BGEA: I gave my life to Jesus recently. My parents say that if I'm a Christian I'll have to give up the music I've always listened to. Are they right?

I am 17 and I gave my life to Jesus a few months ago. Now my parents are saying that if I'm going to be a Christian I'll have to give up the music I've always listened to. Are they right? — B.L.

Giving your life to Jesus was the most important decision you will ever make, and I'm thankful you've started on this new path—which is God's path. Now make it your goal to stay on His path, by seeking His will for your life every day. The Bible says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him" (Colossians 2:6).

Parents and teenagers often disagree about music—and I've discovered that no matter what I say about it, not everyone will agree! But I suggest you begin by asking your parents what concerns them about your music—not to argue with them, but to understand them. You still may not agree, but if they have some legitimate concerns, you should respect them.

Then ask God to help you be wise about the music you listen to (and not just music, but all forms of entertainment). Do some of the lyrics attack God or the Christian faith, or even exalt Satan? Do some promote immorality or other forms of behavior that displease God? Let the psalmist's commitment be yours: "I will have nothing to do with evil" (Psalm 101:4).

In addition, let me encourage you to become familiar with contemporary Christian music. It includes many musical styles, but they have one thing in common: They seek to point people to Jesus. The Bible says, "Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is" (Colossians 3:1). Make this your goal.

9 Comments

It a gud thing says 1.28.2013, 03:24 a.m.

It is a gud thing but don't luk at ur parent for any type of critisism. Bcos it can weary ur strenght

Billy says 7.11.2012, 7:43 p.m.

I am 80 yo. I have lived in sin all my life. I have not long ago excepted Jesus Christ. It is on my mind much of the time. I am going to heaven.

Paschal says 6.7.2012, 8:02 p.m.

Music,they say is a medicine to our soul.so we should be careful to the music we listen.because it affects our souls

moses says 6.5.2012, 09:09 a.m.

can u send me email that will help me grow spiritually and increase my faith,yes pleasehttp://www.billygraham.org/spiritualgrowth_topics.asp/ and http://www.ransom.tv/I hope you find what you are looking for at both of these links. We pray that you will continue in your spiritual growth and faith.

Pumei says 6.3.2012, 6:08 p.m.

Listening to gospel music is a gud thing rather than listening to rock,jazz,sentimental songs,etc etc...as i grew up,i came to knw d importance of listening to gospel music n dedicating my life to Jesus."LIVING FOR LIVING GOD" dts my life motto n i realy luv dt.GOD BLES to those who is seeking HIM.AMEN

Nishant says 5.27.2012, 03:52 a.m.

Bible says if we forgive to those who have done wrong then are eligible to beg forgivness and lovingkindness of God

GODSON says 5.25.2012, 11:49 a.m.

The Bible says you will not serve God and satan at thesame time. Old things have passed away now all things has become new. You have to give up the old way and face the new life. Christ Loves you.

JohnKingsly says 2.1.2011, 3:06 p.m.

I agree. I was listening secular music but when I accepted Christ, I gave-up that music and have been listening to Christian music which helps me stay tuned to thoughts that are noble than have the desire to deviate my course. I am praying for my loved ones to be on course too.

Kate says 11.9.2010, 12:39 a.m.

When I came to Christ I found I didn't want to listen to the secular music I was so used to because it reminded me of the person I was before Christ. I love listening to Christian music now because it reminds me of what Jesus did for me and the wonderful life I have ahead of me in Christ Jesus.