The time right after your pastor preaches is the perfect time for you to give the people of your church an opportunity to respond to what they've just heard.

Think about it: your pastor just spent 20 or 30 or 45 minutes preaching on a specific truth. They've laid the groundwork for people to respond. Isn't that what worship leaders always hope for? "If I just had more time to teach the people of my church about who God is, maybe then they would respond." Well, your pastor is already doing that! So, utilize the foundation that they've built to lead your church.

Here are 3 tips for leading worship after the message:

1 | Coordinate with your pastor in advance

I hear it time and time again: "My pastor and I didn't even talk about what song we should do coming out of the message and 'somehow' it worked out perfectly." Don't over-spiritualize your lack of preparation!

Listen: it's amazing when that happens. But if it truly is so amazing, why wouldn't we seek to make it happen every week? Plan in advance with your pastor and pick a song coming out of the message that will give people the opportunity to respond to what they've just heard.

2 | Take notes while your pastor preaches

Pay attention when your pastor is preaching. Firstly, because you're a member of the church just like everyone else and should be receiving the teaching just like they are. But, also because it helps you lead your church better! Look for connections as your pastor preaches. What truth stands out that you might want to reinforce when you lead? How can that affect the way you lead the song?

3 | Use the same language your pastor uses

As your pastor preaches, listen for specific phrases that you might be able to repeat when you lead. Repetition helps people make deeper connections. Your pastor has already laid the foundation for that phrase so people will have a deeper understanding of what it means compared to if you introduce a completely new idea.

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