Everyone's Blog Posts - Worship The Rock - Worship Leader Forum & Social Network

YOUR SONG TO RADIO? Limited to 10 Spots!‏

2013-05-21T21:00:00.000Z

A-Sides Radio Promotion has allowed 10 songs from members of Worship The Rock into their mid June Christian Radio Campaign before the price increase! Their new system is now out of the beta testing stage and will be moving into the new pricing starting in July. Therefore, we are now accepting submissions for the mid June Christian Radio Campaign. Send us an MP3 of your song(s) to phil@worshiptherock.com and we will send your song in for approval. If your song is selected for this campaign, you will be charged $249 (normally $399). Here is what you will get for this discounted price:

Your song pitched to radio stations all throughout the US, Canada, Australia, and several other countries. This includes terrestrial stations (AM & FM), radio networks, and internet stations.
Inclusion into the new ranking chart at http://ChristianRadioChart.com. This chart reports weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually.
You will get an artist login which will allow you to see every station that has added you for airplay, their market/location, and website info.
The public chart only shows the top 10. However, with your login, you will be able to see the depth of the charts for as far as they reach. This will allow you to see each week how close you are to reaching the top 10.
You will also receive the report, "How to Capitalize on your Radio Promotion Campaign" written by Jeff McLaughlin of McLaughlin Music Group. This will help you understand exactly what it takes to maximize your revenue from the radio promotion campaign. That alone can help you recoup your initial investment and make a great profit.

Again, A-Sides has told us that they will allow 10 songs from members of Worship The Rock at the discounted rate and it is a first come, first served basis. Let us know if you have any questions. You will need to e-mail us at phil@worshiptherock.com

We look forward to hearing your songs!

Phil

Created for Worship

2013-05-16T09:31:13.000Z

Man didn’t fall from the sky neither did he develop from a monkey, what makes you so sure that we developed from a monkey? Man was created by God in his image and likeness not only to take dominion, subdue and multiply but He was also created to worship God alone and to give him all the glory.

What God is looking for is communion with men, “And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden”, Genesis 3:8 KJV. What God looked for was communion and fellowship with Adam and Eve, he would come everyday and take time with them. God still wants that and He wants that with you.

What else do you think Jesus did on the cross, just to triumph over the devil alone? He ripped the curtain into two to allow man, access to God and his presence. God wants us to enjoy, enjoy his presence and his beauty as his children.

Worship is one such blessing that allows us to have fellowship with the Lord our God, worship is the one thing that automatically prompts response from God, its stops him dead in his tracks as the saying goes. Worship is meant to allow us to connect with God and also for God to communicate with us and thus allowing communion and fellowship with God.

“This shall be written for the generation to come; And a people which shall be created shall praise Jehovah”, Psalms 102:18

“Every one that is called by my name, and whom I have created for my glory, whom I have formed, yea, whom I have made”, Isaiah 43:7

“The people which I formed for myself, that they might set forth my praise”, Isaiah 43:21.

We were created to worship God with all our strength and might, not so because God isn’t worship thirsty, bloodsucking God, He already receives perfect 24hr worship and compared to the worship we give which like filthy rags. So why does He still want our worship, its because we are his children, he loves us and he wants us to enjoy him and his presence allowing to have fellowship and communion with Him.

We were created to worship for God’s glory, to give honor and glorify Him; it goes beyond our understanding or comprehension. Worship is the avenue of God infusing his love in our hearts, adorning us with beauty for ashes, power for pain, peace for the torment and at the same time a place for us to declare our love for God.

Worship was never made so that we enjoy it (worship the worship) but it’s meant for us to enjoy God and who He is, enjoy his love and presence. Not for us to enjoy the presence not the God of the presence. We were created to worship Him and enjoy who He is, worship is our privilege and honour.

What were you created? It’s our first calling, to worship God with all your heart, mind and soul.

Worship Him in the Beauty of His Holiness”

Comfort, Chaos, and Creativity

2013-05-15T20:46:49.000Z

But He gives more grace. . .James 4:6(a)

God moves in chaos. Don't ever think He doesn't. Life will bring chaos to all of us, regardless of how saved you are, or how hard you pray. Today's devotional is for those who see so much in your spirit, but have not yet seen the physical manifestation. I know what it is to see something so plainly in your spirit, but for reasons of His own God has you waiting. It can be overwhelming.

I believe one of the reasons God places us in chaotic situations is for us to make a positive difference in that place. Sometimes it is to keep our attention on Him, and the things that are truly important in light of eternity, as opposed to things that really don't matter. When you think about it God really doesn't develop us in comfort, but in chaos. If you can get your mind off the chaos you'll get creative. Ideas will start coming. The Holy Spirit will show you some things - some new direction. Before you run from the chaos, stand still and think a minute. If you play it right the chaos will run from you because you're so busy exploring new ideas, new avenues, and new solutions that you no longer have time to focus on the discomfort of the chaos. Here is my point: Learn to praise God in the chaos and get in position because God is birthing something in you. Good leaders are not formed in comfort, but in chaos. Remember, eyes have not seen, ears have not heard, all the good things God has in store (1 Corinthians 2:9-10).

Praising God With the Wrong Spirit

2013-05-10T19:27:02.000Z

Psalm 139:1(a) Lord, You have searched me and known me. 2(b) You understand my thoughts from far away.
3(b) You are aware of all my ways. 4. Before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it, Lord.

It happens in churches all over the country every Sunday. Yes, we're singing, clapping, playing instruments, waving hands, dancing, and saying we're enjoying Jesus. But something's wrong: God doesn't have all of us; He only has that part of us that likes the song being played at the moment. Yes, we're singing, but we're angry. I'm standing up with everyone else, but I really don't want to be bothered - with anybody. God hasn't answered my prayer according to my schedule, so in protest I'm going to limit my praise. My hands are lifted in the worship experience, but my heart isn't. There's a name for that; it's called false worship. Praise and worship are all about the heart. If our hearts are not lifted along with our hands, guess what? You're missing out on the fellowship that Jesus died and rose again to give us. You're missing that peace and joy that the presence of the Holy Spirit brings.

When we attempt to praise or worship God with the wrong spirit it really isn't about God anymore, it's about us. Many of us should really check our attitudes at the door on Sunday morning. Today's text tells us that God knows our thoughts. Before we utter a word He already knows! God knows all of our ways; there is absolutely nothing we can hide from Him. So why do we think we can praise Him any kind of way? How are we so bold as to think God will accept our worship when our hearts are full of complaints and destructive criticism?

I challenge every believer today not to check someone else, but check ourselves. Be encouraged not to waste precious time by giving energy to those things that would render our praise to God ineffective. Surrender your heart to God and resist the enemy's lie that God is pleased with half-hearted praise and worship. God knows a right spirit from a wrong one.

It’s OK to sit on your arse for a while…

2013-05-10T10:44:08.000Z

I had a conversation with one of my singing students recently about the balance between work and play. She’d pushed herself to take every opportunity that comes her way even if she doesn’t want to do it. The whole experience had left her drained with nothing left to give and no joy left in her work. She wanted to know what to do next… She was quite surprised when I replied “do nothing, sit on your arse for a while and enjoy it!”

We have an obsession in our culture that we must be doing something all the time. We must be seen to be busy and proactive because apparently it looks good. But does constant “busyness” produce good quality fruit? As a performer, I’ve always found that there is a fine line between not enough and too much performing. There comes a point where you can fall out of love with your work and become tired of the material you sing. The joy of performing disappears and you start to wonder why you are carrying on…

Not every opportunity that is offered to us is beneficial. We need to learn that and exercise our right to say “no”. Saying no won’t make us look bad, but shows that we are in control and can exercise restraint. I’ve worked with some acts that say yes to everything and then end up letting people down. They get known as unreliable or disorganised: labels that can stick and ruin a career. The worst that can happen is that you give a bad performance because you’re so tired that you can’t perform well. Often these performances don’t help our self-esteem as we don’t feel that we’ve given our best and they leave us feeling doubtful of our abilities. Driving yourself to the point of illness won’t help in the long run, it’s not honourable to yourself, others or to God.

Sitting on your arse for a while helps you to stop and listen to how you are feeling. It can help you sort your thoughts out and see the situation clearly. The opportunity for silence has often helped me to reconnect with my creative side and ponder on the things I’d like to write about. Creativity often comes when you sit back and let it happen on its own. Also, if you get known as someone who will always do something, you only make a rod for your own back. Are you denying someone else the chance to have a go and see what skills they have? Doing nothing also gives you the chance to relax and do something that doesn’t involve work. The most interesting people aren’t those who work all the time, but those who have a life outside work because they have other experiences and interests. These outside interests can provide new routes and material for creativity.

So next time you open your mouth to say “yes” to something, stop and think! There’s a rather telling Celtic saying “do few things and do them well” A good lesson to learn…?

Visual Worship Ideas for One Thing Remains

2013-05-09T15:36:52.000Z

Here are a few ideas for visual worship for One Thing Remainsby Kristian Stanfill. It’s a great song that we recommend to any worship community.I believe that visual media can strengthen the message of a song, or if used improperly can be incredibly distracting. It is our hope that these videos help you choose content that is powerful and points worshipers to God. While there are many versions of this song out there (Jesus Culture, Bethel) we’ve used Kristian Stanfill‘s version for our video.

http://youtu.be/3V9PyWQ-Lrg

To use these motion backgrounds check out our particle pack: http://playbackmedia.com/browse/particle-pack/

I hope this helps you as you put together visuals for upcoming services.

ONE THING REMAINS – Chris Quilala (Capo 4)

Verse 1: C G D
Higher than the mountains that I face
Stronger than the power of the grave
Constant in the trial and the change
One thing… Remains (repeat)

Chorus: Em C G D
Your love never fails, never gives up
Never runs out on me (3x)

Verse 2:
On and on and on and on it goes
It overwhelms and satisfies my soul
And I never, ever, have to be afraid
One thing remains

Bridge: C G D Am C G D
In death, In life, I’m confident and
covered by the power of Your great love
My debt is paid, there’s nothing that can
separate my heart from Your great love

Potapos Agapē-What Manner Of Love

2013-05-08T23:53:29.000Z

John 17:
1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, 2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4 I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. 5 And now,Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed. 6 "I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.

1Peter 1:

18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

Christ died solely for the elect, i.e. all whose names were enrolled by the Father in the Lamb's Book of Life; written before the creation of all things.(Rev 17:8 and 5:6-12)

Isaiah 53:

10 Yet it was the will of the LORD to crush him; he has put him to grief; when his soul makes an offering for guilt, he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.

Matthew 26:

39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed,saying, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will."

Hebrews 5:

7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered.

John 10:

14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father."

Acts 4:

24 And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said,"Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them,25 who through the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, "'Why did the Gentiles rage, and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers were gathered together, against the Lord and against his Anointed'-- 27 for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, 28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place.

(Psalm2)

Therefore the atoning death of the Lamb, (the Lamb foreknown from before the foundation of the world), was also foreknown from before all creation. His death was predestined by the Father; agreed and submitted to by His obedient Son.

Romans 8:

1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

2Cor 5:

21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

So it was neither the sins of the elect, nor the actions of men that"killed" Christ. It was a transaction of manifest love,i.e.command, and obedience to command, between Father and Son, by which all that are chosen to believe benefit forever. Our sins did not kill Christ. On the contrary,in Christ both our sins, and sin nature were "killed". (Romans 6:1-8)
To say our sins, or the actions of any man are responsible for killing Christ is just another manifestation of pride in the guise of humility.

Romans 5:

1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance,

4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope,5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. 6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die-- 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners,Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled,shall we be saved by his life. 11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Romans 9:

10 And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac,11 though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad--in order that God's purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls-- 12 she was told, "The older will serve the younger." 13 As it is written, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated."

God’s love, made manifest through the death of His Son, is bestowed on those of His choosing, by His own good pleasure. The revelation Paul received is that men being neither righteous, nor good, are worthy only of God’s wrath. Most certainly we are unworthy to receive the benefits of His loving atonement. God has chosen from all mankind, those whom He loves. God’s love is given to, in, through and because of Christ. Without the exchange of love between Father and Son seen through the obedient act of the Son laying down His life, and the resurrection of the Son by the Father, there would be absolutely no hope for any man.(Romans 1:1-4; John 10:17-18) All things, including mankind, exist solely for His glory.

Romans9: 14 What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God's part? By no means! 15 For he says to Moses, "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." 16 So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. 17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, "For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth."

18 So then he has mercy on whomever he wills,and he hardens whomever he wills. 19 You will say to me then, "Why does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?"

20 But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, "Why have you made me like this?" 21 Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use? 22 What if God,desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, 23 in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory-- 24 even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles?

Ephesians2:

1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience--3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us,5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved--6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

Romans8: 31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?

33 Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies.

34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died--more than that, who was raised--who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

1John 3:

1aSee what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.

Everything is done at the divine discretion of the Almighty. His love,manifest through election (leading to our justification), is without condition.Thus His methods, their object and outcome, are without condition.

Solus Christus

Soli Deo Gloria

Watchman Worship

2013-05-08T21:53:13.000Z

The sanctified worshiper is a spiritually sleepless worshiper. Those who are spiritually sleepless are always watching for God's movement in The Body, and in their individual lives because they understand that worship is not just a Sunday morning activity. They understand that worship is not something we "do" but it is who we are as believers. They are also watching for enemy activity. In Biblical history cities were fortified, or to put it another way, surrounded by very high, and very sturdy walls. There were usually "watchmen" stationed atop those walls. Part of their job was to stand guard and warn of an approaching enemy. The prophets of Israel saw themselves as watchmen to warn the people of God's judgment if they did not repent. There is an interesting reference found in Proverbs 8:34, which states: "Blessed is the man who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at my doorposts." This passage speaks of following Godly wisdom, but can it also be applied to our worship? The apostle Peter admonishes us to be on the alert because our adversary, the devil, is seeking someone to devour (I Peter 5:8). Jesus Himself told us to be watchful in expectation of His coming (Matthew 24:42).

When we worship God on a regular basis - not only on Sunday morning - our spirits are sensitized to what God is doing. We worship Him not through our flesh, but through our spirit. Our intentional worship of God, especially at the private level, keeps us on the alert because we are always tuned in to Him and "watching" with an expectancy, for God's movement and direction.

What are you watching for?

Keep Walking, Keep Standing

2013-05-08T21:51:42.000Z

In every thing, give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. I Thessalonians 5:18 (NASB)

Truth be known, we are all struggling with something. God has His reasons for taking us down a different road than we originally planned. First, He is God. Second, His ways are higher than our ways. Third, He can see much further down the road than we can. Fourth, He loves us too much to ever send us out unprepared. Fifth, even though we want something so badly God knows that there may be some things inside of us that He has to change because we can't take those things with us into His plans for us. And sixth, learn to be thankful. A friend helped me to understand (and thereby, get somewhere and sit down) that if it happens in MY time, I won't be successful. But if it happens in God's time, I will.

If you're waiting on your plans to manifest, you may be waiting a long time. Pray that your plans and God's plans match up. Pray for a heart to want what God wants for you, and trust God's wisdom. The blessing will be yours every time. In the meantime, keep walking in God's purpose for you, and keep standing on the promises found in His Word.

Worship Lessons From A Bush Church

2013-05-03T09:38:50.000Z

I attended a rural church service a couple of weeks ago in Mozambique and it was an interesting. I come from church where I play percussion and in our church we have 2 500 people attending service on a Sunday morning, air conditioning with comfortable seating and a huge band and choir with a an amazing sound system.

So here I am in a church with 7 Men, 7 Women and about 30 kids dancing and worship with in a newly made pole and straw roofed sanctuary, with clear Mother Nature air con, no sound system and seating in benches and plastic chairs for us because we were guest, the women were seating on the ground on straw mats plus an African drum stick and shakers made from old metal cans.

So in my eyes are 15 older people and a group of children singing, dancing, and ululating with huge smiles on their faces. A dust rising as they danced and sung to a drum and the metal shakers playing. When they started praying you can hear gratitude they had to God regardless of the few things they have.

I started to think of what I have been praying for the last couple of weeks especially after my computer crashed and my external drive stolen. It got me thinking and seeing all this, so I got these few lessons

1. Gratitude

We are so blessed with what we have and it’s amazing the things that we see in our lives and I in particular always put up prayer request for a lot of things but very few times do I show gratitude and thanksgiving to God for what I already have. "And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing". Psalms 107:22

2. Joy and Gladness

The pastor of that church that week, his wife had just had an operation because she couldn’t give birth to their child in the natural way and she had to have an operation and didn’t attend the service because she wasn’t well. The joy and gladness that the Pastor had in serving the Lord and doing his duties was amazing.

