Sunday, May 31, 2009

"Bored of Directors II"

Dance ministry leadership can be exciting and rewarding. After having done it for many years, if we are not careful, we can find ourselves weary and burned out. When we get to this point, we come to the unfortunate realization that we have missed it somewhere. It's time to get back to the place of complete reliance on God.

Some people are assigned to dance ministry leadership, but do not have the wisdom, skill, or anointing to carry it successfully. Others have a burden to lead, but become so self-reliant that they become the focal point of the dance ministry. These leaders often carry more assignments than they can accomplish, but neglect to delegate the work to other capable team members.

There can also come a time when we should have moved on or grown into our next assignment, but are living in the glory of yesteryear. This often results in ministries that are stagnant, lifeless, and lack Divine imprint. Instead of training others to lead after us, many are guarding their positions until the end. As it is often said, "There is no success without a successor."

If we are finding ourselves in a dry place as leaders, or want to know how to avoid this pitfall, we can be transparent at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada.

GET REVIVED!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for mote information

"Bored of Directors"
Workshop Instructor: Rekesha Pittman
Rain Rein Reign Ministries
www.rainreinreign.com

New King James Version

Isaiah 40:31
But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

Exodus 18:14-23
So when Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he did for the people, he said, “What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit, and all the people stand before you from morning until evening?” And Moses said to his father-in-law, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God. When they have a difficulty, they come to me, and I judge between one and another; and I make known the statutes of God and His laws.”

So Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “The thing that you do is not good. Both you and these people who are with you will surely wear yourselves out. For this thing is too much for you; you are not able to perform it by yourself.

Listen now to my voice; I will give you counsel, and God will be with you: Stand before God for the people, so that you may bring the difficulties to God. And you shall teach them the statutes and the laws, and show them the way in which they must walk and the work they must do. Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And let them judge the people at all times.

Then it will be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they themselves shall judge. So it will be easier for you, for they will bear the burden with you. If you do this thing, and God so commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all this people will also go to their place in peace.”

Friday, May 29, 2009

Praise & Worship Dance

In a corporate praise and worship setting, dancers must understand the difference between ministering a piece and being part of the worship unit. Dancers should not be the focus of activity in a praise and worship atmosphere. When we are on one accord with the singers and the musicians, there should be a corporate unity that demonstrates liberty in the Spirit!

The viewing congregation should not merely watch the dancers, but feel welcome enough to participate at their seats, or in the aisles, if possible. Praise and worship is not a time for us to demonstrate all of our technical skills; rather it is a time to encourage others to praise Him for themselves. We can do this by incorporating movements that the masses can do together with us, regardless of skill level.

There are some basic techniques and tips that we can use to improve our congregational dance presentations. Whether we incorporate dance, flags, streamers, billows, or banners, it can be done in a way that allows everyone to benefit from the praise and worship experience. If you want to be more effective as a praise and worship dancer, you can learn how at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada!

Ready for Praise and Worship?
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"Praise & Worship Dance"
Instructor: Sherry Traylor
Heavens Gates Academy- www.heavensgatesacademy.com
Zoe Christian Fellowship of Whittier- www.zcf.org
International Dance Commission California State Coordinator- www.idcommission.org

Psalm 66:4
All the earth shall worship You and sing praises to You; they shall sing praises to Your name. Selah

Psalm 68:25
The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after;Among them were the maidens playing timbrels.

Psalm 150: 1-6
Praise the LORD!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet;
Praise Him with the lute and harp!
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance;
Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
Praise Him with loud cymbals;
Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

First Aide: Ministry Assistants

It is not an easy task to assist leadership in any capacity. Whether someone supports in an administrative, choreographic, spiritual, or other supportive role, we must exercise wisdom with prayer to provide the appropriate aid. If we are not careful, we may find ourselves emotionally injured and bitter if we are serving leadership that neglects to keep God at the center.

