I can't think of a better way to prepare than attending a conference to be refreshed, instructed and encouraged by meeting fellow church musicians. So, I'll tell you some brief highlights of my time at the Billy Graham Training Center.

I hope you enjoy this month's issue.

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Church Musician Jobs Updates

Training Resources

Summer is a great time to take some training.   Whether it's a new skill, like songwriting, or one you would like to take to the next level, using the internet can really simplify your learning. Remember when about your only alternative to learning more about any area of music meant taking private lessons, or taking a night class at a the community college? Sometimes what works far better is if you can learn on your own schedule, and at your own pace.

What if you need to spend a little more help me on a concept that the rest of the class breezed through? That's where internet classes can really help. They give you the ability to be the driver - not the teacher, or the professional who is just auditing the class.

I found a site I really like and recommend every chance I get.   You won't have to spend a fortune and for most of the courses you will also get a book to keep.

If you happen to be a teacher, you might want to consider using this resource to supplement your regular curriculum.

MusicianUniversity.com Songwriting Courses
MusicianUniversity.com Piano Courses
MusicianUniversity.com Guitar Courses
MusicianUniversity.com Bass Guitar Courses
MusicianUniversity.com Drums Courses
MusicianUniversity.com Singing Courses

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Featured Article

Last month I had the privilege of attending the best worship conference of my life. It was held at the Billy Graham Training Center in Asheville, NC and featured the music and teaching of Darlene Zschech.

June 16-18, 2005, were the dates for "Fully Devoted to Jesus". The first night was Thursday and 500 lead worshipers, senior pastors gathered to hear Darlene teach on Inside Out Worship. When you want to be used by God, he always starts by changing you first. Sometimes we wonder what is going on, but He is only answering our prayer.

Worship is the union of humanity and eternity. It answers the longing of our hearts and God's heart.

Worship is not an event; it's a stance. It implies we are the same on and off stage. It's a way of life. It comes from revelation, from knowing who Jesus is and not holding back.

Like Abraham did not hold back Isaac, we too must not hold back our dearest possessions, if we are to worship in truth.

2 Samuel 22 - like David, say "no" to the cheap sacrifice. Don't give to God that which costs you nothing. Oh that our seen and unseen lives would match. Don't settle for a weekend understanding - be saying "more of You".

Lead worshipers must be thankful - if not, worship is reduced to songs, only music. Music is exclusive - worship is inclusive. Music is for the talented, the beautiful or the very lucky. Worship is for every man, woman, boy and girl. Every tribe and tongue, every nation and culture. Worship is like a yearning built into every person longing to find home.

Friday morning we heard about the characteristics of a worshipping church. Starting with team and overflowing to the church.

Consecration - teach what is holy - It's sovereign - it's not a gig. Consecration is a journey.

Commitment - to love what God loves - to bring your finest. Be committed to Christ, to His word, to obedience, to be on time, to be prepared. God will never be glorified higher than our roots are deep. Do you have deep roots?

Unity - one heart, one mind, great power. Acts 4 - the church shared their possessions, they were united, great power was evidenced among them all. Beware of little foxes - fight for unity, yes fight for unity. It's costly, but assures great power.

In wrapping this up, I'd like to say one of the best parts of the conference was that each participant was assigned to a small group. This was fantastic, not only for the comradery, but also a wonderful way to bear each other's burdens and help each solve problems. Of course, this resulted in many people making new commitments to keep serving. The song of Heaven is so big, what a generous and gracious God we have to let us play our one little measure in His song.

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Until next month, may grace and peace be yours,
Jim Snedeker
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