Leading and Following
All at the Same Time
In 1 Chronicles 25 King David set apart Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, as well as their sons, to lead the congregation of Israel in worship. The sons were under the direction of their fathers, and their fathers were under the direction of “The Sweet Psalmist of Israel” King David, who was himself under the direction of God. Besides being trained to play instruments skillfully, the leaders prophesied as well as “giving thanks and praising” our Lord. Our translation of this term “prophesy” comes from the word “naba,” meaning inspired.
The first point is to say that nobody will ever be a good leader unless they are a good follower, and all good leaders are following Jesus Christ. These worship leaders were strongly inspired by God whose inspiration flowed through prayerful communion with Him. There is no substitute for quiet connections with God.
Secondly, they sang to the Lord. It was not a time for distracting conversations. I do not believe that what David was directing would resemble our modern “progressive” forms of American church. Progressive happened when we left candles for light bulbs. It would be wise for every congregation to periodically take inventory of their worship expressions.
Thirdly, the congregation was also “trained” in corporate worship as the leaders led. At times we may sound joyfully loud enough to break glass, or solemnly quiet. Regardless, as the clock strikes ten on Sunday mornings it would be good to pause our pre-service discussions which may distract others, and ready our hearts to give God praise, communing with His Holy Spirit.
Be assured that God loves our expressions of joy and declares, “The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing (Zeph 3:17).” May God always be in the spotlight as the Spirit of the living God falls afresh on you, and fills you with His love.
Pastor Huck