The Walk: Devotionals for Worshippers Worship Leader

The Spiritual Genesis of Lucy Grimble

In a delightful and insightful episode of The Walk Podcast, Lucy Grimble, a gifted U.K.-based worship artist, sits down with Joshua Swanson, the sagacious Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine. Together, they unveil the tapestry of Lucy's spiritual journey, intertwined delicately with the rich heritage of Anglican worship and the profound, transformative encounter with the Toronto Blessing.

Lucy’s narrative begins in the quiet suburbs of London, within the venerable walls of a Victorian Anglican church, where the unsuspecting formality was lovingly interrupted by a divine wind — the Spirit's touch. It was in these tender years that Lucy encountered the tangible reality of God's presence, shaping her path and beckoning her into a commitment to Christ — a decision uniquely her own, stepping beyond familial faith.

The Heart of Authentic Worship

As we eavesdrop on their conversation, Lucy's artistic voyage surfaces as one marked by authenticity. Her songwriting, a sanctuary of honest dialogue with God, resounds with the depth of psalms and the rawness of personal pilgrimage. She shares the emergence of her craft amidst faith's awakening, melding the two in a harmonious expression of devotion.

Diversity and Desire: The Church in London

Swanson probes the landscape of Lucy's context, the Anglican communion in London, rich with diversity and a universal thirst for the Spirit's outpouring. Lucy’s experiences across the ecclesiastical spectrum — from high church ceremonies to Pentecostal vigor — bear witness to a collective desire for God’s transformative work in society.

Artistic Integrity in the Shadow of Industry

Amidst the richness of their dialogue, Lucy recounts the challenge of nurturing creativity in an environment divergent from the commercial hub of Nashville's Christian Contemporary Music scene. With integrity and a desire to preserve the freedom of her artistic voice, Lucy embraces her roots in the U.K., savoring the earnest purity found in the fellowship of local artists.

The Birth of a Testimony Through Melody

The podcast glides into the reflective tones of Lucy’s latest album, a contemplative project birthed from the crucible of pandemic-driven despair. Here, in the tension between darkness and light, she finds a canvas for her testimony, painting with the hues of endurance and the brushstrokes of divine faithfulness.

A Word of Encouragement to Worship Leaders

For fellow worship leaders, Lucy imparts a resonant encouragement: the intrinsic worth of pursuing the beauty of the Lord, the enduring anchor of our soul's adoration. Her words, steeped in wisdom, beckon us to seek renewed revelation of Christ's splendor.

Lucy Grimble's story, shared with humility and vibrance on The Walk Podcast, is a beckoning call to encounter grace in the unlikely — to see God's spirit move in unexpected places and to sing a new song, one that resonates through the formal aisles of tradition and into the vibrant streets of contemporary life.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:


https://lucygrimble.com/
https://www.planningcenter.com/
https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Lucy Grimble?

In the heart of London, UK, stands Lucy Grimble, a worship leader and songwriter whose decade-long tenure has been marked by an unyielding commitment to crafting spaces of divine love and unity through music. With over ten years of experience, Lucy has honed her art as a solo performer and as the linchpin of a band of adept musicians and vocalists. Her music transcends m

In this episode of “The Walk” podcast, Joshua Swanson, our esteemed Editor-in-Chief, engaged in a profound dialogue with the artist and worship leader Mac Powell, whose seasoned wisdom shines through the tenure of his journey in Christian music. 

Powell, with grace akin to the silver strands in his beard, reflects on his newfound role as an elder statesman in the industry. He fondly recalls the influence of stalwarts like Michael W. Smith and Stephen Curtis Chapman, now passing the baton as a mentor to the newer generation of artists. 

Divine Redirection in a Time of Global Pause

Amidst the unforeseen global pause brought by COVID-19, Powell found a divine redirection of his path— from touring to becoming an artist in residence at a local church in Atlanta, joining hands with Dr. Michael Youssef.

This transition unearthed treasures of fellowship and community, contrasting the transient connections of touring life. As a solo artist and a worship leader, he basks in the continuity of nurturing relationships within the body of Christ. 

Humility and the Fame Conundrum

His humility, a byproduct of his faith and family life, repudiates any notion of fame going to his head. Powell shares how the acknowledgment of not being "good enough" serves not as a defeat but a testament to Christ's sufficiency.

