Autopilot

The psalms encourage us to “sing a new song to the Lord.” As a worship leader, I’ve often cited Psalm 96 before introducing a new song to my congregation. Many of you probably have too. 

I often introduce new songs to my congregation because I like the song, or it fits with a message series, or I think it’s something my congregation needs. Or if I'm honest, sometimes it’s because I’m bored with the songs we’ve been singing.

God doesn’t get tired of our songs though. We know this because Revelation 4 tells us angels are forever shouting “holy holy holy!” And I'm not sure God cares that I like the song, or that it fits with a message series. 

So why do the psalms task us with finding something new to sing?

I think the reason is more for us than for God. We need to sing new songs because we so easily go on autopilot. A pastor I know often quotes a study that says once you sing a song 30 times, you stop hearing the words. You're just singing. You're going through the motions. You're on autopilot. I know when I'm leading worship I’m thinking of just about everything other than the words I’m singing. Autopilot. 

We need new words to sing to God because we can’t worship Him on autopilot. We need new words to express our awe. We need new words to express our adoration.

Pay attention to what you’re singing. Pay attention to the words your leading your congregation in singing. Try singing a new song. Turn off autopilot!

What do you think? What helps you turn off autopilot?