Passing Away

Johann Sebastian Bach is considered by many to be the greatest composer of all time. Born on this date in l685, Bach was widely praised during much of his lifetime. Yet later in life, he became a victim of changing views. A leading musician criticized Bach’s music as bombastic and confused.

Writing in 1730, Bach concluded, Taste has changed astonishingly, so that the former style of music no longer seems to please our ears. Younger generations preferred music that was lighter and simpler. Ironically, however, most of the composers considered superior at that time are largely forgotten while Bach’s timeless approach endures to this day.

A devout Christian, Bach said he wrote to the glory of God. His music demonstrated the importance of staying true to principles. Of doing what is right, not just what seems popular.

Every day there are countless ways in which we can be influenced by people around us. The Bible warns us of the consequences of letting the world squeeze us into its own mold. Instead, we are to let Him re-mold your minds from within (Romans 12:2 Phillips).

How do we do this? By realizing that the world, with all its lusts, is passing away. Fads will not last and trends will continue to change. Instead of following what is popular, we are to stand firmly on God s Word, which never changes.

Don’t allow the world to squeeze you into its mold. Present your body, mind, and soul to God. Let Him remake and mold you in His image.