Get Yourself Right Before the Lord
Whether you are a pastor, worship leader, or someone who occasionally steps onto the platform in front of the congregation, you are seen as a leader. This responsibility is significant, and it carries both a privilege and a weight. Leadership in ministry is not just about the visible actions on stage but the heart posture behind them. As leaders, we are called to reflect Christ, and that starts with getting ourselves right before the Lord.
The Weight of Being Seen as a Leader
When I was earning my bachelor’s degree in Worship at Cedarville University, one of the first lessons I learned—very quickly—was how much of my life would be brought into the spotlight. My actions, words, and decisions were no longer private matters. They were now under scrutiny, and any poor decision I made had the potential to distract someone from worshiping. This realization was both humbling and terrifying.
As I processed this, I began to understand the profound need for daily renewal with Jesus, especially for those in leadership roles. Leaders on the platform often face unique challenges because their lives are so visible. Yet, we are still human—imperfect and vulnerable to sin. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” For leaders, this truth is even more critical. If we do not tend to our spiritual health, it can hinder our ability to guide others into worship.
The Battle Against Pride
One of the biggest obstacles to spiritual renewal is pride. I know this because I’ve wrestled with it myself. It is so easy to shove aside my poor choices, my sins, and my convictions because I have a “job” to do. In those moments, I convince myself that the task at hand is more urgent than addressing the state of my heart. But pride blinds us to the areas where we need God’s grace the most.
Even if we aren’t committing blatant sins with obvious consequences, that doesn’t mean our hearts are in the right place. Satan is cunning and often works through the subtle distractions, the small compromises, and the unchecked thoughts that take root in our lives. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” To stand firm, we need the armor of God, and that starts with consistently renewing our minds and spending intentional time with Him.
A Call to Humility
Take a moment to ask yourself: “How do I currently take the time to get myself right before the Lord?”
Scripture repeatedly emphasizes the importance of humility before God. 1 Peter 5:6-7 encourages us, “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.” Too often, we carry burdens we were never meant to bear. How can we properly lead a congregation when we are weighed down by anxieties and unconfessed sin?
Jesus offers a beautiful invitation in Matthew 11:28-30: “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.” This promise is a reminder that we do not lead out of our own strength but from the overflow of God’s grace.
Practical Steps for Spiritual Renewal
Spending quality time with the Lord is essential for preparing to step onto the platform. Establishing a daily routine for prayer, Bible study, and self-reflection can make a significant difference. Here are a few practical steps to consider:
- Start Your Day with God: Begin each day with prayer and Scripture reading to align your heart with His will. Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”
- Confess and Repent Regularly: Keep short accounts with God. James 5:16 encourages us to confess our sins to one another and pray for healing.
- Ask for Accountability: Surround yourself with trusted individuals who can help you stay grounded and spiritually healthy.
- Practice Gratitude: A grateful heart shifts your focus from your burdens to God’s blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances.”
- Pray for the Congregation: Intercede for those you are leading, asking God to work through you despite your imperfections.
Encourage and Share
What are some ways you have found helpful in preparing your heart before stepping out in front of the congregation? Sharing your practices and experiences can be an encouragement to others who might be struggling. Together, we can remind one another of the importance of seeking God first.
Let us never forget that our leadership is not about us—it’s about pointing others to Jesus. May we humble ourselves before Him, seeking His strength and wisdom to lead well. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This is the heart of true leadership: a life surrendered to Christ and dedicated to His glory.
Written by: Alex Purtell
Alex is the founder of Froot Group, a worship staffing company.
