Performing vs. Leading Worship

Published by Loop Community on April 15, 2021April 15, 2021

As worship leaders, there’s this constant tension between the idea of leading vs performing. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for this weekend’s worship services!

1. Remember that it’s not about you

Worship is a corporate experience. You are there to help lead and encourage others in their worship response to the Lord. We have to constantly remember that it’s not about us. As leaders, we should also lead by example in this with our worship teams – let other people sing, share, read scripture – anything you can do to make it less about you, and more about the community and the God we worship.

2. Minimize Distractions

Minimize distracting elements to help draw people in and reflect a humble posture. There is beauty to be found in the simple things. Sometimes we can get too busy while we lead that it brings attention to ourselves and away from the worship moment. One of the things I’ve found that helps is by memorizing the music, so that you can put all of your focus and attention on leading worship, instead of thinking about the music.

3. Ask God for clarity

You can’t lead people somewhere you haven’t been before. Make quiet time a priority on the day of any worship gathering. It can often be busy and hard to find time, but you’ll learn that in doing so, you are much more equipped and empowered to lead with your heart in the right place. Sometimes I’ll sneak away for just a few minutes before service starts and ask God for clarity.

4. Remember to lead

Remember the responsibility you’ve been given as a worship leader. You have 20 – 30 minutes to LEAD your congregation in worship. It’s not the time to perform or even have your own personal worship moment. You can do that during the week. You have a people in front of you that are waiting to be led. Your mission is to lead with clarity, confidence and by example. Use the time you’ve been given wisely to engage with your congregation and pastor them in worship.

Hopefully these things will help you in your role as, not just a song leader, but a worship pastor.