Have you ever watched a professional dancing couple glide across a dance floor? The dance steps are carried out seemingly without flaw and the synchronized harmony of each step makes their motion seem almost effortless. The reality is that nothing could be farther from the truth. The perfect dance which a skilled duo performs takes hours upon hours of two people practicing together. The dance couple has to work at knowing just how to be in tune to each other. Most important they must each know their roles. One person must lead and the other must follow.
Most of you have heard of or watched the weekly television dance show extravaganza known as “Dancing with the Stars.” Although I would not call myself a devoted follower of the dancers, I have viewed the TV show a few times. In awe I have watched the women dancers perform almost magically in those stiletto heels. I gave up walking on high heeled shoes a long time ago…much less trying to dance in them! Those ladies are truly amazing!
If you want to go down memory lane, some of you may recognize the names of the 1930’s legendary dancing duo famously known as Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Fred and Ginger became two of the most well known names in the history of dance. No matter what number they were performing—a classical ballroom waltz or an energetic tap dance—this couple could light up a dance floor and usher in an atmosphere of magic each time their feet hit the floor in unison.
So what is the key to the mesmerizing ability of a professional dance couple? Is it sheer talent? Both Fred and Ginger were equally talented. I read a quote at one time stating that Ginger could do everything that Fred did on the dance floor—except she did it backwards with heels on! Talent and training may certainly be two of the keys to acquiring superior dancing skills. But, as I mentioned before, I believe the real answer is the fact that each dancer knows their individual role. Ginger knew that Fred was not only her dance partner, he was her dance leader. Ginger trusted Fred to lead her in every dance so that their shows were more than just a performance but rather a form of art. Because each of them was willing to do their own part they flowed beautifully and the result was an amazing dance career for this legendary couple.
You may be wondering where I am going with all this dance talk and how it compares on a spiritual level. Stay with me. I think the “light bulb” will come on shortly. First of all, would you ponder the thought that a beautifully choreographed dance with two people is how our relationship with God should be on the stages of our lives? Just like two dancers, we have a role and God has a role. We were created to follow the perfect dance Partner. If we want to “dance” well through our life, we must be willing to follow God’s lead not vice versa.
So now let me pose this question. Is your life flowing the way you want it to right now? Or do you feel that no matter what you do, you feel like you have two left feet trying to compete in a dance marathon? My friend, could it be that you have mistakenly stepped into a role that does not fit you? A role that you were never created to fill…
Are you trying to lead God in your plans or are you willing to let God lead you in His plans?
Let me tell you from personal experience that I have tried it both ways. When I tried to lead, the dance fell apart and often I landed flat on the floor! Not pretty! But when I finally came to the understanding that I will never be able to lead God, things begin to flow according to His plans…the best plans!
Yes, I confess there are days when I momentarily forget my place and end up with squished toes which God has lovingly stepped on. After all His Word tells us that the Father disciplines those whom He loves. I am glad He loves me enough to remind me that He is the One leading the dance. Even when I do not know all the steps I can trust my Father to let me dance on the tops of His feet until I get it right. What a great Heavenly Father He is!
Perhaps the words of this anonymous writer will help you to better grasp what it means to let go of the control trap and let God lead the way in your life.
Dancing with God
When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing “dance” at the end of the word. I remember reading that doing God’s will is a lot like dancing. When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn’t flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, both bodies begin to flow with the music. One gives gentle cues, perhaps with a nudge to the back or by pressing lightly in one direction or another. It’s as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.
My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.
When I saw “G: I thought of God, followed by “u” and “i”. “God, “u” and “i” dance.” GOD, U AND I DANCE! As I lowered my head, I became willing to trust that I would get guidance about my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead.
My prayer for you today is that God’s blessings and mercies be upon you on this day and everyday. May you abide in God as God abides in you. Dance together with God, trusting God to lead and to guide you through each season of your life.
