Thoughts on Worship

There are many decisions to be made when planning a worship service. A leader must always consider the large picture of what is trying to be accomplished as well as the minutia of the actual worship experience. To this end, I have come up with some suggestions to make the experience positive for everyone while avoiding any kind of alienation of preferences or style. While no system is without its flaws, and the potential for problems and contentiousness is always present, and the number of variables is extensive further adding to the challenges, I believe that if this process is followed, churches will experience less division and a greater purpose for its worship practices. With that in mind, here are some ideas for worship leaders. These are not in order of value or importance and are simply suggestions.

1. Move slowly but deliberately in all that you do. This includes the teaching of new hymns or choruses, the use of drums and guitars, the use of an organ, any tempo changes, video, or new arrangements.

2. With this, whatever you do new try it three times before making a decision. The rule of three will give you enough information as to whether this is the right thing for you and your church. Three times will also allow the congregation to learn it and thus accept it.

3. Avoid any extremes in your presentation, including tempos, volume, style, repetitions, or appearance.

4. Don't be afraid of variety. 2 fast songs or hymns should be followed with something slower. Something old can be followed with something new. A loud song probably needs a time of repose.

5. Try staying connected from one song or hymn to another through the use of transitions, related keys, or rhythmic similarities. Stopping between selections and starting again with an introduction can interrupt the flow of the music. Keep the music alive!

6. Be free to start a song or hymn in the middle or at the refrain. Also don't feel locked in to singing it precisely as written. To an extent, allow the congregation to dictate how something goes in terms of rhythm or even the melody.

7. Smile and enjoy what you are doing.

8. Plan well, plan precisely, and prepare specifically including all tempos, spoken words, prayers, repeats, and transitions. BUT always feel free to be creative and spontaneous when the spirit leads. Teach other musicians to be flexible and be ready for change.

9. Approach all worship through prayer and humility by allowing the holy spirit to guide the decision-making process.

10. Recognize you have all ages, backgrounds, and personal agendas in front of you. Try reaching everyone with something while working to encourage people to avoid pre-conceptions of what worship should be.

11. Don't overreact to criticism, but also be aware that you can learn something from most criticism. Dismissing criticism is as unwise as taking it too much to heart.

12. Study, listen, learn and be open to new approaches and new ways. Ask lots of questions of other music ministers and seek suggestions from your congregation. BUT also be firm in your convictions for what God is telling you about worship.

13. Be open to using a praise team but remain assertive in your leadership.

14. Don't allow the music to be divisive. Always work toward unification and collective joy in the experience.

15. Say thank you often. It is a team effort and the team will work harder when they are appreciated.

16. Know something about sound systems and video. Work with your technicians, not against them.

17. Strive for artistry and excellence in all experiences, but don't allow those goals to interfere with the higher purpose of worshiping God.

18. Build relationships and be friendly to everyone.


If you have other suggestions or ideas or even disagree, please feel free to let me know so I may add them to the list. Obviously these are but a few of the important elements to remember, and I believe it is time to work together as we discern God's will for the future of the church. There is no question that worship is a major component of the church today, and a successful music ministry encompasses many characteristics. Above all, pray and study.