The ministry of movement seems to be under constant assault. Church politics, ministry infighting, lack of understanding, impure motives, vainglory, competition, pride, and more seem to plague dancers non-stop. All we have to do is remember David. When he danced, he was criticized by his own wife (Michal). When the women sang and danced about David's victories, King Saul became jealous of him from that day on to the point that he sought David's life. Criticism and envy come with the territory. We must know how to respond so that we are not shaken when the attacks surface.
If our feet are not stable, we are likely to fall. The impact can result in little injury or even cause breakage. Remaining firmly planted in the Word of God will allow us to "keep our feet" when the shifting comes. Dance ministries who are not applying the Word of God on a regular basis will find themselves on a slippery slope. Ministers of movement who seek the positions of others or look for approval from people will discover that the same people who kiss them on the cheek may later betray them.
None of these things will move us when we are aware of our God-given assignments and keep His promises to us in front of our faces. We should not be surprised at the opposition we face, and neither should we take these things personally. When we decide to follow Christ, we should also be aware that suffering comes with this walk.
The key to standing firm is prayer, study, and clear direction from the Lord. Even when we are facing what seem to be impossible circumstances, we must proclaim that we will continue to stand even after having done all. When we have securely placed ourselves on the True Foundation, we have found an anchor for our soles that cannot be severed.
New King James Bible Version
Jeremiah 17:8
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Luke 6:48
He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock.
Acts 20:24
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Monday, October 5, 2009
Detox... If... I...
We must admit, if we allow people and circumstances to hinder us, we will become toxic in ministry. The ministry of movement has made great strides in the areas of education, technical training, and greater inclusion in the general church assembly. With the increased opportunity that has presented itself, a very poisonous undercurrent can displace us if we are not watchful.
Opportunism is running rampant. Dancers are clamoring for status and relativity through academic accomplishments, endorsements, and busy travel schedules. While we may celebrate the strides that we have gained in these areas, we must remain humble in order to not let these elements be the driving force behind what we do.
Many have become mercenary in the pursuit of money over ministry in dance. Are people really determining what engagements they will accept based on paychecks, upscale accommodations and networking opportunities? The sad, but true answer is, "Yes." Though a servant is worthy of his wages, the great commission was never based on comfort. Ask Paul...
Am I more anointed than you because I have danced longer? Are you more qualified than me because you have a title? Is belonging to an organization the determining factor for us to be able to minister the Gospel worldwide through movement? Lord, deliver us from this yoke of bondage we have created for ourselves!
If you are in the ministry of movement (or a supporter), and sense that there must be more to this...
If you are sick and tired of the politics that have developed in the dance ministry realm...
If you are looking for a solution to the toxic state of many worship arts ministries today...
It's time to detoxify!
Enlist yourself as a patient at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX East- January 8th-9th in Arlington, VA.
Whom the Son sets free is free indeed!
DANCE MINISTRY DETOX-EAST
January 8th - 9th
NRECA Conference Center - Arlington, VA
Host: Rekesha Pittman, Rain Rein Reign Ministries
Register: http://danceministrydetox.eventbrite.com
New King James Version
Jeremiah 8:22
Is there no balm in Gilead,
Is there no physician there?
Why then is there no recovery
For the health of the daughter of my people?
Acts 8:23
For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.
Opportunism is running rampant. Dancers are clamoring for status and relativity through academic accomplishments, endorsements, and busy travel schedules. While we may celebrate the strides that we have gained in these areas, we must remain humble in order to not let these elements be the driving force behind what we do.
Many have become mercenary in the pursuit of money over ministry in dance. Are people really determining what engagements they will accept based on paychecks, upscale accommodations and networking opportunities? The sad, but true answer is, "Yes." Though a servant is worthy of his wages, the great commission was never based on comfort. Ask Paul...
Am I more anointed than you because I have danced longer? Are you more qualified than me because you have a title? Is belonging to an organization the determining factor for us to be able to minister the Gospel worldwide through movement? Lord, deliver us from this yoke of bondage we have created for ourselves!
If you are in the ministry of movement (or a supporter), and sense that there must be more to this...
If you are sick and tired of the politics that have developed in the dance ministry realm...
If you are looking for a solution to the toxic state of many worship arts ministries today...
It's time to detoxify!
