Working in the business world has shown me that good leaders are vital to being successful. Those individuals that lead with their ability, confidence, encouragement, and strong values often have the most success. However, perhaps more important that any of these qualities is how much that leader believes in what they are doing. One who supports the mission of their work, and encourages others to do the same. This is what gives our actions purpose, and allows us to successfully lead others along the way, be this in our work, relationships, or worship.
Hebrews 12:28 says, “Do you see what we’ve got? An unshakable kingdom! And do you see how thankful we must be? Not only thankful, but brimming with worship, deeply reverent before God.” As a worship leader, I will never realize the true purpose of worship by simply playing my instrument, and not believing in what I am doing. Worship is not merely a song or a prayer, but an expression of gratitude and honour to God, developed deep within our hearts. We were never intended to do something because we have to, but rather because we get to. God paid the biggest price for us, and we must recognize that by honouring him in all that we do, especially in our worship.
As a worship leader, it is easy to become complacent; to wake up Sunday morning and just play the songs because it is our duty as musicians. But the danger in this is that our attitude and intentions are contagious, be it for the good or the bad. Whether it is a manager that goes to work and does the bare minimum, an athlete that loses focus after signing a big contract, or a worship leader that only plays for recognition, the true intention of their work is never realized, and those around them will never properly be led. In these instances, it is clear that the purpose was lost.
Therefore, it is important for us to remember that we do not worship for our own pleasure or fulfillment, but rather to glorify His name because of all that He has done for us. As it says in Psalm 115:1, “Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” God is bigger and greater than we will ever understand, so He must remain our purpose for all things.
And for me, this is what keeps me worshipping week after week. Knowing that there is God that loves us deeply, and has sacrificed everything for us to experience His love to its fullest. All of the joy we experience in life is because of Him and His generosity, so let’s never forget that we owe everything to God, and have the privilege to show Him our gratefulness through worship.
CAMERON NICHOL
Cam is part of our lead worship team and has served on team for five years.
