I want to start some dialogue on services that resemble a caterpillar dragging itself through rubber cement.
I have been praying and believe I have a word from the Lord as to the main reason...
As we enter this discussion, it is important to recognize and remember our ways are not the Lord's ways and at times, He will direct the service in a way we don't particularly feel comfortable with. But, that doesn't mean it is not God! As well, there is no formula or definition of the "perfect service." And, the huge ministry moment typically happens with the word/alter. If it happens during worship, "WOW" but then know it most likely won't happen during the word. We are discussing perspectives.
That said, I have a few thoughts on a dragging service the first of which is most important AND the most prevalent...
1. All HELL IS AGAINST GOD MOVING!!! Even though we know that "greater is He that is in us than He who is in this world," we are all human and at times feel it is our fault and entirely miss the spiritual battle we must fight.
2. We are not prepared and are not practiced in a song or our parts. When this happens, we play with hesitation, therefore missing any opportunity to worship or allow the Lord to direct us.
3. The audio mix is not right in the worship center. We, as a team have no idea when this happens (except for the faces) because what is in our mix or heard on stage is NOTHING like the house mix.
4. The words are not correct or present on the screen. This is why they must practice with us.
5. We are not leading from a place of faith. We cannot lead the people from the same position as the people. We must live where we want to be.
6. The team on stage is not BIG with showing thanksgiving and adoration to God.
7. Any of the evaluation points are avoided.
8. The people are oppressed, stressed, preoccupied.
9. Did I say the people? (-:
This leads me to the final (although the reasons are limitless)and crucial potential reason for a blahze service...
10. Pride on the stage. I have been convicted of this point and believe our team has been a victim of this. When I say pride, I don't mean an obvious arrogance but I mean a lack of dependence on God. With all I have been preparing, moving, traveling, healing, training for the internship starting, home studies and moving again, I have found myself in a mode of "I can (HAVE TO) get this all done." I have, at times, found myself drained before practice and easily frustrated or unprepared. Well, I know I CANNOT get it done successfully without the grace of God wisdom. This comes from an infilling of DAILY word AND prayer. I have been walking in P-R-I-D-E. For this, I am truly sorry. While in pride, it is difficult to lead others to not fall into the same place. Sure, I have been getting daily prayer in but not prayer and word to the extent I need to be for us to go to another level.
When I show up for practice and service, I need to show up with six days of prayer and word under my belt. I need to show up with an attitude of thanksgiving, praise and being mindful of all Christ has done for me. When I do this, I will not even blink at being full of passion on stage. I won't be moved by peoples' faces or a blahze atmosphere. I will KNOW that my God will move in the service and that no matter what I feel...HE IS MOVING! My will has to be aligned with the will of God.
Every one of you MUST get your daily dose, too! I am going to start a Thanksgiving journal. One in which I give thanks every day for what the Lord has done. In doing this, a true heart of worship and humility is cultivated. Will you join me in humbly worshiping God and meeting Him...every day?
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