Enlist yourself as a patient at DANCE MINISTRY DETOX East- January 8th-9th in Arlington, VA.
Whom the Son sets free is free indeed!
DANCE MINISTRY DETOX-EAST
January 8th - 9th
NRECA Conference Center - Arlington, VA
Host: Rekesha Pittman, Rain Rein Reign Ministries
Register: http://danceministrydetox.eventbrite.com
New King James Version
Jeremiah 8:22
Is there no balm in Gilead,
Is there no physician there?
Why then is there no recovery
For the health of the daughter of my people?
Acts 8:23
For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Uneventful
I want to take some time to encourage ministry event planners and address an alarming trend that is happening in the dance conference realm. I have written several times about how wonderful it is for dance ministries to seek training and development in the ministry of movement. Some may order books, DVDs, or other ministry-related products. Others invest money travelling to conferences locally and abroad. Travel over long distances can cost a significant amount of money that includes registration, airfare, hotel accommodations, food, and transportation arrangements. For groups, the expenses could amount to thousands of dollars!
When events are cancelled or postponed at the last minute, rumors abound. Questions surface as to why the event is not taking place including: Were there enough registrations? Did the conference host run out of funds? Will I get my money back if I have already paid registration? What about the non-refundable airline ticket that I purchased? Event cancellations can have a domino effect that spreads beyond the challenge of telling the world that the event will not take place. We could be affected by this for years... BUT GOD!
As an organization, when we cancel events, our reputations may be compromised. Although there are circumstances that may make cancellation inevitable, how we handle the aftermath will determine whether people will continue to trust us for the next event. We must notify any registered delegates as soon as possible, and refund them promptly. In any case, we must always obey God!
Conference hosts and event planners must continue to be good stewards through much prayer and discernment. We must ask the Lord concerning dates, location, speakers, theme, schedule, administration, and so much more! Too often we call not counting the cost "walking by faith," when we really must set budgets and forecast how the bill is to be paid. I have learned some difficult (and expensive) lessons myself in this area. Thank the Lord for miraculous deliverance! We must ask tough questions up front and not be afraid to conduct Kingdom business with confidence.
Finger-pointing is not going to help us, but Spirit-led planning will. I am encouraging every organization that had to cancel or postpone an event this year: Keep pressing on! For those who have been adversely affected or disappointed by conference cancellations or postponed events; please extend forgiveness. We are living in a time of financial difficulty, but do not want to stop supporting the events of other ministries because we suffered a few setbacks.
I encourage every event host to read books on conference and event management, improve your financial management, and seek God earnestly concerning His will for your ministry. I speak the truth in love. We are all in this together. Let's fight the good fight of faith!
New King James Version
1 Corinthians 3:14
If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.
1 Timothy 6:12
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 4:5
But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
When events are cancelled or postponed at the last minute, rumors abound. Questions surface as to why the event is not taking place including: Were there enough registrations? Did the conference host run out of funds? Will I get my money back if I have already paid registration? What about the non-refundable airline ticket that I purchased? Event cancellations can have a domino effect that spreads beyond the challenge of telling the world that the event will not take place. We could be affected by this for years... BUT GOD!
As an organization, when we cancel events, our reputations may be compromised. Although there are circumstances that may make cancellation inevitable, how we handle the aftermath will determine whether people will continue to trust us for the next event. We must notify any registered delegates as soon as possible, and refund them promptly. In any case, we must always obey God!
Conference hosts and event planners must continue to be good stewards through much prayer and discernment. We must ask the Lord concerning dates, location, speakers, theme, schedule, administration, and so much more! Too often we call not counting the cost "walking by faith," when we really must set budgets and forecast how the bill is to be paid. I have learned some difficult (and expensive) lessons myself in this area. Thank the Lord for miraculous deliverance! We must ask tough questions up front and not be afraid to conduct Kingdom business with confidence.
Finger-pointing is not going to help us, but Spirit-led planning will. I am encouraging every organization that had to cancel or postpone an event this year: Keep pressing on! For those who have been adversely affected or disappointed by conference cancellations or postponed events; please extend forgiveness. We are living in a time of financial difficulty, but do not want to stop supporting the events of other ministries because we suffered a few setbacks.
