The Worship Musician’s Guide to Flowing In the Spirit On Your Instrument

The idea of flowing in the Spirit can be a turn-off to many.

We’ve seen enough crazies to know we don’t want to be “that guy.” The problem is that worship isn’t simply a performance of worship songs. It’s participation in the living, ever-present, life-changing presence of God.

Yea, that changes things.

Want to know the truth? God is moving every service. He is calling, drawing, awakening, and saving all the time. But if you’re unaware as a worship team musician, you can distract rather than contribute.

Why Flow?

The value of “flowing in the Spirit” is based on the truth that God is in the room.

This isn’t just songs.

This isn’t just fellowship.

This isn’t just preaching.

This is encounter.

And as a worship team, we need to be ready to go where God is taking people. He is the true worship leader and we work together to see His Kingdom come and His will done in our churches.

But it takes all of us. It’s not just the worship leader or the pastor who need to embrace this. It’s everyone on stage. We are a unified team, on the “edge of our seats” waiting for our Master’s orders.

How Do I Flow?

I’m glad you asked. I can think of at least 5 tips.

1. Come With Expectation – God is who He says He is. When you show up to play on your worship team, know that God is going to move. Know that this is more than a routine. Prepare your heart to gaze upon His glory, not just your hands to play music.

2. Come With Understanding – It’s important to understand how the Holy Spirit “moves.” He is always:

• Saving the lost
• Healing the sick
• Imparting revelation
• Encouraging the downtrodden

My life was changed in the midst of a worship service. What would happen if you not only showed up with expectation but with an understanding of how God works?

3. Come Willing to Be Used – This isn’t about getting a chance to sing the lead or having your ideas heard or standing on a big stage. Flow is about having an attitude of service to your congregation. Come ready for God to use your voice, your instrument, your life.

This isn’t a gig. This is life change.

4. Come Prepared – Yes, the practical preparation of your instrument is important. When it comes to flow, understand the best way to use your instrument.

Imagine with me that a song has just ended and your worship leader or pastor wants to flow. Here’s a quick guide for what to do:

– Bass – Bass adds energy, but is not a lead instrument. The worst thing you can do is fumble around on your fretboard trying to figure out what the chord progression is. Just hold still and worship. When the music builds and you’re confident in the progression, start to play simply. When in doubt, don’t play at all.

– Electric Guitar – If you’re the lead instrument, strum a simple chord progression. If not, wait for the music to build and add some volume swells and eventually big chords on the downbeats.

– Acoustic Guitar – If you’re the lead instrument, strum a simple chord progression as well. If not, just hold back for a while. Don’t play leads and do practice your chromatic scales 🙂

– Keys – Keys are usually the lead instrument. Pay close attention to where the leader is going. If he builds, you build. Add energy with your playing. Interpret the moment with your dynamics.

– Drums – The most important! Understand the psychology of the “drum build.” Start with simply cymbal swells. Slowly add kick drum. Add energy on the toms. Stay close to the moment and, be focused, and add energy.

As a worship team musician, you need to be on the “edge of your seat.” Tune into what the Holy Spirit is doing. And I know your team will rise to a whole new level.

Question: Why is it important to FLOW as a worship team? How do you do that with your team? Add your thoughts in the comments. It’s always better when you share!

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