We cannot blame leadership when we make wrong decisions. The Lord is holding each one of us responsible for our own choices. If dance ministry leadership shows up late to rehearsals or exhibits poor dedication to the ministry, this is not an excuse for ministry members to adopt the same behavior. We cannot treat people disrespectfully or display "diva" attitudes based on the actions or influence of someone else. God did not accept Adam's excuse when he blamed Eve for disobeying His instructions...
Difficult choices are necessary to discover what really lies within our hearts. It is true that obedience is better than sacrafice, but it is also true that we must work out our own soul salvation. If the dance ministry decides to wear inappropriate attire, will we? If the group decides to have a night out at a local bar for drinks, should we attend? If the dance team decides to openly challenge Pastoral authority or instructions, will we join in the effort? If ministry members decide to oust the current dance ministry leader by planning a surprise meeting and impromptu "trial," will we testify as a witness for the prosecution?
It is a daily decision to make choices that would glorify the Lord. When we stand for righteousness, we may encourage someone else to walk uprightly. Taking a stand does not mean acting as the resident critic or passionately discussing our disagreements with whomever may give us an ear. Often, we can make the most impact by interceding for the situation and not participating in any behavior that would lead to destruction and division.
1 Samuel 24:17 (NKJV)
Then he said to David: “You are more righteous than I; for you have rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded you with evil.
Jeremiah 22:3 (NKJV)
Thus says the LORD: “Execute judgment and righteousness, and deliver the plundered out of the hand of the oppressor. Do no wrong and do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, or the widow, nor shed innocent blood in this place.
Proverbs 11:23 (NKJV)
The desire of the righteous is only good, but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.
1 Peter 3:13 (NKJV)
[Suffering for Right and Wrong] And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good?
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
All for One
What is most important to us may not mean much to someone else. Our passion may not be celebrated by others. Understanding this, we must know where we fit into the big picture. Dance is still a hotly contested activity in many religious circles. Even when it is accepted, comparisons between dance ministries are frequently made regarding who is "anointed" or not. Contrary to the opinions of some, dance ministry alone will not be the key factor in restoring worship. Although we can dance effectively, there can be an even greater impact when we function as part of a whole.
In the Old Testament, the singers, dancers, and musicians formed one large caravan. Some churches include all of the worship arts for special services (Christmas and Resurrection Sunday), and a growing segment are beginning to embrace the concept of the entire worship arts operating together as one during weekly worship gatherings. Musicians are able to play without singers and singers can function without an instrument. Although dancers are able to use the spoken Word, illustrative sermons, and prayers to accompany movement, most often we use musicians and singers through pre-recorded music or in person. We already embrace the corporate worship model in this sense, but there is still work to do to bring greater unity.
The challenge for dance ministries during praise and worship is to keep the focus on worship. When dancers perform complicated turns and combinations, the congregation may find it difficult to participate. If the entire worship arts conglomerate does not understand how to function as a unit, competition can arise between the singers and the dancers for attention. If the musicians are playing louder than the singers, this will also bring disunity. If we are to worship together as one Body, we should seek the Lord for wisdom so that we can begin to truly worship as one.
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 (NKJV)
Indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying: “For He is good, For His mercy endures forever,” that the house, the house of the LORD, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.
Psalm 68:25 (NKJV)
The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; Among them were the maidens playing timbrels.
Ezra 3:1 (NKJV)
[Worship Restored at Jerusalem] And when the seventh month had come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered together as one man to Jerusalem.
In the Old Testament, the singers, dancers, and musicians formed one large caravan. Some churches include all of the worship arts for special services (Christmas and Resurrection Sunday), and a growing segment are beginning to embrace the concept of the entire worship arts operating together as one during weekly worship gatherings. Musicians are able to play without singers and singers can function without an instrument. Although dancers are able to use the spoken Word, illustrative sermons, and prayers to accompany movement, most often we use musicians and singers through pre-recorded music or in person. We already embrace the corporate worship model in this sense, but there is still work to do to bring greater unity.
The challenge for dance ministries during praise and worship is to keep the focus on worship. When dancers perform complicated turns and combinations, the congregation may find it difficult to participate. If the entire worship arts conglomerate does not understand how to function as a unit, competition can arise between the singers and the dancers for attention. If the musicians are playing louder than the singers, this will also bring disunity. If we are to worship together as one Body, we should seek the Lord for wisdom so that we can begin to truly worship as one.
2 Chronicles 5:13-14 (NKJV)
Indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying: “For He is good, For His mercy endures forever,” that the house, the house of the LORD, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.
Psalm 68:25 (NKJV)
The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; Among them were the maidens playing timbrels.
