Not to sound legalistic, just some questions. 
I love music. I like all types, but I am especially fond of metal and hip hop. One of my all time favorite bands is named Clutch. They have more of a southern rock flavor (my sister hates them. Granted, I don’t know the last time she listened to them, she may like them now but will never give them a chance. Come on sister, what have you got to lose?).
I’m getting old
I have found myself listening to more pop music in the car. It might be the sorry state of rock music right now. I cannot stand most of what I hear. Not to sound like my dad here, but it all sounds the same. Well. I guess all pop music sounds the same too. Maybe I just need to boost my testosterone. Watch some UFC and eat some hot wings while drinking a good ale.
I digress.
The other day I was at the library. I was with my boys while looking through some music (I already have more books than I can read, but that’s another post). I saw Avenge Sevenfold was available. I had only heard a couple songs by them and thought their musicianship was up to par. So I picked it up. I’m not insane (inside joke to fans of the band there…)
While I was doing some work in my office, I popped the CD in my computer and proceeded to listen. I think I got the edited version. They bleeped out the “F” word on the first track. Part of me was upset. Geesh. Let the artist say what he needs to say (that was not a John Mayer joke…). The other part, and probably the bigger part, was relieved. I knew some kid would not get the CD and learn new ways to use old swear words.
I have a potty mouth, at times.
I have really curbed my swearing. I try my hardest to bite my tongue. For example, I dropped a paper shredder on my toe yesterday and said “shhhhhh…..ow, ow, ouchie,” followed by seething sounds. Success. I really don’t want my boys picking up daddy’s bad language.
For the record…
I do not get all prudish around swear words. I don’t really care as long as you are not using them to degrade someone. Calling someone a name of any kind, swear word or otherwise, degrades God’s creation. Jesus says those who call others name are guilty of hell (see Matthew 5:22).
What does this say about what we should listen too?
Sorry, I got on a rant about curse words there. Back to the music thing. My big question is, what should a Christian listen too and what should they not? I would argue it is a matter of conscience, for the most part. Some of us can handle more in the ways of music than others. For example, I am too impressionable when it comes to the band Tool. My mind goes to bad things when I listen to them. I get severely depressed and mean. On the other hand, no other bands really have that affect on me.
Should I worry more about what I allow to be input?
While pursuing holiness, should I be more worried about what music I listen too? Just as I am more cautious about what I watch on TV or what movies I see, should I have the same consideration with what I listen too?
What do you think?
What do you listen too? What don’t you listen too? Is it because of sanctification? Is it still cool to listen to Megadeth?
Leave your thoughts in the comments.
-Don-
PS, My friend Bryant and I thought it would be fun to start a metal band that covered Lady Ga Ga and Ke$ha songs…Seriously
Written by Don
Topics: Misc.