I LOVE worship... I understand that everyone has their own, personal, way of worshipping. We all have our own way of defining how we worship our God and Savior. For me, it's always been through music. Whether it's singing or playing piano or guitar, worship has always come in the form of music for me. This is not say that I've never worshiped in other ways.
I've been a part of a worship team, either in a leadership capacity or a volunteer capacity, for at least 15 years. It's, clearly, something that defines parts of who I am and how I was created.
I'm currently reading The Heart of the Artist by Rory Noland. This book was given to me several years ago by, my then, Worship Leader. I have read it in the past and find that it's worth reading again. This book doesn't just deal with musicians...it deals with ARTISTS, all types.
Lately, in my current worship team, I have been having this ever-present conviction dealing with humility and servanthood. I remember before we moved to NEPA our Pastor in Indiana was constantly talking about humility. I loved that about him. He was so passionate about it. The longer I live life the more I see it's necessity for the everyday life of the believer. I believe it is also the foundation of ministry.
So, the obvious question is, What is humility? and What is Servanthood?
Dictionary.com defines Humility as the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance. Synonyms: lowliness, meekness, submissiveness Antonyms: pride.
Another term worth defining is Humble. Again dictionary.com defines humble as not proud or arrogant; modest. having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience, etc. Low in rank, importance, status, quality, etc. Courteously respectful. Low in height, level, etc.
WOW! That says a lot doesn't it?
What about Servanthood? Dictionary.com defines servant as a person in the service of another. Service is defined as an act of helpful activity; help; aid.
After defining each term, it's easy to see how they might fit together.
Chapter 2 of The Heart of the Artist deals directly with these two subjects.
The fact of the matter is that all artists have a bit of a diva complex sometimes. We want to be heard or seen. Recognition is a perk of the job, so to speak. We love recognition. While recognition in and of itself is not a bad thing, we, as artists, must be careful that it doesn't turn into arrogance and pride. It is a fine line to walk but it is our own responsibility. We must be accountable to one another for our attitudes about ourselves and the talents that were given to us by God to use for His Glory and not our own.
I will admit that performing has always been a love of mine. I love it when people tell me how much they enjoyed how I sang or played or acted. It is very difficult to stay in check. It has been a process of years to be able to deal with recognition in a more Godly way and, yes, I still struggle on occasion.
The most important question to continue to ask ourselves is: Am I a servant or am I a STAR?
Rory Noland in The Heart of the Artist puts it best, "Let's face it: servanthood is a countercultural notion; it goes against human nature. We'd all rather be served. If given a choice, we'd all choose notoriety over obscurity. We all want to be in the spotlight instead of behind the scenes..."
He goes on the list and explain "Barriers to True Servanthood" that are worth listing here.
1. An Attitude of Superiority
2. Selfish Ulterior Motives
3. Confidence in Our Giftedness Alone
I have a great desire to just quote this entire chapter on this post... It's just that good.
Who is the perfect example of servanthood? None other than, Christ, himself. Rory Noland quotes Mark 10:45, "even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many," and again Philippians 2, Jesus "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" and "humbled himself and became obedient." He also asks the question, "Can you imagine what it would be like to have Jesus in your music ministry?"
I could go on and on as there is so much more to this chapter but even if I stop here I am left with one last point. One last "How to" when it comes to humility and servanthood in ministry. In order to be humble and a servant in ministry I must first humble myself before my God and serve Him with my whole heart and life.
If I can leave any reader with anything it would be to Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Forever endeavor to humble yourself before Him. He loves you and wants to bless your socks off!
TTYL,
Laura
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