We can contend for the faith without defending ourselves. Too often we may think that what is going on is about "us" and not about "Him." If we are moving forward in Jesus, then attacks must come. There will always be critics, detractors, and competitors. If you are on assignment and sent by God, then we can relax knowing that the Lord is the Captain of Hosts.
If we become overwhelmed by people and circumstances, we can be derailed from the course if we spend time focusing on our enemies (we wrestle not against flesh and blood). When it seems that an attack is upon us, then we must proclaim the victory that He has already won. We must stop and remember Who this is all about. If we remain on our watchposts, then we will be prepared and ready.
Some of these contentions will come from those who we thought would be the most supportive. When the enemy cannot penetrate from the outside, he will try to launch an assault from the inside. His schemes are not new. When we set our hope towards our Great and Mighty God, we can step aside and watch Him do what we cannot in our own strength.
If God gave you a dance and "they" criticize it: Stand still.
If "they" think that your garments are too extravagant: Stand still.
If "they" will not allow you to dance because it "ungodly": Stand still.
If you do not have ten years of dance experience and "they" say that you are unqualified: Get up and dance!
2 Chronicles 20:17 (NKJV)
You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, Who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you.”
Isaiah 30:32 (NKJV)
And in every place where the staff of punishment passes, which the LORD lays on him, it will be with tambourines and harps; and in battles of brandishing He will fight with it.
Psalm 5:11 (NKJV)
But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name be joyful in You.
1 Corinthians 15:57 (NKJV)
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Desti-Nation
The vastness of God is immeasurable. When we view things from a heavenly perspective, we realize that we cannot rely on our limited vision to determine His purposes for our lives and ministries. Although we may not necessarily be called to travel to all the nations in the earth, it is important to prepare to minister before people unlike ourselves. Casting fear aside, we walk by faith into God's territories.
The gospel must be preached in all the world. How do we proclaim a gospel to people who do not understand our language? The beauty of movement and dance is that the gospel message can be conveyed without understanding the literal meaning of the words. Choreography, garments, pageantry, and live demonstration of the Scriptures will be evident to all who watch as the Spirit speaks His Truth. I have personally witnessed movement ministry set to songs in other languages, but understood the meaning based on the successful interpretation of the Word.
Let us prepare ourselves for enlarged borders! Even if we are not specifically called to travel to another nation, the Lord may lead us to send resources to a ministry group laboring in a particular territory. When we claim to support the cause of Christ, then we must show ourselves faithful, even when another is appointed to do the work. The Lord determines our paths and has given us footsteps to follow. Allowing Him to lead will propel us into Divine destination.
Psalm 98:2 (NKJV)
The LORD has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.
Psalm 106:5 (NKJV)
That I may see the benefit of Your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of Your nation, that I may glory with Your inheritance.
Isaiah 55:5 (NKJV)
Surely you shall call a nation you do not know, and nations who do not know you shall run to you, because of the LORD your God, and the Holy One of Israel; For He has glorified you.”
Jeremiah 1:5 (NKJV)
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.”
The gospel must be preached in all the world. How do we proclaim a gospel to people who do not understand our language? The beauty of movement and dance is that the gospel message can be conveyed without understanding the literal meaning of the words. Choreography, garments, pageantry, and live demonstration of the Scriptures will be evident to all who watch as the Spirit speaks His Truth. I have personally witnessed movement ministry set to songs in other languages, but understood the meaning based on the successful interpretation of the Word.
Let us prepare ourselves for enlarged borders! Even if we are not specifically called to travel to another nation, the Lord may lead us to send resources to a ministry group laboring in a particular territory. When we claim to support the cause of Christ, then we must show ourselves faithful, even when another is appointed to do the work. The Lord determines our paths and has given us footsteps to follow. Allowing Him to lead will propel us into Divine destination.
Psalm 98:2 (NKJV)
The LORD has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.
Psalm 106:5 (NKJV)
That I may see the benefit of Your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of Your nation, that I may glory with Your inheritance.
Isaiah 55:5 (NKJV)
Surely you shall call a nation you do not know, and nations who do not know you shall run to you, because of the LORD your God, and the Holy One of Israel; For He has glorified you.”
Jeremiah 1:5 (NKJV)
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.”
