Even the most modest examples of a devout Christian turning away from worldly pursuits can resonate profoundly, serving as a beacon for others, even if they choose not to follow suit.
A striking instance of this is captured in a thoughtful Instagram video shared by Christian music icon Forrest Frank this Monday, where he unveiled his decision to abstain from attending music award shows, including the prestigious Grammy Awards.
“I feel a strong conviction,” Frank remarked, emphasizing the deeply personal nature of his choice.
Of course, for artists who might be less prominent, shunning award ceremonies may seem trivial. However, Frank stands apart in this regard.
As highlighted by Billboard, his popular track, “Your Way’s Better,” dominated the Gabb Music Songs chart from April to June. This Gabb chart exclusively measures monthly on-demand streams from Gabb Wireless’ platform, which features content appropriate for children and teens.
In layman’s terms, Frank boasts a substantial following among younger audiences—those who noticeably shape the music market.
Moreover, this talented performer carries an impactful Christian message.
“As Christians, it’s often challenging to discern the boundary between being present in the world and not being of the world,” Frank articulated in his Instagram video. “As a Christian artist, my style might resemble mainstream culture. My music can echo worldly sounds. So, where should I draw that line?”
That’s an excellent question, and Frank offered an equally compelling response.
“I’m personally convicted,” he continued, “that a line I can draw is by refusing to accept a trophy for something that is meant for Jesus.”
Reflecting on his internal conflict over accepting accolades at last year’s DOVE Awards, where the 56th Annual DOVE Awards will take place today in Nashville, TN, he stated, “All glory to Jesus—every name, including mine, will eventually fade away, except one.”
He elaborated that this struggle led him to a more resolute decision.
“I feel a conviction to take it even further,” he expressed, “and I’m uncertain if I even want to step onto that stage or into that room. Thus, I have resolved to refrain from participating. I will not attend the DOVEs or the Grammys.”
Frank’s choice was partly inspired by the younger generation.
“I aim to illustrate to our youth that the true prize is our salvation,” he asserted. “The real trophy is having my name written in the Book of Life, and the promise of eternal life.”
“What value does a mere piece of metal hold in comparison?”
Accompanying the video, Frank provided additional context regarding his choice.
“Many have inquired about my absence today, so I felt compelled to share here,” he noted. “This is not about refusing to shine a light in dark spaces; it’s a decision not to accept awards on stage. I’ve already received the ultimate award. I hope you all can appreciate that. Love you guys.”
Many Christians can undoubtedly relate to Frank’s internal struggle of balancing worldly involvement with spiritual integrity.
His thoughtful resolution to the awards-show conundrum is likely to resonate with a vast audience.
Indeed, for some, his reflections on salvation and eternal life evoke the profound question posed in the Gospel of Mark: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36)
Conversely, the Apostle Paul cautioned against discord over differing opinions on worldly matters.
“One person believes he may eat anything, while another, who is weak, eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, nor the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him.” (Romans 14:1-3)
To draw a parallel, consider Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative Christian figure Charlie Kirk. During last month’s memorial for her husband, Erika publicly forgave her husband’s murderer, after quoting Jesus. This act of forgiveness invoked a rare spiritual dynamic that can only be compared to moments of profound grace witnessed since the Crucifixion. Jesus, after all, instructed us to forgive as a prerequisite for our own forgiveness from God.
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15)
In essence, forgiveness is a directive from Jesus. In contrast, opting out of award shows is merely a personal conviction.
Nonetheless, this decision deserves recognition. We should commend the many young people who will learn from Frank’s choice and its underlying motivations.
This piece was originally featured in The Western Journal.
