How do you Know When It's Time to Leave a Church (Musician's Exodus Part I)

In the realm of gospel music, the church is often regarded as a sanctuary-a place where musicians find solace, community, and purpose. However, what happens when the very institution meant to nurture their talents becomes a source of abuse and oppression?
In this empowering video, we address a sensitive yet vital topic: the journey of gospel musicians navigating through abusive church environments. Drawing from personal experiences and testimonies, we provide guidance and encouragement for those who may find themselves trapped in toxic situations.
Join us as we dismantle the harmful misconceptions that bind musicians to abusive churches, and instead, champion the truth that it is not only acceptable but necessary to prioritize one's well-being and spiritual health.
Through heartfelt discussions and practical advice, we offer reassurance to gospel musicians facing the daunting decision of leaving their church. From the guilt of abandoning a familiar community to the fear of judgment and condemnation, we validate the struggles while offering a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
This video serves as a rallying cry for gospel musicians to reclaim their autonomy, dignity, and sense of purpose outside the confines of abusive environments. Together, let us embark on a journey of healing, restoration, and empowerment.
Join the conversation in the comments below and share your stories, struggles, and triumphs. Together, let's create a supportive community where gospel musicians can find the courage to break free and thrive.
#GospelMusic #AbusiveChurch #MusiciansEmpowerment #SpiritualHealth #HealingJourney #ChristianCommunity #gospelmusicians

[@1flat1sharp47]

I've been playing for free at church for almost 25 years. There's freedom in not getting paid, but just giving your gifts to the LORD.

[@nipzkcab]

You are Appreciated Bro.Thank You

[@JTFuller]

Facts..

[@tuneunleashed]

I’ve always been playing for the lord for free but not people.

[@heyheyhey40]

Good for you. That isn’t for everyone.

[@1flat1sharp47]

@@heyheyhey40 I wasn't speaking for everyone.

[@misterstratocaster]

I started learning to play guitar in 1980 with the sole purpose of doing it for God. Played in night church (special music) during the 80s; played in a band doing Christian rock & roll in the early 90s. I was part of the church's worship team when worship teams were getting popular beginning in 1996. We played on Sunday mornings with a full band of drums, bass, piano, & several singers with 200-250 in attendance on Sunday mornings. But through the years a number of issues built up, and it became time to go elsewhere. After some church shopping, we discerned that we were called to a small, rural church. Our worship team consists of a pianist, a vocalist, and I'm again the utility player on guitar, organ, and hand percussion for a congregation of about 40 on Sunday mornings. We like it here much better. I have the freedom to play guitar, organ, or whatever instrument I determine will make the music better. In all this time, I have never accepted a dime for playing music. With the band, we traveled well outside the local area and never charged money or accepted money when a church or group would offer it. Music is what I do because I want to...to serve Him with the talent and ability He has given me.

[@heyheyhey40]

Oh, I couldn’t play at a church with false prophets and manipulation coming from the pulpit…. My personal rule is that I’m not playing in a church unless I can also benefit from the teaching and I feel comfortable inviting people. After watching this video, I feel blessed that I have worked in churches with TRUE men of God that I love and respect.

[@Chilla81]

I haven’t played for a church in a full time setting since Covid, but I still play services on occasion, As a person who grew up in church and experienced just about everything mentioned here, I decided to only playing a Sunday service as a fill in (ONLY). I’m stress free from all of the church musician pressure, and I’ve made sharpening my skills as a musician my perspective instead of practicing only for a Sunday service and have grown tremendously, being that I’ve learned to love what I do and not what “I have to do” to get a church check. My health is better, I exercise more, my spiritual life is better, and I still love God and the church. When I go to church most times now I rather sit in the audience lol, and if I do end up playing, no I won’t be available next week😂.

[@jdiaz4877]

Yo that's great man!

[@jessicagreene8083]

I’m in the same boat. I hated playing for churches and left the church for a while because of that. Now, I play when I want to play. It’s liberating.

[@tuneunleashed]

Damn, I haven’t played in church since Covid it was the perfect time to leave due to the church being in lockdown at the time. Can’t believe it’s been 4 years.

