Have you ever used dance (in your own life) as a form of worship to the God? Perhaps the most commonly referenced expression of dance comes from Psalm 150:1-6. This psalm tells us to praise God in a variety of instruments (including the use of the body). Psalm 150:4 (CEV) states, “Praise him with tambourines and dancing, with stringed instruments and woodwinds.” The scriptures are filled with the use of dance as a worship element.
Dance is an expression that can be used to communicate worship of God and worship to God. Hebrews 10:22 (RSV) calls us to, “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”Hebrews 4:16 (RSV) states “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” In this vein, dance becomes an instrument that we can use to draw near to God, and draw others to Him. However, it is an outward expression of an inner love and adoration. It is for an audience of one.
We express God, and invite others to Him in a variety of ways. Dance (like worship) is a relational experience with outward expression. Worship is not easy just like prayer can also be a struggle. Prayer becomes an avenue by which we can experience the heart of God. We can only experience God to the extent we personally know Him. When dance (and movement) is used in this way, it becomes a way God transforms our worship life.
God exchanges our distractions with an
ability to focus on who He is. He exchanges our weakness with His strength, and
our anxieties for His peace. He
exchanges our knowledge of Him with a relationship with Him. This relationship
allows us to express His characteristics and attributes.
Dance is a worship expression that is always
available whenever you need it. Don’t resist this treasure if God gifts you
with it. In Isaiah 45:3 (VOICE), “I
will give you hidden treasures and
wealth tucked away in secret places; I will reveal them to you. Then
you will know that I am the
Eternal, the God of Israel, who calls you by name.”
“Without
love, all worship is a burden, all dancing is a chore, [and] all
music is mere noise.” (Rumi) [i]
[i] Adapted from:
“Worshipping God Through Dance” by Massa Talawoly
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