5 alternatives to worship without music

Think of worship and far too often the image of a band on stage with people in front raising their hands comes to mind.

 

Worship songs are a tool to worship. So are musical instruments. However, the current trend of worshipping primarily with song that’s passing through almost the whole world can sometimes overshadow this truth. So we end up worshiping mostly with song. Worse, we may end up worshiping only with music and song. In fact we may end up worshipping the song itself!

 

The Bible teaches us many other ways to worship and I believe worship leaders should be open to integrating these practices also into their worship sessions and not be over-dependent on music and song. 
 

1. Pray

so simple and yet sometimes so easily ignored while worrying about putting together the next smashing set-list or figuring out the vocal harmonies to that cool song we will use next Sunday etc. While a sincerely worded, Spirit-led prayer is an act of worship by itself, it can also be valuable while transitioning from one song to the next.

 

2. Bible Reading & Study

Reading, reflecting, memorizing, studying and most importantly applying the scriptures are all part of worship. Next time you are rehearsing with your team, try taking some time out to simply read/chant aloud selected portions of scripture together.

 

3. Silence

We had a beautiful silent retreat on “holiness” some time ago in my city and it was funny to see that among those who attended, the ones who struggled most with being silent were the people who had led many ministries for ages. They just couldn’t stay still having been used to activity all the time!

We hear God best when we close our mouths and listen to Him. Maybe somebody should write a new song called “Open the Ears of my Heart!” Take some quiet time away from activity and spend it with God, it does wonders to our relationship with Him.

 

4. Thanksgiving

We are called to be grateful people (Colossians 4:2). Reflecting on the many blessings we have received from our generous God and thanking Him is a useful way of focusing on God. In small group worship sessions especially, we have this practice of encouraging people to say their own brief praise prayer out aloud so everyone can give their thanks and praises. Apart from building up the community as a people of praise, it also gives another way for the congregation to participate actively in worship.

 

5. Intercession

A worship leader’s role is also intercessory – standing between God and His people and praying for them to have an experience of Him. The Bible says “first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people” - 1 Timothy 2:1. I know ministry leaders who have exclusive time set apart for intercession on a regular basis. It’s a wonderful practice of worship that we cannot ignore.

What other alternatives would you recommend to worship without music?