Movement ministry leadership carries its own unique set of challenges. Dance leaders deal with many different personalities and are often personally invested in the lives of their team members. They serve as counselors, choreographers, teachers, spiritual advisers, financiers, transportation providers, coordinators, directors, visionaries, disciplinarians, and much more. Those who serve alongside ministry leadership must make prayer a large component of their duties.

On the other hand, it must be recognized when leadership turns into "bleedership," and willing servants are being treated as slaves instead of ministry partners. Dance leadership does not entitle someone to be waited on hand and foot while making unreasonable demands of everyone else. We must model ourselves after Christ's method of leadership: Teaching, discipling, empowering, and living the lives that we preach about.

To learn how to have a healthy balance in leadership or obtain tips for success as a movement ministry assistant, attend this class at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, NV.

GET FIRST AIDE!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"First Aide: Ministry Assistants"
Workshop Instructors:
Lakita Humber (www.panehpraise.com) and Rekesha Pittman (www.rainreinreign.com)

New King James Version

Exodus 24:13
So Moses arose with his assistant Joshua, and Moses went up to the mountain of God.

2 Chronicles 31:15
And under him were Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah, and Shecaniah, his faithful assistants in the cities of the priests, to distribute allotments to their brethren by divisions, to the great as well as the small.

Isaiah 9:16
For the leaders of this people cause them to err, and those who are led by them are destroyed.

Romans 16:1-2
I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.

Galatians 5:13
For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Divine Choreography

Technical training will give us balance and stretch us creatively, but the most beautiful movement will not change lives unless it is inspired by God. There is a difference between movement and Divine choreography. When the Lord directs our steps, none of them shall slide!

Movement that marries the Gospel message will be replayed in the minds of people long after the song is done. Well-executed choreography will give us dances that can stand the test of time. Prayer and Biblical study work in conjunction with choreography for movement to minister to the people.

Although we may not be able to perfect our choreography in a weekend, we can certainly be sharpened and garner new inspiration to continue training in the area of dance technique. When the Lord is the Divine Artistic Director, our options are limitless! Monica Johnson, noted for her Divine Choreography as a member of GLOW on YouTube with "Let's Set The Atmosphere," will lead an intense movement class at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, NV. This will be a 2 Part class, with sessions taught back-to-back. Come and step out on faith!

Count Me In!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"Divine Choreography I & II"
Class Instructor: Monica Johnson
GLOW- Godly Ladies of Worship
www.glowdance.net

New King James Version

Psalm 37:30-31
The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way.

Acts 17:28
For in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

The Power Company

Dancing is not enough to sustain us. If we truly want to embrace the ministry of movement, we have to receive the infilling of the Holy Ghost! Witnessing excellence in movement coupled with the tangible presence of the Lord is a life-changing encounter.

If you have lost the zeal for praise dance or know that you can be more effective, we must pray that we operate through the power of the Holy Spirit. Because many misunderstand the Holy Ghost, many are running scared and denying the power of God in their lives. In HIM we live, move and have our being.

In ministries that have several team members in the group, it is not enough for one or a very few people in the unit to demonstrate the power in operation. When we are all with once accord, in one place, then we will all manifest the power! If you or your ministry desires to dance with authority, you need to attend "The Power Company" at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX JULY 16th-18th in Las Vegas, NV.

TAP INTO THE POWER!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"The Power Company"
Workshop Instructor: Elder Michael Harris
Mountaintop Faith Ministrieswww.mfmnv.org

New King James Bible Version

Luke 3:16
John answered, saying to all, "I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

Acts 1:8
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.

Acts 4:31
And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

Acts 8:17
Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

Acts 10:44
[The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles] While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word.

Romans 15:16
That I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

Monday, May 25, 2009

Merging Media & Ministry

If you want to generate news, be on fire (for God)! Nothing can stop the favor of the Lord! Many dance ministries desire publicity, press coverage, radio airtime, TV exposure, and more. Marketing yourself without wisdom and employing self-promotion may lead to embarrassment. Divine promotion comes from the Lord. If we are faithful over a few things, he will make us ruler over much!

