We live in utilitarian times. Even when it comes to something as profound as music ministry, we are tempted to value efficiency and precision over mystery and ministry. Here are some thoughts on keeping the “ministry” in music ministry. These five priorities will help you put first things first and better enjoy your calling.
- Never forget that God is our audience.
We must constantly redirect ourselves from an entertainment model where the singers and musicians are onstage to impress and entertain the audience in the seats. Rather, those on the platform are called to lead the congregation in offering their collective praise to an Audience of One.
Our worship is only effective to the extent we respond in reverent awe to God. Yes, we must engage the congregation, but more importantly, we must please the Lord. Realigning the way we think and talk about specific aspects of worship will help us model a God-centered orientation rather than a self-centered perspective.
- Ask the Lord to lead rather than just to bless.
I confess that I’m more prone to “build the house” and then ask the Lord to bless my efforts rather than to be a faithful workman under his direction. I conveniently “forget” that God knows what will ultimately please him better than I do. In spite of what I plan, he’s more concerned with the depth of my obedience than the magnitude of my offering.
When I begin my day by seeking God in prayer, I can “tune my heart to sing thy praise.” When we begin worship planning and rehearsals by asking him to lead—and then following his promptings—the results will far exceed our human abilities.
- Practice reverence for the holy.
You’re no doubt acquainted with the biblical story of Uzzah being struck dead because he touched the Ark of the Covenant as David and his army brought it back to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6). Instead of abiding by God’s instruction for the priests to bear the Ark on their shoulders on poles, David placed the Ark on a cart drawn by oxen in the care of people who weren’t qualified for the job. He played fast and loose with holy things because he wanted to get the Ark home for a massive worship celebration.
There is an irreverent danger in becoming “too familiar” with the things of God. In contrast, when we practice reverence for the holy privilege of leading worship, we keep ourselves from the dire consequences of spiritual pride.
- Value people over performance.
People are to be loved; things are to be used. We fail as leaders when we use people and love things. Yes, people have talents, gifts, and roles. But people are not just their talents, gifts, and roles. Rather, they are priceless individuals created in the holy image of God, broken by the Fall, and redeemed by the blood of Christ.
Whether we are full-time, part-time, or volunteer leaders, we must constantly remind ourselves that our ministry is not music but people. Music is simply a means to worship God and serve his children. We must resist the temptation to idolize music or even ministry. Instead, we can measure our effectiveness in relational terms and not just in terms of services conceived and completed.
- Rejoice in the privilege of doing music.
God gave us music as the language of the spirit. When we write, play, and sing, we partake in his nature as Divine Creator. Whether or not the world knows it, music is sacramental. It helps us to see beyond ourselves and share our hopes and dreams with one another. Music’s highest calling, however, is to bring praise to God from whom all blessings flow.
When I am tired or anxious or frustrated—or when I am especially self-centered or proud—I forget that being musical is a holy privilege. Ordinarily, it’s an amazing thing to pluck a string or sing a note. How much more to do so in the service of our Lord! So let’s remind ourselves what a profound joy it is.
Here are some other short blog articles on this subject you might find helpful:
- How Worship Culture Has Been Shaped by American Idol
- 3 Ways to Cultivate Spirit-Led Worship
- 10 Helpful Reminders for Singers on a Worship Team
- The Most Important Question a Worship Leader Can Ask
- The 7 Deadly Habits of Highly Ineffectual Worship Leaders
Discover Worship cares deeply about keeping the “ministry” in music ministry. We endeavor to find songs that are both biblical and singable. Our site lets you search church choir music by topic, season, arranger, and other practical criteria. You can even type the scripture reference for a message in the search bar and review a number of songs on that theme.
Thank you for letting us help you lead.
For other practical articles about spiritual development and leading a worship ministry, go to www.discoverworship.com.
