Preparation of the Heartby Rob Packer
Some key points to remember in preparing our heart before leading worship
- Make sure we are in right standing with God. 'Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart'. Psalm 24:3-4, John 14:6.
- Allow God to search our hearts. 'Search me, O God and know my heart; ... See if there is any offensive way in me...' Psalm 139:1-4, 23-24.
- If we are not right, get our heart right. 'Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water'. Hebrews 10:19-20; Psalm 26:2-3,6-8,11-12.
- Worship the Lord - spend time praying, praising and thanking Him. 'The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped'. Psalm 28:7; 107:1; 147:1,11.
- Ask God what is on His heart - ask Him what He wants to say and what He wants to happen.
- Listen to the Holy Spirit. Take notice of what is going on in your heart and mind while you are worshipping the Lord. Thoughts and impressions during this time can help you recognize the direction that the Lord wants to take. When looking through your song list, take notice of songs which seem to catch your attention. They may well be just what is needed in the worship time you're preparing for.
- Be aware of attacks that may come from the enemy to confuse, unsettle or condemn you. Resist them with the authority that God has given you!
- Relax - not in apathy, but in confident dependence on the Holy Spirit to guide, lead and anoint - we are only the vessel, the instrument in His hand - let's have the right perspective on our ministry!
© Creative Fire Ministries 2008