Friday, June 27, 2008

Steal Away...

We must remember to appreciate those who labor with us. Most dance ministers are operating on a volunteer basis. Very few dance ministries have payrolls from which to compensate dancers. When hosting conferences and events, often those who commit themselves to service end up incurring expenses related to the event.

The people who serve should not end up in tears over mistreatment, abuse, and for working extra-long hours. We must use wisdom when scheduling activities and reviewing our staffing needs so that those who labor will be able to serve with joy. Let us not try to do more than we are able to do with excellence.

If payment is not an option, it is still important to show appreciation for service received. Although those who serve in ministry should not serve for monetary purposes only, we must give honor to whom honor is due. A card of appreciation, thanks, heartfelt gifts and notes may seem like little, but mean very much when the day is done. Even if we are not planning major events, let's take the time to thank someone today who has blessed us by their service.

Leviticus 19:13 (NKJV)
You shall not cheat your neighbor, nor rob him. The wages of him who is hired shall not remain with you all night until morning.

Esther 2:18 (NKJV)
Then the king made a great feast, the Feast of Esther, for all his officials and servants; and he proclaimed a holiday in the provinces and gave gifts according to the generosity of a king.

Jeremiah 22:13 (NKJV)
“Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his chambers by injustice, Who uses his neighbor’s service without wages and gives him nothing for his work

1 Timothy 5:18 (NKJV)
For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”

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