[@karlkiarie2273]

Same boat for me too - playing once a month is enough if I ever get to play - if I don’t play then I get to worship God anyway with the congregation so I’m good 🙂

[@kennygsmooth83]

I feel like you've been spying on my life 😂 I stepped down from playing full time at church on 12/31/19. Covid hit soon after and I realized that was the best decision to make for myself and my family. I play for enjoyment rather than obligation...it makes a big difference.

[@ArthurRobinsonII]

I thank God for my Pastor. He’s the opposite of these troubles. He makes it known how much he appreciates me. He absolutely believes in taking care of his musicians with no manipulation.

[@moemax996]

Perfect perfect. Perfect timing. God did speak to my heart through you Minister Jamal. About 80% of what you said is what I'm going through. I'll continue to pray and seek God's direction. Bless you 🙏🏼

[@chibofred-vn5jz]

In several local churches in my country Nigeria, instrumentalists are not paid for serving. They're required to be constantly available. My son started playing since 12 for a decade, and left for menial job in the city. Then he has few clothes, mending and doing laundry early Sunday mornings. Praise God, he advanced with online courses. Am setting up home studio nearing completion for him. The fruit of labor and rewards in the Lord's vineyard ripen with time.

[@LivingHisWordDaily]

The images in the background were spot on as this video is 100% accurate for the many of us who’ve been there. The point you made about HR also resonated bc sometimes in certain churches, musicians can feel like there is no where to turn.. I haven’t played keyboard/organ for a church since 2018…Most of the reasons you gave for needing to leave are related to why I have moved on from playing for churches. And, yes I still attend church each Sunday, but now I’m at a different point in life. Let’s keep praying for musicians and pastors and this video is much needed. Great job brother.

[@GospelMusicians]

Thanks so much!

[@lesliwells5433]

I HAVE BEEN THERE,AT THAT CHURCH 20YRS.PASTOR ALL OVER THE NEWS USA WIDE,STAYED A WHOLE YEAR AFTER, THEN ,I LEFT,I AM GREATFUL,LISTENING TO APOSTLE GINO JENNINGS ON KZbin AND LEARNING MORE,IN FEW MONTHS,THEN AT A CHURCH 20YRS.❤

[@cwilson6365]

Man of God, Thank you for this video. I was once a musician in a church then left the worship team moved to tech, responsible for their streaming. I was pretty much a "one man band" at this point to say I was exhausted and underpaid is an understatement. I understand that the lead/head pastor of a church big or small also has to juggle a lot and wear many hats, my situation was a bit different from what you described where what funds I was receiving didn't even cover my gas for the month. needless to say after a lot of other stemming issues I had to leave. I felt guilty for doing so and after watching this video I feel that The Lord is directing me to a better spiritual home. May God bless you for what the Holy Spirit commanded you to say. It was the most informative 10 minutes and 5 seconds I have received. Peace and Blessings.

[@itsavibe1908]

This video came on time for me. Cause I’ve decided recently to leave my family church. My family don’t want to accept it or agree with it, But I recently became church hurt, So my mind is made up and I will find another church that God lays on my heart to be at.

[@thekidthatshoots]

As someone who worked in many churches in production and trained church volunteers. This goes for them as well. Message is spot on.

[@theladyproducer]

❤❤❤❤ Thank you sir. Been there done this!! Thank you for confirmation that I did the right thing!!! So, grateful for you!!! I have been able to move on and use my talent in other ways and my growth is humbling. Guess what? Me and Jesus are having a goodt time!!!

[@christheofilopoulos7810]

So powerful and a real message! Thank you my brother! I really needed this video..there are times I feel drained and wish I was more appreciated!

[@BNDepthGaming]

Man, I liked, subscribed, and shared all off this one video!!! Thanks man! I made my exodus to a better situation but thank you for helping others and confirming for me because we don't have a voice like this speaking on our behalf

[@GospelMusicians]

Thanks so much for the support for real! Sometimes we don't know if these videos are actually helping!

[@jcv3848]

My lawd, you are exactly correct. God has already spoken this in mine and im sure in others spirit. God really used you in this video because everything you said is spot on! Thank you for obeying and being the confirmation I needed and maybe others also. God Bless

[@Boombaptreetz]

If u live by faith the Lord will always provide not on your time but on time🙏💯

[@shardyshard22]

Amen

[@damoncombs4959]

Excellent video. I have had to do this a number of times. Sometimes it was for moral purposes. But God will provide if it comes down to my morals in Christ.

[@Altruwest]

Amazing message Jamal, glad you shared this wisdom.

[@jacey714]

Wow! This was one of the most true to life message I've heard in a long time.

[@iambrucej9486]

Man I needed this video. Been feeling drained at mine and with no urge to play anymore come Sunday mornings. I definitely need a few weeks off

[@ALTheFreeMan]

…..or a new church, lol..

[@iambrucej9486]

@@ALTheFreeMan yup praying on it lol

[@coolramone]

I hear ya. The preacher is .. OCD .. does not pay me, but pays himself, makes critical, controlling comments to me in front of the congregation. I’ve been doing this for over 25 years and practice for hours every week. Some Christians and ministers can be so critical and unappreciative. (Maybe I said too much here, but I’m the only one left in the praise band, and am praying for direction.) A Christian counselor told me it’s ok if I leave.

[@ALTheFreeMan]

@@coolramone You’re the only one left in the band??? Mannnn, sounds like it’s BEEN time to go!! What’s keeping you there, cause obviously it’s not the money???

[@nkz362]

Bless you for this big bro. I’ve been in this same situation for years and this year I prayed for the Holy Spirit to help me and He did. I’ve finally left and trust me there’s been such peace of mind and relief I’ve never felt in my life . I was prophesied to that I was gonna die and all that shit…believe me served God well and be in line with the word of God you’re good bro. I’ll advise any musician going through hard times in church, bro gather the courage and leave. Make sure to clear your back tho but regardless there will always be people who will have issues with you even though you’ve cleared your back and all that. Move on and grow. Learn new ways of making money with music.

[@JozeatTxb]

Very admirable Sir of you talking about this👏👏. it so happened for a long time that I was the only keyboardist around willing to play in any church in our community, and genuinely for free (applause everyone!!). Didnt need the money until dire circumstances (loss of work, marriage breakdown ,immigration woes,etc) soon found me dependent largely on freelancing. Tried to be part of a certain church, committed to playing for them for over 4 years for a weekly stipend (their own offer), but at key moments felt like only a hired hand, replacable, being used only when no option existed : indeed feeling like mere property - "You are obliged to play exclusively for us and no one else", and as often told "well we pay you" (@06:45 true) even when the pay couldnt go anywhere during an exceptional tough time. Among many other things that were decidely unchristian , in retrospect. I finally left the church when given an ultimatum, to play on one New Year's Day, even when I'd notified I needed the day off for spending privately with my own long-suffering family. I was "dismissed" publically in church the next Sunday, in my absence. Of course the devil has pervaded churches, I long forgave/never held any grudges as anyone including Pastors make mistakes under tthe enemy's influence. Just be aware when it is not going straight and leave, the Lord will always use you elsewhere. Rightly put: "let those who have ears... understanding. hear"

[@jdiaz4877]

I had this same experience a while back I learned that modern Churches glorifies music and diminish the Word, but we must be followers of Jesus first if the church doesn't have Jesus it's not a church!

[@whoisfredwillis]

I love this! This wisdom is needed and even some of us old heads that know what to do still struggle with leaving. I just went through this and the flip side of this conversation is that many times, God isn't only speaking to you. Many of us would be surprised that God is either leading us ahead of a change at the church that will blindside you and leave you without resources or He's coordinating the change at the church and the pastor may already be aware of it. When God speaks, it's best to listen. Take everything off the table (tenure, experience, influence, etc.) and just follow His lead. It's always for your best, in the end!

[@GospelMusicians]

Wow this was really good! Yep...many times God is removing you BEFORE the issues occur. I will address this in my next video.

[@chuckjefferson]

Jamal I truly appreciate you and what I’m convinced the Holy Spirit has delivered this unto you. Thank you so much -Chuck Jefferson

[@02WIFE]

Ill be retiring after 30 years of playing the organ in the church soon

[@ganz_solo]

Thank you, brother! Wish a had this encourage 14 years ago when I've made this decision. The part 2 Exodos is very important. Hope vid will come out soon and helps to thousands of people! Bless you!

