You can do something in life, and maybe be very good at it, but you may not be doing it for a real purpose, but in the wrong way. And of that there is in all the tasks of life. In our churches there are also such people who do something but do not do it for the glory of God, but for their own satisfaction.
This reality is not exclusive to music, but it is especially visible in this area because music is closely connected with emotions, recognition, and public exposure. A musician is often seen, applauded, and admired, which can easily lead the heart to seek approval from people instead of seeking to please God. When that happens, even something as beautiful as music can lose its spiritual purpose.
First of all, the Bible teaches us that everything must be done for the glory of the Lord:
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Colossians 3:23-24
This passage leaves no room for exceptions. It does not say “some things” or “only spiritual activities,” but whatsoever ye do. That includes singing, playing instruments, rehearsing, practicing, and ministering in the church. Music in the congregation is not a performance; it is service. When a musician understands this, his or her attitude toward rehearsals, discipline, humility, and obedience changes completely.
Now, let’s go back to the question in our heading: Why are you a musician? If you are a musician I want you to answer this question with a lot of sincerity in your heart.
In what I have seen, there are different types of musicians. The first group of musicians are those who like to play the instruments to be able to belong to a circle of people in which they feel happy. For them, music becomes a social space, a place of acceptance, friendship, and identity. While fellowship is not wrong, it should never be the main motivation for serving God with music.
There is the other group that just wants to play to feel more important, so that others see that they are excellent musicians. This group often measures success by applause, recognition, and visibility. Even within the church, competition can arise, where musicians compare themselves, seek prominence, or feel offended when they are not given a certain place. This attitude slowly poisons the spirit of worship.
But, there is also that group that plays for the glory of God. Of course, they love music, but more than loving music, they love God first. For them, the instrument is not a tool for self-promotion, but an offering placed at the feet of the Lord. They understand that talent is a gift from God and that every gift carries responsibility.
It is assumed that every musician in our congregations should love music, but above all God. A musician who loves God will accept correction, will be willing to learn, will respect leadership, and will seek unity rather than personal success. Such a musician understands that excellence is important, but humility is essential.
When music is truly offered to God, it stops being about who plays better and becomes about who serves better. The focus shifts from the platform to the presence of God, from personal ability to divine grace. In that environment, the congregation is edified, and God is glorified.
If you are a musician, which group do you belong to? This is not a question to answer lightly, but one to meditate on prayerfully. The answer will reveal not only your motivation for music, but also the condition of your heart before God.