Band challenges audiences to live like Christ

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—For the Dove Award-winning group Sidewalk Prophets, Live Like That is more than just the title of their latest album. It's a reminder for believers to be aware of their words and actions while striving to be examples of Christ to the world around them.

The songs on the band's new album are designed to encourage Christians and are based on Hebrews 12:1, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."

"Our prayer is that every song on this album is dedicated to a glimpse of what it means to live like Christ," lead singer Dave Frey said. "We want teenagers to know that if they spend time in prayer and in the word, and serve as an example of Christ to their friends, then they are going to be blown away by what God has prepared for them. The journey is long and not always easy, but thankfully, it's also full of blessings and grace.

"My parents divorced during my junior year of high school. It was a tough time, but I realized that I could either run from God or run to him. Thankfully, I chose the latter. In both good times and bad times, God is always there. It might not always be an easy situation to endure, but God is always faithful to his children."

In addition to Frey, the group is made up of Ben McDonald, Cal Joslin, Justin Nace and Shaun Tomczak. The band members continue to receive messages about the impact of their debut album, These Simple Truths, released in 2009, that featured the hit songs, "The Words I Would Say" and "You Love Me Anyway."

"A teenager recently came up to us after a concert and, with tears in his eyes, told us about a time when he was on the brink of despair," Frey said. "This young boy said that just as he was about to end his life, a friend drove up beside him and the song playing in the car was 'You Love Me Anyway.' I get goose bumps just thinking about it. That's why we do what we do. It's God moving through songs."

While performing concerts around the country, the group hopes to offer more than a concert. They hope to provide a life-changing encounter with God.

"We often get so comfortable with our faith, but Christ calls us to have a faith that is powerful and moving," Frey said. "Whether it's taking a mission trip to Africa or visiting with your neighbors, we need to step out of our comfort zone so we can shine the light and love of Christ."