Bless the Lord, Oh My Sole...

We can give honor to the Lord with our entire beings. Each and every body part functions together for the good of the whole. We must move beyond our natural limitations and step into Divine purpose. Often, we are our own worst critics when it comes to obeying the Lord every step of the way.

We must check our thoughts toward ourselves daily. What are we telling ourselves that we "can't" do? What is it that we will not even attempt because of fear? What issues do we have from childhood or mistreatment that we are now perpetuating upon ourselves? It's time for our feet to move from the place that has held them immobile and walk in the power of His might!

We can do ALL things through Christ which strengthen us. The Lord is looking for obedience, and also for those who will not only hear His voice, but put the Word to work. Let us prepare for a greater stretching in the Spirit and allow the Lord to move us wherever He desires. Allow the Lord to guide your feet, and even your sole will bring glory to His name.

1 Kings 5:3 (NKJV)
"You know how my father David could not build a house for the name of the LORD his God because of the wars which were fought against him on every side, until the LORD put his foes under the soles of his feet."

Perfect Timing

God's Divine timing is always right. There are many times that we must wait on the Lord to open doors for us to dance, teach, or move when we are ready. We must make every effort to combat pride and subdue the flesh when we are not invited to dance at a particular gathering, not featured at a "big time" conference, or are not mentioned by name publically.

There are certain seasons that are more productive than others. We must be rooted and grounded in the Lord and agree with His plans for us in life and ministry. The fullness of the rose is not observed in the bud. Only when it blooms can we see all that the Lord has designed it to be.

We must pray continually that our giftings and talents are not openly displayed before we are in our "blooming" season. Continue to be faithful and study the Word. Endure the training requirements for technical classes that you need. Be supportive when others are in the forefront and do not envy. There is no other satisfaction like ministering the Word through movement to the right people, at the right place, at the right time.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV)
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

Dancing in the Reign

Kingdom dancers are being called upon to demonstrate the Word of God beyond the traditional church setting. As dancers increase in the understanding and knowledge of the Scriptures, we are being called upon to function as a key component in ministry. The Lord has a track record of using visual demonstrations through His prophets as warning and encouragement. He is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore.

The fullness of the worship experience includes singing, instrumentation, and dancing. While we do not all have the same talents in the Body, we see several times in the Bible where it says that ALL the people bowed down to worship the Lord together. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty! We are now coming into a time in which we will truly understand our roles in Kingdom business through the revelation of God's Word.

Each of us are important in this season. We each need to grasp the knowledge for ourselves concerning ministry and where we fit in as movement ministers. As we continue moving forward in Him, we will discover that our options for being Kingdom servants are increased, and that the dancer develops into the Disciple... the Minister... the Ambassador...

1 Chronicles 29:20 (NKJV)
Then David said to all the assembly, “Now bless the LORD your God.” So all the assembly blessed the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed their heads and prostrated themselves before the LORD and the king.

The Depths of My Soul

What is on the inside of us will be revealed. Although some may try to mask the true essence of themselves beneath a beautiful garment or advanced technique, those that truly love the Lord cannot hide it. For those who are pretending to love Him (and there are many), the truth will be evident.

When we present our bodies to Him through movement, we must constantly aim to walk in truth. We gain this by regularly studying the Word of the Lord and practicing His commandments. This will help in the creation of choreography that accurately depicts the Word visually and spiritually.

We are in a position to be greatly used by Him if we allow the Lord to guide each and every step. The best way to teach others to passionately love the Lord is to show them by example. We are living demonstrations of the power of the Word of God.

Take a few moments to do some spiritual inventory:

What are others saying about your ministry?

Is this observation consistent?

Are there some areas that you know need to be corrected?

Are you known more for your "superstar" demands or for your servanthood?

Do you ever find yourself "faking it" until you feel it?

What is your appetite for the Word of the Lord and for prayer?

Deuteronomy 6:5 (NKJV)
"You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."

