I take large responsibility as the senior pastor of Elevation Church for setting the atmosphere in our worship experiences.
A lot of this is probably just my personality, so I’m not suggesting others should do it this way too.
But I don’t stay backstage during the whole worship set on Sunday mornings. I like to get out into the atmosphere and set an example for our people by worshipping God wholeheartedly.
I usually only get to enjoy one or two of the songs of the worship set due to the demands of preaching 4 times back to back at different campuses.
But when I do get out there, I go for it. I don’t stand with my hands in my pockets like I’m too cool for school, or like the senior pastor is above worshipping God.
I also try really hard (and it’s difficult!) to break out of critical evaluation mode and get after the presence of God with my whole heart.
David is a great example of a leader who modeled worship for the people he led. Nobody “out-worshipped” the king of Israel. He demonstrated passion for God publically and privately.
I want to do the same.
Our worship leaders have told me before that it means a lot to them when they see me lifting my hands or playing air drums on the front row on Sundays. When they see their leader engaged with God, it fuels their confidence to lead the people higher.
No one can go where the leader has not first gone. I can’t think of a better application of this than our corporate worship experiences.
Leaders, let’s set the atmosphere.
In the words of David:
I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.
Psalm 34:1-3