Lay Down Your Harp and Lead

"27 But God chose what the world thinks foolish to shame the wise, and God chose what the world thinks weak to shame the strong. 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, what is regarded as nothing, to set aside what is regarded as something, 29 so that no one can boast in his presence. 30 He is the reason you have a relationship with Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31

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The bass guitar has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I've been playing for basically half my life and some would say, and I wouldn't argue, that it is a dominant portion of what defines "me."

Through music I have been blessed to meet some amazing people, some of whom I call dear friends. I've ministered to the lives and hearts of many, travelled the united states, ministered inside the heart of a major woman's correctional facility, recorded albums, won honorable mention for a Billboard song writing award and more because of this gift.

I'm grateful, but it's time to move on.

In my current season of life, one of the men of the Bible who I've gravitated to is David. David was a shepherd boy who grew up in obscurity and was oftentimes overlooked for his physical statue and humility but would one day become one of the greatest kings of all time. He stands out because of our similarities. He too played his harp faithfully before the king and had the ability not only to groove but to soothe. David played in the kings court but little did he know that he would become one.

But that would require sacrifice.

One of the cool things about being in the presence of a king is that you pick up kingdom minded thinking. My bass playing has allowed me to sit under great biblical teaching and other kingdom minded things that I wouldn't have gotten without it. In me playing bass for God and David playing harp for Saul, we've learned kingdom leadership. But just like with David, I've realized that elevation for me might only come by laying my harp down.

New identities.

In laying my bass down effective at the end of March, I realize that I will be taking on a new identity that may not look like the old. But sometimes that's needed to grow. Comfort here on Earth to most people means living a defined niche. You may have always been known as "the [insert thing you do really well or that people admire about you] guy" to your friends so comfort is in keeping that life up even though it might not be your true calling. Who you've always been isn't necessarily who you will always be meant to be.

The next chapter.

In closing, I just want to encourage you to examine your heart and find not only where God is leading you but also where He isn't. It's a sign of disobedience to continue to operate in a mindset or skill set that God no longer wants for your life. Don't feel like you have to be ashamed about God reinventing your life and reassigning you. It will lead you closer to your purpose.

Don't be afraid to lay down your harp in order to pick up your crown.