[@davekpghpa]

No one gets paid to play in my little Church. And I don't think having to pay anyone to play should become necessary in a big Church. Our primary purpose is leading the people in the Church to praising and worshiping our Lord and Savior. That doesn't require near perfect performances. I play bass and do a reasonably good job and driving the rhythm and the underlying low tones but I'm no Sharay Reed. Same thing goes with our vocalists and the rest of our worship leaders. But I can tell you when I look out to our congregation, I see joy, strength, worship and praise and that's what it's all about. And none of my brothers and sisters at Church care that we're not spot on. In fact, they don't even notice when we make mistakes.

[@DevinShoulders]

Not every church is like that though. Some are far more heartless than that. I got more trust from people in the outside world than I’ve gotten in church sometimes which is wild lol

[@guitarandgospel]

I hear you, this professional church muso thing is kind of a new concept to me. It doesn't sit right with me somehow. I think they lost the plot mostly. We are not playing for anyone but unto the Lord. I often wonder what they are teaching in their Churches also; is it about money, status or what. Maybe there is a place for pros in some places I guess.

[@carlocharles31]

I played for a church for 12 years and didn’t get paid but I do believe we have to know our value so now I am compensated

[@Ezekio3160]

@@guitarandgospeldoesn’t that logic apply to pastors as well that they shouldn’t be paid and not put a price on the Lords work?

[@ChrisP3000x]

@@guitarandgospel How is a musician going to live if they don't get paid? They live under a bridge near the church? So no one that works at the church should get paid? Even janitors, landscapers, etc..?

[@noellynch7029]

This is so encouraging. There are times when church can become a toxic environment and to breathe some fresh air, one has to leave. My replacement on the keyboard is back, he left last year. God is good and sometimes needs to shift us to an assembly where we can be better used for His glory. Keep up the good work. There is a place when "speaking the truth in love" is the best option.

[@MezikeEllzy-or8sh]

I am so glad you brought that up. I played for mother Roswell since I was 19 years old. I started off playing bass guitar then converted to playing keyboards Oregon and piano. I never got paid because I was learning. She died when she was 96 years old, I ended up getting options of playing a different churches. I played a New Bread Ministry got offered to play at his tabernacle and other various churches my pastor put this inside of me mother Braswell just live it when I start seeing pastors bending mother Braswell was like a pillar. She did not bend later on. I went to go play for Jerusalem with a little old lady name, Pastor Wells, she was like mother Braswell and it wasn’t the check is about praise and worshiping the Lord I got paid every single week while I was at new Jerusalem, but the other churches I played for I would get paid one week skip two payments. I wouldn’t say a word and I felt the pastor in those particular churches was playing games with me. I even lowered my payment just as long as you give me gas money to get to church and back home that would be fine. I ended up going back to mother Wells church might not get paid that much but I put my money up every single week to save up for instruments that I enjoy for the other churches I would not ever go back to play with them no way too much of a headache.

[@user-xc6su5sf4x]

Jamal, This is Scott Fortune, checking in on this heartfelt powerful passionate and real message. Thanks for keeping this real.

[@autumnjohnson2127]

I went through some of the things you talked about in this video. I was playing Bass at a Church where the Pastor was not right , I was not getting anything from his preaching + other drama was happening. I stopped going to that Church and found another one and I feel way better and the Word is really preached where I go now. I just subscribed to your channel.

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

I get it brother, but I understand WHY I play and WHO I'm playing for. Money is SECONDARY. I HAVE A GOOD JOB.When one leaves a church, you'd BEST PRAY AND ASK GOD FOR WISDOM TO MAKE YOUR DECISION......UNDERSTAND you wil give account for ANY decisions you make. Peace ✌️

[@j2skillful]

I can relate to so much of this. I'm in a healthy situation now, but I've experienced much of what you spoke of before, and know of others that have. Membership makes it even more difficult (I think). I've never (regularly) played at a church that I wasn't a member of. So, more than money, being a faithful and supportive member kept me there longer than I should have been there.

