The words we sing should include thoughts that stir us to action and challenge us with the call of Christ in our lives.

...what songs from your childhood do you most remember? What hymns do you know? What Bible verses and stories do you know because of songs? What hymns do you want to pass down to your children?

Creative types know that simplicity is often this highest form of creativity... it is often the most simple thing done well and sincerely in church that will make the most significant impression. A stunning melody with clear and moving lyrics, sung with gusto and authenticity by a congregation, is a more powerful statement than a song that's difficult to play or is awkward for the congregation to sing.

Are we communicating a deep faith through what we sing and how we sing it, or are we entertaining teenagers with something that will not hold water when they hit college or head out in to the workplace?... Biblically rich content in songs, sung by people who look like they mean what they are saying, helps teach the gospel as something that is credible and powerful rather than cultural and optional.

Singing together bears compelling witness to the truth. It says to those watching on and listening in that, just as we sing the same melody together, we share the same faith, the Faith; not a self-made creed for a solo journey toward nowhere, but commitment to our one Lord of all, who transforms the life we live together and will bring us home to eternity.

being vague and gospel-lite in congregational songs is not the way to be "seeker friendly." Communicating the gospel in a way that informs the mind and engages the emotions is. The gospel is the church's central lyrical distinctive.

Ensure that your church's song list includes hymns and songs that touch on all the major doctrines and seasons of life, just as the Psalms and historical hymnals do.

Aim for your choices, like the Psalms, to give:* A vast vision of God's character* How we fit into God's redemption story* A broad understanding of human experience

Consider carefully the lyrics of the song you gather together for a particular service. Ask:* Is this true of who Christ is and all He has done and is doing and will do for us, in us, and through us?* Is this filled with the freedom of the gospel?* Does it provide language for sincere praise and renewed faith and loyal obedience?* What image of Christ is it giving to the unbeliever?