Carry On!

When we realize that even the slightest things can act as hinderances in ministry, then we will counter-attack these ploys by making an effort to prevent obvious distractions for the dance minister. There are several areas that can be sources of stress that include music, garments, traffic, and phone calls. With some planning and wisdom, we can make ministry dates less stressful.

Music: We should carry a clean copy of our music on both CD and iPod. When carrying an iPod or other music player, please bring your own cable, just in case. If at all possible, arrive early and talk to the person that will be running the music. Include any instructions (keep it simple) in writing on the outside of the CD cover. The more professional the presentation, the more respected we will be. CDs that skip and music without sufficient volume can be challenges to our patience and damper the impact of the ministry. Preparation is the key. Remember to thank the sound technicians each and every time!

Garments: If necessary, get a custom made garment bag to protect your garments. When travelling, try to carry your absolute must-haves in your carry-on luggage. Airlines can lose or delay baggage, and if the garment is needed in a hurry, having it in hand will promote peace instead of panic.

Traffic: When driving to a location, leave as early as possible in an effort to get to the location as early as possible. Irritated drivers, accidents, and simply running late will cause stress that may be prevented if we plan ahead. This will also help us find a great parking spot. Remember, if you are early, you are on time; If you are on time, you are late!

Phone Calls: Home and cell phones may ring off the hook with people wanting to gossip or pull us off track. Unless it is an emergency, limiting personal phone calls and text messages right before ministry will help us to keep our minds stayed on Him. If we must leave the communication devices in the car, then we will do what we must so that the Word may go forth trhough us without limits.

Psalm 140:4 (NKJV)
"Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; Preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble."

Isaiah 26:9 (NKJV)
"With my soul I have desired You in the night, Yes, by my spirit within me I will seek You early; for when Your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness."

1 Corinthians 7:35 (NKJV)
"And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction."