All Play and No Work

Dance and movement ministry has a growing presence on the internet and in the media. As many continue to make connections through social networking, there is also a danger lurking in the shadows of ignorance. Though internet access has definitely been used to bring glory to God, there is much temptation that lies at the door if we are not careful to exercise wisdom and discipline.

Anything exciting can become addictive. Many dancers spend countless hours online posting thoughts, quotes, observations, and opinions. When these activities get in the way of our responsibilities, we must not ignore them but make the necessary adjustments. We cannot remain babes, drinking milk only. We should welcome accountability in our lives, especially from those that love us.

Here are a few questions we must ask ourselves to know if we are compromising our families, ministries, or reputations online:

Do I spend hours of my day posting messages, even during work hours or designated family time?

Are the comments that I write edifying or just random thoughts?

Will the comments that I make in any way make me appear hypocritical in regards to the ministry God has entrusted me with?

Am I getting in arguments with people online that may cause more damage than good?

Can my comments be deemed inappropriate or do others often tell me that I am sharing "too much information?"

Did the time I spent online hinder me from writing my book, updating my website, rehearsing for upcoming ministry, or preparing myself for the future?

In any ministry context, we must accept the fact that how we present ourselves to the world can enhance or tarnish our ministries. There are healthy outlets for us to express ourselves, share our feelings, and connect with people. Opinions of men do not matter. Our behavior must agree with the Word of God if our faith is a lifestyle and not just a once-weekly phenomenon. We must ask ourselves at what cost are we willing to do harm to the Body to satisfy our own desires and need for self-expression.

New King James Version

Proverbs 14:23
In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty.

John 9:4
I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.

1 Corinthians 3:12-14
Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward

2 Thessalonians 3:10-11
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.