Ezra 3:1 (NKJV)
[Worship Restored at Jerusalem] And when the seventh month had come, and the children of Israel were in the cities, the people gathered together as one man to Jerusalem.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Tripping Out
An important part of learning is to incorporate practical application. Before we venture out to dance in a new place, wisdom should lead us to know as much as we can about the location in advance. With the internet and on-demand information systems, we can experience a "virtual reality" before we arrive. It is possible to experience movement ministry via computer or television, but there is nothing like the real thing.
Many Biblical leaders, prophets, and teachers could be found travelling to various cities to minister. Both Jesus and Paul journeyed to several locations to minister to people. As dancers, we should make it a priority to travel regularly for several reasons. Our commission is to go into all the world and preach the gospel. As we go forth, we will also witness the vastness of God when we observe different people and cultures. We will also gain an understanding of how to minister with a Kingdom mindset.
If we make plans in advance, finances should not prevent us from taking trips for ministerial purposes. Proper planning will allow us to represent in greater numbers and prepare for the unexpected. Whether attending a conference or embarking on a missions trip, if we maintain excellence and sincerity, we should have no shortage of people willing to contribute to the cause.
Numbers 9:18 (NKJV)
At the command of the LORD the children of Israel would journey, and at the command of the LORD they would camp; as long as the cloud stayed above the tabernacle they remained encamped.
Nehemiah 9:12 (NKJV)
Moreover You led them by day with a cloudy pillar, and by night with a pillar of fire, to give them light on the road which they should travel.
2 Corinthians 8:18-20 (NKJV)
And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us
Romans 15:23-25 (NKJV)
But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while. But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints.
Many Biblical leaders, prophets, and teachers could be found travelling to various cities to minister. Both Jesus and Paul journeyed to several locations to minister to people. As dancers, we should make it a priority to travel regularly for several reasons. Our commission is to go into all the world and preach the gospel. As we go forth, we will also witness the vastness of God when we observe different people and cultures. We will also gain an understanding of how to minister with a Kingdom mindset.
If we make plans in advance, finances should not prevent us from taking trips for ministerial purposes. Proper planning will allow us to represent in greater numbers and prepare for the unexpected. Whether attending a conference or embarking on a missions trip, if we maintain excellence and sincerity, we should have no shortage of people willing to contribute to the cause.
Numbers 9:18 (NKJV)
At the command of the LORD the children of Israel would journey, and at the command of the LORD they would camp; as long as the cloud stayed above the tabernacle they remained encamped.
Nehemiah 9:12 (NKJV)
Moreover You led them by day with a cloudy pillar, and by night with a pillar of fire, to give them light on the road which they should travel.
2 Corinthians 8:18-20 (NKJV)
And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us
Romans 15:23-25 (NKJV)
But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while. But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
IOU
We know how to take care of the things that matter the most to us. If we are not sensitive concerning the people of ministry, we are doing a disservice to them and misrepresenting the Lord. How we govern our personal lives directly impacts our movement ministries.
We cannot give the adversary any ammunition to use against us. Dancing with maxed-out credit cards, unpaid bills, and broken promises that we have not honored must be rectified. The Word reminds us to owe no man. Ignoring our personal obligations while preaching righteouness to others promotes hypocrisy. It is time to settle our accounts.
If we owe creditors, we must begin to make amends. Payments or pledges to others that have not been rectified must be revisited. Even if we owe someone an apology or a phone call, operating in complete integrity will assist us in being a true representation of Kingdom ministry.
2 Kings 4:7 (NKJV)
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 22:26-27 (NKJV)
Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, one of those who is surety for debts; If you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?
Matthew 6:12 (NKJV)
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Romans 13:8 (NKJV)
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
We cannot give the adversary any ammunition to use against us. Dancing with maxed-out credit cards, unpaid bills, and broken promises that we have not honored must be rectified. The Word reminds us to owe no man. Ignoring our personal obligations while preaching righteouness to others promotes hypocrisy. It is time to settle our accounts.
If we owe creditors, we must begin to make amends. Payments or pledges to others that have not been rectified must be revisited. Even if we owe someone an apology or a phone call, operating in complete integrity will assist us in being a true representation of Kingdom ministry.
2 Kings 4:7 (NKJV)
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 22:26-27 (NKJV)
Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, one of those who is surety for debts; If you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?
Matthew 6:12 (NKJV)
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Romans 13:8 (NKJV)
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Keep a Record of It
Those inspired to write the Holy Scriptures would have been disobedient not to perform the scribal mandate. Dancers are very visual, and use aural means to accompany movement to get the message out. What is spoken would not have as much credence if not for the written record. Many times, the Lord Jesus would make the statement, "It is written." With this assertion, He was able to refute every deceptive argument presented to Him by the enemy.