[@damianwalters3479]

God bless you Jamal continue to help us church musicians ❤

[@simbaking6338]

If I could press thumbs up 10 more times.....Its like u speaking to me...U speaking facts bro!!!

[@demonj5dj]

Well said man! Well said!

[@KTroy24]

Ballsy, I grew up playing in the 90s and you are spot on. Glad I left my toxic church, soooooo manipulative even when asking for a week off

[@philly440]

Man you said everything I'm dealing with to a "T"

[@CEDIIMusicMinistry]

Wow... this is interesting.

[@jnr121919]

Word preached and received!

[@rockkstah2550]

I didn’t grow up in church, it was later in my 20’s when I started playing in churches. There’s a saying in the rock and roll world back in my BC days, “Don’t quit your day job” From what I’ve seen in churches due to abuse, is that all musicians should just be volunteers unpaid and have a real good day job so one can leave without being guilt trip by leadership in churches I’ve seen all the good and bad in worship teams, it’s sad and it happens. Be GOD JESUS focus and His people second and be always on alert from words coming out from you and from others.

[@davekpghpa]

Amen to that. My Church is all volunteer on the worship team. I wouldn't take a dime for what I do there. The way I see it is that God had me in training all my life as an agnostic playing secular Jazz and Rock. After being born again, I feel like I'm finally putting the talent God gave me to it's proper use and I don't take that for granted for one second. What an absolute honor it is to help lead praise and worship. And on a musical perspective... I'm in my late 50's and the transition from progressive jazz and southern rock to old school gospel has been such a wonderful challenge. Gospel is just so musically rich!

[@rodneyharper2275]

Great job 👍

[@megadrumhead]

Man!!! This really hit for me…

[@shardyshard22]

Wow this is good

[@A2daj954]

Man this help me my brother thanks 🙏🏽

[@prsticks74]

Very good brother .So true .

[@NUANCEZONRISE]

The Lord will always give u the revelation on where and where not to be, when u are consistently in relationship with Him. To fast and pray regularly as a musician is something that should always be done to connect u to the right church home, and those that are moving not by might nor power, but only by God's Spirit. It is a gift to be from God to be a musician in the body of Christ. I pray that all of u will seek God daily as to who He has called u to be as a leader in worship to His people and to be led of Him and not of the flesh in any manner. It's time to be all in, and keep seeking Christ.

[@dbfarr]

this video came @ the perfect time.

[@KevinBrightman]

Awesome video. Been in so many situations. These are great discussions. Would love to hear your thoughts on choir members claiming to be dedicated and make excuses for everything. Especially when you give songs in advance and they don’t take time learn them. Then wonder why we sing the same songs.

[@henryyoung2116]

Definitely right on time!!!

[@ProcessedDigitally]

seconded

[@calvinwilds46]

I'm really lucky I'm at a great church with a great pastor but this brother is spot on I've been in terrible situation you see the behind the scenes things

[@ajmarc1]

This was very informativ.,Thank you..

[@soultonemike4561]

Man this is spot on anyone that hates on this is the problem definitely sharing

[@NavCom209]

What Christians forget is that you got to test the spirit by the spirit (what's written in the bible). I must say this video is for everyone that loves the truth....the present day church is being shaken to its core because church is not what Jesus meant for it to be....its all performance, money, sex, and in some cases smoking weed before the sermon come forth...i am a musician for 36 years, a Minister, book writer, amoung other things...but i never sort recognition and God is blessing me tremendously, i said that to say "GO BACK TO YOUR FIRST LOVE, WHEN YOU FIRST MET THE SAVIOR ," JESUS CHRIST"

[@matthewcummings6593]

I’ve been there it takes courage to move on. God will lead you

[@GeeQue03]

Yoooo!!! This was needed

[@sebastianchristopher9461]

Appreciate this video brother because any musician who clicked on this link...know it's time to leave. I will add a few things to this video for when a musician should leave a church and they are: 1. When a musician is constantly being disrespected by the Pastor, leaders and members of the praise team 2. When a musician has been at the church for 1 year or more and doesn't receive public recognition or appreciation by the Pastor, music ministry or church members for their contribution and dedication. 3. When you've been at a church for more than 1 year and church members ask you your name. 4. When musician is underpaid or stuck at the same salary for years and never receives a pay increase.

