Personal Blog: Sharing from my own life experiences
During my childhood in the 1960s and 70s, which many now refer to as "dysfunctional," I found my way to Christ. Although we didn't realize it at the time, my family and I were simply navigating through the challenges of that era. However, it was during this time that Jesus made a significant impact on my life.
My life underwent a profound change when someone assisted me in establishing a profound connection with the incomprehensible affection that Jesus has for us.
The photo was taken by Laura E. Partain
In a single moment, my entire life was completely transformed. This love that I experienced has been my source of strength and support for more than five decades, guiding me through the highs and lows, the successes and sorrows, and all the positive moments as well. I firmly believe that my life took a different path when I first felt the love of God at the age of eighteen.
The main factor that keeps me going and motivates me in my career as a Christian songwriter is the love of Jesus. I strive to assist others in writing songs that can effectively convey this incredible truth. The primary mission of Nashville Christian Songwriters, including our podcasts, videos, blogs, and coaching programs, is to spread the love of Jesus to people all over the world.
What is your personal story of faith?
Perhaps you experienced God's love during your childhood church experiences, or maybe you turned to Him as an adult to overcome addiction. It's possible that you were deeply hurt by a significant loss, and as a result, sought solace in God. I have conversed with numerous Christian songwriters who have endured immense pain, abuse, or divorce, and have expressed interest in our coaching programs. These individuals desired to learn how to convey their suffering through music and how God provided them with strength throughout their trials. James Finley once stated that "God does not shield us from hardships, but rather miraculously supports us through them."
However, the question remains: how can we effectively convey our personal experiences and stories through powerful and impactful songs?
Throughout our lives, we experience both the joys and challenges that come our way. However, when it comes to expressing these personal experiences through Christian songs, it can be a bit tricky. So, I have three suggestions that may assist you in effectively conveying your testimonies through music that resonates with listeners and provides them with comfort, healing, and hope.
Initially, attempt to discover a shared element within your narrative that numerous individuals can relate to.
Loneliness and feeling lost are common experiences that almost everyone can relate to at some point in their lives. When you share your story, it's important to make it relatable so that people can connect with it. By incorporating elements of our own experiences, we can better understand and appreciate your story.
If your story fails to capture our attention and resonate with something we have personally experienced, we will lose interest. One of our friends and a former student of the National Conservatory of Song (NCS), Becky Norquist, went through the difficult experience of enduring five miscarriages and one stillbirth. Through her music and ministry, she primarily addresses the needs of grieving families. However, she also incorporates enough universal themes in her songs so that anyone who has experienced any form of loss, which includes all of us, can connect with her music and remain engaged.
Next, focus on conveying the feeling rather than the specific elements.
The concept I'm about to share was originally mentioned by songwriter and publisher Dave Clark from Lillenas Music, and it has stayed with me ever since. At first glance, it may seem contradictory to the previous point, but it's actually not. The initial point is to discover a central theme or emotion to base your song on. The second point is to refrain from including unnecessary details in your song that won't be beneficial to the listener. If you delve too deeply into specifics like locations, times, dates, names, or other particulars, there's a chance of losing the audience's interest.
When you identify the shared connection and shared feeling in your narrative that I can understand, you encourage me to be a part of your story. If the specifics of your experience don't align with mine, it may discourage me. Although it seems challenging, it is possible. You can learn to find the right amount of detail to focus on your emotions during the challenging times and then shift the narrative towards the redemptive aspect of God's intervention in your life.
…a song of testimony is a song that illustrates the victory of God in your personal experiences.
It is important to recognize the unique aspects of your own experiences that may not be relatable to others. One way to enhance your songwriting skills is by studying examples of songs that evoke specific emotions and observing how the songwriters engage listeners without merely listing details.
Thirdly, it is important to understand the distinction between catharsis and testimonial.
If you are still emotionally and physically affected by a traumatic experience, it can be challenging to create a genuine song that serves as a testament to that event. Expressing your pain too overtly in your lyrics may be perceived as self-centered, unless you are specifically aiming to write a traditional country song that evokes sorrow. If that is your intention, go ahead and pursue it, but understand that it will not be a true testimony but rather a melancholic country tune.
When considering your audience, it is important to recognize that they likely have their own problems and challenges to cope with. If you simply unload your own pain onto them, they may not be willing to listen for a long time. This is why therapists and journals exist – they serve as outlets for your dysfunction and emotional wounds. It is crucial to think about how your lyrics will impact your listeners. What kind of emotional space are you creating for them? How will they feel after hearing your song?
I believe that Brandon Lake and the Elevation Worship team have successfully created an uplifting praise song called "My Testimony" that effectively conveys a message based on Scripture. If you're thinking of writing a song about your childhood, perhaps it would be better to focus on positive themes from the Bible that illustrate how God's healing power can overcome all the negative experiences. There are numerous ways to express your testimony, so it would be beneficial to explore different approaches before sharing your pain with others.
In summary, a testimonial song is one that expresses how God has overcome difficulties in your life. Having a release of emotions is crucial for your emotional well-being. It may be beneficial for you to write these songs for yourself as well, but it is important to note that there is a distinction between the two types. Catharsis is a way to release emotions, while testimonials celebrate God's triumph over the challenges you have faced and His ultimate victory in your inner being, regardless of the path taken.
In our NCS Pro Song Mastery program, which is conducted online for a duration of eight weeks, we delve into the art of writing testimony songs and much more. While many individuals seek free Christian songwriting courses and webinars, if you are committed to taking your songwriting skills to the next level and have a deep desire to develop your ministry, you can click on the provided link to schedule a free phone call. This call will help determine if our program is suitable for you, and there is no obligation to proceed further. Take the next step and schedule your free call now.
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