Clothes-Minded

Our garments have a great impact on how our message is understood. Even if we do not understand the significance of colors and symbols, we all have certain responses to them. I have seen the difference that a simple color change of a garment has had on the understanding of a piece.

We must also take care to make sure that our ministry garments are cared for properly. If we must have them dry-cleaned, then we should do so as soon as possible after the last wearing. This will keep us ready if we are called to dance without prior notice. If they must be washed, a gentle cycle and hang dry will help them to last longer. Whites should stay white, and colors should stay bright.

Finished edges and hems help to keep a neat appearance unless the piece calls for tattered clothing. It is always a good practice to carry small scissors and a small sewing kit in case any repairs or maintenance must be done while we are on location. Just a few small steps will make the difference in the way our ministries are perceived.

1 Samuel 16:7b (NKJV)
"For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

Mu-sick

"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Rom 10:17- NKJV)

The message in the music is important. If there are any distortions in the message, then our mission becomes compromised. We must make every effort to let those with ears hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying to the church.

There are times when the CD track is dirty or scratched. It seems as though it is right at the "powerful" part of the song that the CD will dysfunction and attempt to destroy the atmosphere. Yes, you can keep dancing, but it is still a derailment nevertheless. DISTRACTION! When using iPods and the song may be two tracks long, the pause in the middle of the two sections is noticeable and sometimes causes a delay in the music. DISTRACTION! When the music is not loud enough to hear the words, it is much harder to press through the piece. DISTRACTION!

When using a CD, it would be good to keep a clean copy of the track that is not used for rehearsals as well. If you know a good DJ or musician, you can have the two separate trackes linked together and then uploaded as one track onto your iPod (I have tried it and it works). Whenever possible, try to do a sound check at the location to ensure that the volume is sufficient. Remember- Musick that is too loud is also a DISTRACTION!

Matthew 13:16 (NKJV)
"But blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear"

Feet Don't Fail Me Now...

The feet are very important symbolically in the Scriptures. The placement of our feet denote possession of territory. The washing of feet is an act of humility and servanthood. Bare feet represent being in the presence of the Lord. Covered feet are akin to the gospel of peace.

We use our feet in the movement ministries to support our bodies. Having our feet planted on a firm Foundation (Christ Jesus) will allow us to be able to stand through the ups and downs of ministry. Be very aware of the placement and authority of your feet. Walk worthy of your calling.

Knowing this, we must protect our feet. There are many times before ministry that I have stepped on glass, stubbed my toe, or sustained other foot injuries. The enemy wanted to distract me or make me give up, but to no avail.

We must be diligent in taking care of our feet. Pedicures and foot maintenance will help us to maintain beautiful feet. Well-made shoes will help prevent corns and callouses. A little care goes a long way.

Romans 10:15 (NKJV)
And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “ How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!”

It's About Time!

Running late on a regular basis for rehearsals, worship services, and ministry events hinders our ability to focus and prepare. Arriving early to a location gives us time to troubleshoot and make adjustments or last minute changes. It is a distraction for the ministry if furniture must be moved right before a dance, if the music is not loud enough, or if the aisles need to be used and the ushers are not aware of it.

When we "come before His presence," we can pray, meet with the sound technician, talk to the appropriate people, and get a feel for the spiritual atmosphere. The phrase "Early will I seek Thee" is mentioned several times in the scriptures. When we are prepared in movement ministry, then we minimize any opportunity for mishaps.

If this means that we have to prepare our garments, CDs, location directions, and list of important contacts several days in advance, then we must do what we have to to bring full honor to God. Dance ministry reaches beyond what we do when we have our moment on the platform. Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary...

1 Chronicles 12:32
"...of the sons of Issachar who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their command..."

Re-Hears-All

In our times of rehearsal and preparation, we must not forget to revisit why we agreed to dance for the Lord in the first place. There are too many times that precious moments are wasted with unrelated conversation, waiting on latecomers, praying for attitude adjustments, or just plain carelessness.

