organs in the human body. What we hear or listen to has major influence on our day-to-day lives and so it is important to note and take caution to what we listen to especially when it comes to music.

Music as an art form has always connected deeply with people of all cultures and languages throughout human history. Making melodies with voices and instrument­s has been a key part of the e[pression of man’s e[periences.

When words fail us, and the circumstan­ces of our physical lives confine us, music is an outlet for the hopes and dreams, passions and desires, the tension and confusion, and even the transforma­tion taking place within us.

Music connects with us on a level nothing else does, and for that reason, people have always recognised a divine power and spirituali­ty to music.

As a Gospel Coalition writer says

“If you believe in God, you have a framework for enjoying music that is more satisfying to heart and mind, and more authentic to the actual e[perience of that enjoyment.´ The word ‘Gospel’comes from the Greek phrase ‘euangelion’ and the /atin phrase ‘evangelium’, which means the good news 2f the Christian message.

DISTRACTIO­N

Christian music is a genre that incorporat­es biblical lyrics through preaching the good news of -esus Christ. So while the world at large may use music in their search for meaning, for e[pression, or simply pleasure and distractio­n, the %ible reveals a much deeper, ancient, and powerful purpose at work when followers of Christ lift their voices.

In scripture, we see that music is used for glorifying and worshippin­g God, telling of his great deeds, offering outlets for both lament and praise, and providing unity to God’s people. We also see that an appreciati­on of the songs recorded in the %ible provides a fuller understand­ing of a greater story God claiming the hearts of people from every culture and walk of life to become a part of his song in Heaven.

Should a Christian listen to secular music? Many Christians struggle with this Tuestion. Many secular musicians are immensely talented. Secular music can be very entertaini­ng. There are many secular songs that have catchy melodies, thoughtful insights, and positive messages.

In determinin­g whether or not to listen to secular music. Much of secular music does not meet the standard of 3KLOLSSL DQV Secular music often promotes immorality and violence, while belittling purity and integrity. If a song glorifies what opposes God, a Christian should not listen to it. Songs carry a transmissi­on of spirits that are administer­ed for certain purposes.

It is good and safe for a believer to stay away from secular music as it is one of the tools used by the enemy to manipulate people. Whatever a person

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