Let’s be honest! This is something many of us struggle with. We love music. It sets the mood, brings back memories, brings people closer, and sometimes even helps us process emotions.

But as Christians, we also know that not all songs lead our hearts in the right direction. So, I kind of did a little experiment to see for myself if listening to secular music really affects my thoughts and relationship with God.

During a month of fasting, I completely stopped listening to secular songs—yes, even Taylor Swift (and believe me, she used to be my favorite artist).

Instead, I filled my days with worship music. I’d wake up extra early to read the Bible, pray, and listen to Christian songs. I also ended my nights that way. It was peaceful. I felt so close to God—like my mind was clearer and my heart lighter.

But then came the third week. I got tempted.

I thought, “It’s just one song… it won’t hurt.” So I played Mariah Carey’s Touch My Body.

In hindsight, of all the songs out there, why that one? I don’t know—at that time, I just really wanted to hear it (like when you’re craving food).

I didn’t think much of it at first, but not long after, old thoughts—lustful thoughts—started creeping back in.

And suddenly, I felt that same struggle again. For two days, I wrestled with those thoughts. It honestly felt like I lost the peace I’d built up for weeks.

The Realization

That’s when it hit me. Music really does have power. The lyrics, the message, even the atmosphere it creates, they all influence us more than we think.

Earlier, I mentioned Taylor Swift. We know she’s especially known for her heartfelt songs about breakups, betrayals, and heartbreak.

I realized that during the times I used to listen to those songs, I would start feeling as if I were heartbroken, even though I’m in a loving relationship. Those songs made me imagine things like, “What if my beau and I broke up too? What would I do?”

That’s when I understood that music can plant emotions and thoughts that don’t even belong to us. It can stir fears and sadness that were never there in the first place.

That’s also the reason why I stopped listening to her altogether, I no longer want to entertain those thoughts.

Guarding Our Heart

Some songs carry messages that don’t align with God’s truth. And when we open our hearts to those—even “just one song”—it can open the door for the enemy to sneak in and distract us from God’s presence.

Now, I’m not saying this to be legalistic or judgmental. I’m sharing this because I’ve experienced it firsthand. It’s not about rules, it’s about guarding our hearts. As it is said:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
— Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered whether it really matters what kind of music you listen to, trust me, it does. The things we feed our minds and hearts will always show in our thoughts, words, and actions.

So if you’re struggling with this too, take it to God. Ask Him to help you discern what draws you closer to Him and what pulls you away.

It’s not easy — but it’s worth it.

Reflection

How about you?
Have you ever noticed how certain songs affect your mood, thoughts, or faith?

Maybe this is the perfect time to reflect on what you’re allowing to play in your heart.
Let’s choose what brings peace, not noise, what draws us nearer to God, not farther away.