[@jesus-is-lordpillars-of-fi7301]

Amen brother you’re 100% right I agree I heard it many times if you leave this church, you’re not covered by our grace, you’re under a curse but that is a liar because my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ of Nazareth paid it all on the cross of Calvary, when he said it is finished hallelujah… JESUS IS LORD

[@iceygaming5626]

Been playing without pay for almost 3 years. It’s sometimes hard knowing that you could get compensation for your skills. Really at the crossroads at the moment.

[@MyJackel13]

Wise man

[@ALTheFreeMan]

Alotta musicians may need to find regular jobs so they’re not forced to play for churches they don’t like. When I first started playing at this church, I didn’t really need the money, but, I’m now at a place where I need it, and I don’t like that I do.

[@DevinShoulders]

Yeah it depends if the church is thankful to have you as well. I would not play for a church for free because when you do they act like you’re good and SHOULD be paid, and when they start paying you they act like you should make no mistakes because you’re getting paid 😂 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@thisistheway7873]

Great video

[@jessicagreene8083]

A couple of things: 1) This is a Word not only for musicians, but also those suffering from being self-centered. People can make things about themselves when it is not. 2) Whoever is going through this now, please leave. The money might be good, but it is not worth your well being or soul. Im praying for you.

[@jonathanw8461]

Man I’ve given so much of my literal blood, sweat and tears just to go through divorce and the same church basically shun me and my wife. I was suicidal and couldn’t find a place of refuge. Pastors just kept pimping my gift. When I needed to be surrounded by those that said they love me and I’ve given my gift “my love” back to God in efforts to encourage his saints, they spiritual spit on me. It’s crazy because I wouldn’t even have some of the connections to some of the leaders of I wasn’t a musician. I feel bad for the average Christain that comes to church and has no specific gift to serve with, people probably don’t even know they left.

[@juansantiagomusic5551]

Whew where was this video 10 years ago? Great topic 🙏🏽

[@dazzarg5]

Wow. This is so alien to me! I guess our church culture is so different. No one gets paid. I play for the church I grew up in. I cannot even imagine a church pastor almost blackmailing someone to say. Is that a consequence of getting paid like it’s your job? It’s like being stuck in the wrong job but you can’t leave because it’s family!

[@ARCODEMUSIC]

This is very true!!!!

[@JimRockfordFiles]

On time word. Naysayers all around but God is in this. It’s never too late for a local church to change. Remember, you don’t pick your church you pick your pastor. Don’t let fear stop your moving as Jesus (the great Shepherd) leads you to. Be free! Plan your way out. If you have to Uber or Lyft, set it all up, God will provide. You need to be free from toxicity. See Galatians 5:1 (NIV).

[@ChicoBlack]

Jamal Hartwell Gob bless My Good friend Thank you For sharing ^ Producer Chico Black

[@TheNickLavender]

@8:56 I totally agree with you!

[@slickcross]

Wow,this came at the right time. Just had a meeting with my pastor and his wife....and she was running the whole meeting. She is a bitter old lady that does not like me. Im done.

[@GospelMusicians]

Make sure if you leave, that you leave in forgiveness. I know the feeling all too well. May God lead you.

[@abhishekdaniel126]

You are damn right…❤

[@RichBrand]

Even if you're not a musician, this is a word for ANYONE who feels like their church is no longer a hospital for sinners. Churches like what brother Jamal is speaking on here is why there's a decline in not only church attendance, but salvation within ANY of the Abrahamic religions, let alone the body of Christ (notice I didn't say Christianity because the loudest voices in Christianity are not reflective of what Christ wanted for us, but I digress).

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

Brother, people leave because they CHOOSE TO.

[@darelet]

Your statement implies there can be salvation within other "Abrahamic religions" aside from Christianity.. Your statement exposes some cracks that speak to the need for reevaluation of your doctrine

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

@@darelet who's this?

[@adoptmefand8054]

No lies told! When you get that 2nd hot bad check it’s time to go. Jamal is 💯 correct. 20 years of foolishness unfortunately. COVD-19 was my last year of playing for black churches.

