The stereo is screaming, the walls are shaking, and your parents are banging on your door.  Is the music too loud?  Is the music "too worldly"?  Are you sinning listening to this music?

   All of these are common questions that all of us go through at times, about the music we, and others listen to.  Is the music too loud, the volume is a personal preference that varies with each of us, but do we really have to go deaf as a teen, for a simple song?  I have heard this many times being said to teens, and adults alike about the "worldly" music that is played on many radio stations today, "As long as the music is great, feel free to listen to the song, don't worry about the lyrics, just blot out the swear words, and anything you don't agree with."  My friends, the purpose of music was to praise God, and lift up his name.  God created us, and our talent for creating our music, why not give Him the glory for that gift?

   Are you sinning when listening to the music on the radio, or your stereo player?  Is there really an answer to this?  How do you know if you are sinning or not?  There is an answer to this question that baffles so many.  God specifically stated in his Word that we are to be different, to be the "salt" of the earth (Matt. 5:13).  We are Christians, love God, follow His commandments, and wish to let others know of our God, right?  Well, how does listening to music that has swearing, immoral sexual references, and in some cases even glorifies murder in it's lyrics help to show we love our God, and wish to further His ministry?  Simply put, it doesn't.  If a non-believer sits down and listens to the music you are listening to, and cannot state its devoted to God, then you are bearing false witness to your neighbor.  Do not claim one thing and live another just because it's cool in this world's eyes.  That, as I'm sure you know, is sin.

   It is extremely important that you realize what your music is really doing in your life, and how it may possibly be ruining your testimony for the lost souls around you.  If you are still unsure about your music, try talking to your Youth Pastor/Pastor about your music, and its lyrics.  Above all else, search the Scriptures!  The Bible is the only source where you can be certain you are finding absolute truth.  I pray you and your friends all make the right choice - the choice that BUILDS the cause of Christ, not one that tears down your testimony for Him.