Movement ministry involves much more than dancing and ministering. The administration of ministry will allow us to flow according to guidelines and assist with preventing confusion. This does not mean that we have to police dance members with a strict set of rules to follow. Clearly written guidelines concerning the vision of the ministry, expectations, committment, and standard operating procedures will allow us to treat one another with respect and walk in agreement. When we move ahead without a sense of order, we can run into trouble and will end up making the rules as we go along.
Disorganization in ministry can lead to claims of unfair treatment and favoritism. Neglecting to establish procedures for dealing with dancers that miss rehearsals, exhibit chronic lateness, engage in unacceptable behavior, and rebel against leadership can result in a great rift throughout the ministry team, as well as a larger organization. Having the spiritual and technical elements of dance ministry is important, but laying a solid foundation to govern the ministry will promote the ability to endure the challenges that arise.
We should make an effort to keep an updated record of movement ministry standards. This can be sanctioned by leadership, but does not necessarily have to be the duty of the dance ministry leader. A person gifted with administrative skills can serve as a recordkeeper and make note of of important developments and changes. This person can also keep copies of the agreed directives with them so that incoming and established dance ministers may have the ability to review during times of gathering. These are just a few examples, but when we make a practice of writing the vision, we will be able to maintain focus and understand our mandate plainly.
Jeremiah 36:17-18 (NKJV)
And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words—at his instruction?” So Baruch answered them, “He proclaimed with his mouth all these words to me, and I wrote them with ink in the book.”
Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
[The Just Live by Faith] Then the LORD answered me and said: Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.
Luke 1:3-4 (NKJV)
It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
1 Timothy 3:14-15 (NKJV)
These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
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.
Movement ministry involves much more than dancing and ministering. The administration of ministry will allow us to flow according to guidelines and assist with preventing confusion. This does not mean that we have to police dance members with a strict set of rules to follow. Clearly written guidelines concerning the vision of the ministry, expectations, committment, and standard operating procedures will allow us to treat one another with respect and walk in agreement. When we move ahead without a sense of order, we can run into trouble and will end up making the rules as we go along.
Disorganization in ministry can lead to claims of unfair treatment and favoritism. Neglecting to establish procedures for dealing with dancers that miss rehearsals, exhibit chronic lateness, engage in unacceptable behavior, and rebel against leadership can result in a great rift throughout the ministry team, as well as a larger organization. Having the spiritual and technical elements of dance ministry is important, but laying a solid foundation to govern the ministry will promote the ability to endure the challenges that arise.
We should make an effort to keep an updated record of movement ministry standards. This can be sanctioned by leadership, but does not necessarily have to be the duty of the dance ministry leader. A person gifted with administrative skills can serve as a recordkeeper and make note of of important developments and changes. This person can also keep copies of the agreed directives with them so that incoming and established dance ministers may have the ability to review during times of gathering. These are just a few examples, but when we make a practice of writing the vision, we will be able to maintain focus and understand our mandate plainly.
Jeremiah 36:17-18 (NKJV)
And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words—at his instruction?” So Baruch answered them, “He proclaimed with his mouth all these words to me, and I wrote them with ink in the book.”
Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV)
[The Just Live by Faith] Then the LORD answered me and said: Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.
Luke 1:3-4 (NKJV)
It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.
1 Timothy 3:14-15 (NKJV)
These things I write to you, though I hope to come to you shortly; but if I am delayed, I write so that you may know how you ought to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
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.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
The "Eyes" Have It
Dance ministers can get consumed with thinking about personal appearance and become engrossed in the opinions of others. There are many dancers who appear to be unconcerned by grooming, hygiene, and overall presentation. At the opposite end of the spectrum are those who are obsessed with getting every single detail exactly right. Picture-perfect hair, flawless nails, makeup or face paint, and flawless garments are encouraged more than a true relationship with God in the circles of the self-conscious. This is often based on what is seen on the outside and the things that may impress or repulse people.
God does not see as man sees. His Divine sight is unlike any x-ray or digital imaging known to man. When He looks at us, our total being is revealed. He observes our personal character, lifestyles, faithfulness, and the true condition of our hearts. Making His examination of us a primary concern will remove any pressure that we face from men. This should not cause us to be terrified, but to be purified. When the Lord finds us walking in righteousness, we will be granted the wisdom, grace, and favor that we need.
