Well, first things first, let me explain my recent hiatus. There have been some incredible things going on in the youth group I’m involved in. Yes, yes, I know I’m a bit old to be hanging out with the youth, but that’s where I feel I can reach the most souls for Christ, so that is where I stay. The youth group at Clarksdale Baptist Church has had a recharge of youth wanting to live for Christ. I want to thank all of you out there that prayed for me, I appreciate it greatly. Now on to a new (and greatly overdue) article.

Because this is a guitar chord website, I guess the best thing to talk about musically is guitar (hey, go figure). Well if I’m correct, there are several of you out there that are in contemporary Christian bands and even in church praise bands. I fall into the praise band category. I’ve tried the Contemporary Christian band idea before but I’ve had a problem. I have a really close friend of mine that I wouldn’t trade for the world, who is also a guitarist. I’ve tried to get him to play with us on occasion but he has a bit of a power control. He wants it, but can’t handle it if he gets it. Being in a band is not about being a dictator it’s about being with a group of people who want to share their talent with other people and lift their praises to God. This particular friend of mine tries to bring music that isn’t necessarily glorifying to God into the mix. That’s kind of where I want to stay for the remainder of this article, what should be brought to the table in a band.

When going into a band situation, every person should learn immediately what his or her role in the band is. A band is not a dictatorship, but like all things, there must be an appointed leader. A leader’s roles change from band to band, but there are requirements for being a leader of a praise and worship band or a contemporary Christian band. First of all, and most importantly, it must be a God granted position. If God has not ordained that you be in the position of leader, then you are already doomed to failure. Second of all, all members of the band must acknowledge that person as the leader or "bus driver" as the saying goes. If there are those who don’t agree with the choice, then there will be conflict in the band, and that’s never good because people get bitter, and bitterness and keep people from seeing Christ in you, and after all, that’s your ultimate purpose isn’t it? Lastly, the leader must want to be the leader for the right reasons. This rule applies to all persons in the band. Each person must be in it for the right reason, to see Christ glorified in all that the band does.

There are no rock stars in Contemporary Christian bands. You’re not up there to have girls or guys screaming over you and nearly falling over your feet to meet you or get to know you or to become your friend. Don’t get me wrong, you’re going to get fans, but don’t treat it like "Well they like what I do, therefore I’m awesome because they’re my fan". Well hey buddy, who gave you that talent that gave you fans? "To God be all the glory…" Ring any bells? God has given you that talent for a reason! Don’t take His glory because of your selfish pride. I’ve seen too many Christian bands fail because they were in it to see themselves lifted up. That’s not your purpose.

The last thing I want to mention is, being in a Christian band, whether you’re the leader or not is a great responsibility! Especially if you are playing and leading youth in worship. Those youth look up to you! If they don’t see Christ in you, or they see you living like you shouldn’t, what does that tell them? "Well was doing it! It can’t be wrong if they do it!" Don’t believe me? Ask some established band in your area if the kids they play to look up to them that much. Music in today’s age is the single greatest influence on lifestyle among young people. That’s my personal opinion, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see it backed up with statistics and all that boring stuff. You are influencing these kids and they must see Christ in you! If you aren’t worshiping when you play, how do you expect them to worship when they listen to you? That’s the most important thing! You’re not just leading worship, you ARE worshiping! As a band, all members should hold each other accountable for their actions, and don’t be afraid to approach a brother in Christ if you see something you think will be a stumbling block for others if they saw them doing it. Remember, first and foremost, you’re in this for Christ’s glory and that others will see Him in you, and want what you have.

I’ll leave with this. This is by far not all that goes into making a valuable member of a praise band, but this is a great way to start. Until next time, I ask for your continued prayer and thoughts, as you know I’ll pray for all of you. Though I don’t know your names, your ministries are always on my mind because we share a common goal, to see people won to Jesus Christ. God Bless.