What to say between songs

As worship leaders, the things we say and pray during a worship set are extremely important. I believe it’s important to keep things brief and succinct, but to be extremely strategic in what we say.

Isaiah 55:10-11 says this:

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

This passage is essentially telling us that the Word of God will never return void. I believe there are two important things we should consider when crafting what we say between songs (and what you say is definitely something that should be given a lot of thought and consideration ahead of time).

Use Scripture

I can say from experience, the words that I personally come up with will often return void, but, according to Isaiah 55:10, God’s words never will. Using scripture to reinforce where you would like to lead people in a worship service is always a good idea. Personally, I like to study the song you’d like to set up and see what scripture it came from. Then pull out your Bible and read a few verses.

Make it personal

In the creative process, story is king. People respond to story. Stories capture people hearts. If you can personalize what you say – especially in the form of story, you will instantly be a more effective communicator. If you read a passage of scripture, take a few seconds and say how that passage (or the song) is important to you personally.

A couple final thoughts. In my opinion, 30-60 seconds is about all the time you should need. If you can’t say what you need to say in that amount of time, try to work it down. It’s never a good idea to preach the message after (or before) the message. That is what your primary speaker or pastor is there to do. You are there to lead people in worship. I also believe these times should be planned. Try to anticipate the moment in your service where your words will be most effective, and then plan them into the service.