Our Innate Search for Meaning in Life: Grace, Truth, Joy and Peace

I’ve been thinking about our human, inbred, God created desire to seek meaning in our lives, as includes Grace, Truth, Joy and Peace, which the Bible tells us is freely available to ALL people through Jesus Christ. [Here are select references from two books in the Bible to both begin and continue a Life's Meaning Search Process: John 1:1-14, John 3:16, John 16:20-21, Romans 3:24-26, Romans 5:1-2.]

While some might view my reposting of the following article (found online) to be “sacrilegious”, I personally find several songs, written by "Secular, Meaning of Life Seeking" artists, equally if not more compelling in comparison to "praise, gospel, worship" songs written by Christian artists who seemingly "found their way in life", which I also listen to and enjoy,

Reposting this article, I wish to publicly commend ALL people who are in a Life Meaning/Spiritual Search process, in whatever form. I.e. songs, videos, films, art, writings, meditation, reflection, churches, mosques, synagogues, etc. While I might not personally agree with all the content produced, I applaud and admire you in your Search Efforts. [Here's a very good book I'd recommend on this most important topic: "Man's Search For Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl]. "

Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV)

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."

In response, I’m curious and would be pleased to hear back your thoughts, which might include suggesting more songs to be added to the 17 “scratching the surface” list below.

May God Guide and Bless Our Spiritual Journeys, Wherever We May Be, Searching Together as Brothers and Sisters in this Human Race!

"17 +2 Songs That Sound Christian But Aren’t" - https://craftyourhappyplace.com/songs-that-sound-christian-but-arent/

Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries and brings us closer to understanding our human condition, life meaning and purpose.

These 17 songs showcase how powerful religious and spiritual themes are often included in music, even when the songs aren’t intended for praise and worship. They invite listeners to explore ideas about faith, morality, and the human experience. Such songs often use religious imagery, reference biblical stories, or pose philosophical questions about faith and existence.

If this exploration piques your interest, you might wish to create a playlist, adding to it like songs to both enjoy and to share with others!

While not "politically correct" and likely to offend some, I'd like this song to be played at the beginning of my Funeral Service.

Spirit in the Sky by Norman Greenbaum - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRFo72wuU6w

“Spirit in the Sky” is a classic example of a song that sounds overtly Christian but isn’t, despite its gospel-like lyrics and references to Jesus. The song written by Norman Greenbaum, who is Jewish, is about spirituality and the afterlife. During a 2006 interview with The New York Times, Greenbaum shared that his inspiration for the song stemmed from witnessing Porter Wagoner perform a gospel tune on television.

If God Was One of Us by Joan Osborne - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USR3bX_PtU4

Joan Osborne’s hit “What If God Was One of Us” poses philosophical questions about the nature of God and humanity. While it uses language familiar to Christian listeners, it’s not a "worship song". Instead, it invites listeners to ponder the divine’s role in everyday life.

Like a Prayer by Madonna - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79fzeNUqQbQ

Madonna's “Like a Prayer” caused quite a stir with its provocative use of religious imagery. The song includes a gospel choir and references prayer, with primary focus on themes of love, sin, and redemption rather than worship.

Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrLk4vdY28Q

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a hauntingly beautiful song filled with biblical references. It is more about complexities of human relationships than a straightforward religious message.

My Sweet Lord by George Harrison - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04v-SdKeEpE

"My Sweet Lord" by George Harrison sounds like a Christian worship song but is about Krishna, reflecting Harrison’s interest in Hindu spirituality. The song’s universal message, however, appeals to various spiritual beliefs.

Take Me to Church by Hozier - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVjiKRfKpPI

Hozier's “Take Me to Church” uses powerful metaphors to critique organized religion and explore themes of love and sexuality. Despite church references, it’s a secular song with a critical edge.

God's Gonna Cut You Down by Johnny Cash - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJlN9jdQFSc

Johnny Cash’s rendition of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a folk song with strong religious themes. It is a cautionary tale about morality and justice more than a worship anthem.

Sympathy for the Devil by The Rolling Stones - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jwtyn-L-2gQ

Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones is told from Satan’s perspective, offering a provocative take on the nature of evil. It’s a far cry from a Christian worship song, serving instead as a commentary on history and human nature.

Dear God by XTC - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p554R-Jq43A

XTC's “Dear God” questions the existence of God rather than praises Him. Its provocative lyrics invite listeners to engage with themes of doubt and faith, making it a very compelling piece.

Creeping Death by Metallica - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QF-JbjTwCwY

Metallica's “Creeping Death” draws on the biblical story of the plagues of Egypt. It’s a powerful song with religious references. It uses the story to explore themes of power and destruction

Counting Blue Cars by Dishwalla - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Clxtg2pFTQM

Dishwalla’s “Counting Blue Cars” features a child’s perspective on questioning God’s nature. While it raises spiritual questions more about curiosity and exploration than devotion or worship.

Ultralight Beam by Kanye West - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5njh9Dkcvwc

Kanye West’s “Ultralight Beam” incorporates gospel elements and spiritual themes. It's not a traditional Christian song but a piece exploring faith, struggle, and transcendence.

Hey God by Bon Jovi - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hlcUMNeBc0

Bon Jovi’s “Hey God” addresses God directly but is not a "praise song". It grapples with themes of suffering and injustice, posing questions about the nature of divine intervention.

Southern Gothic by Tyminski - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3RjWJMOuSQ

“Southern Gothic” uses religious imagery to tell a dark, atmospheric story. It’s rich in spiritual themes, not intended for worship, focusing on human fallibility and redemption.

Blood on My Name by The Brothers Bright - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKXTk_ULkrs

The Brothers Bright’s “Blood on My Name” has biblical references and a haunting melody that focuses on guilt and redemption.

Angel in Disgrace by The Ravenage - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kvb8QPiA6Lk

"Angel in Disgrace” uses religious themes in a metal context. It incorporates spiritual imagery, exploring darker aspects of existence than praising the divine.

Pride (In the Name of Love) by U2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHcP4MWABGY

“Pride (In the Name of Love)” is about Martin Luther King Jr. but sounds like it could be about Jesus. Its themes of sacrifice and justice resonate deeply within us.

Here's two more songs I'd suggest adding to the list, which I find to be especially compelling looking in the "rear view mirror" at the sad and tragic events in the shortened lives of both Michael Jackson and Whitney Houton.

Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PivWY9wn5psThe

Greatest Love of All by Whitney Houston - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYzlVDlE72w

EN JOY!!