Episode 119: How You Can Lead Worship, When You're Not Okay

In this episode of the Overflow Worship Podcast, host Andrea Olson dives deep into a topic that every worship leader encounters: how to lead when you're not okay. Leading worship isn’t always about having it all together. Sometimes, life’s struggles weigh heavy, and yet the call to lead others into the presence of God remains. But how do you do that authentically when you're struggling? Andrea offers encouragement and actionable advice to worship leaders facing tough seasons.

"Don't sit there and think that you have to do it on your own strength... Ask Him for it."

Let’s explore how you can stay connected to God, lead from a place of authenticity, and impact your community even in difficult times.

How To Recognize and Acknowledge When You’re Not Okay

One of the most important first steps as a worship leader is to acknowledge when you’re not okay. It’s easy to feel the pressure to show up with a happy face on Sunday mornings, even when life feels overwhelming. But as Andrea reminds us, it’s okay to admit that you're struggling.

"You don’t have to get up there and pretend everything is perfect."

Being honest about where you’re at emotionally and spiritually is the first step in leading from a place of authenticity. Ministry doesn’t mean you’re immune to struggles; it means you need to stay connected to the source—God—through it all.

How to Stay Spiritually Ready as a Worship Leader

Staying spiritually ready is key to leading worship even when you’re not feeling your best. Andrea emphasizes the importance of being proactive in your relationship with God. This preparation allows you to lead with conviction and authority, even when your circumstances are challenging.

"Make sure you are ready spiritually, emotionally, and relationally."

Andrea shares from Ephesians 6:16-18, where Paul speaks of the armor of God. The shield of faith and the helmet of salvation are tools we can use in hard times. When we stay rooted in scripture and continually seek the Lord, we are better equipped to lead, no matter the season.

We Must Lead with Authenticity, Even in Tough Seasons

Authenticity is a vital part of worship leadership. Andrea encourages leaders to be as open and honest as appropriate with their congregation. If you’re struggling, it’s okay to share that—within reason—on stage. People appreciate authenticity, and it can be incredibly powerful for them to see a leader who is real about their challenges while still trusting God.

"How do I lead when I’m not okay? With authenticity."

Being authentic doesn’t mean airing all your personal struggles, but it does mean being genuine about where you’re at. Whether you’re going through a season of difficulty or stress, leading from a place of truth can create a deeper connection with your congregation.

The Importance of Rest and Reflection as a Worship Leader

There are times when your emotional or spiritual state may require more than just pushing through. If you're in a season of deep hardship or emotional fatigue, stepping back and taking a rest could be the most authentic and responsible decision you make as a worship leader. As Andrea mentions, taking a sabbatical or a short break can provide you the healing you need to come back stronger.

"It’s okay to step down for a season if you need to heal and refocus."

If stepping down isn’t possible or necessary, you can still maintain authenticity by being open about your struggles while pointing people to Jesus. Whether you’re stepping back or stepping forward, remaining connected to God and His people will be crucial in navigating tough times.

We Can Plant Seeds of Faith, Even in the Struggle

Finally, Andrea leaves listeners with a powerful metaphor: even in times of drought, keep planting seeds of faith. Just like the Israelites in the Old Testament who continued to sow crops during a long period of drought, we are called to plant seeds of faith even when we don't see immediate results.

"Don’t wait until the rain comes to start planting. Keep planting seeds of faith."

Through prayer, worship, and trust in God, we are sowing seeds that will bear fruit in time. Worship leading is no different—you may be leading from a place of struggle, but God can use that season to grow something beautiful.

Join the Overflow Worship Leaders Community

Andrea also invites listeners to join the Overflow Worship Leaders Online community, a resource designed to support worship leaders in volunteer-supported ministries. Enrollment opens only twice a year, with the next session starting in July. If you're a worship leader looking for training, mentorship, and a supportive community, this is a great opportunity.

Head over to overflowworship.com/waitlist to be the first to know when doors open.

Lead From the Overflow, Not Overwhelm

Leading worship when you’re not okay isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about staying connected to God, being proactive in your spiritual health, and leading with authenticity. By taking care of yourself and staying rooted in faith, you’ll be able to guide your congregation even in the toughest seasons.

"Ask God for the strength and joy to carry you through so that you can reflect His joy and point people to Him."

If you enjoyed today’s episode and want more resources, be sure to subscribe to the Overflow Worship Podcast and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us continue reaching worship leaders and providing them with the encouragement they need.

Until next time, keep leading from the overflow!

For more Overflow Worship resources: www.overflowworship.com

Watch the Podcast at: https://www.youtube.com/@overflowworshipofficial

Listen to the Podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overflow-worship-podcast/id1461518398