There can be a strong visitation from the Lord during our rehearsal gatherings. It is a good time to "re-hear-all" that the Lord has specifically called your ministry to accomplish. Write the vision! Read it aloud on a regular basis. Study the scriptures concerning your ministry mandate and the particlar pieces that you are working on.

Consider rehearsal time as another opportunity to bring glory to God. He is our greatest and most important witness. Let's not waste any time getting out of step, burdened with the issues of life during our times of rehearsal. The moment that we set foot on a platform, stage, or pulpit is not what counts, it's what we do in our private moments that will be openly rewarded.

Luke 4:21 (NKJV)
And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

Step by Step

There is a difference between spontaneous dancing and choreography. Spontaneous dancing is done in response to something, while choreography is usually a demonstration of something that has a particular message or meaning. Why is this important? I have witnessed many groups that are exciting to look at, but whose choreography has absolutely nothing to do with the song.

While this may be entertaining, the Word of the Lord provides many instances of the Lord giving His prophets specific instructions on how to combine prophetic movement with what the Lord wanted to say to people. Jeremiah, Hananiah and Hosea are but a few examples of how the Lord gave physical instructions to demonstrate His Word. For instance in Jeremiah 28:10-11 it says, "Then the prophet Hananiah took the yoke off the neck of the prophet Jeremiah and broke it, and he said before all the people, "This is what the LORD says: 'In the same way will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon off the neck of all the nations within two years.' " At this, the prophet Jeremiah went on his way.

There is nothing wrong with Christian entertainment, but everything has its time and place. If the purpose of the service is worship, then dance pieces with movement that is unrelated to Scripture will appear to be out of place. Let's make sure to obey the instruction of the Lord regarding every move that we make. There is truly a distinction between praise dance and movement ministry.

Glow-in-the-Dark

Whenever we go forth in the ministry of movement, there should be a revelation that takes place. Jesus is the Light, and because He lives in us, we are carrying that Light wherever we go. Sometimes dance ministry is invited to dance in "dark" places where depression and hopelessness abound (prisons, homeless shelters, hospices, etc). Our very presence should break yokes and lift burdens if we are moving in the power of God.

There should be a difference when we have to attend non-Christian events and bring the gospel message. When Moses spent time in the presence of the Lord, his face was shining from the encounter. When we spend time with the Lord, we too should have a "glow" that is recognizable by others.

Everything about our movement, songs, and choreography should reveal the True Light to all that witness us in motion. Darkness and light cannot abide together. We must light up the world with demonstrations of praise, worship, encouragement, celebration, edification, exhortation, declaration, and triumph. If we truly carry the Light of the Lord within us, then it is impossible to hide.

Luke 1:78-79 (NKJV)
Through the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
To give light to those who sit in darkness
and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.

Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!

Dreams and Visions

The Lord does not speak to everyone the same way. When I am getting a "choreography download" I am never sure just when it will happen. I have received visions of choreography in church, in the movies, in my dreams, in my living room, etc. It is always a picture that I cannot get out of my mind, and is not always for right now. Sometimes I will have visions of pieces that I am to do years later.

If the Lord shows you dance and movement pieces that seem far-fetched, do not doubt. Ask that Lord to help you to make the vision a reality, and to send you whatever help you need. With God, nothing is impossible!

He can do the same for garments, ministry businesses, websites, dance companies, etc. Whatever the Lord is revealing to you, write it down and pray for His divine timing for it to come to pass. Do not fear. All things can be done through Christ!


Habakkuk 2:2-3 (NKJV)

Then the LORD answered me and said:

Write the vision
And make it plain on tablets,
That he may run who reads it.
For the vision is yet for an appointed time;
But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie.
Though it tarries, wait for it;
Because it will surely come,
It will not tarry

Clap Your Hands

We can get caught up in the applause of men before we even realize it. We may be tempted to smile big when we hear "You are SO anointed," "That was powerful," "You really blessed me," and so on. There is a feeling of warmth that may fill our hearts when we hear that what we are doing is revered by men.