There is a way to merge media and ministry with good intentions. As long as we keep our motives pure, we can use some basic wisdom when dealing with press, radio personalities and interviewers. Whether we are pros at utilizing media or novices, we can all learn to hone our skills.

Pastor Henry Black, Power 88.1 FM Gospel Radio Personality and President of the Gospel Announcers and Broadcasters Association (GABA) will be teaching this eye-opening class. If you want to learn the elements of maximizing your media potential, register for DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas Nevada.

CLICK TO REGISTER:
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"Merging Media & Ministry"
Class Instructor: Pastor Henry Black
Radio Host, Power 88.1 FM - www.power88lv.com
President, Gospel Announcers and Broascasters Association - www.gabalasvegas.com

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

Esther 9:4
For Mordecai was great in the king’s palace, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for this man Mordecai became increasingly prominent.

Proverbs 4:7-8
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Exalt her, and she will promote you; she will bring you honor, when you embrace her.

Proverbs 20:6
Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man?

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Getting Graphic: Visual Ministry

When the Lord used signs, symbols, and imagery, He did so with careful consideration. Employing the use of logos, graphics, and visual representation should not be done without prayer and study. If we do not consult the Lord regarding how He wants us to represent Him, we may indeed misrepresent Him.

Is your dance ministry logo a "stick figure dancer?" Is your mime ministry trademark a masked face or two? Did you purchase your logo from a "do-it-yourself" online service? Is your logo cropped from a larger picture that you did not secure the licensing rights to?

Can you discern which Scriptures are related to the current visuals you use? Are the colors relative to the message you are trying to send? Have you been told that your visual presentation on cards, online, and on printed materials are powerful and invoke a sense of awe in the observer?

If you are not experiencing the benefits of a powerful and accurate logo and ministry graphics, or if you want to improve on the concept that you already have, you will not want to miss this class at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada.

REGISTER NOW!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"Getting Graphic: Visual Ministry"
Workshop Instructor: Robert J. Connor
Graphic Designer and Visual Arts Consultant

Genesis 9:12-15
And God said: “This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh.

Hosea 12:10
I have also spoken by the prophets, and have multiplied visions; I have given symbols through the witness of the prophets.

Acts 2:18-20
And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy. I will show wonders in heaven above and signs in the earth beneath: blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the LORD.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs

Selecting a song for ministry can be a daunting challenge. Those who understand the ministry of movement know that songs cannot be chosen just because they evoke emotion or are popular. When walking in obedience to the Lord, what He wants to declare must override what we want to say. The Word of the Lord prevails!

Some songs today may get us excited and immediately will bring a crowd to its feet. This does not indicate that the lyrics agree with the Word of God or follow sound doctrine. We must examine the words of the song in comparison with Scripture and then be sure that the movement agrees with the context of it all. If God said it, that settles it!

To gain an in depth understanding of Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, take this class by Candice Lewis at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada. An anointed psalmist and mime minister, Candice understands the delicate balance of marrying movement with the music and the Word.

REGISTER NOW!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

"Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs"
Workshop Instructor: Candice Lewis, Omega Worship Center
Judah First Mime Ministries

1 Samuel 29:5
Is this not David, of whom they sang to one another in dances, saying: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?

Acts 16:25
[The Philippian Jailer Saved] But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Master, or Pastor?

Many in the corporate church today struggle with the call to ministry working in conjunction with submission to authority. There are horror stories of how leadership may have hindered many potential leaders by "cursing" the ministries those who feel a need to venture outside of the four walls of the church. Reports abound of dance ministers leaving congregations after being told that "dance does not win souls."

On the other hand, there are some in the ministry of movement who desire to move out before the set time. We must each have a system of accountability in place, first to God. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish! Before joining ourselves to an overseer, we must consult the Lord and not be led by emotions or perceived opportunity. The questions become, "Do we follow the Master (Jesus) or our Pastor? Is it possible for us to do both?"