Confronting Lies with Gospel Truth

In his battle against the lies of inadequacy, Powell holds onto the gospel truth that his value and capabilities are firmly rooted in Jesus Christ. His fervent prayers and walks symbolize an ongoing pursuit of closeness with the Savior, an honest reflection of his dependency on God for every breath.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Powell's insights into mentoring the younger generation reveal his excitement for the fresh voices rising in the Christian music space. He observes the vibrant faith of youth, their growth, and their commitment, which bodes well for the future of worship. 

The Indispensable Church

Addressing concerns about the relevance of church for young people, Powell articulates the foundational Christian doctrine of communal worship—pointing to the scriptural mandate not to forsake gathering as believers. He sees the church as an irreplaceable forum for mutual edification and spiritual growth.

Personal Goals and Spiritual Leadership

As a leader in the worship music domain, Powell's goals remain steadfast: deepening his faith and understanding of Scripture, a journey inspired by his wife's dedication to studying the New Testament. His focus on personal spiritual growth aligns with his mission in ministry and music.

Music's Role in Spiritual Warfare

Speaking on spiritual warfare, Powell acknowledges its reality, emphasizing the vital role of music in the spiritual battle. He references scriptural instances where music and worship played pivotal roles in God's plan, and shares his own practice of incorporating hymns into worship, a tribute to the rich theological heritage they carry.

Family Ties in Ministry

Finally, Powell expresses the joy of touring with his family, where his children occasionally accompany him as part of his band, underscoring the intertwining of his faith and family life in his ministry.

As Powell left with a Chick-fil-A-inspired "my pleasure," we too are left with nourishment—but of the soul, fed by the earnest testament of a life devoted to worship, humility, and the stewardship of Christ's legacy in music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:


https://www.macpowell.com/
https://www.planningcenter.com/
https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts

The Transformative Power of Scriptural Songwriting

Aaron Shust, a prominent voice in Christian music, offers an enlightening perspective on the role of Scripture in songwriting. His creative process, deeply anchored in biblical texts, transcends the mere composition of music. It is an act of faith, believing that the Word of God, when melded with melody, will accomplish its divine purposes in the hearts of listeners. Shust's commitment to this principle is particularly evident in his work with psalms, where he crafts musical expressions that resonate with both familiarity and spiritual profundity. His approach is not about creating from a deity's perspective but embodying the worshipper's voice, akin to David's psalms. As he quotes Jesus in Matthew 11, Shust underscores the inherent power of divine words that work beyond human capacity to inspire or evoke emotion.

A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Worship

Shust's pilgrimage to Israel in 2016 was transformative, deepening his understanding of biblical events and their present reality. He recounts how walking in the footsteps of Jesus across the historic landscapes of Israel imprinted on him a profound sense of the Scriptures' authenticity and the enduring significance of these sacred sites. This experience not only enriched his personal faith journey but also influenced his music, infusing it with the weight and spiritual significance of the Holy Land.

The Ongoing Relevance of Israel in Worship

In a world striving for equity and sensitivity, the unique role of Israel in God's divine narrative continues to captivate Shust. The mysterious choice of Israel and its people plays a pivotal role in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, as well as in the unfolding of God's ultimate plan. Shust passionately conveys his desire to stand with Israel and acknowledges the intricate plans God has for all nations while maintaining a balanced love for Israel and its neighbors.

Generational Leadership in Worship

Reflecting on intergenerational dynamics within the church, Shust emphasizes the need for authenticity in worship across age groups. He challenges the next generation to inquire and engage with the practices of worship passed down to them, fostering a dialogue that respects tradition while allowing for evolution. As someone who now finds himself in the role of the mentor rather than the mentee, he seeks to inspire younger worshippers to contribute meaningfully to the church's legacy.

The Sanctity of Gathering

Shust highlights the beauty and necessity of the Christian community coming together in worship, echoing the early church's unity and fervor. He sees the gathering of believers as a fundamental expression of the church, vital to its spiritual vigor and reflective of the inherent human need for connection and shared faith.

Worship and Relevance in Songwriting

Navigating the delicate balance between timeless and contemporary, Shust aims for his music to hold relevance for all generations without alienating any. He aspires for his creations to be recognized as timeless classics, pairing eternal content with melodies that stand the test of time.

The Journey to Songwriting as a Calling

From his first song at the age of 11, Shust's songwriting journey has been one of spiritual and emotional exploration. His process, richly influenced by his musical education and personal faith, led him to discover the profound satisfaction of setting Scripture to music. His story is a testament to the power of creative expression as a means of worship.