Jesus had (and still has) a very popular ministry. Thousands of people showed up whenever the news spread that He was in the region. Fame spread of His miracles and wondrous words and parables. He was merely doing the will of Him Who sent Him.

We can be thankful when we are effective, but we must always resist the temptation to allow ourselves to become puffed up on our own reputations. It is ok to sit in the back or behind the post where it is more difficult to see. Carrying our own baggage will help us to identify with the load that someone else may have to carry for us. Having our names mispronounced or forgotten may help us to remember that it is really all about Him. Having our CDs skip during ministry may remind us that we can depend only on the Lord. We are then reminded that the Lord exalts the humble, but resists the proud.

Matthew 23:5-7 (NKJV)
"But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’"

"KIM"

Let nothing or no one stop you from moving forward in Him. There are many dancing today who want to give up on the ministry of dance. Step out on faith again!

Let's take a look at the following story about a man who was cripple from his mother's womb: This man heard Paul speaking. Paul, observing him intently and seeing that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, “Stand up straight on your feet!” And he leaped and walked. Now when the people saw what Paul had done, they raised their voices, saying in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” (Acts 14:9-11- NKJV)

Notice that Paul only told him to stand up, but he broke forth into leaping and walking! There may be circumstances or people that are trying to hinder us from pressing forward. We may feel as though we are stuck in the same cycle over and over again.

Be it finances, critics, unbelievers, negativity, or poor self-esteem... let NOTHING stop you. When you demonstrate the wonder-working power of God, even the heathen will have to recognize that what you are doing is supernatural. The people in the Acts 14 did not necessarily know about the true GOD, but they understood by observation that this miracle was not man's doing. Make no mistake about it, you are being watched!

Whenever we are faced with obstacles that are designed to hinder us, just say "KIM!" Keep-It-Moving!

You Look Just Like Your Father...

The Lord made each of us unique and in His image. Isn't it awesome how we are all created in His likeness, but we are all different? God is truly amazing and beyond what we can comprehend. This is why it is important to move the way that He has Divinely orchestrated.

There are forms of movement that are universal, but each of us has been given a specific way to interpret it. People still walk up to me after several years of dancing and say, "You are so unique," or "I have never seen anything like that before," and so on. I admit that it made me uncomfortable once upon a time because I felt like I must have been doing something wrong (or that I was a "wierdo"). Now I embrace the wonderful way in which the Lord directs and orders my steps.

Walk in the way that He would have you, even if you have never seen it done before. There is no need to try to imitate someone else's gifting. The Lord has given each and every one of us a special place in the Body. We should not dance for the applause and approval of men. When we are found doing what He has designed us to, then we will surely soar in ministry. Dare to be different!

Psalm 139:14 (NKJV)
"I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well."


Please enjoy this video by Lady Walquer:

Tit for Tatt

Distractions are assigned to interrupt the gospel message at every hand. Unfortunately, many of the distractions in the movement ministry come from dancers themselves. Yes, it is important that garments are appropriate and relevant. Yes, it is essential that we are properly covered in our attire. Teaching regarding garments is becoming a core class at most conferences and workshops.

What else is being advertised during our times of ministry? Women- Do you need some extra support or additional barriers in the chest area? I have seen way more than I care to on female dancers, especially when it is cold. Men- Are those pants not quite roomy enough when you move? I have also noticed tattoos on the feet, neck, and hands, which are not traditionally covered by the ministry garment.

People will definitely pay attention to these things, and we must be diligent to keep the focus on Christ. Nothing should be able to prevent us from spreading the gospel through movement. If you have some reminders of your "old" self visible on your body, then pray to the Lord for wisdom on how to minimize that visual distraction.

2 Corinthians 6:3 (NKJV)
"We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed."

"Move-Meant"

Nothing is by chance. Each and every move that we execute must have meaning and purpose. Understanding the significance of movement throughout the scriptures will greatly aid us in Divine choreography. We must not only study the "dance" segments of the Bible, it is also important that we look at it as a whole. This will allow the ministry of movement to take its proper shape.

