Should Christians Listen to Secular Songs?

When I was a teenager, I once asked during a teens’ meeting for a biblical explanation of why Christians shouldn’t listen to secular songs.

Honestly, I don’t remember getting any clear answers with strong scriptural backing.

Just responses like, “Shally, it’s just not good. Don’t do it.”

This kind of answer can leave believers feeling confused or even doubtful.

Music is a beautiful gift from God, but like many blessings, sin has a way of distorting its purpose and leading us astray.

That’s why seeking God’s wisdom and discernment is crucial in making the right choices. (James 1:5)

After all, what we take in shapes who we become.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

James 1:5

How can you identify secular songs?

Secular songs can be highly entertaining.

Many of them have great melodies, deep messages, and even positive lessons.

However, I personally define secular songs as any music that does not glorify God.

That said, determining whether a song is truly secular isn’t always easy. Here’s why:

God gifted humanity with creativity, and all music ultimately originates from that gift.

But consider songs like Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World or Onyeka Onwenu’s One Love.

They both carry beautiful messages about unity and appreciation for life.

There are also classical pieces, jazz, and songs about love or social justice that many people, including Christians, enjoy.

Interestingly, some bands aren’t labeled as “Christian” by the music industry, yet their lyrics reflect faith-based values.

For instance, Skillet is a fully Christian rock band, but their music is played alongside secular hard rock artists like Korn and Black Sabbath.

Similarly, Switchfoot doesn’t explicitly market itself as a Christian band, yet their songs carry messages of faith and morality.

So, when evaluating a song, I remind myself that it’s not just about whether the lyrics are good or meaningful.

Instead, I ask myself: Does this song glorify God?

This perspective helps me make more intentional choices about what I listen to.

So then, how do I determine whether or not to listen to secular songs?

First, it’s important to understand that God does not condemn music.

However, it’s just as important to let His Spirit guide you in choosing what to listen to.

When deciding whether to listen to secular songs, consider these:

• The Purpose of Music:

Music serves many purposes.

In the Bible, people used music primarily to praise and worship God.

For example, one of the most well-known musicians in Scripture, King David, often played and sang to honor God.

However, music was not limited to worship alone. It also served other important functions.

When King Saul was troubled by evil spirits, he called David to play the harp, and the music brought him relief (1 Samuel 16:14-23).

Similarly, the Israelites used instruments to warn of danger and to confuse their enemies in battle (Judges 7:16-22).

Furthermore, music was often a way to express joy and gratitude.

When Mary learned she would give birth to Jesus, she responded with a song of praise (Luke 1:46-55).

From these examples, it is clear that God designed music for more than just worship.

It can also bring comfort, encouragement, and even entertainment.

Music has the power to uplift the soul (Ephesians 5:19) and express deep emotions, including sorrow and struggle (Psalm 88).

In the New Testament, Paul emphasizes the role of music in strengthening and encouraging fellow believers, saying:

Then you will sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, making music to the Lord in your hearts.

Ephesians 5:19

Therefore, while worship remains the primary purpose of music, the Bible acknowledges that music can be used in many meaningful ways.

• The Message in the Lyrics

The lyrics of a song should always be carefully examined.

Although Philippians 4:8 does not specifically address music, it provides a great guideline for what we allow into our minds. It says:

And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right.

Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

Philippians 4:8

If we are called to focus on such things, then the music we listen to should reflect them.

That being said, not all secular songs are harmful. Some carry lyrics that reflect values like truth, love, and goodness.

If a song carries a message that is pure, uplifting, and honorable, there is no harm in listening to it.

For example, a love song that celebrates faithfulness in marriage or the beauty of true love.

However, a lot of secular songs do not meet this standard.

Many of them promote immorality, violence, or dishonesty, making sin appear normal while disregarding purity and integrity.

If a song glorifies things that go against God’s principles, then it is best to avoid it.

So then…

I believe every song carries a spirit—whether good or bad.

Whatever we allow into our minds will eventually shape our words and actions.

This is why Colossians 3:5 emphasizes developing wholesome thought patterns.

Similarly, 2 Corinthians 10:5b urges us to “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

These verses help guide our choices when it comes to music.

Ultimately, I believe the best songs are those that praise and glorify God.

Thankfully, Christian artists create music across various genres, including classical, rock, rap, and reggae. This offers plenty of options to enjoy.

Therefore, choosing to listen only to music that glorifies God doesn’t mean missing out on life’s good things.

After all, God can be found and enjoyed in many aspects of life, like food, art, poetry, entertainment, movies, sports, and yes, even in music.