I encourage every event host to read books on conference and event management, improve your financial management, and seek God earnestly concerning His will for your ministry. I speak the truth in love. We are all in this together. Let's fight the good fight of faith!
New King James Version
1 Corinthians 3:14
If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.
1 Timothy 6:12
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
2 Timothy 4:5
But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Pros and Cons
There are those who would have us believe that in order to dance for the Lord, we must have trained for several years to do so. It is wonderful to see many professional dancers who have decided to move for the Lord. There are also many inexperienced dancers who are very effective as movement ministers. The beauty of our Lord is that He can use anyone He wants to to accomplish His will.
We also do not have to have perfect pasts in order to be used by God. He can use ex-convicts, reformed sinners, ex-drug dealers, and other past offenders for His Glory. All of us are guilty of falling at one moment or another. The opinions of men should not hinder us from operating according to the Lord's directions for our lives. It is the Lord's voice that we must listen to and follow.
Whether amateur or professional, there are people whose lives will be forever changed by seeing the gospel in motion. All preachers, teachers, and dancers will not be at the same level at the same time. It is more important that we have a true love for the Lord and knowledge of His Word. After all, it is the Word that does the work, and not our personal accomplishments.
Mark 2:15-16 (NKJV)
Now it happened, as He was dining in Levi’s house, that many tax collectors and sinners also sat together with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many, and they followed Him. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, “How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?”
1 Corinthians 6:9-11(NKJV)
Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
James 2:8-10 (NKJV)
If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.
We also do not have to have perfect pasts in order to be used by God. He can use ex-convicts, reformed sinners, ex-drug dealers, and other past offenders for His Glory. All of us are guilty of falling at one moment or another. The opinions of men should not hinder us from operating according to the Lord's directions for our lives. It is the Lord's voice that we must listen to and follow.
Whether amateur or professional, there are people whose lives will be forever changed by seeing the gospel in motion. All preachers, teachers, and dancers will not be at the same level at the same time. It is more important that we have a true love for the Lord and knowledge of His Word. After all, it is the Word that does the work, and not our personal accomplishments.
Mark 2:15-16 (NKJV)
Now it happened, as He was dining in Levi’s house, that many tax collectors and sinners also sat together with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many, and they followed Him. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, “How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?”
1 Corinthians 6:9-11(NKJV)
Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
James 2:8-10 (NKJV)
If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Two-by-Two
We limit ourselves when we stay hidden inside the four walls of our own churches and residences. In the ministry of dance, we can grow beyond our limited experiences when we fellowship with others who desire to serve the Lord. We do not reach out to other ministries for recruitment purposes, but for Kingdom unity and support. Our trust remains in the Lord, and not in others. Though we receive advice and engage in conversation, we learn through our relationships how to discern the voice of the Lord.
There are certain customs and traditions that may be unique to our communities. When we travel and extend our understanding of dance ministry, we will experience many ways to glorify the Lord through dance, praise, and worship. This is not to replicate what we see, but to realize that there are no limits concerning God.
When we have God-ordained relationships in life and ministry, we will remain accountable concerning our own ministries and place in the Body. Healthy relationships birth creativity and community. I praise the Lord for my many friends in ministry all over the world. Knowing them has helped me to stand in awe of the wonderful diversity of God. Being able to travel has inspired me as I obeserve the creation of God from the sky and the highways. How wonderous are His works!
Proverbs 12:26 (NKJV)
The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NKJV)
[The Value of a Friend] Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.
Luke 10:1 (NKJV)
After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.
Ephesians 4:16 (NKJV)
From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
There are certain customs and traditions that may be unique to our communities. When we travel and extend our understanding of dance ministry, we will experience many ways to glorify the Lord through dance, praise, and worship. This is not to replicate what we see, but to realize that there are no limits concerning God.
When we have God-ordained relationships in life and ministry, we will remain accountable concerning our own ministries and place in the Body. Healthy relationships birth creativity and community. I praise the Lord for my many friends in ministry all over the world. Knowing them has helped me to stand in awe of the wonderful diversity of God. Being able to travel has inspired me as I obeserve the creation of God from the sky and the highways. How wonderous are His works!
Proverbs 12:26 (NKJV)
The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NKJV)
[The Value of a Friend] Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.
Luke 10:1 (NKJV)
After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go.
Ephesians 4:16 (NKJV)
From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Good Mourning
There were many times along my dance ministry journey that I wanted to give up. My despair was not because I had lost my love for the Lord, or because I did not enjoy dance ministry. Years of disappointments, hurts, and heartaches seemed to be too much to bear at times. I did not realize that there would be people who would see the Lord working in my life and want to latch on to me for selfish gain. I did not realize that cherished friends would become enemies. I was not ready for the rejection and criticism from the "saints."
I have danced through depression, sorrow, hurt, pain, anger, betrayal, hinderances, and the like. I have come to realize that obeying the Lord is never about how I feel. Many people would come to me after I danced and share how the Word in the dance ministered to them in a life-changing way. I shudder to think what would have happened had I not obeyed the Lord in those dark moments. He turned my mourning into dancing again!
Mourning in the Bible indicates the absence of dancing. We see this in Lamentations 5:15, "The joy of our heart has ceased; Our dance has turned into mourning." Dance is associated with rejoicing and celebration. In ministry, it is never about the dance. Our service is always about Him and our praise, worship, and obedience to the only Living God. We must always be ready, even when our flesh is weak. We must keep our spirits submitted the Lord at all costs. Our obedience will transform many lives and cause others to walk out of darkness into the Light.
Psalm 30:11 (NKJV)
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.
Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV)
To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.”
Jeremiah 31:12-13 (NKJV)
Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, streaming to the goodness of the LORD— For wheat and new wine and oil, for the young of the flock and the herd; Their souls shall be like a well-watered garden, and they shall sorrow no more at all. “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."
I have danced through depression, sorrow, hurt, pain, anger, betrayal, hinderances, and the like. I have come to realize that obeying the Lord is never about how I feel. Many people would come to me after I danced and share how the Word in the dance ministered to them in a life-changing way. I shudder to think what would have happened had I not obeyed the Lord in those dark moments. He turned my mourning into dancing again!
Mourning in the Bible indicates the absence of dancing. We see this in Lamentations 5:15, "The joy of our heart has ceased; Our dance has turned into mourning." Dance is associated with rejoicing and celebration. In ministry, it is never about the dance. Our service is always about Him and our praise, worship, and obedience to the only Living God. We must always be ready, even when our flesh is weak. We must keep our spirits submitted the Lord at all costs. Our obedience will transform many lives and cause others to walk out of darkness into the Light.
Psalm 30:11 (NKJV)
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness.
Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV)
To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.”
Jeremiah 31:12-13 (NKJV)
Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, streaming to the goodness of the LORD— For wheat and new wine and oil, for the young of the flock and the herd; Their souls shall be like a well-watered garden, and they shall sorrow no more at all. “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."
Friday, March 7, 2008
Hear and There
Advertising alone will not launch your ministry into the Hall of Fame. When we lift up Jesus, He draws people unto Himself. Many people today use slick marketing, ministry logos, and catch phrases in an attempt to prove validity. Only what we do for Christ will last.
If we stay faithful to the calling of the Lord on our lives, He will exalt us in due season. Excellence in ministry should be a hallmark. We also have a responsibility to demonstrate truth-in-advertising. If we have a flashy image and outstanding "packaging" but are empty on the inside (not filled with the Holy Spirit), then we will not be able to stand the trials that come with ministry and servanthood.
Billboards will not keep you. Television exposure does not make you more powerful or anointed. National and International platforms can be your downfall if you are not prepared for the appointment. Promotions and titles in ministry will test your true character.
When we are truly following Christ and walking in His footsteps, then our names will be uttered and recognized as Kingdom Ambassadors. People will follow us as we follow Christ. Stay faithful to the course that God has designed for you. When we operate in the Spirit of the Lord, our works will be known throughout the land.
Luke 23:8 (NKJV)
"Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him."
If we stay faithful to the calling of the Lord on our lives, He will exalt us in due season. Excellence in ministry should be a hallmark. We also have a responsibility to demonstrate truth-in-advertising. If we have a flashy image and outstanding "packaging" but are empty on the inside (not filled with the Holy Spirit), then we will not be able to stand the trials that come with ministry and servanthood.
Billboards will not keep you. Television exposure does not make you more powerful or anointed. National and International platforms can be your downfall if you are not prepared for the appointment. Promotions and titles in ministry will test your true character.
