Ministrymaker Magazine

Many Christians are drawn to ministries that put them in a place to be seen by others. Being a worship leader or being on the worship team seems very glamorous to some. Because of this, finding the right worship leader for your church can sometimes be a difficult task.

The most important thing for anyone to consider who wants to be involved in a music ministry is to be certain that God has called them. Of course this applies to any ministry, but because of the tendency to let our egos get in the way, we must always try to approach worship with an attitude of humility and total dependency upon Jesus.

In the past we allowed a few people be involved in our music ministry without taking the time to see if they were called by God. The results were disastrous. When someone attempts to function in an area that they haven’t been called to they usually become disillusioned and will often leave the church.

It’s tempting, especially if you are starting a new church, to jump on the first people who volunteer. Don’t do it! Here are a few questions to ask yourself when trying to find the right worship leader for your church.

Are they faithful?

If a person can’t be faithful in basic things like attendance, or if they are not willing to help in other areas besides the glamorous ones, then they have no business being in music or any other ministry (Luke 16:10-12).

Are they spiritually mature?

It’s very important for the person you are considering to have a basic understanding of the gospel, and of course they must have accepted Jesus as Lord of their life. When dealing with new converts be very cautious because they haven’t had the opportunity to grow in the things of God. Often they don’t fully understand the awesome responsibility of their ministry.

Are they gifted?

A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that if a person’s heart is right it doesn’t really matter if they can sing or play an instrument. This is a great fallacy in the body of Christ. Our God has always required the best (1 Chronicles 15:22). From the temple that Solomon built, to the streets of gold in the new Jerusalem. Not everyone is called to be on the platform.

A person who desires to be in music ministry should at least be able to sing on key, and/or be proficient in the basics of the instrument they have chosen. They must also be gifted and anointed by God to lead others in worship. That being said, if you really are called to be a worship leader, God can take what little you have and cause you to accomplish great things that you never dreamed possible.

Are they willing to be taught?

If a person is rebellious, has a negative spirit, is argumentative, or has a huge ego, don’t let them minister. Yes, a person should have talent, but most importantly they must have a servant’s heart. They must realize that they can always be taught something new.

They should understand headship and be able to submit to those who lead them (Hebrews 13:17). They should be humble and totally dependent upon God and his grace. They must also be willing to step down if someone else comes along and it’s evident that God wants this new person to take their position.

Never allow someone to talk you into a position of ministry because their talents dazzle you. I have seen very talented singers and musicians who mesmerized people with their natural abilities, but they were never able to operate under the anointing of God. These people may be able to entertain you, and will even help build your church, but they will not be able to lead people into God’s presence.

Ask God to guide you

It may seem obvious, but pray about whether the person you are considering is called to be the worship leader of your church. God has a wonderful way of weeding out what He doesn’t want, and bringing in what He does want. Turn each decision you have to make over to Him. Every ministry is different. What works for one church may not work for another. God will bring you what you need, when you need it.