[@GarciaM1968]

Ask the Pastor to write you a "to whom it may concern" referral letter acknowledging your service at the Church before any mention of leaving. This letter or the refusal to provide such will confirm whether you need to go.

[@larriveeman]

It time to leave when unbiblical doctrine is taught, which occur in many churches

[@DavidRosario69]

The expression that pastors and leaders hide behind when they don't want to listen or change is "No matter what church you go to, there will be problems." My response is "All churches may have problems, but they don't all handle them the same way." When things are swept under the rug for optics, problems are ignored, or there is no integrity, it's time to go. Jeremiah called out corruption at all levels (6:13). God isn't looking for perfection; he's looking for integrity.

[@marcuswilliams5980]

Yep.

[@njm2557]

The issue with mine is that my wife and I feel forgotten about and left out. It seems like I’m just seen as the keys player and not as an actual member. When I came to the church I was looking for an actual church not just somewhere to play. This church just happened to need a keys player. The other musicians are not members and play at other churches so they’re at my church once a month at best. It’s frustrating and I’m about ready to move on from it.

[@Davidrodriguez-sd6st]

My situation is a little different, at my church we have the truth of the word and the doctrine that is said is biblical, but we severely lack in the music and there is absolutely zero effort to make a better sounding offering. I personally feel ive hit a plateau musically and I don’t feel like there’s any more room for improvement in my ministry and it also effects my spiritual life. If any of you have felt with this or anything similar words of wisdom would be appreciated 😪

[@RockyTop85]

I don’t understand this getting paid. I started playing drums at 13 and I have been playing in church since I was about 15 and I’m almost 39. I can’t tell you how many churches I’ve seen pay musicians who aren’t even Christians. It is a dangerously slippery slope. I’ll never understand getting paid to lead people in worship when you aren’t the leader…

[@TresWinn]

I grew up leading worship and had up until about a year ago. It's no longer about Jesus. it's about the business, the best product. I had someone tell me, "of course we want you on staff! You're a tall, white guy, who is gifted!" I quit playing in the church cause of these things.

[@doeshecare]

Tell it………. ❤

[@samlyrix]

💯✊🏾

[@MotifBeatz]

Bro…are you aging backwards?! 😂💪🏾

[@sebastianchristopher9461]

When leaving, never put in an advance notice. Get your last check, quit on the spot and never go back. At one church, I put in an advance notice for leaving at the end of the month. They let me go the following Sunday. That advance notice gave them time to find my replacement within a week. They replaced me before my my term was up and I was out of a few checks for the remaining of the month.

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

Not good

[@DevinShoulders]

Yeah churches will do you dirty no matter how much you’ve sewn into them. I’m glad you posted this because I was going to let them know but now I’m not sure if I want to do that…

[@sebastianchristopher9461]

I never gave churches an advance notice and always left when I needed to. The first time I gave a church an advance notice, they were able to take immediate action looking for my replacement and found it.

[@frederickweeksjr.1189]

@sebastianchristopher9461 that's the point. The world 🌎 DOES NOT revolve around you. Too much entitlement in musicians. Remember GOD gave you the gift brother 🙏

[@DevinShoulders]

@@frederickweeksjr.1189 That’s not always how it happens though. Churches will take advantage of your gift and not care about you at all. They’ll also praise musicians who have put in far less effort. Most of us aren’t arrogant we’re just underappreciated or even used

[@dontracy8924]

Wtw!!! What about doing a work for the Lord … getting a check ? Smh can’t believe you said that … what happened to going to church for church and praising God 🤔💭

[@spitzer1113]

I would venture to say this could be for any position in the church. It might be magnified more on the musician side, but I've seen it across the board. Telling someone they are sacrificing their child to the devil by letting them play baseball (that occasionally might play on a Sunday) is a terrible thing and is not biblical.

[@derekwalker8114]

It’s so ironic that you put this up because my daughter and I are about to stop playing at a church. The musicianship is great but absolutely not commitment by the members. I recently got engaged and moved. Because of the distance, the math ain’t mathing for me. My daughter checked out long ago and only comes because I’m still there. I’m loosing money by staying there because of my regular job. I will miss the Sunday dinners after church because they really know how to cook 😂😂😂😂…

[@allenm]

Preach! not there for the admin

[@giantslayerstudios4113]

"I hate that I need you"....wow.

