Influent

The word "influent" was ringing in my spirit today. As a minister of movement and the Word, I always want to make sure that my words and actions are not in opposition. I want the life and testimony that I dance and preach about to bring inspiration and transformation to those who come in contact with me. I do not want to be a scandalous statistic of hypocritical Christians who use grace as an excuse for bad behavior. Scandal always pulls us down and does not uplift. Let us be set apart for the Master's use.

To be influent, one must impact a larger community to its benefit, and not its detriment. Literally, it means a factor modifying the balance and stability of an ecological community, and it also means inflowing. Are the dances that we select edifying the Body, or are we causing controversy when we debate each other about the "rules" of the ministry of movement? Is your ministry growing (naturally and spiritually)? Is there enough Word, discipline and love flowing through us for us to overflow into our churches, cities, and countries?

Some dance teams have yet to make an impact in the local church, much less the larger community of believers and non-believers. In order for us to make disciples, we must first become one. Kingdom work should never be an optional activity or be based on entertainment factor. Jesus was the most influential person that ever lived. I doubt that He sat around trying to devise eye-catching elements to help out His sermons, yet thousands sought Him regularly. As soon as He commanded miracles, they took place. He was obedient in all things, to the point of laying down His life.

Our extended reach cannot be the trappings of slick marketing, popular associations, gifted speeches, or flashy imagery. At the core, we must be directed to move by God, submitted to His will, loving His people, and finding contentment with the measure God has appointed to us. Yes, we can do the dances that will altar a Nation, but transformation must take place within us first so that we can continue to impact generations beyond our own lifetimes... for His name's sake.

New King James Bible Version

Jeremiah 42:6
Whether it is pleasing or displeasing, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God to whom we send you, that it may be well with us when we obey the voice of the LORD our God.

Matthew 5:16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

2 Corinthians 6:3
We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed.

1 Thessalonians 2:4
But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.