For example "stretching out the hand" in the Bible (NKJV) has several connotations. It can mean blessing (Genesis 48:14), judgment (Exodus 3:20), miracles (Exodus 14:16), punishment (1 Samuel 24:6), submission (Psalm 88:9), creation (Isaiah 48:13), compassion (Mark 1:41), healing (Acts 4:30), etc. We should take the necessary steps to connect the appropriate movements with the message of the piece.

We must allow the Lord to open the eyes of our understanding as we continue to study His Word. Our knowledge of the Bible must not focus on only one aspect of the dance and movement ministries. If we are to minister the gospel through movement, then we must have a firm grasp of what the Word is revealing to us in its totality.

Divine Artistic Direction

The Lord is the Utmost Choreographer. When we rely on Him for every element of our ministries, we will witness life-altering manifestations of the power of God. Often we may have what we think are great ideas for songs, choreography, and garments. When we consult the Lord in everything, often our plans are changed or done away with altogether.

There have been many times that I have started rehearsing a piece, and then the Lord will have me to change direction. It is in these times when I have learned to totally submit to the Lord. As I present solo pieces, the Lord will give me specific instructions even in the middle of dancing to minister to certain people, and I have experienced the power of God in operation.

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty! Allow the Lord to minister to you and then through you. Even if He directs you to re-choreograph an entire piece, do it! The move of God is more potent than any movement we can do in the natural.

Proverbs 16:9
"A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps."

There Are No Words...

Expressive worship can be effective even when a song is only instrumental. Certain symbols (like angels, trumpets, the cross, etc) are universally recognized and understood. It's important to be led by the Holy Spirit when presenting pieces that have no lyrics so that the message is crystal clear.

When we are developing these types of pieces, we must be sure to have scriptural foundation and direction. All of the dancers in the piece should have a firm grasp on the Biblical concepts portrayed. Accurate presentation of garments, colors, and praise props are very important to get the message across.

The Lord instilled creativity in us, so let's show it! Pray that He open your ears to hear songs in a way that will take any choreographic limits off of you. God is not visible, but He is visual!

Daniel 4:2-3 (NKJV)

"I thought it good to declare the signs and wonders that the Most High God has worked for me.

How great are His signs,
And how mighty His wonders!
His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
And His dominion is from generation to generation."

Please enjoy this video by Restored to Glory:

Put Your Foot Down!

We can no longer passively allow the enemy to wreak havoc in our lives and ministries. We must stand with our sword (the Word) at our side and let nothing separate us from His love. Internal fighting is more damaging to our ministries than what is attacking us from the outside. Let's build up our ranks from within.

We must make every effort to maintain the bond of unity in the Body. Get to know each and every dancer you co-labor with (and not for selfish purposes). Pray for each other on a regular basis. Repent for offenses immediately. How can two walk together (much less dance together), except they agree?

It's time to walk in the path that the Lord has set before us. Let's not get sidetracked with arguments, misunderstandings, and the like. If there is conflict going on with your fellow dancers, either in-house or in the dance community at large, take and stand and give the enemy no foothold. Step into your rightful place, and watch the Lord enlarge your territory.

Deuteronomy 11:24-25 (NKJV)
"Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the River Euphrates, even to the Western Sea, shall be your territory. No man shall be able to stand against you; the LORD your God will put the dread of you and the fear of you upon all the land where you tread, just as He has said to you."

In and Out

My dance ministry journey has been one of many transitions. When I first starting dancing for Him, a lot of the song selections were "warfare" oriented because we were fighting a school of thought that praise dance was "for the young people." Even our movements were aggressive and forceful as we tried to break down barriers that tried to hold us back.

The Lord then allowed us to transition into a worship phase in which most of our choreography was gracefeul, and the music slow and emotional. Songs of praise and celebration were also frequently used to reflect our newfound joy in Him. I was soon to learn that there was more- MUCH MORE to the ministry of dance than the category of movement in which we may classify a piece.

