As a writer, I’ve been taught the importance of a hook. It’s what grabs your reader’s attention and makes them want to read more. Most of the time the hook is found in the opening sentence, but that’s not always the case. For instance, I often use my blog titles as my hook, or my featured image. I want people to see it and think, what’s that about. Or to say, “That sounds like something I need to read.”
But it wasn’t my writing that had me thinking about hooks, it was why I like certain songs. What about them had me hooked? You know how it goes, it’s that certain line that plays over and over in your head. Or the part that you sing a little louder because you feel it was written about you.
So I thought I’d share with you some of my recent favorites.
I just wanna speak the name of Jesus
Over fear and all anxiety
To every soul held captive by depression
I speak Jesus
So why would I make a bed in my shame
When a fountain of grace is running my way
‘Cause love is not a secret that You’re keeping
And I will make room for You
To do whatever You want to
Each one of these turns me toward Jesus. They tug at my heart and encourage me to find my answers in Him. The hooks, pull me to add these to my playlist and share them with others.
But not all songs are created equal. Not every hook is pure and worthy of praise. They are just catchy. You could be singing about stuff you’d be embarrassed for your mother to hear. So let me leave you with some food/scriptures for thought.
My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech.
Proverbs 4:20-24 NLT
Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.
Philippians 4:8 TPT
My advice? Choose the water you swim in where it’s safe to get hooked.
Grace & Peace,
Sandy
Image created in Canva.
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