Many dance leaders and ministries are constantly looking for resources to sharpen and develop their ministries. I am blessed to say that I published my first (of many) books this year! Company Keepers: Dance Ministry Daily launched successfully and we have sold many copies online and at dance conferences throughout the USA. If you have not purchased your copy, discounts are being offered now through December 31st. This book is a great option for group study and discussion.
COMPANY KEEPERS: DANCE MINISTRY DAILY
Reignaissance Publications
Buy Online: www.reignaissance.com
List Price: $20.00
Priority Shipping: $4.90
For your viewing inspiration, Reign Dance Company has released a DVD of our annual dance production entitled, "A Night in Shining Armor." This DVD features several dances and includes selections by RDC, Expressions Dance Company, Kingdom Worship Arts Ministry, Witness Performing Arts, vocalist Shonica Murray, and Praise & Worship by Passion for Christ. This professional production is a must-see!
A NIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR - DVD
Reign Dance Company
Buy Online: www.reigndancecompany.com
Price: $20.00
Priority Shipping: $4.90
Order by Tuesday at 10am to guarantee arrival by Christmas!
Thanks and blessings to all who have supported the ministry of movement. Your financial support enables us to continue to take the Gospel to the masses through movement. Continue to pray for dance ministries worldwide as we spread the message for the building of the Kingdom.
Living and Moving in Him,
Rekesha Pittman
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Clothes Minded
Many times we have heard that David “danced out of his clothes,” but the Scriptures do not say that. (File this under "Dance Ministry Myths"). We must know what the Word says, not only about dancing, but about many of our long-held beliefs, traditions, and quotations.
2 Samuel 6:14, 20
14) Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
20) Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”
In the Hebrew (#1540-galah) the word for uncover here is not translated as naked, but to “reveal” or “remove.” He was wearing a linen ephod, but kings at the time wore elaborate robes. He appeared to be common in this sense (by only wearing linen- which was thin and breathable), thus experiencing ridicule by Saul’s daughter (and also his wife) for being “foolish.” David rebutted that he would be even more undignified! Priests wore linen as one of their garments. (King and Priest? Go Jesus!)
Not all dance in the Bible is praise dance, but was an essential part of Old Testament tradition and expression (folk dance). Miriam and David danced unto the Lord. Women, men, and children danced. The return of the prodigal son in the New Testament was celebrated with a party and dancing (Luke 15:25). Of course we have heard the infamous account of Herodias’ daughter, which resulted in the death of John the Baptist.
Since I will not turn this into a long rant, here is the summary: Praise unto the Lord in dance is an acceptable expression. Just because people are dancing does not qualify it as praise (not only dance, but singing, preaching, and more can fall into the category of entertainment when it pleases our flesh more than it pleases God- but I digress…). God is looking at our hearts, and we must seek to glorify him in all that we do.
(New King James Bible Version)
2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2 Samuel 6:14, 20
14) Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
20) Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”
In the Hebrew (#1540-galah) the word for uncover here is not translated as naked, but to “reveal” or “remove.” He was wearing a linen ephod, but kings at the time wore elaborate robes. He appeared to be common in this sense (by only wearing linen- which was thin and breathable), thus experiencing ridicule by Saul’s daughter (and also his wife) for being “foolish.” David rebutted that he would be even more undignified! Priests wore linen as one of their garments. (King and Priest? Go Jesus!)
Not all dance in the Bible is praise dance, but was an essential part of Old Testament tradition and expression (folk dance). Miriam and David danced unto the Lord. Women, men, and children danced. The return of the prodigal son in the New Testament was celebrated with a party and dancing (Luke 15:25). Of course we have heard the infamous account of Herodias’ daughter, which resulted in the death of John the Baptist.
Since I will not turn this into a long rant, here is the summary: Praise unto the Lord in dance is an acceptable expression. Just because people are dancing does not qualify it as praise (not only dance, but singing, preaching, and more can fall into the category of entertainment when it pleases our flesh more than it pleases God- but I digress…). God is looking at our hearts, and we must seek to glorify him in all that we do.
(New King James Bible Version)
2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Post No Bills
Have you visited a website, blog or discussion board and read messages completely unrelated to the topic in the comments section? Even if the comment is relative, someone may try to sneak in an advertisement for their own blog, website, or sales business. Ever open your email inbox and see a SPAM folder?
Shady marketing practices are nothing new, but why are Kingdom citizens adopting similar habits? There are many avenues for free or inexpensive advertisements that aim to provide these services to the community and welcome them. While our friends and relatives may become our supporters, we should not automatically enroll them in our sales forces.
It is standard now for many movement ministries to have eye-catching flyers, websites, postcards, and graphics to promote ministry-related events. Because we have a visual ministry, this can work very well to give the potential participant an idea of what to expect. Spread the Word, by all means, but when we become reckless self-promoters, we run the risk of being labeled opportunists and may even cause others to question our true motives.
In the ministry realm, we may not hear from someone until they have an event to promote. This gathering may not include your ministry as a participant, but in essence, an endorsement is being requested or implied. When we receive emails in our inboxes with a request to forward the contents to our entire lists, we have the option to oblige or not. We must carefully consider what we are sending! Constantly bombarding our friends and associates with every event happening worldwide may make us operate like e-blast services (which businesses charge for) instead of concerned friends.
If we want to share the good news about upcoming dance conferences, concerts, and products, it is natural to send that information to people who share the same interests. We should always grant people the option of whether or not they want to participate. They should have a choice whether or not their entire database or friends list receives your information. Forcing ourselves in the faces of others may not only get us rejected, but diminish our respect among others.
In public areas where construction is taking place, we may see the words "POST NO BILLS." This is a request by the builder for promotoers and advertisers not to place posters or advertisements in places where persmission has not been granted. Someone paid the price for the wood or other materials to be there. We do not have the "right" to obtain free advertisement from anyone without permission or invitation.
POST NO BILLS DEFINED
Comes from era before electronic communications. One way to advertise, especially shows, was to "post" or put up on building, lamp posts, etc., "bills" or advertisements. "Post No Bills" meant don't clutter up this space with your advertisements.
Source: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071118190441AAmgs1k
In social networking, the current trend is to "post" ads, flyers, and pictures on the pages of others without permission. If we do this in our own territory (websites, blogs, social media, etc), this gives supporters the opportunity to share the good news by choice. When we request associates and friends just to increase our marketing base, we may unintentionally (or intentionally) use each other for our own gain.
When I want to get the word out about an event, I contact a graphics designer (who I pay) to produce the image. If I want postcards with the image, I order postcards/posters/promotional items (for which I pay). To reach a larger audience, I may reach out to my radio or print media associates for advertising (and pay for the benefits). I also praise God for favor in these areas. There have been times that I have been blessed with complimentary graphics, ads, materials, etc, but I did not expect these services to be provided without blessing the provider.
Posting ministry or personal information on the pages, websites, homes, cars (ouch), and other areas without invitation or permission could very well mean that we are using our neighbors for our own gain. Only the Lord truly knows our motives. While some of us may innocently copy the practices of those around us, when we know better, we must do better. Consider your neighbor. Networking and advertisement alone do not make events and ministries successful, but can be a tremendous help. While promoting events and ministries greatly blesses the Kingdom, without honest motives, we only cause division. Ignorance is not a defense. When all is said and done, true promotion only comes from God!
NEW KING JAMES BIBLE VERSION
1 Chronicles 21:24
Then King David said to Ornan, "No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing."
Jeremiah 22:13
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his chambers by injustice, who uses his neighbor’s service without wages and gives him nothing for his work
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 12:2
A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.
Shady marketing practices are nothing new, but why are Kingdom citizens adopting similar habits? There are many avenues for free or inexpensive advertisements that aim to provide these services to the community and welcome them. While our friends and relatives may become our supporters, we should not automatically enroll them in our sales forces.
It is standard now for many movement ministries to have eye-catching flyers, websites, postcards, and graphics to promote ministry-related events. Because we have a visual ministry, this can work very well to give the potential participant an idea of what to expect. Spread the Word, by all means, but when we become reckless self-promoters, we run the risk of being labeled opportunists and may even cause others to question our true motives.
In the ministry realm, we may not hear from someone until they have an event to promote. This gathering may not include your ministry as a participant, but in essence, an endorsement is being requested or implied. When we receive emails in our inboxes with a request to forward the contents to our entire lists, we have the option to oblige or not. We must carefully consider what we are sending! Constantly bombarding our friends and associates with every event happening worldwide may make us operate like e-blast services (which businesses charge for) instead of concerned friends.
If we want to share the good news about upcoming dance conferences, concerts, and products, it is natural to send that information to people who share the same interests. We should always grant people the option of whether or not they want to participate. They should have a choice whether or not their entire database or friends list receives your information. Forcing ourselves in the faces of others may not only get us rejected, but diminish our respect among others.
In public areas where construction is taking place, we may see the words "POST NO BILLS." This is a request by the builder for promotoers and advertisers not to place posters or advertisements in places where persmission has not been granted. Someone paid the price for the wood or other materials to be there. We do not have the "right" to obtain free advertisement from anyone without permission or invitation.
POST NO BILLS DEFINED
Comes from era before electronic communications. One way to advertise, especially shows, was to "post" or put up on building, lamp posts, etc., "bills" or advertisements. "Post No Bills" meant don't clutter up this space with your advertisements.
Source: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071118190441AAmgs1k
In social networking, the current trend is to "post" ads, flyers, and pictures on the pages of others without permission. If we do this in our own territory (websites, blogs, social media, etc), this gives supporters the opportunity to share the good news by choice. When we request associates and friends just to increase our marketing base, we may unintentionally (or intentionally) use each other for our own gain.
When I want to get the word out about an event, I contact a graphics designer (who I pay) to produce the image. If I want postcards with the image, I order postcards/posters/promotional items (for which I pay). To reach a larger audience, I may reach out to my radio or print media associates for advertising (and pay for the benefits). I also praise God for favor in these areas. There have been times that I have been blessed with complimentary graphics, ads, materials, etc, but I did not expect these services to be provided without blessing the provider.
Posting ministry or personal information on the pages, websites, homes, cars (ouch), and other areas without invitation or permission could very well mean that we are using our neighbors for our own gain. Only the Lord truly knows our motives. While some of us may innocently copy the practices of those around us, when we know better, we must do better. Consider your neighbor. Networking and advertisement alone do not make events and ministries successful, but can be a tremendous help. While promoting events and ministries greatly blesses the Kingdom, without honest motives, we only cause division. Ignorance is not a defense. When all is said and done, true promotion only comes from God!
NEW KING JAMES BIBLE VERSION
1 Chronicles 21:24
Then King David said to Ornan, "No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing."
Jeremiah 22:13
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his chambers by injustice, who uses his neighbor’s service without wages and gives him nothing for his work
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 12:2
A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Technical Difficulties
There is a difference between dance and dance ministry. The danger of focusing on technique as the prominent qualifier for dance ministers is that some will think that the power is in the movement. It is the Word that works. When we connect the movement with the Word, it comes to life in us and through us.
We can have emotional experiences and see movement that overwhelms our senses. This does not mean that a dance is anointed or lines up with the Word of God. Many talented individuals can move a crowd to its feet or garner thunderous applause. Imaging if the thunder of God met our dances with approval! Our ways must please God, including the motives behind our movement.
Dance technique gives us a broad vocabulary from which to communicate a message. When we exalt form over substance, we eliminate the Lord from the process. I have witnessed intensely technical ministry that received a "WOW" from the crowd but did not move a spiritual atmosphere toward the miraculous. Specific signs follow them that believe. Splits, leg extensions, and challenging physical feats may be amazing, but if there is no relevance to the Word going forth through them, the only thing on display are the works of the flesh.
All dance ministries are not the same, but we must remember that the Lord is Holy. We are set apart for Him and must study, pray, and remain pliable in His hands. If we are not careful, we will legitimately offend people with movements and garments that appear to be obscene. If we are truly ministries and not "entertainers," we will not focus on crowd reaction. If we want to move in a way that pleases God, we will be blessed to find an abundance of choreographic movement in the Scriptures.
The world may be interested in your resume and accomplishments, but God is not. Technical training is a great asset to the ministry of movement and should never be a hindrance. Let us always to remember to make obedience to Him our first priority. When we move under His direction and guidance, we will never miss a step!
New King James Bible Version
Psalm 4:2-3
How long, O you sons of men,
Will you turn my glory to shame?
How long will you love worthlessness
And seek falsehood? Selah
But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
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.’
1 Corinthians 6:12
[Glorify God in Body and Spirit] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Colossians 1:9-10
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God
We can have emotional experiences and see movement that overwhelms our senses. This does not mean that a dance is anointed or lines up with the Word of God. Many talented individuals can move a crowd to its feet or garner thunderous applause. Imaging if the thunder of God met our dances with approval! Our ways must please God, including the motives behind our movement.
Dance technique gives us a broad vocabulary from which to communicate a message. When we exalt form over substance, we eliminate the Lord from the process. I have witnessed intensely technical ministry that received a "WOW" from the crowd but did not move a spiritual atmosphere toward the miraculous. Specific signs follow them that believe. Splits, leg extensions, and challenging physical feats may be amazing, but if there is no relevance to the Word going forth through them, the only thing on display are the works of the flesh.
All dance ministries are not the same, but we must remember that the Lord is Holy. We are set apart for Him and must study, pray, and remain pliable in His hands. If we are not careful, we will legitimately offend people with movements and garments that appear to be obscene. If we are truly ministries and not "entertainers," we will not focus on crowd reaction. If we want to move in a way that pleases God, we will be blessed to find an abundance of choreographic movement in the Scriptures.
The world may be interested in your resume and accomplishments, but God is not. Technical training is a great asset to the ministry of movement and should never be a hindrance. Let us always to remember to make obedience to Him our first priority. When we move under His direction and guidance, we will never miss a step!
New King James Bible Version
Psalm 4:2-3
How long, O you sons of men,
Will you turn my glory to shame?
How long will you love worthlessness
And seek falsehood? Selah
But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
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.’
1 Corinthians 6:12
[Glorify God in Body and Spirit] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Colossians 1:9-10
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God
Saturday, August 28, 2010
"Boaster" Seat
This post may not prove popular, but must be brought to light. Many movement ministries have fallen into the deceptive practices of the world when advertising conferences, events, and ministries. Many of us have subconciously allowed competitive lingo and behaviors to direct us when trying to rally crowds to attend events and support our endeavors. Ministries even "stretch the truth" (Ok, outright lie!) to make the ministry seem larger or more powerful than it is. Power does not have to announce itself. True power illuminates its surroundings to the point that others will express how bright the light is.
Jesus told us that if He be lifted up from the earth, He would draw all men to Himself. This does not mean that we cannot let people know what is available to them with flyers and announcements, but let's make sure not to step on the toes of fellow laborers when doing so... Time for a spiritual motives test!
For instance, if we use the words "Best," "Biggest" "Most Anointed," or other descriptives words that imply superiority, we are heading to the danger zone. When we think we are the best or most excellent/popular/requested, the spirit of pride has already taken a foothold in our ministries and destruction is around the corner. Someone else may categorize our ministries in this manner, but if we are walking with the Lord, we will maintain a spirit of humility and not use the accolades of others as bragging rights.
This reminder also extends to our ministry biographies and website content. When we imply that we have the greatest ministry, we diminish the glory of God from shining in our lives and ministries. Years ago, one of my best friends read my online ministry and immediately told me, "When I read your bio, all I see is I, I, I!" Instead of arguing with her, I took a look at my bio and discovered that she was right! Although it was not my intention to magnify myself, I realized that I was following the world's pattern of self-introduction. I revised it immediately. It now says that GOD has blessed me to... HE directed me to... The LORD has opened doors for me!
For many of us, it is time to take another look at the written and spoken words that we use to describe ourselves and ministries. Yes, God uses people, but without Christ, we can do nothing. Let's take some time out today to review how we present ourselves to others to reveal if we are glorifying God or ourselves.
(New King James Bible Version)
Psalm 100:3
Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Proverbs 27:2
Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.
2 Corinthians 1:12
For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.
2 Corinthians 12:6
For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.
Jesus told us that if He be lifted up from the earth, He would draw all men to Himself. This does not mean that we cannot let people know what is available to them with flyers and announcements, but let's make sure not to step on the toes of fellow laborers when doing so... Time for a spiritual motives test!
For instance, if we use the words "Best," "Biggest" "Most Anointed," or other descriptives words that imply superiority, we are heading to the danger zone. When we think we are the best or most excellent/popular/requested, the spirit of pride has already taken a foothold in our ministries and destruction is around the corner. Someone else may categorize our ministries in this manner, but if we are walking with the Lord, we will maintain a spirit of humility and not use the accolades of others as bragging rights.
This reminder also extends to our ministry biographies and website content. When we imply that we have the greatest ministry, we diminish the glory of God from shining in our lives and ministries. Years ago, one of my best friends read my online ministry and immediately told me, "When I read your bio, all I see is I, I, I!" Instead of arguing with her, I took a look at my bio and discovered that she was right! Although it was not my intention to magnify myself, I realized that I was following the world's pattern of self-introduction. I revised it immediately. It now says that GOD has blessed me to... HE directed me to... The LORD has opened doors for me!
For many of us, it is time to take another look at the written and spoken words that we use to describe ourselves and ministries. Yes, God uses people, but without Christ, we can do nothing. Let's take some time out today to review how we present ourselves to others to reveal if we are glorifying God or ourselves.
(New King James Bible Version)
Psalm 100:3
Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Proverbs 27:2
Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.
2 Corinthians 1:12
For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.
2 Corinthians 12:6
For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Who Cares?
Many in ministry start off with pure intentions, but that can change later down the road if we are not mindful. Along with ministry comes the lure of celebrity if we are deemed "great" at what we do. We must diligently avoid the trap that Lucifer set for himself in relishing the worship of others. We must also refuse to accept unjust criticism of those who seek to stop us in our tracks. Since dancers are often out front, we are open to compliments as well as criticism of what we do.
I recall a few critical moments from people who thought to give unsolicited advice after a ministry offering including comments like, "Next time, wear some shoes!" "You need to point your toe," "I would have chosen different choreography..." "You are anointed, but have no technique," and much more (since then, I have taken dance classes, but technique does not make an anointed dancer!). I have learned to chuckle at many comments over the years, but when I first experienced them, I was not so warm and welcoming.
On the other side, I often hear statements like, "You are so unique," "You are so anointed," and "I have never seen praise dance like that before!" While receiving compliments may be wonderful for opening doors, I must constantly tell my flesh that God gets the glory out of my story! I cannot let the opinions of people determine my dedication to service, one way or the other.
I said all of this to say that we cannot listen to unspiritual comments to determine our next move. David was harshly criticized by his own wife, but settled within himself that he would not be limited due to his title as king or position of leadership as he danced with abandonment. Who are we listening to today that may be causing us to stumble along the way?
If you have heard any of the following comments, keep moving ahead!
"Aren't you a little too old to be dancing?"
"Maybe you should lose some weight..."
"Dance is for girls and isn't very masculine.."
"Dance is for the 'young people.'"
"What you are doing is not real ministry"
"You are not anointed"
"You'll grow out of that phase..."
"I just don't get it..."
DON'T BE DISTRACTED OR DISCOURAGED!
Who cares about you? The Lord does! Let us not be overly concerned with people. There will always be advocates and antagonists, but the only opinion of us that matters is what God thinks!
(New King James Bible Version)
2 Samuel 6:14, 20-22
Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”
So David said to Michal, “It was before the LORD, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel. Therefore I will play music before the LORD.
And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight. But as for the maidservants of whom you have spoken, by them I will be held in honor.”
1 Peter 5:6-7
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
I recall a few critical moments from people who thought to give unsolicited advice after a ministry offering including comments like, "Next time, wear some shoes!" "You need to point your toe," "I would have chosen different choreography..." "You are anointed, but have no technique," and much more (since then, I have taken dance classes, but technique does not make an anointed dancer!). I have learned to chuckle at many comments over the years, but when I first experienced them, I was not so warm and welcoming.
On the other side, I often hear statements like, "You are so unique," "You are so anointed," and "I have never seen praise dance like that before!" While receiving compliments may be wonderful for opening doors, I must constantly tell my flesh that God gets the glory out of my story! I cannot let the opinions of people determine my dedication to service, one way or the other.
I said all of this to say that we cannot listen to unspiritual comments to determine our next move. David was harshly criticized by his own wife, but settled within himself that he would not be limited due to his title as king or position of leadership as he danced with abandonment. Who are we listening to today that may be causing us to stumble along the way?
If you have heard any of the following comments, keep moving ahead!
"Aren't you a little too old to be dancing?"
"Maybe you should lose some weight..."
"Dance is for girls and isn't very masculine.."
"Dance is for the 'young people.'"
"What you are doing is not real ministry"
"You are not anointed"
"You'll grow out of that phase..."
"I just don't get it..."
DON'T BE DISTRACTED OR DISCOURAGED!
Who cares about you? The Lord does! Let us not be overly concerned with people. There will always be advocates and antagonists, but the only opinion of us that matters is what God thinks!
(New King James Bible Version)
2 Samuel 6:14, 20-22
Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”
So David said to Michal, “It was before the LORD, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel. Therefore I will play music before the LORD.
And I will be even more undignified than this, and will be humble in my own sight. But as for the maidservants of whom you have spoken, by them I will be held in honor.”
