In the various churches my husband and I have pastored, we have noticed a theme that seems to run through the body of Christ regardless of denomination, style, etc. This theme is that a lot of people love to have a ministry that puts them in a place to be seen by others. Being a worship leader or being on the worship team or in the choir looks very glamorous to some.

The most important bit of advice that I can give to someone who desires to function in music ministry is to be certain that God has called you! Of course this applies to any ministry, but because of the tendency to let ego rule us (we have all had to deal with this), we must always try to approach worship with an attitude of humility and total dependency upon Jesus.

We have in the past made the mistake of letting people be involved in music ministry who "pushed" their way in without allowing us the opportunity to see if they were indeed called by God. The results have always been disastrous. When someone is trying to function in an area that they haven't been called to they usually become quickly disillusioned and will often leave the church. It is tempting, especially if you are planting a new church or ministry, to jump on the first people who volunteer. Don't do it! Wait on the Lord to bring you the right people for your ministry.

Below are a few questions to ask when considering someone for music ministry:

Are they faithful? If a person can't be faithful in attendance, being on time, being willing to help in other areas besides the "glamorous" ones, etc. then they have no business being in music or any other ministry until they learn to be faithful and dependable. (Luke 16:10-12)

Are they spiritually mature? It is very important that the person have a basic understanding of the gospel, and of course 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 and they often don't understand the awesome responsibility of what they are doing. It's easy for anyone to let worship become only show biz.

Are they gifted? A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that if a persons heart is right it doesn't matter if they can sing or play an instrument, they should be allowed to be in music ministry. 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 supposed to be on the platform. It is just as important to set an example of worship while being part of the congregation.

There are people I know that have a great impact upon others by showing them how much they love Jesus right from the front row. A person desiring 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, and most importantly be anointed by God to lead others in worship. That being said, if you really are called to music ministry, I know from personal experience that God can take what little you have and cause you to be able 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, has a huge ego etc., I don't care how talented they are or how many songs they've recorded, don't let them minister. I mentioned before that a person needs to have talent, but most importantly they have to have a servant's heart.

They need to understand that they can always be taught something new. They need to understand headship and be able to submit to those who lead them (Hebrews 13:17). They need to be humble and totally dependent upon God and his grace. They need to be willing to step down if someone else comes along and it is evident that God wants this new person to take their position.

Never let someone talk you into a position of ministry because their talents dazzle you. I have seen very talented singers and musicians who would amaze 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 can even help build your church or ministry, but they will not be able to truly lead others into God's presence.

Pray. This may seem obvious, but pray about whether the person is called to be a part of your music ministry. 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 and what works for one church may not work for another. God looks at our willingness to serve and be obedient. I decided a long time ago that I wasn't called to please men, but God. You can't worry about what everyone else is doing. HE will bring you what you need, when you need it.

For more worship articles by Kim Linton click here.