Elder Christopher A. Bourne will navigate the healing process for the movement minister to be able to escape the hindrances that try to divide the flock from the Shepherd. He will provide insight, wisdom, and perspective as a Pastor who supports and understands the arts ministries.

If you want to share in this wisdom, make plans to attend DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, NV.

REGISTER HERE:
Or call (877) 420-4777 for additional information.

"Master, or Pastor?"
Workshop Instructor: Elder Christopher Bourne
Pastor, Bethlehem COCH
www.bethlehemcoch.org

Jeremiah 3:15
And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Ezekiel 34:12
As a shepherd seeks out his flock on the day he is among his scattered sheep, so will I seek out My sheep and deliver them from all the places where they were scattered on a cloudy and dark day.

John 8:12
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

Romans 13:3
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

I Do A New Thing!

We must continue to multiply our talents. When we present excellence unto the Lord, we make it a priority to serve Him with our whole hearts. Although technical training is not a requirement for one to participate in the ministry of movement, a varied vocabulary and Divine direction will give us longevity.

Dance technique cannot be mastered in one day; however, when we are exposed to a range of movement possibilities, we may discover hidden talents. Fear cannot be a hindrance to learning and development. Positions, leaps, turns, and formations can be exciting once we move past the basics. There is so much more in store for us!

Participating in a movement setting with others forms a bond and community with fellow dancers. If you are ready to stretch out on faith and walk in newness in Him, you'll want to take this class at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX, July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada.

This class will be taught by the anointed and talented Sherry Traylor, Dance Director for Zoe Expressions Dancers in Whittier, California and Founder of Heaven's Gates Academy. Known for their creative choreography and atmosphere-shifting power, Expressions has shown that there is no limit to dancing for Him! This dynamic group includes both male and female dancers that are highly requested and greatly respected.

REGISTER TODAY!
Or call (877) 420-4777 for additional information

"I Do a New Thing! Modern Dance I & II
Workshop Instructor: Sherry Traylor
Director, Zoe Christian Fellowship of Whittier www.zcf.org
Director, Heaven's Gates Academy www.heavensgatesacademy.com

New King James Bible Version

Psalm 150:4
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!

Isaiah 43:19
Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

Jeremiah 31:13
Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance, and the young men and the old, together; For I will turn their mourning to joy, will comfort them, and make them rejoice rather than sorrow.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

The Doctor is In!

There are many in movement ministry today who are "walking wounded." How can we effectively reach others if we have not dealt with our own sicknesses and diseases first? The issue is a spiritual one. Ignorance is not the problem; we are well aware of the issues we face. It's time to stop tolerating perpetual dysfunction amongst our own.

All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We do not have to be perfect to spread the Gospel to others, but we should not be perpetrators. Let's take up our beds and walk!

Many of the wounds in the ministry of dance come from various situations. Some of these include, but are not limited to:

-Internal conflicts between dance ministry members

-Disagreements with Pastoral leadership over the role of the movement ministry in the church

-Intense competitions between dance ministries and larger dance organizations

-Rebellion inside of the dance ministry and its leadership

-Abuse of dance ministers at the hands of leadership

-Cultish practices evolving in the dance ministry realm

-Blacklisting and sorority behavior on the "dance ministry circuit"

-A desire to excel that is driven by self-accomplishment, not Kingdom expansion

-Feelings of inadequacy and abandonment

-Turning a blind eye to rampant sin amongst movement ministers

-Feelings of guilt when leaving a ministry or church

AND MORE!


If you are in need of a "Divine Prescription for Ministry Woes," you will not want to miss DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada.

To Register:
Or call (877) 420-4777 for additional information

"The Doctor is In: Divine Prescriptions for Ministry Woes."
Workshop Instructor: Dr. Yulonda Lewis
Pastor, Omega Worship Center
www.omegaworshipcenter.com


New King James Bible Version

Psalm 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Isaiah 53:5
But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.