Monday, April 28, 2008
Childish Behavior
When we train up the little dancers to worship the Lord in spirit and truth, then that is exactly what will happen. When we think that the "young people" must have hip-hop beats and dance in jeans and t-shirts, then what do we expect them to do as they mature? Youth dance ministry leaders must seek the Lord even more so as not to lead the little ones astray.
It disturbs me when I hear parents of young dancers screaming "Dance, baby!" from the congregation. Dancing for applause and verbal encouragement trains our children to be men-pleasers. This does not mean that we are not to encourage them. Youth ministry presentations should not be talent shows. Children can learn to have a sincere reverence for God and a genuine relationship with Him.
Too often we underestimate the value of these important worshippers. Many leaders in churches today aim to please the children and wow the crowd instead of training the children to enter into the presence of the Lord. Samuel's mother presented Him to the Lord at a young age so that he could be trained to serve as a prophet. Not every child is called into "the ministry," but the Word reminds us to let everything that has breath praise the Lord. It is imperative that we take responsibility for the up-and-coming generation of praisers.
The movement ministries do not belong under the "Youth Department." Dance and movement is a function for all ages and includes both males and females. When we move the dance department into the "church activity" category in our places of worship, then we fail to fulfill the purpose of the church. Serving the Lord is enjoyable and fulfilling. There is nothing greater than experiencing the fullness of the Presence of the Lord as a child or an adult.
2 Chronicles 20:13 (NKJV)
Now all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the LORD.
Psalm 71:5 (NKJV)
For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth.
Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
Matthew 19:14 (NKJV)
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
It disturbs me when I hear parents of young dancers screaming "Dance, baby!" from the congregation. Dancing for applause and verbal encouragement trains our children to be men-pleasers. This does not mean that we are not to encourage them. Youth ministry presentations should not be talent shows. Children can learn to have a sincere reverence for God and a genuine relationship with Him.
Too often we underestimate the value of these important worshippers. Many leaders in churches today aim to please the children and wow the crowd instead of training the children to enter into the presence of the Lord. Samuel's mother presented Him to the Lord at a young age so that he could be trained to serve as a prophet. Not every child is called into "the ministry," but the Word reminds us to let everything that has breath praise the Lord. It is imperative that we take responsibility for the up-and-coming generation of praisers.
The movement ministries do not belong under the "Youth Department." Dance and movement is a function for all ages and includes both males and females. When we move the dance department into the "church activity" category in our places of worship, then we fail to fulfill the purpose of the church. Serving the Lord is enjoyable and fulfilling. There is nothing greater than experiencing the fullness of the Presence of the Lord as a child or an adult.
2 Chronicles 20:13 (NKJV)
Now all Judah, with their little ones, their wives, and their children, stood before the LORD.
Psalm 71:5 (NKJV)
For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You are my trust from my youth.
Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.
Matthew 19:14 (NKJV)
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Patty Cake
Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions- on a sesame seed bun- may not be helpful to us as we prepare for ministry. Eating lots of sweets can broaden our waistlines as well as attack our dental health. What we eat or how we fast on the day of ministry can have an impact or our energy levels and stamina for that particular day. More importantly, our dietary habits on a daily basis matter much more. Heaviness may not stop us from dancing, but it can definitely hinder us. Being thin does not mean that our nutrition is well-balanced. We want to be able to endure as we dance with power and might.
Beyond the visuals of choreography, pageantry, and garments, our facial expressions are also a significant aspect of dance ministry. There are certain foods that will assist with maintaining a great complexion, healthy hair, nails, and skin. When we are radiant and healthy, ministering songs about healing, joy, and happiness may be even more meaningful.
If we seek the Lord concerning what we put into our bodies, we will know when not to eat or drink a particular thing. The Lord has filled the earth with many wonderful choices, and this does not mean that we cannot enjoy the less-healthy items from time to time. Overall, we should make a regular practice of eating what will aid us in being in the best condition we can for the Master's use. Let us continue to be fruitful.
Genesis 2:16 (NKJV)
And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat
1 Samuel 30:12 (NKJV)
And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs and two clusters of raisins. So when he had eaten, his strength came back to him; for he had eaten no bread nor drunk water for three days and three nights.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Timothy 6:8 (NKJV)
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.
Beyond the visuals of choreography, pageantry, and garments, our facial expressions are also a significant aspect of dance ministry. There are certain foods that will assist with maintaining a great complexion, healthy hair, nails, and skin. When we are radiant and healthy, ministering songs about healing, joy, and happiness may be even more meaningful.
