I want to talk to you veteran musicians out there. Yes, those of you who have been in the music ministry for quite a while. Now, when I say quite a while, I’m not implying that you’re old, but that you’ve been serving the Lord through music for longer than you haven’t. And, I include myself in this group. As “veterans,” I feel that we have some experience and, hopefully, some wisdom under our belts that younger musicians have not yet gathered.
But, there’s something that younger musicians, those in the earlier years of their ministry, may have that we “seasoned” musicians may be in danger of losing. They have an excitement and a fervor for serving the Lord. They have passion and eagerness to serve in opportunities put before them. Years of ministering to others through music and always pouring out on others can lead to a loss of the excitement, passion and eagerness that was once ours in our service to the Lord. Romans 12:11 says, “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” (ESV)
When I first began in the music ministry at the age of 13, I was eager to jump on every opportunity. My parents encouraged me to recognize that my musical gifts were from the Lord, and that my right response was to exercise those gifts for His honor and glory. And, I did just that with eagerness and zeal!
However, as the opportunities turned into years of experience, I found myself wanting to say “no” more often. My sweet Mama gently corrected me one day by reminding me that the Lord gave me these talents, and He can take them away if I don’t want to use them. (Okay, moms can get away with being blunt can’t they?) Well, I heard her loud and clear! I’m thankful for that reminder.
There is a verse that has been very present in my mind and heart recently. It’s 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (ESV) More than anything, I want to faithfully pursue the Lord with fervor. More than anything, I want to accomplish all the good works He’s planned for me to accomplish with zeal and fervor, to serve well, and to fight the good fight until the end. I want to hear, “Well done good and faithful servant!”
As seasoned musicians, we must guard against weariness in doing well, against complacency, and against staleness. We must be “always abounding in the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV) Our goal is to finish well.
Today, youth is applauded, and growing old is seen as weakness. But, if God still has us here, no matter what age, He still has work for us to do. Seasoned musicians, let me encourage you to continue on strong in your ministry. Make it your goal to finish well!