The problem with worship songs is that we become dependent on them.

But I love songs. I really do. But they are a blessing and a curse. While worship is a song, it’s not only a song. And we can become so accustomed to songs that our hearts have forgotten how to worship.

When was the last time you were alone in a room without an incredible song, and just poured your heart out to God?

Have songs become more than they should be?

Preparation for Sunday morning becomes scouring CCLI for the top songs and picking our favorites. There’s no need to pray. There’s no need to consider our people. There’s no need for pastoral, theological consideration.

Instead of only picking songs, we should be asking these questions:

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We all know we’re supposed to be humble. But are you really?

The Kingdom works in an upside down fashion. It’s not about making it to the top. It’s never been about fame and recognition.

It’s serving a higher vision. It’s shining a spotlight on the glory of Jesus. It’s reaching people with the message of the Gospel.

So worship leaders, it’s time to humble ourselves. It’s time to stop looking in the mirror and look upon God’s people with compassion. It’s time to stop trying to be impressive and instead seek to serve hearts in worship.

But what does it really mean to be a humble leader?

A humble worship leader:

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Worship Leader, there’s more to worship than songs, band dynamics, & flow.

If we’re not careful, we can spend all of our time entertaining people on Sundays. Think about it. The music is excellent, moving, emotional. The worship leader is good looking, uber talented, and runs a tight ship.

But slow down.

This is more important than you may realize.

We don’t want to foster an audience of spectators or an fan club of consumers. We don’t want to merely entertain people every weekend.

This isn’t the ministry God has called us to and it doesn’t do the gathering together of His bride justice.

The church needs to learn how to worship. New converts need to step into the discipline of praise and lifting up their voice, declaring the promises of God. Worship is warfare and our churches need training.

We all have a voice but many don’t know how to use it.

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It’s not just artists who need inspiration. It isn’t only writer’s who face writer’s block. At times, leaders can lose their leadership edge. And that’s a problem.

Because if there’s one thing I know, momentum rises and falls on leadership. And leadership is hard. But you knew that. Even if you’re a natural leader, it’s a lonely place to be.

It’s easier for someone else to call the shots. Make the decisions. Be responsible.

But as a local church Worship Pastor, you’re going to have to lead. Or someone on your team is going to start leading you. That’s the reality of any team. If you don’t lead and the set the tone of your culture, someone else will.

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The more I spend time with local churches, and the worship leaders in those churches, the more I see a common pattern: There are many leaders who lead worship but don’t lead people.

They sing songs with sincerity and energy, but they don’t help people do the same.

They spend time improving their craft, but they don’t disciple others to do what they do.

They’re focused on a career, but not on where the church will be in 15 years.

So I’m asking the question: what does it take to be a reproducing leader?

It’s the kind of skill that goes beyond talent and experience. You have to have a certain comfortability with the background. As a reproducing leader, you aren’t always out front but strengthening hearts behind the scenes.

Before we go any further, are you OK with that?

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