I used to need at least 2 weeks notice before I would accept a ministry assignment. He has now transitioned me again. I receive phone calls from Pastors and ministry leaders to come minister in dance regarding a particular situation, or demonstrate through movement what the people do not seem to be getting through words alone. In the book of Jeremiah, the prophet was instructed to do many physical demonstrations to show what was to come. I too must be ready to preach the Word through movement when the Lord says so.

2 Timothy 4:1-2 (NKJV)
"I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching."

hotchocolate@hotmail.com

Sometimes we have to wonder, "What in the world are people thinking?" I have seen countless e-mail addresses, websites, MySpace pages, pictures, and outrageous behavior that do not glorify God in any manner. It is funny how we claim we love the Lord, but our love for Him is not discernable in public.

I am not saying that we should appear to be "holy rollers," but when you truly love someone, you are not ashamed to show it. I have witnessed fellow dancers displaying provocative pictures, or comments with foul language on the intenet and scratch my head. If we are truly in Christ Jesus, then we are new creatures. If the old things of the world are still important enough to advertise in cyberspace, then we must do some soul-searching to find out if we have really been converted.

The internet is a great way to "go into all the world." If the Lord visited your site or page today, would He say "Well done?" Would you be embarrased to forward your e-mails to Him? Instant messaging to Heaven, anyone? If we allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to us, then let's make the changes that would honor the Lord.

1 Corinthians 10:23-24, 31-33 (NKJV)

All things are lawful for me,but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

For Christ's Sake...

If you have not experienced persecution during your dance ministry journey, you must ask yourself who you are really serving. Although many may praise your efforts to preach the gospel through movement, we must have those who will rise up against us. Jesus was persecuted, betrayed, and ultimately slain by those who disagreed with His ministry.

Count it all joy when you go through trials! This will allow us to be mature and not desire the accolades of people when we are doing the will of the Lord. Allow persecution to cause you to read your Word, increase your prayer directives, and love those who spitefully use you.

Embrace the sharpening process and ask the Lord for widsom to endure when friends forsake you, when leadership under-utilizes you, and when undercover enemies try to get close to you. Exercise discernment daily and continue to acknowledge Him in all your ways... then will your path me made clear.

Matthew 5:10 (NKJV)
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Dance On the Airwaves

We are therefore going into the world as never before! The ministry of dance is being prominently featured on television, radio, publications, and even the movies. The internet has allowed dancers from every genre to connect and support one another through MySpace, YouTube, GodTube, other social networking sites, etc... It is exciting to be able to meet so many fellow co-laborers and not even have to leave the comfort of home to do so.

There are some "heart check-ups" that we must do along the way. Though it is fine to have a vision to go into all the world, our motives must not be for fame or fortune. We must be careful to remain humble and the Lord will reward us in due season. If we want to be on TV because we saw another dance ministry on TV, we must stop and thank the Lord for the door He opened for that ministry (instead of thinking about ourselves).

When we see the Lord open doors for ministries to gain exposure, we should rejoice with them. Prayer must continue to be the order of the day, as some dances passing as "praise dances" are really doing a diservice to the movement. The enemy also give opportunities for exposure, but we definitely only want to walk through the doors that the Lord has uniquely assigned to us.

Here is a mini-documentary on Leap of Faith featured on a television broadcast.

"Net" Work

Since we all belong to the same Body, it is good to reach out and connect to other movement ministers for fellowship and support. We are to be "fishers of men," and so our networking should ultimately lead to how we can add souls to the Kingdom. There are many wonderful organizations that offer memberships to movement ministers for connectivity and support.

The trend of late seems to be that people attend conferences, workshops, and dance events to rub elbows with the instructors, or recruit an audience for their own personal ventures. People also join networking organizations so that they can "name drop" and say that they are associated with this great name in the dance "Kingdom." While it is great that people are aware of our gifts, it is the motive that matters (what's in the heart?). Some people will share an entire dance resume with you because they really want you to invite them out to teach at your church or conference.

