We have a great example of a lead worshiper in King David. Even as the anointed King of Israel, he is remembered more today for his worship than his political exploits.
David knew who the real King was. In Psalm 138, he said, “I will give You (God) thanks with all my heart; I will sing praises to You before the gods. I will bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and your truth; For You have magnified Your word according to all Your name. On the day I called, you answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul. All the kings of the earth will give thanks to You, O Lord.” David not only knew who he was – a man – he knew his God.
As Pastors, we do well to remember that we are men and women, created, appointed, and anointed by God. “You shall worship the Lord your God,” were Jesus’ words, who himself experienced the temptation to divert worship away from the only One worthy of it.
In case I may be misunderstood, I am not talking strictly about singing. As a lead worshiper, the Pastor should be focused on God in all he says and does. His understanding of who God is should impact him to the point that, like David, he bows before the Great King, just as the congregation does.
I have seen instances of Pastors sitting reading notes while the congregation is singing songs of worship. I have noticed some Pastors slipping into the service after the worship time has started and almost finished. Are these models of respect and worship to God?
Make no mistake: people watch the Pastor. Is he taking captive every thought to the knowledge of Christ Jesus? Is he joyful because his thoughts are continually toward his Master, who is in control? Remember David, with all the pressures and responsibilities of his position, worshiped with all his might. He wrote and sang songs of worship. He danced with joy in the knowledge of the presence of God, his King.
Not all Pastors will be songwriters or even song leaders, but all Pastors can be worshipers. They can focus their attention on the great God of creation. Even if they don’t know the song or can’t carry a tune, they can raise their hands and eyes and speak out praises to God. They can put aside the temporary things to join all creation in eternal worship.
God has entrusted his flock to faithful men and women. Pastors are people who are not perfect but are being perfected. They will struggle like anyone else but they can be excellent arrows pointing to God. Worship is man’s response in light of who God is. A Pastor will be an effective lead worshiper as he turns his attention to God, and God alone. We appreciate your Comments.