We are truly dancing for an audience of one. The Lord is not looking at our technical abilities and marking our perceived disabilities on a scorecard. Ministry is a momentous thing that holds the doors of eternity open for the lost to access. Realizing that He sees us with His eyes should provoke us to walk reverently concerning the things of God. Dance is not the focus or the cause for which we commit. It is the vehicle through which the gospel may be shared to forever unchain the lives of those who are bound.
2 Chronicles 16:9a (NKJV)
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.
Psalm 11:4 (NKJV)
The LORD is in His holy temple, the LORD’s throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men.
Proverbs 15:3 (NKJV)
The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Proverbs 22:12 (NKJV)
The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, but He overthrows the words of the faithless.
1 Peter 3:12 (NKJV)
For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
God does not see as man sees. His Divine sight is unlike any x-ray or digital imaging known to man. When He looks at us, our total being is revealed. He observes our personal character, lifestyles, faithfulness, and the true condition of our hearts. Making His examination of us a primary concern will remove any pressure that we face from men. This should not cause us to be terrified, but to be purified. When the Lord finds us walking in righteousness, we will be granted the wisdom, grace, and favor that we need.
We are truly dancing for an audience of one. The Lord is not looking at our technical abilities and marking our perceived disabilities on a scorecard. Ministry is a momentous thing that holds the doors of eternity open for the lost to access. Realizing that He sees us with His eyes should provoke us to walk reverently concerning the things of God. Dance is not the focus or the cause for which we commit. It is the vehicle through which the gospel may be shared to forever unchain the lives of those who are bound.
2 Chronicles 16:9a (NKJV)
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.
Psalm 11:4 (NKJV)
The LORD is in His holy temple, the LORD’s throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men.
Proverbs 15:3 (NKJV)
The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Proverbs 22:12 (NKJV)
The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, but He overthrows the words of the faithless.
1 Peter 3:12 (NKJV)
For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Heads or Tails?
The way that we handle our ministries and make decisions will determine our position. Many dancers have the mistaken concept that forging friendships with the "who's who" in the church realm will bring esteemed promotion and success. Some leaders even assert that being "covenantly connected" to them will open more doors than can be imagined. The implication is that we will miss our destiny if we do not choose to associate with a particular person. The truth is that God exalts the humble. Serving Him faithfully will bring promotion and excellence will garner respect. The Lord's purposes prevail!
Considering both the natural and spiritual aspects, our heads are usually uncovered while dancing and are used for ministry through expression. Mime ministers often highlight the face with paint and dancers may use make-up to enliven expression. Observers of movement ministry can usually determine our passion and sincerity by looking at our faces. The head is usually clearly visible and open for all to see. We are encouraged to cover our "tails" with garments that conceal anything of a provocative nature. This would represent the areas that are inappropriate for public display or must be carefully presented.
Exercising wisdom in ministry calls for trained leadership and informed members. Dance ministry advocates should also be reminded about the need to exercise appropriate actions (public), speech (public and private), as well as inter-personal relationships (private). We each determine if we will function as "heads" or "tails" by our own actions. Righteousness brings favor and promotion from the Lord. Self-righteousness is destructive and divisive. The final result will be determined by our own selection.
Deuteronomy 28:13 (NKJV)
And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them.
1 Samuel 9:6 (NKJV)
And he said to him, “Look now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honorable man; all that he says surely comes to pass. So let us go there; perhaps he can show us the way that we should go.”
Isaiah 9:15 (NKJV)
The elder and honorable, he is the head; The prophet who teaches lies, he is the tail.
1 Corinthians 12:22-24 (NKJV)
No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it
Considering both the natural and spiritual aspects, our heads are usually uncovered while dancing and are used for ministry through expression. Mime ministers often highlight the face with paint and dancers may use make-up to enliven expression. Observers of movement ministry can usually determine our passion and sincerity by looking at our faces. The head is usually clearly visible and open for all to see. We are encouraged to cover our "tails" with garments that conceal anything of a provocative nature. This would represent the areas that are inappropriate for public display or must be carefully presented.
Exercising wisdom in ministry calls for trained leadership and informed members. Dance ministry advocates should also be reminded about the need to exercise appropriate actions (public), speech (public and private), as well as inter-personal relationships (private). We each determine if we will function as "heads" or "tails" by our own actions. Righteousness brings favor and promotion from the Lord. Self-righteousness is destructive and divisive. The final result will be determined by our own selection.
Deuteronomy 28:13 (NKJV)
And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them.
1 Samuel 9:6 (NKJV)
And he said to him, “Look now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honorable man; all that he says surely comes to pass. So let us go there; perhaps he can show us the way that we should go.”
Isaiah 9:15 (NKJV)
The elder and honorable, he is the head; The prophet who teaches lies, he is the tail.
1 Corinthians 12:22-24 (NKJV)
No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it
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