Being Bivocational

Definition of a Bivocational Minister:
"Bivocation minister's are those who derive a portion of their income from a vocation other than their ministry. Bivocational ministry is not limited to the pastoral role but includes any paid staff member of the ministry team who derive a portion of their income from another vocation."

While the above statement is mostly true, it doesn't really define the typical church worship leader, choir director, song leader, or minister of music in most smaller churches. Many, like myself, work a full-time paying job outside of the church, yet also work full-time non-paying job inside the church, fulfilling the duties of above said positions.

In the past I have been blessed with being a paid bivocational music minister, however, at my current church I am non-paid. Does it make a difference in the time and effort that I put into it? Absolutely NOT! While I may not receive monetary payment, I do receive plenty of Spiritual compensation. After all, that's what it's all about. God blessed me with a few talents, one of them is being able to lead people in Worship. I did not ask for this gift but I did accept it from Him. I'm not bragging here. I do not feel worthy to even stand in front of people most of the time. I feel honored that He sees fit to work through me.

I know that there are "song leaders" out there that simply pull out a hymn book, flip through it and just sing whatever page they happen to land on. I can't even fathom the idea of doing that. There is nothing Spiritual in that type of worship. It is my opinion (and practice) that the person that is leading the congregation in song, should earnestly pray over which songs should be sung. They should spend time reflecting on the hymns that they are to sing and mull over in their mind how each one should play out in the service. Nothing makes me cringe more than to visit a church and their song/worship leader does not have songs prepared. What a disservice to God and the congregation! I feel that anyone that can't take time out of their schedule to properly pick out and prepare songs, should resign from their position immediately. They are doing more harm than good. I realize there are times of improvisations and a quick selection must be made, but those are rare occasions that normally just require a standard hymn.

If you are a bivocational music leader I urge you to put forth 100% effort in your ministry. Sure, it would be great to be compensated for your time, but a greater reward is awaiting!