Hand Shake

When we realize that each and every movement in a dance should find its origin in the Word of God, we will witness the Word made flesh before our eyes. Even when the observer does not realize that a motion in based on Scripture, the life-giving truth of the Word works. The more we incorporate Word-breathed movement, the less physical the work becomes. The Spirit and the Word applied in dance ministry will make it effortless to move through the Power of God on a regular basis.

This serves as a reminder that we cannot be haphazard in our selection of movement. Putting choreographic elements together merely as "filler" to lead into the next section will not be effective. There are times in ministry when the Lord will lead us to re-choreograph a particular section or an entire piece as He sees fit. Learning to rely on His direction will make us dedicate ourselves to Him more than to the dance.

The shaking of the hands or fists in the Bible are indicative of judgment. When we shake our hands in choreography, we are not doing so from our own point of view. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Knowing the Lord as a Righteous Judge will allow us to convey the judgment of the Lord in a way that provokes repentance for ourselves and the congregation of witnesses.

Although we cannot limit shaking hands in motion solely to justice, knowing the various ways movement was used in the Bible will help us to be more precise in the ministry of dance. We often hear that taking dance classes increases our "vocabulary" to dance more effectively. Immersing ourselves in the Word of God will also increase our "spiritual movement vocabulary," so that we can dance with skill, power, precision, and understanding.

Isaiah 11:15 (NKJV)
The LORD will utterly destroy the tongue of the Sea of Egypt; With His mighty wind He will shake His fist over the River, and strike it in the seven streams, and make men cross over dryshod.

Ezekiel 21:17 (NKJV)
“I also will beat My fists together, and I will cause My fury to rest; I, the LORD, have spoken.”

Zechariah 2:9 (NKJV)
For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me.

Zephaniah 2:15 (NKJV)
This is the rejoicing city that dwelt securely, that said in her heart, “I am it, and there is none besides me.” How has she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down! Everyone who passes by her shall hiss and shake his fist.