In Luke 8:26-39, Jesus heals a demon-possessed man. Toward the end of the story, Jesus sent the man away and said to him, “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” (vs 39)

So often, we quickly overlook all that Jesus is doing in our life, in our ministry, or in our family, and jump to the next situation or event. Instead, there should be a time to reflect with a heart of thanksgiving ALL that Jesus has done for us.

Instead of focusing on the needs that he has not met, take time today to pay attention to all the needs that he HAS taken care of. Instead of willfully being blind to all he has done, ask him to open your eyes to ALL he has done and is doing in your life.

Our mouths were filled with laughter,
our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
“The LORD has done great things for them.”
The LORD has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:1-3 (NIV)

“…for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.” Luke 1:28-29 (NIV) Mary’s declaration

As you enter into worship, first, thank God for all he has done for you; and second, tell others (with a joyful heart) what he has done for you.

“For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 100:5 (ESV)

For those who lead in churches, July is a time when many are out of town. Your band members or vocalists may be on vacation or unavailable to help lead. Use this time to find new talent. Allow others to sing or play who normally do not get the opportunity. Always be looking for those whose hearts are seeking him and who have the ability to be coached or trained in leading others in worship.

Also, use the month of July for “RE”…..
ReNEW your commitment to lead others in worship.
ReTHINK how and why you do the things you do.
ReCOMMIT to the Lord your time in the word
ReFUEL yourself so you will be strengthened and ready to lead others stronger.
ReVIVE your family life. Find time to spend with each family. Invest in them.

Ask God to use the month of July in your life to prepare you to be the best musician and the best worship leader you can be.

If you are not a worship leader, ask God to help you have a surrendered, obedient heart as you come and worship him week after week.

COMMENT on other RE’s that are good for the month of July as we all look forward to the fall.

In the US, July 4 is the day we celebrate our independence. It is a day we celebrate our freedom. Only once every 6 years does July 4 fall on a Sunday, and that year is now, 2010.

For Christians, July 4 is also a time that we celebrate our freedom in Christ.

So many Christians are bound by sin or by strongholds in their lives. Christ came to save and to set us free.

“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Cor 3:17 (esv)
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Gal 5:1 (esv)
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Gal 5:13 (esv)
“They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.” 2 Peter 2:19 (esv)
“Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” 1 Peter 2:16 (esv)

Take a moment this week (as you reflect with gratitude on the freedom you have in this country) to reflect on the freedom you have in Christ.

Listen to AMAZING GRACE (MY CHAINS ARE GONE) and reflect on the things in your life that bind you.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH AMAZING GRACE (MY CHAINS ARE GONE)

So often, as worship leaders (and pastors, ministers, band members), we get so focused on getting the next song or the next event or the next talk ready. We become consumed with the conflicts of our “job” but spend very little time and effort dealing with the conflicts we have with those who are closest to us.

Not being able to resolve conflict can tear up a marriage or close relationship. Ignoring the conflict instead of dealing with it will many times lead a marriage to divorce, or will lead close friendships to an end.

Take a few minutes and watch this video as Matt (of Sanctus Real) and his wife share very openly about the need they had to work on things at home. Ask God to give you boldness and strength as you seek to lead your family.

WATCH ~ STORY BEHIND “LEAD ME”