Right in Front of Our Eyes

We often wait until a crisis comes to put ministry guidelines in place. When we have no written plan for the ministry to follow, we can get caught in compromising positions. When there is clear direction, then there is an understanding of expectations and ways to govern ourselves. This provides a balanced system in ministry that allows us to operate in agreement, as well as keeps leadership from abusing authority.

Each of our dance ministries (even soloists) should have a written set of standards that include the ministry vision, foundational scriptures, and organizational structure. We should know how we go about scheduling ministry dates, rehearsal schedules, travel schedules, garment purchases, budgets, etc. We must always leave room for the Lord to work in our ministries and realize that our guidelines are not "laws" but provide a mechanism for us to stay in line.

It would be beneficial to review the ministry vision at least once per month and examine whether our ministry activities are in line with the vision. It is easy to get excited about being offered opportunities to dance, but we must make sure that it is our assignment to accept them. The Bible speaks of a time when King Saul invited David to dinner, but Jonathan warned David that the invitation was to be declined: "But Saul hurled his spear at him to kill him. Then Jonathan knew that his father intended to kill David." (1 Samuel 20:33- NKJV) Every invitation received does not merit a "yes."

When we do what is right in the sight of the Lord, our way will prosper. Let us look to the Word and keep the vision in front of us. Though challenges will indeed arise, when we have agreement and clear vision, we will be able to handle them with security and assurance in the Word of God.

Deuteronomy 12:28 (NKJV)
"Observe and obey all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the LORD your God."

Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
"Then the LORD answered me and said: Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it."

Proverbs 28:2 (NIV)
"When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order."