2. Sing Songs That Say Something
There’s just not enough time to sing lame songs. I know that’s probably not my most tweetable statement, but it’s true. Sing songs that lead hearts toward the mystery of God. Sing songs that help the human heart gaze in wonder. Sing songs that people can belt and declare with fiery passion.
Cool isn’t good enough. Different isn’t reason enough. Unique isn’t an adjective we need in worship music. We need truth. We need heart. We need feeling. We need Gospel. We need passion.
3. Give Voice to Poor and Average Singers
It’s frustrating when worship music can only be sung by gifted vocalists. I think this is the main strength and opportunity of worship music—giving voice to poor and average singers. We are writing the songs of everyday saints. We are penning anthems for plumbers, doctors, moms, executives and chefs to sing—songs they can make their own. It’s sad when our churches become a concert hall for the gifted worship leader to be adored.
Worship leader, it’s not your fault that you’re gifted. I don’t want to degrade your talent. But let’s strive to give voice to our people, not just create a platform for our own fame.
Let’s sing in singable keys. Write and choose songs for your Sunday setlist with phrasing that is comfortable to enunciate. Sing songs that resonate with people’s heart, intellect and ear.
4. Consider the Generations
One of the most important questions you can ask yourself as a worship leader is, “Who am I leading?” Is it a room full of elementary kids? Young 20-somethings? Families with small kids? Senior citizens? The answer to that question makes all the difference.
Rita Springer recently challenged us with a word she received from God. It’s as if God is asking you and me: “Can I trust you with this congregation?”
In a multigenerational church, you want to reach the generations. You don’t want to cater to the preference of the worship leader. In our church, we call ourselves a multigenerational church with a bent toward the next generation. Every generation is represented, but we want to cater a little more toward young people, while not alienating the rest. It all comes down to casting vision and loving your people.