If we seek the Lord concerning what we put into our bodies, we will know when not to eat or drink a particular thing. The Lord has filled the earth with many wonderful choices, and this does not mean that we cannot enjoy the less-healthy items from time to time. Overall, we should make a regular practice of eating what will aid us in being in the best condition we can for the Master's use. Let us continue to be fruitful.
Genesis 2:16 (NKJV)
And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat
1 Samuel 30:12 (NKJV)
And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs and two clusters of raisins. So when he had eaten, his strength came back to him; for he had eaten no bread nor drunk water for three days and three nights.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Timothy 6:8 (NKJV)
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Needy
Woe to the dancer who does not have a burden for ministry. There are many whose lives are hanging in the balance, and some of our fellow laborers are still dancing for dancing's sake. There are enough concerts, programs, and dance-a-thons! We are in a very pivotal moment in time and must rely on the Lord to direct the songs, movements, garments, and select the ministry platforms.
Dance ministry for many looks exactly like the entertainment business. Some movement artists employ managers who seek to get them "booked" on as many programs as possible. There are others who will solely dance for a check in the bank. Others have the mindset that if others do not "perform" up to certain standards, then they are to be dropped.
God is calling His ministers forth! Now is the time for Kingdom manifestation! We need the Lord now more than ever before. As we prepare movement pieces, we must also remember that there are many who do not know the Lord in His desire to meet every need as Provider. These needs stretch far beyond material things. In the time that we are living in there is a need for peace, healing, health, sanity, and wholeness. The Lord knows exactly what we need to accomplish His ministry. When we minister to the needs of His people, we are truly showing His character as living epistles.
Proverbs 31:20 (NKJV)
She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Titus 3:14 (NKJV)
And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.
1 John 3:17 (NKJV)
But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
Dance ministry for many looks exactly like the entertainment business. Some movement artists employ managers who seek to get them "booked" on as many programs as possible. There are others who will solely dance for a check in the bank. Others have the mindset that if others do not "perform" up to certain standards, then they are to be dropped.
God is calling His ministers forth! Now is the time for Kingdom manifestation! We need the Lord now more than ever before. As we prepare movement pieces, we must also remember that there are many who do not know the Lord in His desire to meet every need as Provider. These needs stretch far beyond material things. In the time that we are living in there is a need for peace, healing, health, sanity, and wholeness. The Lord knows exactly what we need to accomplish His ministry. When we minister to the needs of His people, we are truly showing His character as living epistles.
Proverbs 31:20 (NKJV)
She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
Philippians 4:19 (NKJV)
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Titus 3:14 (NKJV)
And let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unfruitful.
1 John 3:17 (NKJV)
But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?
Friday, April 25, 2008
Goodness and Mercy
We are doing the Body a great disservice when we become dance ministry "elitists." There are many who aspire to worship God in truth through movement. When we condemn instead of instruct, then we can exhibit prideful behavior that causes us to become disjointed. Many dancers have had technical training, and some have toured with professional dance companies. When we hold the entire movement genre to our own lofty standards, then we can fail to have compassion for those that may need some guidance along the journey.
Granted, there will always be those who have no desire to excel or present the gospel with accuracy. We do not focus on the rebels. There are many local ministries who are hungry for instruction concerning the function of movement both inside and outside the church. Those who provide instruction for others must be very careful not to teach humanistic opinions or personal preferences as the gospel. The Word endures when we do not. Sharing wisdom is wonderful, but the Lord gives individual instructions concerning His people. What works for us may not be the Lord's counsel for another.
Leaders and pioneers should be celebrated for championing the cause of Christ. Idolizing these leaders will only cause them to fall in our eyes. The important thing to remember is that we are co-laborers together. When we are obedient and humble, promotion will follow. The world also promotes people to stardom, only to revel in the latter destruction of its celebrities. The leader is never beyond learning. Let none of us dare to think that we are the ultimate source for knowledge concerning movement ministry. Our most accurate and anointed teacher is Christ.
Proverbs 8:33 (NKJV)
Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Hebrews 5:12 (NKJV)
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.
James 3:1 (NKJV)
My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
Granted, there will always be those who have no desire to excel or present the gospel with accuracy. We do not focus on the rebels. There are many local ministries who are hungry for instruction concerning the function of movement both inside and outside the church. Those who provide instruction for others must be very careful not to teach humanistic opinions or personal preferences as the gospel. The Word endures when we do not. Sharing wisdom is wonderful, but the Lord gives individual instructions concerning His people. What works for us may not be the Lord's counsel for another.
