Directing Our Eyes To The Artist, Not The Frame

Leading worship is something that I adore and love with my whole being. The crazy thing is that just two years ago I would have never seen myself up on a stage singing in front of people. That’s a different story. As a worship leader, if you aren’t careful, a position that is intended to point others to Christ can turn into a self-centered “me” show. This is a battle that just about every worship leader faces at some point in their life. Something that is tied so tightly with that is the skill that one has. When you’re good at what you do it’s much easier to get a big head and draw attention to yourself and your talents rather than use your talents to point people towards Jesus. While skill can sometimes come off as arrogant, it is also necessary when it comes to leading others well in the church or a group. 1 Chronicles 25:7 says that the musicians ministering at the tabernacle were those “who were trained in singing to the LORD, all who were skillful.” God calls those in that position to be trained and skilled so we can help lead others better. Skills should be developed. This is when the analogy of the frame and the painting come into play. Our skills should function like the frame around a painting. If the frame is too flashy and extravagant you’ll hardly notice the actual picture it’s displaying.

On the other hand, if the frame is cheap and shabby you’ll wonder why such a great piece of art is surrounded by a piece of junk. It’s important to have the right frame that will complement the picture in all the right ways. This meaning it directs our eyes to the brilliance of the artist and not the frame. John Piper call’s the right balance “un-distracting excellence.” This is a proficiency that doesn’t draw attention to itself but rather it points away from itself. As a worship leader, this is something I strive for. To use the talents that are nothing from me but 100% from God to bring glory to His name. C.J. Mahaney says, “All gifts from God are intended to direct our attention to God and create fresh affection for God.” None of us can take credit for our abilities. In Corinthians Paul asked, “What do you have that you did not receive? If you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it.” (1 Corinthians 4:7) Me on my own? I can’t do anything. It’s only because of what Christ has done in me that I can do what I do today. This is something that I am forever grateful for. Worship is a gift and shall we never take it for granted. Leading others in worship? Now that is a privilege that I pray I never grow complacent in.