Music: More Than Just a Beat

So, let’s talk about something we all love and can totally relate to: Music. Where words fail, music speaks, right? It's amazing how a song can lift our spirits and make us feel understood. But have you ever thought about how the music you listen to can affect you as a person?

Music is everywhere—in your car, at the grocery store, even in the elevator at the doctor's office. Sometimes, we don't even notice it until we put on our headphones and get lost in the tunes. While music is awesome, not all of it is good for us to listen to. The brain is powerful, and when you listen to something a lot, you start to believe the words and your actions can reflect what you're hearing. Crazy, right? But it's true! It is a known fact that music activates various parts of the brain, including the hippocampus and amygdala,(look it up) which are involved in emotional responses and memory. This means that repeated exposure to certain types of music can reinforce specific emotions and thoughts.

Just like the saying "we are what we eat," we are influenced by what we hear repeatedly. Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Now, can we honestly say that the music we love so much represents these qualities? Probably not.

As a teenager, I get it—the struggle of finding music that sounds good, has a great beat, and can turn your frown upside down is real. But here’s something to think about: the lyrics of the songs we love can have a big impact on us, even if we dont realize it at first. So, here's your challenge: take your favorite song, print out the lyrics, and read them out loud. Then, evaluate how you feel about the song. Do you still like it? What is the song really saying? Is it a positive message? Does it glorify God? Is it uplifting your spirit, or is it degrading, sexual, or encouraging you to go against God's will?

This exercise can be eye-opening, and you'll probably find out that a lot of your favorite songs have messages that don't really vibe with God's word, your faith, or your values. So give it a try and share your thoughts.

Happy Monday… or is it? I know, the last thing anyone wants to hear on a Monday is that dreaded phrase because it kicks off a whole week of unknowns—whether it's school, work, practice, or whatever life throws your way. But instead of stressing about the week ahead, I’m challenging you to switch it up this time. Do something new, something you’ve been wanting to try but never got around to.

For me? This week, I’m hitting up a trail walk. Yup, I’ve always wanted to hike, but I’ve been tripping on the "what ifs"—what if a bear shows up? Or a snake? What if I get too tired and can’t make it back to my car? Okay, okay, I’m being a bit dramatic, but you feel me. The point is, instead of letting fear hold me back, I’m just gonna go for it.

So this week, don’t let the unknown scare you when you’re trying something new. Go for it. Just do it. And roll with God because He’s always got your back. Let’s get it!

Written by: Ty Goss

“I can do ALL Things Through Christ, who strengthens me”!

Last week at the YMCA, Teen Scene dove into all things goals and affirmations! We learned how to crush our goals using the SMART method (yup, it's a thing!) and how to link those goals to powerful scriptures. But the best part? We talked about staying focused on your goals and blocking out all that negativity.

Check out the pic on the left of our amazing founder, Pastor Cynthia Phifer! She was told she was "too old" to get on a bike. Spoiler alert: that person was wrong! (See for yourself in the photo!) Pastor Phifer showed us what Philippians 4:13 means – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” And let me tell you, God gave her some serious strength that day as she hopped on that bike and rode down a mountain like a champ!

So, on this Flashback Friday, remember to keep your eyes on your goals, keep that negativity at bay, and always ask God for the strength and guidance to go after what you want! You've got this!

Written by: Ty Goss