Author Shawn Bigby has a heart and passion for praise and worship. His desire for others to experience God at higher and deeper levels of worship has driven the writing of his new book, The Platform: On & Off. Shawn's indescribable and untainted flow initiates and connects the worshipper to embrace the raw presence of God–a meaningful encounter with Him.
Shawn is a dynamic teacher and clinician on praise and worship. He conducts various workshops and clinics all over, assisting ministries and worship leaders in worship and vocal techniques. His teaching includes multiple layers that enhance and foster the tools necessary to build leaders and music ministries after God's heart.
He took some time out of his schedule to talk to NewReleaseToday about the new book, the importance of relationships, and how serving our local communities is so important to the continued growth of the church.
Shawn, tell us about your new book, The Platform: On & Off.
The Platform: On & Off is a tool for ANY and EVERYONE who facilitates worship in the local church community. In this book, we discuss both the spiritual and pragmatic aspects of facilitating worship, from dealing with multi-generational worship to practicing the Presence of God. Whether you are the pastor, worship leader, choir member, psalmist, praise team member, etc., this book will enhance your experience and challenge you to keep growing!
How can worship leaders use relationship building to increase their platform?
I think worship leaders must learn and always be aware that we are just one cog in the wheel. I get better at what I do by gleaning from and establishing great relationships with other worship leaders, church leaders, and those I serve with throughout the week. Life moves at the speed of relationships! It's the currency of the Kingdom.
What are some key areas of growth that the majority of worship leaders need to focus on?
I believe EVERY worship leader needs to focus on loving God more and loving people. We often do well with loving God and desire to grow in that aspect, but we neglect to love the people and grow in our love with them. We are servants who are put on platforms, and when we aren't careful, that can cause separation between us and those we are to serve. We can't be afraid to love (serve) them outside of our platform leading.
Why is serving local communities in worship so important today?
I feel that serving local communities is essential because it's biblical. If you look in Acts 1:8 there is a principle of influence displayed here. The disciples were going to be made influencers first at home, the next city over, then it continues to spread, but it starts at home first. I believe too often, many of us want to be international "celebrities" before ever taking the time to cultivate, learn, and grow locally. God has us placed where we are for a specific reason, and it starts in our local community.
What are some ways worship leaders can care for themselves as responsibilities grow?
Leaders should be leading to be replaced. As our responsibilities grow, so should dispersing the weight of it. One of the most significant ways to care for yourself is cultivating others around you and raising them up. Things aren't as heavy when others share the weight with you.
How can we be praying for you?
Thank you for even offering to pray for me. On top of releasing this book, my wife and I are having our first child so please pray for our growing family and us as first-time parents! We certainly need it! Thank you!
Kevin McNeese started NRT in 2002 and has worked in the industry since 1999 in one form or another. He has been a fan of Christian music since 1991.
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