Summary:

In this special Christmas episode, Michael sits down with the legendary Michael W. Smith for a rich, joyful, and deeply reflective conversation about worship, songwriting, and the heart behind Christmas music. Originally recorded in 2020, their dialogue remains just as relevant and refreshing today. Smith shares how his understanding of worship has matured from music-driven moments to an entire lifestyle shaped by loving God and loving others.

The two discuss the origins of some of Smith’s most beloved Christmas songs—like “All Is Well” and “The Promise”—including powerful stories behind their melodies and lyrics. Smith describes the surprising ease of some compositions (“it just fell out of the sky”) and the disciplined humility required to step back when a song isn’t ready. He also recounts influences ranging from Bach and Handel to Andy Williams and classic orchestral Christmas recordings he devoured as a child.

Smith opens up about the grind and the beauty of his December touring schedule, the spiritual responsibility of leading worship, and the weight of pride that often shadows artists early in their careers. With honesty and warmth, this episode explores worship as a lifestyle, the craft of songwriting, and the glory of Christ at Christmas.

Takeaways:

• Worship is not music alone but a lifestyle of loving God and others.
• Growth in worship leadership means decreasing pride, disappearing on stage, and guiding people to meet with God.
• Smith emphasizes that worship requires purity of heart, not just musical excellence.

ABOUT MICHAEL W. SMITH

Michael W. Smith has been releasing new music regularly and performing around the world to sold-out crowds for the last 40+ years. During his storied career, he’s written and recorded over 36 No. 1 songs, been bestowed with three GRAMMY®Awards,45+DoveAwards, one American Music Award, was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and has sold more than 15 million albums.More than just an outstanding songwriter and performer, Smith has given back to the global community throughout his career.He has raised funds to battle AIDS in Africa, started Rocketown, a safe haven for young people in Tennessee to meet and find hope; and has helped more than 70,000 children through Compassion International.

Links Mentioned

Prayer by Tim Keller

Intimacy with the Almighty by Charles Swindoll

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