Q: Some friends asked me to sing in their band. They’re not Christians though, and I’m not sure what to do. On one hand, I think it’s a great opportunity to learn more about music and stuff. I know I wouldn’t do shows at bars or sing offensive lyrics, but I don’t know. Is it right?

I can tell you’re a head’s-up girl, to really think through whether it’s a good idea instead of jumping into the opportunity blindly. Other people might tell you you’d be crazy not to take the chance to sing with a band—any band—but you and I both know that sometimes God’s ways aren’t the world’s obvious choice. Then again, sometimes God’s ways aren’t the obvious “Christian” answer either! 😉

God needs believers out in the world where the lost and dying are—where people need His hope and forgiveness most. He needs believers shining His light into the entertainment industry. But it’s also a tough battlefield for a believer, and I know quite a few Christians who set out to “make a difference” in Hollywood, Nashville or the modeling industry and ended up becoming different instead. I can’t say whether it’s “right” or “wrong” to join your friends’ secular band, but here are some question to ask yourself as you decide whether it’s God’s best for you, sis:

• Have you asked God to make His will clear to you? Are you willing to accept His answer, even if its a no?
• Do other people in your life—people who love God and know you well—think this would be a good idea?
• When you look deep into your heart, why do you want to be part of the band? Fame? Evangelism? What are you hoping it will do for you?
• If you joined the band and things took off, where do you think you would be in five years—emotionally, physically and spiritually? Play the decision out. Where might it take you?
• Is your faith strong enough to stand against the temptations you’d encounter in a secular “band culture”?
• Have you talked to the other band members about your faith and convictions? Would they support you if you said no to certain lyrics, show locations or outfits?

I encourage you to spend some time really thinking through and praying about the answers to those questions. And then rest in your decision, knowing that whether you decide yes or no isn’t life or death! Ultimately, you can honor God with your life either way if You try your best to keep Him first. I love that God doesn’t have cookie-cutter plans for His kids. Whatever twists and turns your life takes, His ultimate plan for you is the same: that you become more like His Son, Jesus Christ (see Romans 8:29). So this is my final encouragement to you:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

Amen?

Hope that helps in the decision-making process! I’d love to hear what you decide…

Love,