Jeremiah 8:22
Is there no balm in Gilead, is there no physician there? Why then is there no recovery For the health of the daughter of my people?

Luke 5:31
Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

It Is Written...

Jesus was able to defend his position with the adversary with the words, "It is written..." Writing the vision and making it plain should not be taken lightly today. Many dance and movement ministries have a vision and mission statement on paper, websites and social networking sites, but is the mission and vision recorded an accurate depiction of the ministry today?

Does the wording on your business cards represent your ministry in excellence?

Is your ministry bio in need of some minor updating or is it time for a refresher?

Does your current website have typographical errors or unnecessary information on it?

Want an award-winning journalist and Faith-based media professional to help you to present your very best in written communication?

Learn the essence of a phenomenal ministry bio, use the right words to engage your targeted audience, delete the extras from your online publishing sites and get results (and respect).

You can receive this needed expertise at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX July 16th-18th in Las Vegas, Nevada!

Conference Host: Rekesha Pittman, Rain Rein Reign Ministries www.rainreinreign.com

Register TODAY
Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.


"It Is Written..."
Workshop Instructor: Toni Terrell
Publisher, The Answer Newspaper www.wablive.com
Radio Host, The Christian Connection KKVV 1060am www.kkvv.com
Television Host, Speaking of Gospel KEEN TV www.tln.com

New King James Bible Version

Habakkuk 2:2
Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it."

Matthew 4:10
Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’”

John 20:31
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.


Hebrews 10:7
Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—In the volume of the book it is written of Me—To do Your will, O God.’”

Monday, May 18, 2009

Zero Balance: It's Going Down!

We are living in a time in which debt has consumed many people living in the world today. The financial crisis and housing meltdown in the United States is largely attributed to greed. Are Christians supposed to live a lifestyle mired in debt and lack? Many dance ministers today desire to purchase glorious garments, attend conferences, buy magnificent props, and be free to dance without restrictions. Is this view realistic?

We must first learn to manage our own finances if we want to be good stewards over the things of God. We can no longer govern our lives by wants and live in a state of discontentment. Financial liberty requires wisdom. The Lord wants an account of what He places in our hands. If we live by Biblical principles, we will be able to do all of the things that He has given us the vision to do.

At Zero Balance: It's Going Down, you will hear the personal testimonies of dance ministers who have greatly reduced debt and are working towards eliminating it altogether! This class will not only bless those in the ministry of movement, it will be a great deliverance for those who want to know how to better manage finances during conference planning and preparation, handling ministry finances, and how to avoid common pitfalls that may cost more to get out of than to get in. You can be free today! It's going down!

Zero Balance: It's Going Down!
Workshop Instructor: Lakita Humber
Founder, Paneh Praise Dance and Mime Ministries
www.panehpraise.com

To attend this class along with several other steps toward healing, join us at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX conference hosted by Rain Rein Reign Ministries July 16th-18th, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Conference Host: Rekesha Pittman
Founder, Rain Rein Reign Ministries
www.rainreinreign.com

Register TODAY!

Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

New King James Bible Version

2 Kings 4:7
Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest.”

Proverbs 22:7
The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

Romans 13:8
[Love Your Neighbor] Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

1 Corinthians 4:2
Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Touch Not Mine Anointed

We are preparing up for the upcoming DANCE MINISTRY DETOX conference hosted by Rain Rein Reign Ministries July 16th-18th, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

I will spend the next few weeks highlighting several classes and subjects. This will truly be a life-altering encounter! We pray that you will be able to join us...

Register TODAY!

Or call (877) 420-4777 for more information.

Touch Not Mine Anointed

We are living in a fantasy if we think that Christians in ministry do not struggle with the flesh. When we are anointed, people with various weaknesses will be drawn to us. The more effective we are in the Body, the greater the temptation becomes. We should not use the trust and guidance that others may seek from us as an opportunity to indulge our own lusts and desires. We are to walk in righteousness and sin not.