1 Peter 5:6-7
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Teach Me How to "David!"
Each generation seems to have several dance crazes that come out, especially in the Summertime. Some of these dances "miraculously" find their way into our churches during praise dance presentations (shocking, isn't it?). Nevertheless, the sight is more common than not. Many unassuming congregations have no idea that the dances done before them have been newly acquired from MTV and BET.
While teaching at workshops and conferences, I often ask the dancers to tell me who danced in the Bible. Most are familiar with David, and even fewer with Miriam. For most groups, the familiarity stops there. This week, I was blessed to teach a group of very young children at a Summer Arts Camp. During class, the Lord led me to teach them how to dance like David and Miriam. I led them in movement according to the descriptions found in the Scriptures.
We played a game called "Jesus Says..." similar to the traditional "Simon Says" response game. I would say, "Jesus says, 'Dance Like David!'" The children joyfully began to leap and whirl as instructed by the Word. They then replied, "That was FUN!" The experience reminded me that we still have a responsibility not only to train our children, but those who are in ministry as well.
How Did David Dance?
2 Samuel 6:14, 16
14) Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
16) Now as the ark of the LORD came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart.
The Hebrew word used here for dance is karar, meaning to dance (i.e. whirl): - dancing (Source: The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible)
David reserved nothing for himself, but gave his all unto the Lord while dancing before Him. Leaping required his feet to leave the ground, and whirling would ensure that he danced in all directions! The sight of David dancing provoked his spouse to rebuke him for such an open display of abandonment (for which she paid a hefty price!).
Dancing is nothing new. The unique style in which certain individuals express it has often garnered the acknowledgment of having a dance or technical style take on the name of the originator. We all know that the true Originator of movement is the Spirit, who moved first in Genesis 1:2! Instead of learning the latest dance craze to demonstrate, wouldn't it be a wonderful exercise to train our dancers to learn the style of those who danced according to the Word? Instead of our children singing popular songs about dances (and doing them in church, school, and everywhere else), we would be blessed to hear them say, "Teach me how to David!"
New King James Bible Version
Exodus 15:20
[The Song of Miriam] Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took the timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
1 Samuel 18:7
So the women sang as they danced, and said: “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.”
Psalm 149:3
Let them praise His name with the dance;Let them sing praises to Him with the timbrel and harp.
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.
While teaching at workshops and conferences, I often ask the dancers to tell me who danced in the Bible. Most are familiar with David, and even fewer with Miriam. For most groups, the familiarity stops there. This week, I was blessed to teach a group of very young children at a Summer Arts Camp. During class, the Lord led me to teach them how to dance like David and Miriam. I led them in movement according to the descriptions found in the Scriptures.
We played a game called "Jesus Says..." similar to the traditional "Simon Says" response game. I would say, "Jesus says, 'Dance Like David!'" The children joyfully began to leap and whirl as instructed by the Word. They then replied, "That was FUN!" The experience reminded me that we still have a responsibility not only to train our children, but those who are in ministry as well.
How Did David Dance?
2 Samuel 6:14, 16
14) Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
16) Now as the ark of the LORD came into the City of David, Michal, Saul’s daughter, looked through a window and saw King David leaping and whirling before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart.
The Hebrew word used here for dance is karar, meaning to dance (i.e. whirl): - dancing (Source: The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible)
David reserved nothing for himself, but gave his all unto the Lord while dancing before Him. Leaping required his feet to leave the ground, and whirling would ensure that he danced in all directions! The sight of David dancing provoked his spouse to rebuke him for such an open display of abandonment (for which she paid a hefty price!).
Dancing is nothing new. The unique style in which certain individuals express it has often garnered the acknowledgment of having a dance or technical style take on the name of the originator. We all know that the true Originator of movement is the Spirit, who moved first in Genesis 1:2! Instead of learning the latest dance craze to demonstrate, wouldn't it be a wonderful exercise to train our dancers to learn the style of those who danced according to the Word? Instead of our children singing popular songs about dances (and doing them in church, school, and everywhere else), we would be blessed to hear them say, "Teach me how to David!"
New King James Bible Version
Exodus 15:20
[The Song of Miriam] Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took the timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
1 Samuel 18:7
So the women sang as they danced, and said: “Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands.”
Psalm 149:3
Let them praise His name with the dance;Let them sing praises to Him with the timbrel and harp.
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.
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