[@GospelMusicians]

That's so real right?

[@giantslayerstudios4113]

@@GospelMusicians my brother that hits home!

[@MizJustice]

I support this message but many labor in the church working longing hours during the week but never see a dime. Why is the church musician exalted with pay but not others faithfully laboring? Isn't this a respecter of persons?

[@GospelMusicians]

Got a video coming out on this.

[@tonychapman6591]

I’ve been there..

[@SHADOWFOX1464]

Jamal I have watched you from you inception back when you were in Florida and even when you came to Texas. I have played in church since the age of 10 and I promise you I have stood toe to toe with pastors even left in the middle of service and have not returned because of a pastor telling me “God said” xyz, and me knowing that none of it is true. Here’s where I stand, the spirit of God never comes to bring bad news. I like the way the late Bishop GE Patterson put it, “The Holy Spirit brings words in three ways, 1. Assignment, 2. Worship 3. Comfort. I can’t even tell you how many churches I have literally walked out of because I couldn’t feel God at all. The reality is Church isn’t important to people like it use to be, Covid revealed that not everyone is as saved as they let on to believe. That’s to say that not everyone has the same commitment to the call of Christ. Paul said the race isn’t given to the swift or to the strong, but to those that endure to the end,” The gift and the calling on a musicians life doesn’t stop just because you change the body of believers. I could go on, but the reality is some musicians are financially dependent on a ministry and it’s killing them spiritually because they are again like Paul said torn between two. I appreciate these conversations and those that don’t can’t understand the reality or the pressure of this situation.

[@azranger8408]

Not always finances! The pastor we had actually called gospel musicians hypocritical because they are like the Scribe standing on the public corner praying how he is better than everyone else. He says we are showoffs like the tenor that sings the high notes or the bass that reaches the low notes we need to stay in the middle range and not be "showoffs". I'm sorry but when the music is written down to C-1 or A-0 I'm going to sing it, or my wife when the music is written to a G-5, she is going to sing it. You have an issue if you are giving a person a hard time for using the talents God has given!!

[@christianboddum8783]

Your first job is the function of your family, then all the other stuff can get in line. Your first obligation is your family, church can't get above it. It's a godly thing.

[@JesusIsRealJ1247]

Salvation can never be lost. For it is not a "privilege" but a "gift" and a free one at that. Privileges can be taken away/back. Gifts always remain for the taking for the receiver of them. The moment you believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. You receive instantly born of the holy spirit, and have nothing to be afraid of here on out. For no man can pluck anyone from the fathers hand, not even Lucifer the devil. For the believer is the church, and where 2 or more gather in his name. There is a body of the church. I ask people this question, who have at least once truly read the perfect Word, KJV. If Jesus was with you today, and gave you a single choice ultimatum between 2 options. Which do you believe he would rather you choose to do? A.) Stop sinning forever? B.) Believe on him, and trust in what he will do for you? Hands down, Jesus only cares about (B) and that you live with all thine heart in (B). For he took care of (A) for every-single-one-of-us. Praise King Jesus! Amen.

[@CreaTiVVDz]

Firstly, Leaving the Body of Christ is an unsafe choice.(since a church is not a building) Secondly, leaving a location due to family reasons: isolation, discourse, or willfull disruption(s) of relationships or of financial expenses, or even safety, is obviously a must if there are other peaceful choices, or a more amicable people to be around. Third. If you are not appreciated where you go, try to look for where you are, and nicely transition on behalf of yourself and/or your family Fourth. If you ARE ONLY there for the money and the money or communication ain't what you agreed on Bounce in the wisest way possible. Fifth. If you are NOT there for the MONEY and things are not communicated to in decency or in order or you TRULY (not hearsay) witness things willfully or consistently not being communicated or conducted with care. Do Not Hesitate to leave that Location BUT leaving Jesus is NEVER an option for believers, because he will never leave YOU. ☝🏽🥂All Love