Crying to Keep from Laughing

It is a false assumption that all dances should be done with smiles on our faces. Sometimes a sign of joy is a face wet with tears. Truth realizes that we have a range of emotions, and if we are worshipping in sincerity, then we will not always express the same emotion all of the time. The Lord is aware of our joys and sorrows, and there is a time to express both.

We should not be so unbalanced in that we are always crying during ministry either. Allowing the Lord to reveal to us when it is approprate to express our emotions during ministry is gained through prayer and relationship with Him. It is significant to note that those who minister in mime may paint a smile or tears on the face to signal the tone of the piece to the viewer. Dancers use faces and bodily movement to convey emotion.

When we are freed from the mindset of the "rules" of movement ministry, we are then able to express ourselves with freedom in knowing that the Lord fully expects us to be expressive before Him. If we are overwhelmed with tears, those same teardrops will minister to many. Laughter may cause others to rejoice. The times that we express sorrow are vital to enjoy the deep laughter that only the Lord can give.

Psalm 126:5 (NKJV)
Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Proverbs 14:13 (NKJV)
Even in laughter the heart may sorrow, and the end of mirth may be grief.

Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NKJV)
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance;

Ecclesiastes 7:3 (NKJV)
Sorrow is better than laughter, for by a sad countenance the heart is made better.

Luke 6:21 (NKJV)
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you shall be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.

Luke 6:25 (NKJV)
Woe to you who are full, For you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, For you shall mourn and weep.

James 4:8-10 (NKJV)
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.