3. Simplicity

So many times we complicate God in so many ways and then we try to figure him out, just like someone said we look at God like a problem and we try to solve him. God is the same yesterday today and tomorrow and lest not try to complicate him

They had had very few instruments and had few things to work with but what they did with what they had was amazing. At times we wait until we have everything in place for us to move. Its simple start with what we have even the few things and when we are faithful with those God grants us more.

4. Humility

Being humble really opens up a lot of doors, sometimes pride grows within and the I know it syndrome kills a lot of things. There was a guy who was leading prayer and worship as well. Humble people you can really connect up with their hearts and spirits. There is a fountain that was oozes out of a humble person whether he or she is singing or praying all you can see is the grace bestowed upon them that allows them quick access into the heavens.

These are the few things that were just stood out for me as we worshipped with this church and I saw that as a person there are so many things as a worshipper leading worship I tend to forget such things.

May God help us all to do his will and glorify his name forever more

"Worship Him In The Beauty Of His Holiness"

Kelvin Mutize

Ark Of Worship

Blog Address:www.theworshipofgod.blogspot.com

Skype Name: Kelvin Mutize

Email Address: whatisworship@gmail.com

Why men have stopped singing in Church !!

2013-04-30T03:35:42.000Z

this is not my blog, i have copied it from http://churchformen.com/how-were-off-the-mark/why-men-have-stopped-singing-in-church/. Sharing it here cos i believe it is relevant to us who are very much involved in worship.

Why men have stopped singing in church !!

It happened again yesterday. I attended one of those hip, contemporary churches — and almost no one sang. Worshippers stood obediently as the band rocked out, the smoke machine belched and lights flashed. Lyrics were projected on the screen, but almost no one sang them. A few women were trying, but I saw only one male (other than the worship leader) making the attempt.

“Have Christians Stopped Singing?” I did some research, and learned that congregational singing has ebbed and flowed over the centuries. It reached a high tide when I was a young man – but that tide may be going out again. And that could be bad news for men.

First, a very quick history of congregational singing.

Before the Reformation, laypersons were not allowed to sing in church. Sacred music was performed by professionals (priests and cantors), played on complex instruments (pipe organs), and sung in an obscure language (Latin).

Reformers gave worship back to the people, in the form of congregational singing. They composed simple tunes with lyrics that people could easily memorize. Some of the tunes came out of local taverns.

A technological advance – the printing press – led to an explosion of congregational singing. The first hymnal was printed in 1532, and soon a few dozen hymns became standards across Christendom. Hymnals slowly grew over the next four centuries. By the mid 20^th century every Protestant church had a hymnal of about 1000 songs, 250 of which were regularly sung. In the church of my youth, everyone picked up a hymnal and sang every verse of every song.

About a decade ago, a new technological advance – the computer controlled projection screen – entered America’s sanctuaries. Suddenly churches could project song lyrics for all to see. Hymnals became obsolete. No longer were Christians limited to 1,000 songs handed down by our elders.

At first, churches simply projected the songs everyone knew – hymns and a few simple praise songs that had come out of the Jesus Movement. People sang robustly.

But that began to change about three years ago. Worship leaders brought in new songs each week. They drew from the radio, the Internet, and Worship conferences. Some began composing their own songs, performing them during worship, and selling them on CD after church.

Years ago, worship leaders used to prepare their flocks when introducing a new song. “We’re going to do a new song for you now. We’ll go through it twice, and then we invite you to join in.”

That kind of coaching is rare today. Songs get switched out so frequently today that it’s impossible to learn them. People can’t sing songs they’ve never heard. And with no musical notes to follow, how is a person supposed to pick up the tune?

And so the church has returned to the 14^th century. Worshippers stand mute as professional-caliber musicians play complex instruments, and sing in an obscure language. Martin Luther is turning over in his grave.

What does this mean for men? On the positive side, men no longer feel pressure to sing in church. Men who are poor readers or poor singers no longer have to fumble through hymnals, sing archaic lyrics or read a musical staff.

But the negatives are huge. Men are doers, and singing was one of the things we used to do together in church. It was a chance to participate. Now, with congregational singing going away, and communion no longer a weekly ordinance, there’s only one avenue left for men to participate in the service – the offering. Is this really the message we want to send to men? Sit there, be quiet, and enjoy the show. And don’t forget to give us money.