Words of Wisdom: Advice to the Younger Self

Reflecting on his younger years, Shust would advise his younger self to embrace the present, trust in God's direction, and value the present ministry over future aspirations. His growth as an artist and believer underscores the importance of faithfulness in small things and the recognition of God's sovereignty over our life's path.

Artistic Creation as Ministry

Shust advocates for a ministry-focused

In the latest episode of The Walk podcast, we find ourselves in a rich conversation with the artists Marty and Jennifer Goetz, whose lives have been a tapestry woven with the threads of faith, music, and heritage. One cannot help but be moved by the authenticity with which they share their journey.

Embracing Heritage and Faith

Marty Goetz, a man who embraces his identity as a Jewish gospel singer, captures our imagination as he recounts his aspirations to be like the musical icons of his time. Yet, in the heartfelt and humble recollections shared with his wife, Jennifer, we are gently reminded of the transforming power of the Psalms and the timeless relevance of worship.

The Transformative Power of Partnership

Jennifer's voice in the conversation serves as a testament to the supportive and integral role she has played in their ministry, as well as a witness to the personal and spiritual transformation that unfolds when one encounters the divine amid life’s tumult.

The Journey Through the Psalms

Their story is a narrative of discovery, with each chapter marked by a Psalm—like milestones along the path of their faith walk. The most profound of these Psalms, Psalm 23, becomes a lens through which they view their past and present, a scriptural anchor that has seen them through the shadows and into the light.

Rediscovering Worship

The Goetzes' reflections serve as a devotional roadmap, inviting us to consider the profound depths of Scripture and the personal relationship we can have with its Author. Marty's anecdote of rewriting Psalm 23, which was first sung out of a new believer's passion and later out of the wisdom of experience, challenges us to approach familiar passages with fresh eyes and renewed hearts.

Finding the Altar at Home

In the crucible of life's hardships, from cancer to the isolation brought on by a global pandemic, Marty and Jennifer discovered an altar in their home. They transformed their space into a House of Worship, rekindling their spiritual fervor and refining their ministry to reflect a more intimate and communal worship experience.

The Ministry of Song

Their conversation is a witness to the fact that the valleys and mountaintops of our faith journey can lead to a deeper, more profound worship—a worship that goes beyond the walls of churches and into the very heart of our daily lives.

Anticipating "Shepherd of Israel"

Their upcoming release, "Shepherd of Israel," holds the promise of a song born out of both tribulation and triumph, encapsulating their shared story and the stories of many who will find solace in its melody.

As we take our leave from this episode of The Walk, we carry with us the resonant truth that, like David the Psalmist and the Goetzes, we are all invited to sing a new song to the Lord, a song that rises from the narrative of our lives, echoing the faithfulness of the Shepherd of Israel.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:


https://www.martygoetz.com/
Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
https://www.planningcenter.com/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Jennifer Yaffee Goetz?

Jennifer Yaffee was born in New York City into a conservative Jewish family. In her mid-twenties she began traveling with Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and many other musical icons of the sixties. She was immersed in a pop culture lifestyle that anyone looking in would likely covet, yet she found herself empty and unfulfilled. At the age of 25 she gave her life to Yeshua, and in 1984 she married Marty Goetz, another Jewish believer in Jesus. Within that same year, Marty recorded his first album

In the recent episode of The Walk listeners were treated to a profound and heartfelt devotional by Sean Rodriguez, a worship leader and artist renowned for his breakout pop anthem "Center Stage" and his participation in the 2023 Winter Jam Tour. With an evangelical heritage that shapes his music, Rodriguez is dedicated to celebrating God's transformative power and majesty, making him a fitting guest for a discussion on the essentials of worship leadership.

Sean Rodriguez's Personal Journey and Insights

Sean Rodriguez shared his personal journey, rooted in a rich church upbringing under the guidance of his grandfather, a pastor in Denver, Colorado. His narrative revealed the dual nature of church life, highlighting both its challenges and blessings. Rodriguez stressed the significance of growing up in a church environment, which instilled in him a deep-seated understanding of serving, leading, and the importance of aligning one's leadership with prayer and the pursuit of God's will over personal ambition.

The Heart of Worship Leadership

Central to Rodriguez's message was the concept of self-examination for worship leaders and team members alike. He urged individuals to reflect on their motivations for leading worship, emphasizing the need for authenticity and a heart aligned with God's purposes. This introspection extends beyond the leaders to encompass the entire worship team, fostering an environment where serving others becomes a primary focus. Rodriguez advocated for leadership through servitude, drawing on the biblical principle that true leaders are the foremost servants.