When we are truly following Christ and walking in His footsteps, then our names will be uttered and recognized as Kingdom Ambassadors. People will follow us as we follow Christ. Stay faithful to the course that God has designed for you. When we operate in the Spirit of the Lord, our works will be known throughout the land.
Luke 23:8 (NKJV)
"Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him."
Friday, February 29, 2008
Bless the Lord, Oh My Sole...
We can give honor to the Lord with our entire beings. Each and every body part functions together for the good of the whole. We must move beyond our natural limitations and step into Divine purpose. Often, we are our own worst critics when it comes to obeying the Lord every step of the way.
We must check our thoughts toward ourselves daily. What are we telling ourselves that we "can't" do? What is it that we will not even attempt because of fear? What issues do we have from childhood or mistreatment that we are now perpetuating upon ourselves? It's time for our feet to move from the place that has held them immobile and walk in the power of His might!
We can do ALL things through Christ which strengthen us. The Lord is looking for obedience, and also for those who will not only hear His voice, but put the Word to work. Let us prepare for a greater stretching in the Spirit and allow the Lord to move us wherever He desires. Allow the Lord to guide your feet, and even your sole will bring glory to His name.
1 Kings 5:3 (NKJV)
"You know how my father David could not build a house for the name of the LORD his God because of the wars which were fought against him on every side, until the LORD put his foes under the soles of his feet."
We must check our thoughts toward ourselves daily. What are we telling ourselves that we "can't" do? What is it that we will not even attempt because of fear? What issues do we have from childhood or mistreatment that we are now perpetuating upon ourselves? It's time for our feet to move from the place that has held them immobile and walk in the power of His might!
We can do ALL things through Christ which strengthen us. The Lord is looking for obedience, and also for those who will not only hear His voice, but put the Word to work. Let us prepare for a greater stretching in the Spirit and allow the Lord to move us wherever He desires. Allow the Lord to guide your feet, and even your sole will bring glory to His name.
1 Kings 5:3 (NKJV)
"You know how my father David could not build a house for the name of the LORD his God because of the wars which were fought against him on every side, until the LORD put his foes under the soles of his feet."
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Glow-in-the-Dark
Whenever we go forth in the ministry of movement, there should be a revelation that takes place. Jesus is the Light, and because He lives in us, we are carrying that Light wherever we go. Sometimes dance ministry is invited to dance in "dark" places where depression and hopelessness abound (prisons, homeless shelters, hospices, etc). Our very presence should break yokes and lift burdens if we are moving in the power of God.
There should be a difference when we have to attend non-Christian events and bring the gospel message. When Moses spent time in the presence of the Lord, his face was shining from the encounter. When we spend time with the Lord, we too should have a "glow" that is recognizable by others.
Everything about our movement, songs, and choreography should reveal the True Light to all that witness us in motion. Darkness and light cannot abide together. We must light up the world with demonstrations of praise, worship, encouragement, celebration, edification, exhortation, declaration, and triumph. If we truly carry the Light of the Lord within us, then it is impossible to hide.
Luke 1:78-79 (NKJV)
Through the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
To give light to those who sit in darkness
and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.
Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!
There should be a difference when we have to attend non-Christian events and bring the gospel message. When Moses spent time in the presence of the Lord, his face was shining from the encounter. When we spend time with the Lord, we too should have a "glow" that is recognizable by others.
Everything about our movement, songs, and choreography should reveal the True Light to all that witness us in motion. Darkness and light cannot abide together. We must light up the world with demonstrations of praise, worship, encouragement, celebration, edification, exhortation, declaration, and triumph. If we truly carry the Light of the Lord within us, then it is impossible to hide.
Luke 1:78-79 (NKJV)
Through the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
To give light to those who sit in darkness
and the shadow of death,
To guide our feet into the way of peace.
Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Put Your Foot Down!
We can no longer passively allow the enemy to wreak havoc in our lives and ministries. We must stand with our sword (the Word) at our side and let nothing separate us from His love. Internal fighting is more damaging to our ministries than what is attacking us from the outside. Let's build up our ranks from within.
We must make every effort to maintain the bond of unity in the Body. Get to know each and every dancer you co-labor with (and not for selfish purposes). Pray for each other on a regular basis. Repent for offenses immediately. How can two walk together (much less dance together), except they agree?
It's time to walk in the path that the Lord has set before us. Let's not get sidetracked with arguments, misunderstandings, and the like. If there is conflict going on with your fellow dancers, either in-house or in the dance community at large, take and stand and give the enemy no foothold. Step into your rightful place, and watch the Lord enlarge your territory.
Deuteronomy 11:24-25 (NKJV)
"Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the River Euphrates, even to the Western Sea, shall be your territory. No man shall be able to stand against you; the LORD your God will put the dread of you and the fear of you upon all the land where you tread, just as He has said to you."
We must make every effort to maintain the bond of unity in the Body. Get to know each and every dancer you co-labor with (and not for selfish purposes). Pray for each other on a regular basis. Repent for offenses immediately. How can two walk together (much less dance together), except they agree?
It's time to walk in the path that the Lord has set before us. Let's not get sidetracked with arguments, misunderstandings, and the like. If there is conflict going on with your fellow dancers, either in-house or in the dance community at large, take and stand and give the enemy no foothold. Step into your rightful place, and watch the Lord enlarge your territory.
Deuteronomy 11:24-25 (NKJV)
"Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the River Euphrates, even to the Western Sea, shall be your territory. No man shall be able to stand against you; the LORD your God will put the dread of you and the fear of you upon all the land where you tread, just as He has said to you."
Monday, February 4, 2008
Rise Up and Walk
We may have a few "missteps" in ministry, but we can never allow ourselves to stay down after a tumble. If we continue to walk in the Lord, He is able to keep us from falling. There are seasons that bring discouragement, confusion, doubt, and second-guessing. We are to be about our Father's business. Rise up, and get back on the path of righteousness.
Tune out anything that would try to discourage or distract you. Fix your eyes on the Lord and press forward to obedience. Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness! Get in His presence and experience the fullness of His Joy. Let nothing separate you from His love.
Pray for fresh choreography, new garments, or simply renewed commitment. Allow the Lord to minister to any wounded areas, and then walk in the newness of the day. There are others waiting to see the Glory of God revealed before their eyes. Submit yourself to the washing of the Word. Shake off the dust. Rise up and walk on.
Tune out anything that would try to discourage or distract you. Fix your eyes on the Lord and press forward to obedience. Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness! Get in His presence and experience the fullness of His Joy. Let nothing separate you from His love.
Pray for fresh choreography, new garments, or simply renewed commitment. Allow the Lord to minister to any wounded areas, and then walk in the newness of the day. There are others waiting to see the Glory of God revealed before their eyes. Submit yourself to the washing of the Word. Shake off the dust. Rise up and walk on.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Perfect in Weakness
There are mountains and valleys as we journey along in ministry. When I first started dancing for the Lord, nothing could hinder me from the vision that He planted in my spirit. As the years have gone by, I have been hurt, abandoned, mistreated, unappreciated, and the like by fellow brothers and sisters in the Body.
I cannot say that these things have not affected me, but I have learned to forgive and move on. My desire is to please the Lord. He has brought healing in my life by reminding me to never forget the reason why He called me to ministry. There are places that He is still repairing, but there are already some areas that He has given me strength. The Lord instructed me to be faithful over the areas where He has already made me strong.
I committed to writing each and every day. Since then, many doors have opened, miracles have taken place, and the weaker areas in my life are now being strengthened as I continue to stay the course. He tells us that if we are faithful over a few things, He will make us ruler over much!
Are you struggling in some areas in your life that need discipline? Focus on the areas that He has made you strong and it will begin to flow over into every area of your life. Trust the Lord and know that His strength is made perfect in weakness.
I cannot say that these things have not affected me, but I have learned to forgive and move on. My desire is to please the Lord. He has brought healing in my life by reminding me to never forget the reason why He called me to ministry. There are places that He is still repairing, but there are already some areas that He has given me strength. The Lord instructed me to be faithful over the areas where He has already made me strong.
I committed to writing each and every day. Since then, many doors have opened, miracles have taken place, and the weaker areas in my life are now being strengthened as I continue to stay the course. He tells us that if we are faithful over a few things, He will make us ruler over much!
Are you struggling in some areas in your life that need discipline? Focus on the areas that He has made you strong and it will begin to flow over into every area of your life. Trust the Lord and know that His strength is made perfect in weakness.
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