Dance, then, wherever you may be;
I am the Lord of the Dance, said He.
And I’ll lead you all wherever you may be,
And I’ll lead you all in the dance, said He.
Sydney B. Carter
Life has been busy. It’s an all-too common reality for most of us. Recently, I found myself on three different continents within only five days. Different countries, different cities, and different cultures had me reeling. I prayed, “God, what is happening right now?” I felt His unexpected reply, “I asked you to dance.”
When I imagine dancing with God, I normally see a slow, intimate dance or maybe a rhythmic waltz. I hear worship songs like Chris DuPre’s, “Dance With Me.”
Dance with me,
Oh, Lover of my soul,
to the song of all songs.
Romance me,
Oh, Lover of my soul,
to the song of all songs.
That is what I normally see, but this time was different. This time I saw people square dancing, and I heard the caller crying out, “Swing your partner round and round!” I saw myself flung out, brought back, and spun around. Then the picture changed to fast-paced ballroom dancers, the woman tossed overhead. My idea of dancing with God is a nice, slow pace, but sometimes God has something else in mind. As these pictures flashed through my mind, I heard Him say, “Let me lead. I’m really good at leading.”
Paul explained, “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” (Rom 8:14-18).
The Holy Spirit leads us. He is “the promise of the Father” (Acts 1:4; 2:33), “the guarantee of our inheritance” (Eph 1:14). By Him, we are brought into the family of God where we become a temple hosting His very presence (Eph 2:19, 22). As we follow His lead, He produces the fruit of a transformed and holy character, and He empowers us for every season. In all seasons, He leads us and makes known the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:6-16). He is our helper (John 16:7). Whether in lack or abundance, in suffering and in rejoicing, we have an advocate, a friend who loves us and leads us in ways everlasting (Ps 139:24).
Whether this is a busy season where it feels like the world is spinning around you, or a slow season where it feels like you are barely moving, trust Him to lead you in the dance. Appreciate the season you are in. When it changes, you will never get it back. Trust Him to lead your steps, and in the midst of the dance, discover who He is. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you into the truth of the Father’s great love and your inheritance in Jesus Christ. He is Lord of the dance. Place your hand in His and let Him lead.
P.S. Are you looking to find a way back into the rhythm of the dance with the Holy Spirit? We want to extend an invitation for you to join us at our “First Love Retreat” coming up in January 2024. It will be a time to get away from the hustle and receive from the Lord as He fills us up for what He has for us in the new year. We would love for you to join us!
FIRST LOVE RETREAT
Bradenton, FL // Jan 5-8, 2024
First Love Retreat will provide simple teachings to enhance your devotional times. Together, we will meditate on the reality of who God is: His goodness, His sacrifice, His pre-eminence, His love. Enjoy His presence in times of quiet reflection and meaningful conversations. Encounter Him, and experience who He is.
Come. Rest. Renew the fire of your First Love.