Facilitating Congregational Participation

Rodriguez also touched upon the dynamics of worship settings, challenging leaders to create spaces that encourage active participation rather than passive observation. This involves demonstrating worship through actions and attitudes, thereby guiding the congregation in their worship journey.

The episode served as a reminder of the sacred responsibility entrusted to worship leaders and teams, urging them to approach their roles with reverence, humility, and a steadfast commitment to fostering environments where the presence of God is palpably felt, and hearts are drawn closer to Him.

As we reflect on Sean Rodriguez's insights, let us carry forward the reminder that worship leadership is not merely a role but a divine calling to facilitate encounters with the living God, where the hearts of His people are united in adoration and reverence. May we embrace this calling with gratitude, diligence, and a ceaseless desire to see His will done in and through our lives.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:


https://www.seanrodriguezmusic.com/
Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
https://www.planningcenter.com/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Sean Rodriguez?

Sean Rodriguez, previously known as Sean BE, has experienced a remarkable surge in visibility and impact within the Christian music scene, particularly highlighted by his role as a featured Pre-Jam artist during the 2023 Winter Jam tour—a significant event in the Christian music calendar. This new chapter in his career not only advances his musical endeavors but also pays homage to the evangelistic legacy his grandfather established over four decades ago. Before immersing himself in the music industry, Rodriguez dedicated his efforts to guiding young minds as a children’s pastor and youth leader. His 2023 hit, "Center Stage," has captured the hearts of a global audience, boasting over 2.5 million streams. Signed with WieRok Entertainment, Rodriguez ha

From Asbury to Authenticity: The Walk Podcast Explores Revival with Consumed by Fire

The latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Worship Leader Magazine's Joshua Swanson, shines a spotlight on the Ward brothers of the band Consumed by Fire. The brothers share their fervent commitment to spreading the gospel through their music and discuss their spiritual journey influenced by their ministry-rich family heritage.

A Revival of Hearts: The Asbury Awakening Discussed

The conversation takes a deep dive into the recent revival movements, especially the one that began at Asbury University. The brothers reflect on the genuine thirst for God’s presence that is igniting a wildfire of faith across the nation, marking what they consider the precursor to the greatest revival yet.

The Church's Relevance in Contemporary Times

The podcast touches on a provocative question about the church's place in today’s world. The Ward brothers challenge the cynicism facing modern faith communities, advocating for a resurgence of expectation and divine wisdom as the antidote to doubt.

A New Generational Flame: The Fiery Faith of Youth Today

The discussion shifts to the remarkable traits of the upcoming generation of believers. The Wards express their admiration for the youth's unapologetic worship and innovative spirit, recognizing them as a potent force for the future of Christianity.

Balancing Ministry and Artistry: Worship Leading vs. Christian Performance

Navigating the complexities between ministry-focused music and the identity of a Christian artist, the Wards elaborate on their ministry-first mindset, emphasizing the power of music to usher listeners into the presence of God rather than glorify the performer.

Brotherhood and Bandhood: Navigating Life on the Road

The interview concludes with the Ward brothers recounting humorous and heartfelt stories from their life touring together, highlighting the realities of familial relationships intertwined with the vocation of ministry.

Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with an acoustic rendition of "First Things First," symbolizing the band's commitment to their calling and the power of surrendering to God's will in their ministry and music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:


https://consumedbyfire.com/
Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
https://www.planningcenter.com/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Consumed by Fire?

No strangers to the nomadic lifestyle intrinsic to their craft, the emerging Contemporary Christian Music ensemble, Consumed By Fire, embodies their moniker in a refreshingly authentic manner. This trio, hailing from Oklahoma, consists of Caleb Ward, whose voice leads the charge; Jordan Ward, who adds depth with harmonies and percussion; and Josh Ward, whose guitar strings complement the vocal harmonies, thereby fulfilling the divine purpose woven into their very existence: to disseminate the message of God's grace through the universal language of music. Caleb articulates a profound truth, stating, "Ministry, in any form it might have taken, is our innate calling." This calling is audibly reflected in their music, a melodic legacy influenced by the diverse musical palate of their father. Their current radio single, "First Things First," is a testament to the trio's familial synergy and the all-encompassing love bestowed upon them by their fathers—both earthly and divine. As this track ascends the radio charts, accolades from esteemed platforms like KLove and Air1 Radio have al