3 Helpful Tips When Leading Spontaneous Worship By Brandon L Smith

I once heard it said that worship is much like a Hallmark card.  When we receive a card from someone we look on the back and say "yep that's a Hallmark card."  We quickly skim the inside comments written by those clever writers all the while trying to locate where the good stuff is.  It's that special note that someone took the time and effort to write.  It doesn't mean the card itself isn't good but we want to read what came from someone's heart and soul.  

As worship leaders we look for prewritten music to fill our scheduled times to sing as a congregation.  Those songs for the most part are very well written songs of worship and adoration to God.  Much like finding a Hallmark card with a prewritten note.  But let's not forget about our special note inside the card.  It's that spot in the music when things seem to hold on and a song begins to spring up within the depths of our hearts and souls.  We need to sing it out.  Our congregations need to learn what it is to sing their own songs, their own special notes, back to the Lord.

Here's a few things to think about if you're trying to take advantage of spontaneous worship in your church. 

1.  Plan It Out

Just because we use the term spontaneous doesn't necessarily mean it isn't planned or practiced.  Working and practicing with your team for spontaneous times of worship is a must if you want to be good at it.  Don't assume your team knows exactly where you want to go with a song.  Sketch out a framework and practice.

2.  The Easy 1 Chord

Many times in worship music we end on the one cord.  Instead of making that the end note why note stay there for a bit and allow it to build back up. Playing a 3-4 suspension will work during this time as long as you don't go too crazy with it.  Choose how many bars you will do this with your team so they will know and not feel left out or awkward about the moment.  Then take it back to the chorus one last time and end the song.  You can sing your own song during the build up and encourage the congregation to do the same.

3.  Use the Bridge

Take the chord progression of the bridge and play this as an interlude back to the chorus.  This is another place you can lead your congregation in spontaneous worship.

Above all remember that just because you plan a specific time for spontaneous worship doesn't always mean you should do it.  Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and your pastoral leadership during these times.  Using caution and respect will go a very long way.