Because I’m a worship leader, I often get song recommendations from people. Some are new songs, but some may be throwbacks or classic hymns. No matter the genre or the age of the recommended song, the reason for the recommendation is the same: because the song moved the person, and they could relate to lyrics in a significant way. We all know the power of music, and how it stirs memories of experiences in our hearts. There is nothing wrong with that!

What troubles me, however, is receiving a suggestion with the flavor of a complaint. For example,“I don’t like ___ song,” or “why don’t we do more ___ songs, etc.” It is okay and normal to not like certain songs. It is unfortunately unavoidable because we are a large gathering of people with different tastes, personalities and experiences. I would like to suggest, however, that just because you don’t like a song, it doesn’t mean you can’t worship the Lord with it. You can and you should. Here’s how:

I often use the analogy of a greeting card. When looking for a card for a specific person for a specific occasion, you may find one that fits perfectly and has the correct words expressing the exact sentiments. But sometimes you can’t! So what do you do? You handwrite the sentiments in your own words at the bottom of the card below the printed text. In some cases, the best bet is a blank card wherein you write all of your own words.

A song is merely a springboard—a jumping-off point. Begin with the printed text, but if the words don’t convey exactly your sentiments toward the Lord, guess what? You can express them to God in your own words. If a song we’re using is unrelatable for you, use your own words. If we’re in the middle of an instrumental, use your own words. If we’re repeating a bridge too many times and you begin to tune out, close your eyes, and use your own words! I like to think of us all forming a unique, joyful sound. You have probably heard that sound from time to time during our worship services when a throng of people are singing, praying and shouting aloud together all at once.

With practice, you can worship with or without a song. You can worship in a Sunday service, or while driving around town in your car—with or without music! Worship is a posture of the heart, and I am suggesting that with the right posture you can worship at any time. “With my mouth I will greatly extol the Lord; in the great throng of worshipers I will praise him” (Psalm 109:30).

Friends, take up the challenge to not get stuck only being willing to worship the Lord if we like a song. It’s way too limiting!