It seems to me that skills that are not honed in a crucible of humility can easily become all about "me" instead of God.

It seems the temptation to look down on others would be strong.

Part of me wants to say "how would I know" -- cuz when it comes to leading worship via song, I'm one of those asked because of my spirit and not my talent.

Depending on yourself instead of God is the trial of all men, talented or not. Those of us less talented are every bit as in need of remembering "who" this is all for as anyone else.

If I were talented, my prayer before leading would bee the same. Lord let me glorify you and may I lead the congregation to worship you in a way that brings you joy.

Lee

Unfortunately, when I read your question, three specific people popped into my head as my least favorite song leaders, not because they are not talented, but because their arrogance is so nauseating, I cringe when they get up to lead. It actually detracts from the worship experience to watch a man 'showboat' his "Look at me, I can sing so well" attitude on stage, like some kind of diva. And, to be honest, I have found myself fighting the sin of disdain for these individuals in a moment when I should have been focused on praising my God. It's like they are competing for the praise.
I think this carries over to anyone who leads....It is crucial to remember that we are the planters, not the rainmakers.

First, I would agree that having outstanding skills automatically can make one be disatisfied with others who may not have those skills.
It should be up to that one to recognize that temptation then adjust that attitude and/or train others to improve their skills. Be a part of
the solution not the problem.
Second, by having other exceptional skills, one may also try to adhere to technically higher standards. Thereby losing sight of the
bigger picture for whom those skills are being used. For worship of God and for leading others there. One needs to recognize that
certain exceptional skills may not be needed to take others to that special place.
Gary

Despite some exceptions, I have found it difficult to judge my own value or talent accurately. So, I think it is necessary that we look outside of ourselved to understand our talents and their value to those around us. Unfortunately, the tendency is to base our own value on what people tell us rather than God, so pride begins to puff us up. I think this question specifically addresses how we filter the praise or criticism we receive with what we understand to be true from God. I've found I can rarely trust comments that either put me on a pedistal or thow me in a pit. Though it feels good to be praised for something, I have to filter it very carefully. I most closely heed the praise or criticism of those who know me best and have my best interest at heart.

I recall one congregaton where the song leader had such a beautiful, operatic quality voice tht practically all the songs were soloes! The congregation mostly listened to him. Then after services, you would hear people commenting about how "our singing" was so beautiful.
Sherrod Lee

This is one reason i don't clap for people when they sing a special song during service. I don't want them to think i'm praising them for their talents. We have to individually all remember that our talens are from the Lord and ultimately to and for the Lord, and we ought not to give ourself praise for them, but Him instead.

tim magill
kansas city, ks

Tim, I understand the point you are making, and I agree with it to a point. All of the praise is for God...none is for us.

However, if I am willing to clap when a speaker makes a good point, and my clapping is because I agree with what they said or because I am praising God for the truth that they presented (and presented well...by humor or whatever), then why would I not be willing to do the same for a message that was sung? Even if a part of my response is praising the talent of the presenter, I still recognize that talent came from God, so I my praise is truly for the God who blessed the presenter.

Sure, in either case an "immature" presenter could possibly confuse my clapping as merely praising them, but that shouldn't hold me back from praising God for His work through them.

I appreciate your comments and agree we must learn to give and receive praise appropriately (maturely) since both extremes are dangerous. Not mindfully acknowledging and encouraging the development of God-given talents for His use neglecting part of our calling. It is out of line as much as elevating someone above God and giving undue credit for his/her talents. Unfortunately, too many talents lie unused or undeveloped due to lack of encouragement and praise that what they have to offer is beneficial to others.

Like any other talent that God has ordained, or any other beautiful thing God puts on this earth, Satan has a way of turning those things into negatives. If a foothold to Satan is given, man will always, always, always fail in his pursuit of bringing Godly aspects of his life to all of God's children.

The recognition that Satan will Judo pull you into oblivion, and take as many as he can with your downfall needs to be a reality that is on every Christians mind and heart. Not to despair because "greater is he who is within you", but simply to not let the foothold of pride be available.

Memo for me to understand: my talents are God given, my abilities are for his glory only. And the moment that I am beginning to be sustained by complements, pride, or anything other than God's approval is a moment that I am moving away from helping others enter into God's presence and moving toward hindering their entrance into that same pressence.

We must remember that we are the messenger and not the message. I am stealing this quote from Robert Shaw as it holds true to those with great talent. It is important that we use our talents wisely to unify and build up one another as well as glorify God. It's easy though to become conceited with lots of praise! After services when I am thanked for the song service and my talent, I am quick to thank them for theirs! My ability for one part of the body is no more important than any other part of the body! Remember to always thank people not for their abilities that God gave them, but to say thankyou for letting God work through them. (and yes I have completely left the question :)