Name Recognition

In the business networking arena, it is often said, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." In Kingdom business, it is about what we know and Who we know. The unfortunate practice of boasting about personal associations, affiliations, network connections, and social groups is that many dance ministries have become dependent on prominent people to look for validation for themselves. If we are found diligent in our work for the Lord, He will raise us up without man's appointment.

Building accountability and righteous relationships is great. If we find ourselves connected to effective ministers of the gospel, we can be provided with very valuable widsom and instruction. When we use the names of others to promote endorsement of ourselves, we are relying on the world's way of promotion. If we make a habit of telling others about our popular influences, when scandal or setback befalls that person, we will also be attached to the resulting controversy.

The only name that we should boast about is the name of Jesus. Jesus came in the name of the Father, and not man. This does not mean that we do not give honor to those who are worthy of it. We must not aim to gain fame by our affiliations. The Bible records many times in which selected leaders were propelled into prominence because of dedication and faithfulness to the Lord. If we count on our earthly connections to get us to a place of success, we will realize that man's intervention is temporary, while God's is eternal.

Joshua 6:27 (NKJV)
So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout all the country.

2 Samuel 5:12 (NKJV)
So David knew that the LORD had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted His kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.

1 Chronicles 29:25 (NKJV)
So the LORD exalted Solomon exceedingly in the sight of all Israel, and bestowed on him such royal majesty as had not been on any king before him in Israel.

Job 36:7 (NKJV)
He does not withdraw His eyes from the righteous; But they are on the throne with kings, For He has seated them forever, and they are exalted.

Matthew 23:12 (NKJV)
And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.