“By 2015, it is estimated that Americans will consume both traditional and digital media for over 1.7 trillion hours, an average of approximately 15 and a half hours per person per day” according to marshall.usc.edu
The things we hear on an everyday basis, affects our soul. If we are not mindful of the information we absorb we risk the chances of absorbing negativity. Reality T.V can alter our confidence levels and subconsciously bring comparing thoughts into our minds. This is not good for us because God never wants us to wish for anything other’s have, he simply just wants us to ask him. We must be mindful of the content we listen to in songs and music. The rhythm and beat may make us dance but does the message bring joy or is it focused on worldly things?
I grew up in the place that birth Hip hop and music is apart of my culture. New music with rappers like Future, Desiigner or 21 savage it is easy to get caught up with content that doesn’t necessarily #FeedYourSoul. Although, I am fans of all these artist and do enjoy my trap music every now and then, I am aware that this is just an ‘image’ or facade; It is not my lifestyle, nor the lifestyle that God has called us to live by.
Today is dedicated to focusing on music. Throughout your journey it is critical that you only listen to positive and uplifting substances. During my plan, the only album I listened to was Kirk Franklin’s Losing My Religion. I have never been a gospel fan, but this album has changed my life. Gospel music is the best genre to focus on because it involves God’s word, truth and love.
Gospel music brings back the truth of how we should live, who deserves glory and the reality of our world. Each day, I focused on a particular song off his album, and by the end of my plan, I can sing along to every song. His album has a mix of ‘turn up’ songs to the slow R&B vibes, I definitely recommend this album.
During my plan, not only did I listen to Gospel, but I listened to many different podcasts. I am allowed to have headphones on while working, so instead of listening to music, I would listen to my podcasts. Listening to different sermons from different preachers around the country, helped me to gain a wider perspective about God’s word and truth. Listening to my podcasts became a habit, and I found myself looking forward to work so I can hear a positive and uplifting message. These messages gave me insight into today’s world and revealed things about myself. I was able to learn more about The Lord, myself and other’s all while being on the clock!
The #FeedYourSoul Plan would not be complete without hearing God’s word. Our soul needs the word and truth of God in order to feel nourished and whole. Even if we feel these podcasts are boring, or would rather listen to our favorite songs, we must remember discipline. The flesh doesn’t want to do things for the soul, so we must be aware and apply obedience, to ensure we are nourishing our soul. I believe, without hearings or learnings God’s word, your soul will not be satisfied.
It is important to make sure you include a time and day to focus on listening. Whether you are listening to positive music or a Spirit filled message, we must consume God’s truth and schedule it within our plan. I found the first couple days were difficult, and it took a while for me to fully commit to listening to the podcasts entirely, but it didn’t take long before I was listening to 2 or 3 episodes back to back. Listening to preachers is a wonderful experience especially when you know they actually have a relationship with The Lord. However, my podcasts weren’t just church related. I enjoyed listening to things I could learn from, for example I learned about the difference between organic food vs. non-organic. I listened to people’s testimonies and enjoyed ‘Tia Mowry’s Mostly Mom podcasts.” Although, I am not a mom, it was nice listening to it because it was preparing me for my future and informing me of what I should or could expect. I also listened to podcasts in my career field, and listened to podcasts of how to start a business. There are thousands of podcasts, in thousands of categories. Have fun with it!
Verse’s about listening
- “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” – James 1:19
- “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice” – Proverbs 12:15
- “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame” – Proverbs 18:13
- “Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding” – Proverbs 2:2
- “And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you” – Mark 4:24