Scripture:
"But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ."
— Philippians 3:7-8 (NIV)

Reflection:
As worship leaders, our lives are a testimony to what we treasure most. The Housefires song "Only Jesus" is a powerful declaration of what it means to lay everything down at the feet of Christ, choosing Him above all else. The first verse sets the tone: "You can have my heart, You can have it all. Laying down my life, no matter what the cost." These words reflect the essence of true worship—a heart fully surrendered to God, willing to give up anything and everything to follow Jesus.

In a world full of distractions and competing loyalties, the chorus boldly affirms, "Only Jesus all my days, no greater treasure, no sweeter name." This is the heart cry of a worship leader who understands that nothing in this world compares to the value of knowing and serving Christ. It's a daily decision to keep the cross before us and the world behind, echoing the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3. Paul considered everything else as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. As worship leaders, we are called to the same perspective, prioritizing Jesus above all.

The bridge of the song reinforces this commitment with the declaration, "No turning back, no turning back." This echoes the words of the classic hymn "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus," reminding us that our decision to follow Christ is one of unwavering commitment. It’s a declaration that no matter what comes our way, we will not turn back, for we have decided that Jesus is enough.

Application:
Leading worship is more than just guiding others in song; it’s about leading others by example in a life that says, “Only Jesus.” When we declare this, we’re choosing to make Christ the center of everything we do, both on and off the platform. This decision isn’t just for a moment or a season; it’s a lifelong commitment that shapes every aspect of our ministry.

As you prepare to lead worship, consider what it means to truly lay down your life for Jesus. Are there areas where the world still holds sway in your heart? Are there treasures you need to let go of to fully embrace Christ as your greatest treasure? Let this song be a reminder to continually choose Jesus, no matter the cost.

Prayer:
Lord, I give You my heart and all that I am. Help me to lay down my life daily, choosing You above all else. May my life and my leadership reflect that You are my greatest treasure. Strengthen me to lead others with a heart that is fully surrendered to You, declaring with my life, “Only Jesus.” Amen.

Challenge:
This week, take time to evaluate where your true treasure lies. Are there things that compete with your devotion to Christ? Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you lay those things down. As you lead worship, let your life be a living testimony of someone who has decided to follow Jesus, no turning back. Let every word, every song, and every action reflect that only Jesus is worthy of your devotion.