The enemy wants to lure each of us into immorality. Because ministers of movement use our bodies for the glory of God, the adversary also wants to use our bodies to glorify himself. We have to resist the temptation to indulge in sexual sin if we have to run like our lives depend on it! We have to build ourselves up enough on faith in the Word to be able to flee the entrapments of the flesh.

Frequent travel, fellowship with each other, and affection between co-laborers can result in inappropriate relationships if we allow our boundaries to be compromised. In the church setting, frequent hugs, kisses, fellowship dinners, and casual conversation abound. We must be able to recognize when brotherly love develops into something more serious. Although it is natural to desire companionship and affection, outside of the Lord's guidelines, we can fall into temptation.

This concern does not only apply to dealings with the opposite gender. The world needs a Savior now more than ever before. If we are struggling with any areas of physical sin in our lives today, we can be forgiven. We must refrain from touching what is holy unto the Lord.

This class is open to ages 18 years of age and up and will be no-holds-barred! Come and heed the warning to touch not the Lord's anointed, and receive the tools to walk upright in life and ministry.

Touch Not Mine Anointed
Workshop Instructor: Rekesha Pittman
Founder, Rain Rein Reign Ministries www.rainreinreign.com
Artistic Director, Reign Dance Company www.reigndancecompany.com
Owner, Reignaissance Designs www.reignaissance.com

(New King James Version)

Genesis 39:7-10
And it came to pass after these things that his master’s wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, “Lie with me.” But he refused and said to his master’s wife, “Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand. There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” So it was, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, that he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her.

1 Chronicles 16:21-22
He permitted no man to do them wrong; yes, He rebuked kings for their sakes, saying, “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.”

Ephesians 5:3
But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints

Colossians 3:5
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Full-Time Ministry or Unemployed?

Many dance ministers dream of the day when they can do ministry "full-time." This usually means that he or she can make enough income to support themselves while ministering freely without working a "secular" job. Some people have the notion that big paychecks will come from ministry assisgnments, and that hotel expenses, airfare, meals, and an honorarium will provide for all comforts desired. (For some, these comforts include a luxury vehicle and first class airfare!)

There is a difference between serving in ministry full-time and being unemployed. Losing a job does not mean that someone is now in full-time ministry, even though it can serve as a catalyst for it. If we are to leave the Corporate job sector to work in the ministry full-time, we must have a plan of action in place. Otherwise, we are merely unemployed and in need of work.

The reality is that full-time ministry requires hard work. Each and every one of us should be in full-time ministry, regardless of whether we receive checks for it or not! Those who labor in the Gospel realize the importance of being able to minister the Word freely, without the control of people who may wave a paycheck at them for expected services. As a result of variable love offerings and "church folk mentalities," many ministers have had to work to generate income that would supplement any love offerings or salaries received from a local church.

Many dance ministers today have also become entreprenuers through marketplace ministry. This is being done through product development including books, DVDs, garments, flags, training programs and other ministry-related inspirational products. While launching a Christian business may be great, if we are to maintain integrity in ministry, we must be diligent in product order fulfillment and excellent customer service. Being out on the road ministering does not excuse us from delivering our products on time!

Whatever the path the Lord blesses us to walk, we must not let money become the deciding factor for ministry. As I have quoted to many, "The problem is that we treat our ministries like businesses, and our businesses like ministries." If we are to operate as Kingdom entrepreneurs, we must do our homework concerning business licenses, product distribution options, production deadlines, tax laws, business insurance, website development, payment acceptance, branding, quality control... Get the picture?

Before we set our hearts on earning income solely through ministry, we must pray and obey the Lord. Too many are "pimping" the Gospel for unrighteous gain. When the Lord places something in our hands, He will cause us to go out and multiply our talents. Since our heart and treasure reside in the same place, let's make sure to set our affections on the Lord.

(New King James Version)

Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.

1 Corinthians 3:8
Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.

2 Thessalonians 3:7-11
For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies.