A Gospel Singer at Heart

Johnny Cash would ultimately distinguish himself as one of the kings of country music, but in his heart, Johnny always was in many ways a gospel singer. (By the way, the word “gospel” means “good news.”)

And Johnny looked for opportunities to share that message whenever he could.

Contrary to the image many would have of Cash as an “outlaw,” some even believing his lyrics were autobiographical (“I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die”), Johnny Cash was a master storyteller—and the greatest of all stories is the one about Jesus Christ, who changed Johnny’s life.

Whatever Johnny Cash sang, it rang true. He had an unmatched authenticity in his voice, a timbre, a cadence that set him apart from other artists before and after him. That is one of the reasons he endures as a true American icon.

At the peak of his career, when he had his highly rated television show, he used that platform to sing songs about his faith. One standout was, “The Preacher Said, ‘Jesus Said’” complete with Billy Graham himself proclaiming soundbites from his sermons.

Johnny’s spiritual journey often resembled the path of a roller-coaster, but at its high points, he used his platform to proclaim the gospel message.

Scripture Reading:

1. And [Jesus] said to [His disciples], “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15–16 NKJV)

Have you ever shared the Good News of Jesus Christ with a friend, neighbor, coworker, or family member?

2. Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31 NKJV)

You may not have the renown of Johnny Cash, but you still have a circle of influence. How can you use your platform to glorify God and share the gospel?

3. But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)

How can you prepare now for the time when someone asks you about the hope of Jesus Christ?