Do You Lie When You Worship?!

I had a conversation with one of the guys in my youth group. He’s attempting to write some songs for worship. I’m really proud of his boldness and his initiative in wanting to bring something new to the table. Most people his age are wrapped up trying to write songs about girls so that they could be the next Jonas Brother (do people even listen to them). But Michael is endeavoring to write songs to God. I think it’s a noble and honest pursuit and I think it’s a reflection of his heart and love for God.

One Sunday morning we had a conversation about writing music. First off, I have to say that I have never really written a serious song. My one hit wonder was, “I have a hole in my shoe.” Nevertheless, I do have my opinions on how I believe worship songs ought to be written. As we were talking about the philosophy of writing worship songs, I told Michael:

Try not to write worship songs that are centered on “me” because you can cause the congregation to lie.

When I look at the countless times I’ve been a part of a worship service and when I consider the countless numbers of songs I’ve sang and words I said, if I’m honest, I’ve lied to God. “Me” centered songs are songs that are not so much focused on God, but on how we feel or what we want to do for God.

I remember during a missions trip I sang, “Jesus I believe in you and I would go, to the ends of the earth, to the ends of the earth for You.” But in complete honesty, would I really go to the ends of the earth. Am I really that radically obedient to Jesus? If I’m honest, I’d have to say no. I want to be but I’m not sure I’m there.

Or during praise nights I used to sing, “I’m going to be a History Maker in this land.” I guess!? Maybe?

What about, “You are my all in all.” I can’t tell you a number of times I’ve sang those words and not really mean it. I lied. Jesus should be my all in all. He should be everything to me. I want him to be but if He was to look at my life, He knows.

I think when we write songs of worship they should be a reflection of God. I mean if you’re singing, “God is holy!” even if you don’t believe it, it still stands true. When worship songs are centered on God’s character,His goodness, His Faithfulness, HIM, you really can’t go wrong.

I’m not saying we ought to do away with songs that express how we feel about God or what we want to do for God. I’m simply saying that we’d be more mindful on what we say or sing to Him. Maybe, it can just be a prayer.. I mean when I sing, “Jesus I believe in you and I would go, to the ends of the earth” I feel extremely convicted and it often becomes my prayer. “Jesus help me live this way for You!” But at the end of the day our songs should reflect truth. Should there be emotions involved in worship? ABSOLUTELY! Should there be expressions involved in worship?! YES! But above all else, truth must be expressed.