There’s nothing wrong with professionalism and quality in church music.The problem isn’t the rock band, or the lights, or the smoke machine. The key here is familiarity. When that super-hip band performed a hymn, the crowd responded. People sang. Even the men.

Worshipping Without Words and Music Part 2

2013-04-24T07:00:00.000Z

Worship goes beyond songs, words, notes, chords and instruments. Worship means to pay homage, falling before someone feet, glorifying a deity, honor paid to dignity, kind of reverence ascribing worth. Genesis 22:5 that was the first mention of the word Worship in the Bible, it denoted sacrifice and obedience.

Worship in today’s ages and to some people means songs and music, that is 3 praise song and 3 worship songs if there are more than 6 songs at your church on Sunday then you are privileged. Some believe doing a bible study and fellowship for them that is the understanding that they have of worship.

Worship is a lifestyle and way of life and today I am talking about worship with our works and we look at what the words says about,

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven”, Matthew 5:16

“But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men” Matthew 9:8

“And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified”, Acts 19:17

“By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name”, Hebrews 13:15

What God is looking is for our lives is not just our hands, mouths and bodies worshipping Him, bowing down or crying before Him.

He is looking for our works outside the Church, can our works bring glory to God. You can lift up the name of God by allowing your works to minister to the nations. Psalms 51 says that God is more pleased by works of righteousness more than a sacrifices of bulls and goats….

These scriptures talk about fruit of our lips, the fruit shall stand on its own and lift up God above all things, your works shall be seen by all men and that will cause them to worship God, they glorified God because they saw the power that was issued from God into these men and the people were drawn to the early Christian because they saw the works they did.

As a worship leader, singer, drummer or just the cables guy can your works outside the church or the worship service, can your works outside your angelic voice bring Glory to God or can it cause man to stand to bless God and declare that He is good when they look at you and see the fruit of your lips.

Your works, worship the Lord, they sound as louder worship in the ears of the world and even in God’s ears. Worship is beyond words, songs, pitches and music it goes into your works, attitude and lifestyle. Also the fruits of your lips and life all will and can declare worship to God.

The Blessing Of Closed Doors

2013-04-22T21:07:26.000Z

Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me.

Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish.

Isaiah 46:9-10 (NIV)

Declaring the end from the beginning,. . . Isaiah 46:10 (KJV)

Has God ever shut down your plans? I believe somebody can testify to the fact that at some point in your life you made plans, had everything in place, you considered any unforeseen snafus, future looked good; or so you thought. Recently I heard these words from a well-known pastor that basically said "

rejection is protection and direction." When we walk close to God and have surrendered our lives to Him, there are times when God will shut a door that we thought should have been open. It's all about perspective. We may feel that God wronged us by closing that door. However, looking at it from a spiritual perspective, God had His reasons for not allowing you to go any further into that particular scenario. We cannot see down the road like God can. In today's text He is letting us know that He sees the end from the beginning. God knows where we belong and where we don't. He knows the what, why, when, and how of our lives. He knows the secrets of every one of our hearts. He knows every desire, every longing, every anxiety, all the questions, everything. God is inviting us to trust Him even when we can't see what He's doing. God will sometimes close certain doors in our lives to teach us to raise our thinking to a spiritual level.

If you know you live under divine authority, yet God has shut a door in some area of your life and you don't understand it, I issue an invitation to take a closer look. Begin to praise God because He stopped you from making a big mistake. Perhaps you were headed right into a moving train, and God blocked it. Thank God that He has your back at all times and in all places! Trust God because He knows the end from the beginning.

Musicianary for Latvia now forming USA Tour for Sept-November 2013

2013-04-20T13:22:02.000Z

I am once again setting up a ministry tour for the United states. I would love the opportunity to come and share about my mission work in Latvia through sharing and music. I am also available to preach, lead worship or share in special music.The last two USA tours and appearances have been a major way for me to raise my mission support. They have provided me to not only continue my mission work here in Latvia, but also to be able to do extra mission trips through out Europe.

I am available for Worship services, Christian School Assemblies and any other Christian events. Here are just a few things I offer.

"Recomissioned" -Musicianary to Latvia. Luke 5:1-11
I share my incredible story of how the Lord called me to be a "Musicianary" to Latvia. I briefly share about Latvia's history and the joys and challenges I face in the mission field of the former Soviet Country.
This is perfect for Sunday School hour or a mission conference.A few songs are shared.

"For the Love of Latvia''
Combining music and my own personal testimony, I share my incredible story of how the Lord called me to be a "Musicianary" to Latvia, and the joys and challenges I face in the mission field of the former Soviet Country.
Musically, I interweave the beloved Hymns, Worship songs and my own Bible based composition using a variety musical styles that has allowed me to be a welcomed guest in many denominational churches service styles from very traditional to contemporary
This can be adjusted to fit for a Sunday morning, evening or midweek worship service. Great for a Concert setting for the whole family about missions.

I do not charge for my appearances. All love offerings, donations and product sales goes in support for my continuing mission work in Latvia and Europe.
Below are my open dates and area's I am open to be in.

For more information feel free to email me at:gentlewindmusic@yahoo.com
or go to the link below.
I look forward in sharing my heart "For the Love of Latvia".
dmc

September Dates
8th through the 13th: From Indiana to Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska , or to Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota.
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

8) Act Community Church. Whiteland, Indiana (AM Service-TBA)
15) First Baptist Church of Norfolk, Nebraska (AM Service)

(Open to booking 100 miles radius from Norfolk-to include Omaha, Lincoln (NE) Sioux City (Iowa) and Sioux Falls (SD)

16 through 22nd From Nebraska to South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, or to Iowa, Illinois, Indiana.
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

25th through29th : Up State New York area. Including The greater Rochester area and the Fingerlakes.
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

October Dates
2nd through the 6th : New York/New Jersey area. Includes, Yonkers, NYC area. Central and south Jersey areas
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

9th through the 20th : Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois & Wisconsin area.
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

23rd through the 30th: Southern California area.
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

November Dates
3rd through the 10th: South East States:Tennessee, North & South Carolina, Georgia
9) Salem Lutheran Church Lincolnton, North Carolina (PM Concert)
Looking to book morning/evening and midweek service or school assemblies

14 Head back to Latvia.

http://gentlewindmusic.com/For_the_Love_of_Latvia_Tour.html

Prayers and Promises Blog

2013-04-16T13:34:56.000Z

PRAYERS AND PROMISES BLOG

My name is Diana, and I’d like to welcome you here. I started this blog at the beginning of this year after God spoke to me. He told me to “quit playing church”, and testify about what He has delivered me from. I am using this site to not only share the deliverance of God, but also the music He has given me – to bless you on your journey.

I am a daughter of the King. I am blessed and loved by the Father. I am forgiven and free, all by the work of Jesus Christ. I also a wife, a mom ( 4 kids, 2 step-kids), a musician, a Worship Leader, and many other things, depending on the day. I’m sure you can relate. I love to write music, it is a universal language, and touches even the hardest heart. I use my music to give hope to those who have been bruised, betrayed, or broken along the path of life.

I have also written a lot of poems about abuse, domestic violence, and depression. These are from the dark part of my life. I share them to show what God can do with a life. Yes, there is healing, and I am no longer living in the darkness! God has delivered me from rape, depression, homelessness, suicide attempts, divorce, domestic violence, and betrayal. There were many times that I did not think I would make it. But I guess God had other plans…

Musicianary for Latvia now forming USA Tour for Sept-November 2013

2013-04-12T12:30:41.000Z

September through November Now booking for USA Tour!!

I am once again setting up a ministry tour for the states. I would love the opportunity to come and share about my mission work in Latvia through sharing and music. I am also available to preach, lead worship or share in special music.
The last two USA tours and appearances have been a major way for me to raise my mission support.
They have provided me to not only continue my mission work here in Latvia, but also allowed me to travel to do extra mission trips throughout Europe.

I am available for Worship services, Christian School Assemblies and any other Christian events. For more information go to " For the Love of Latvia"

For idea's in how I could be of service for your church or Christian event, go to
"Inviting David Michael" and "Speaking and Music Presentation" .
I do not charge for my appearances. All love offerings, donations and product sales goes in support for my continuing mission ministry in Latvia and Europe.

Here is where dates and places I'm looking to fill.

September Dates

8th through the 22nd:

Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota,

The Dakota's, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri.