I often wonder how worship leaders draw the line between what is worship and what is a performance. It can be a difficult distinction to make. Because worship is based on a personal response it is almost impossible for people to remain purely objective when evaluating the difference. Over the years I have come up with a list that I use to keep myself in check.
- every time I stand on a stage and people do not see God I perform
- every time I make it about excellence over humility I perform
- every time I make it about the set, planning or package I perform
- every time I make it about anything other than God I perform
- every time I question the quality of my presentation I perform
- every time I rely on my skills I perform
Performing is always about pleasing someone (God, staff, people, ourselves)
Worship always happens within a spirit of humility. The result is not a feeling. It is an attitude of thankfulness and trust.