Today many musicians have the opportunity to play on any given Sunday at at least 2 different churches and gather checks from each week in and week out. Many times they can negotiate for whatever they desire because of such a scarcity of quality musicians available. Churches are now seemingly at the mercy of the organist who decides he may want to go elsewhere for the higher dollar amount. These musicians play the who ’s going to give me more money game and get away with it too; or do they? One can only think that at some point this jumping around and chasing the buck is going to catch up with you at some point. People talk and Preachers fellowship. After a while your name will be passed around and your character will be scarred. No one likes being taken advantage of, and noone definitely like to be placed in a position of heplesslness. It will come back to bite you so beware and keep it real. If you plan to play several places and not be fully committed to one place let them know this upfront. You’ll keep from burning a bridge that you may need to cross back over. What are your thoughts?
I think that one needs some spiritual covering, even if it does not come from the (or one of the) churches that you are playing at. (or should I say, ministering at). You can draw as many paychecks as you want, but, ultimately you are a minister and you are beholden to serving in the Kingdom of God. Make sure your heart and motives are correct and pure. All else will take care of itself.