We must get back to the Great Commission. Your gift will make room for you and bring you before great men. You do not have to make room for your gift. When we are about our Father's business, then the real "net" working will begin.

Matthew 4:19 (NKJV)
Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Rise Up and Walk

We may have a few "missteps" in ministry, but we can never allow ourselves to stay down after a tumble. If we continue to walk in the Lord, He is able to keep us from falling. There are seasons that bring discouragement, confusion, doubt, and second-guessing. We are to be about our Father's business. Rise up, and get back on the path of righteousness.

Tune out anything that would try to discourage or distract you. Fix your eyes on the Lord and press forward to obedience. Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness! Get in His presence and experience the fullness of His Joy. Let nothing separate you from His love.

Pray for fresh choreography, new garments, or simply renewed commitment. Allow the Lord to minister to any wounded areas, and then walk in the newness of the day. There are others waiting to see the Glory of God revealed before their eyes. Submit yourself to the washing of the Word. Shake off the dust. Rise up and walk on.

Telling Stories

There have been times when I have felt like my time was wasted watching a dancer or group present a piece that had no discernable meaning. At other times the message has been outright confusing. Regardless of the skill level, we must remember that the Word is sharp, powerful, and living! We must pray for the Lord to show us how to marry the music, movements, and ministry of a piece.

We are not limited to just the use of our bodies to glorify Him. There are wonderful flags, banners, billow cloths, crowns, and visual enhancements that we can use to make sure that the message is understood. There may be someone you know who is gifted to create custom visual worship tools. Make your request known, and watch God answer prayer.

The Lord is creative and His Spirit lives in us. The Bible is full of detail, miracles, and truth. We must ask ourselves who is leading us if all of our dances look the same and we are all dancing to the same music. Being open to new revelation and insight is key if we want to truly minister effectively.

Here is some creativity in motion:

De-light Thyself

I will never forget when the Lord spoke these words into my spirit: "Delight thyself!" Initially, I began to rejoice and laugh because I felt so special that the Lord would speak to me. He then said, "Sit down. Turn of everything that 'turns you on.' The Light that you are to shine is not from you or because of you. This Light is not artificial, but supernatural. It is not your light, but Mine." I was stunned.

I can only truly rejoice in Him when I have removed myself from the equation. Just like a lampshade conceals some of the light that a lamp can cast forth, our flesh can conceal the Light that is supposed to shine through us. Improper attitudes, pride, rivalries, over-zealousness, and competition can hinder the ability of people to see Jesus through us and ultimately affects our ability to minister.

We cannot even let our beautiful garments, choreography or "anointed" reputations stand in the way of the True Light shining through our lives. Being transparent before the Lord allows His full Glory to be revealed through us. It is time to remove anything in our lifes that would cause people to see us instead of Jesus. De-light thyself in the Lord...

John 1: 1-4 (Referring to Jesus)
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.

John 1: 8-9 (Referring to John the Baptist)
He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world.

Getting in Line

Many people have a tendency to run and tell what they've heard. It's good to seek wisdom, knowledge and understanding regarding how movement is used as ministry. After attending workshops, conferences, and dance events, many will simply repeat what has been taught instead of researching it first to see if it is in line with the Word of God.

This can lead to error and unsound theology regarding the position of dance in the Body. Just because we have been told something at a conference or workshop does not then qualify us to become teachers on the subject. Just like we cannot take one scripture and based a whole doctrine on it, we cannot take one opinion and base a dance ministry "must" on it either.

I praise the Lord for deliverance from the "rules," and thank Him for instruction regarding how He would have me to minister in particular. There are many qualified teachers regarding worship arts and movement who indeed have heard from the Lord. We must also remember that there are many teaching, hosting conferences, and leading dance ministries that have heard something, but not from the Lord...

Jeremiah 14:14
And the LORD said to me, “The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart.