Friday, August 1, 2008

Let's Get Physical!

It is important to have a spiritual foundation in movement ministry. It is often quoted that we cannot be "So spiritual that we are no earthly good." Some dancers focus solely on the spiritual aspects of ministry, but forget about the physical portions of it. We must find a balance between the two.

Failing to care for ourselves will reduce our effectiveness as movement ministers. Lack of sleep, poor eating habits, and unrealistic schedules will cause harm to us both physically and spiritually. Our love for the Lord should compel us to nurture the bodies that He blessed us with. Proper stretching and positioning will aid in keeping our joints supple and develop instruments that are finely tuned for the Lord's use.

What we eat will also contribute to the functionality of our bodies. When we gain too much weight, we place undue strain on our backs, legs, and feet, which are essential to what we do. When we do not get the right nutrients, our bones may become fragile and susceptible to injury. Swollen feet and painful knees will only become excuses as to why we are unable to dance.

To be used at optimal levels, we must gain a foothold on our health. When we submit to the Lord, He will guide us at to what is required for our individual bodies. Maintaining good habits now will give us longevity in ministry and greater ease in performing our service unto the Lord.

2 Chronicles 15:7 (NKJV)
But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!”

Nehemiah 6:9 (NKJV)
For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, “Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.” Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.

1 Corinthians 15:44-46 (NKJV)
It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being.” The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, and afterward the spiritual.

3 John 1:2 (NKJV)
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

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