Amateurs practice till they get it right. Professionals practice till they can’t get it wrong.

Every week I have the opportunity to lead the worship teams at Cross Point. We’re in Nashville, so we blessed with some incredibly gifted musicians. I love it. 52 times a year I decide how to prepare for Sunday.

When I practice, I have two choices. Choice 1 –  Work on the material until it’s familiar. It works, but it’s an easy way out. I’ve played music long enough that I can get by with a casual listen. I choose “familiarity” when my week is too busy, or I think I can get by and put it on cruise control. When I cheat the discipline of practice, I rely primarily on my talent (my head) to get me through. My focus turns inward. I end up worrying about parts and making mistakes. There’s nothing worse than trying to lead worship with my head stuck in the charts.
Choice 2 – Ingrain the material so far in my head that when it’s “go time” I at least create the space, the opportunity to play from my heart. I listen and rehearse the parts over and over till it sticks without having to think about it. I want to know the material so well that I give myself the best shot at leading with confidence.

Here’s the funny thing. God moves in corporate worship regardless of my preparation. Sometimes, when I’m least prepared he shows up in the biggest way. But, I know that when I’m prepared and have a heart that wants to serve with my personal best, he is honored.

Go practice.