10 Ways to Worship During Instrumental Breaks

Have you ever wonder what to do during an instrumental break in worship? I'm talking about those times that the band is playing and you are just standing waiting for the lyrics to the next section of a song. The band is jamming and you can tell the musicians are enjoying their chance to play, but, to be honest, you're thinking, "When are they going to put up the next lyrics?" I mean, it's all good for the band, but you are just standing there waiting, right?

Actually, those instrumental breaks are a great time for personal and corporate worship! Here are 10 ways you can worship during instrumental breaks.

Use this time to get your heart right with God. We often come to worship with unconfessed sin. This creates a relational block between us and God and diminishes the impact of the Spirit on our lives. Soften your heart by confession so that God can freely work in your life during the service. (1 John 1:9)

Is God speaking to you through the worship songs? Is there a need that is making it hard for you to focus? Are you hurting and distracted? Quietly, or even out loud, talk to God about whatever He has placed on your heart. Ask for His Spirit to move in your heart and in this place. Dedicate yourself to doing whatever God says to you during this service. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Praise is powerful. It gets your eyes focused on God and off yourself. Speak or shout simple heartfelt words of praise and thanksgiving! ((1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Sometimes the most appropriate response to God's goodness and grace is to make a joyful noise. Clap your hands! Shout! Cheer! God is good and sometimes words are not enough to express our joy. (Psalm 100:1)

Did you know that your physical actions impact your emotions? God connected our emotions to our body in such a way that we can increase our joy simply by involving our bodies in worship. Really. Try it. Raise your hands. Move to the music. Clap to the beat. Dance for joy! You will be happy you did. (Psalm 150:4)

Do you ever hum or whistle a simple tune that you made up? You can also make up your own simple songs of praise during the instrumental breaks. Instead of saying your praise, sing it! (Psalm 33:3)

Think about the words of the song. Internalize the message. Talk to God about the words. Worship songs are often short sermons. What is God saying to you through this song? (Psalm 77:6)

Sometimes we don't hear God's Spirit talking to us simply because we don't stop to listen. We fill our lives with noise and never slow down long enough to hear God's voice. Use the instrumental break to listen quietly. Maybe God is speaking and all you need to do is listen. (Revelation 3:20)

This is the easiest on the list and the default for many people. But that certainly doesn't make it bad. God has given us the gift of music and we are encouraged to enjoy it. So sometimes the best way to worship is just to enjoy the music! (Psalm 33:2)

Sometimes we try too hard. Worship doesn't always have to be striving. Maybe all you need to do is to stop worrying. Stop working. Just rest in God's presence with no goal other than to be with Him. (Psalm 62:5)

So, there you have it! 10 ways you can worship during the instrumental breaks. Next time you are listening to a worship song or attending a worship service try one of these suggestions. Hey! You could even try a different one each time you worship! Instead of wondering when they will put up the next lyrics you will be wishing the band played just a little bit longer.

By Jerry Wyrick
President, Worship Arts Conservatory