Whether you are a pastor, worship leader, or even someone who occasionally steps on the platform in front of the congregation…YOU ARE SEEN AS A LEADER.
As I was earning my bachelors degree in Worship at Cedarville University, one of the things I had to learn (and I learned very quickly) was A, how much of my life was truly brought into the spotlight, and B, any poor decisions I make in life could distract someone from worshipping.When I started to decompress that notion, I started to understand how the need for daily renewal with Jesus is so important, especially for leaders that are seen on the platform. I believe one of the biggest reasons that leaders don’t take the time to make sure that there is nothing in their personal lives that will hold them back from taking the children of God before His throne is because of pride. I struggle with this many times myself. It is so easy to shove my poor choices, my sins, and my convictions out of the way because I have a “job” to do. Just because we may not be committing unspeakable sins that would have drastic consequences, that does not mean that our hearts are always in the right place. I believe Satan loves to pick and pry by using the little things in our lives to try to distract us or put us in an unhealthy mindset. This is why there is nothing that can protect you more than consistently renewing your mind spiritually and spending quality time with God to keep yourself from falling into the hands of pride.
Ask yourself, “How do I currently take the time to get myself right before the Lord”?
Too often in the Bible do we see God desperately reaching out to us to humble ourselves before Him! 1 Peter 5:6-7 says “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” Many times though, we choose to continue to put all of our own burdens and anxieties on our own backs. How can we properly lead the congregation when we are carrying the burden that Jesus died to carry for us? Matthew 11:28-30 says “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Spending that quality time with the Lord and establishing a daily routine to rid yourself of your burden is essential when preparing to step onto the platform. What are some of the ways that you have found to be helpful in preparing your hearts to step out in front of the congregation? Share your ideas in the comments below to help encourage others that may be struggling!
Written by: Alex Purtell
Alex is the founder of Froot Group, a worship staffing company.