Leaders and pioneers should be celebrated for championing the cause of Christ. Idolizing these leaders will only cause them to fall in our eyes. The important thing to remember is that we are co-laborers together. When we are obedient and humble, promotion will follow. The world also promotes people to stardom, only to revel in the latter destruction of its celebrities. The leader is never beyond learning. Let none of us dare to think that we are the ultimate source for knowledge concerning movement ministry. Our most accurate and anointed teacher is Christ.
Proverbs 8:33 (NKJV)
Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it.
2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness
Hebrews 5:12 (NKJV)
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.
James 3:1 (NKJV)
My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Paper Work
We can get so caught up in "doing" dance ministry that we have not taken the time to make sure that we have stayed the course. Having ministry guidelines will ensure that balance and order remain. If we are more excited about taking work orders (ministry engagements) than how to deliver the work with purpose and excellence (ministry assignments), then we are laboring in vain.
The ministry vision and mission must come directly from God. After receiving a mandate from the Lord, what we have heard must be written as a reminder of God's promises and instructions. This is not the dance ministry "how-to" book, this is the "who/what/why" directive for long-lasting, powerful, God-directed ministry. The "who" focus (the Lord, you, or your ministry) should always keep Christ at the center of its foundation as the reason we live, move and have our being. The "what" are the reasons why the ministry exists and outlines what it is specifically called to do. The "why" may include the motive (heart) behind the ministry, and what the goal is to accomplish.
Isaiah gives us a wonderful example of this in Isaiah 61:1-3
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, (WHO)
Because the LORD has anointed Me (WHO)
To preach good tidings to the poor; (WHAT)
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, (WHAT)
To proclaim liberty to the captives, (WHAT)
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; (WHAT)
To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, (WHAT)
And the day of vengeance of our God; (WHAT)
To comfort all who mourn, (WHAT)
To console those who mourn in Zion, (WHAT)
To give them beauty for ashes, (WHY)
The oil of joy for mourning, (WHY)
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; (WHY)
That they may be called trees of righteousness, (WHY)
The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” (WHY)
If our direction is clear, it will be difficult to stray from His path if we keep His divine "roadmap" in front of us. This can be reviewed often in rehearsals, written on ministry calenders, published online, or even written on simple pieces of paper. Whatever methods we choose to keep our spiritual focus intact, let us always remember to place the Lord above all else.
Psalm 102:18 (NKJV)
This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD.
Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
Then the LORD answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.
1 John 5:13 (NKJV)
These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
Revelation 1:19 (NKJV)
Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.
The ministry vision and mission must come directly from God. After receiving a mandate from the Lord, what we have heard must be written as a reminder of God's promises and instructions. This is not the dance ministry "how-to" book, this is the "who/what/why" directive for long-lasting, powerful, God-directed ministry. The "who" focus (the Lord, you, or your ministry) should always keep Christ at the center of its foundation as the reason we live, move and have our being. The "what" are the reasons why the ministry exists and outlines what it is specifically called to do. The "why" may include the motive (heart) behind the ministry, and what the goal is to accomplish.
Isaiah gives us a wonderful example of this in Isaiah 61:1-3
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, (WHO)
Because the LORD has anointed Me (WHO)
To preach good tidings to the poor; (WHAT)
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, (WHAT)
To proclaim liberty to the captives, (WHAT)
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; (WHAT)
To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, (WHAT)
And the day of vengeance of our God; (WHAT)
To comfort all who mourn, (WHAT)
To console those who mourn in Zion, (WHAT)
To give them beauty for ashes, (WHY)
The oil of joy for mourning, (WHY)
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; (WHY)
That they may be called trees of righteousness, (WHY)
The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” (WHY)
If our direction is clear, it will be difficult to stray from His path if we keep His divine "roadmap" in front of us. This can be reviewed often in rehearsals, written on ministry calenders, published online, or even written on simple pieces of paper. Whatever methods we choose to keep our spiritual focus intact, let us always remember to place the Lord above all else.
Psalm 102:18 (NKJV)
This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD.
Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
Then the LORD answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.
1 John 5:13 (NKJV)
These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.
Revelation 1:19 (NKJV)
Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.
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