~Anonymous~
Friends, I echo the prayer of this anonymous writer for you right now. Trust God. He has a beautiful dance He has lovingly choreographed just for you! His strong hand is outstretched towards you. He beckons you to join him in the dance that was meant for the two of you. Come now, the stage awaits your performance and all of heaven is straining to watch you and the Father dance. Do you hear the music? Do not be afraid to let Him lead. You were created for this moment. Dance with God!
Dancing couple photo credit: CafeMom
Dancing with Daddy photo credit: Creation Swap
Ah, what a beautiful parallel you drew ( along with the anonymous writer) with the details of dancing and allowing God to be in the lead. Such an important reminder for us all. Oh so many times I want to lead!
I love this message! “God, u and I dance!” -My favorite part!
Oh what a beautiful picture! It was so easy to see the picture you were painting in my minds eye. First it was me and God, but the dance was jerky and awkward as I tried to guess what He would do next on my own and move that way before I got His gentle leading. But then, I submitted to Him and what flowed was memorizing, elegant, beautiful!
You are such an encourager! I praise God for you and your ministry here. I pray He blesses it and you!
By the way, the “GUIDANCE” quote was amazing! I am going to put that word picture up in my home somewhere! I loved it!
Keep doing what you do Rosie!
My dear friend. The truth is spoken here! There is so much truth and wisdom in this post. I will always look at the word guidance in a much different way now. Thank you.
As you know, I recently had to make the decision to put my dog down. It was a moment where I paused and asked God to guide me. Was it to soon or was I being merciful to my dear dog. I asked God to please lead me to the right decision and He did. The words of the veterinarian were honest and came along side what I felt in my heart and soul. Even though it was so very painful to let go, I gave God the lead. I know there are many reasons why this happened now and even though I can’t see them now I know God will show me down the road.
Mind you, I don’t always yield and let God lead. That’s when things are rough and bumpy. But God in His mercy gently brings me back to the dance floor and once again takes the lead. What is truly amazing to me is that even when I forget and take the lead, God still works it all out for my good. That truth draws me closer to him in deep relationship and love. How blessed are we that we have a God who is so intimately involved in each one of His children’s lives. This thought makes me want to dance!
“And we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
My dear friend Debbie thank you for sharing your heart and such insight. I am sorry for the pain of losing your little dog. That is always so painfully difficult because they are part of your family unit. What a thought that God leads us in all the decisions we are faced with! NOTHING is insignificant to Him when it comes to His children. He truly is present in our lives moment by moment and we never endure a hardship alone. Prayers for your comfort. Much love and blessings to you sister.
So true. He is the Lord of the dance and we need to follow and be synchronous. Beautifully written.
I will never be able to look at the word ‘guidance’ the same way again. This truly was a great post. I loved the energy that came along with all the focus on dancing!
Lauren I totally agree with you. What a wonderful analogy for the word “guidance.” I am glad the message spoke to your heart. Thanks for stopping by and for your comment. God bless!
HI Rosie,
I am once again so happy that God introduced us to the LWLC page!
This post is just what I needed today as a reminder that my life runs so much smoother when God is leading and I am following His precious and wise leadership.
Thank You!
Joan
Thank you for your comment Joan. I agree that God used LWLC to cross our paths and I am so glad he did! Looking forward to many more “God things” we can all share together. God bless you sister!
This is wonderful! It is true, dancers go through a lot of training (God stepping on toes) until they get their movements just right! Thank you! Beautifully written! God Bless You!
Yes indeed Yolanda…we are all a work in progress! Thank you for visiting and for sharing a comment. Blessings!
Great post and great analogy!!
Thank you Diane. Glad it spoke to your heart. Blessings.
Great post and reminder. It’s definitely a more beautiful dance when we let Him lead.
Thank you Misty. So glad you stopped by and have enjoyed the post. Have a blessed day.
Oh my, this was lovely. Beautifully written. 🙂
Thank you Stacy. I am so glad you dropped in for a visit. Hope you come back soon!God bless!
This reminds me of my favorite song “We Dance” from Bethel Music! I’m constantly reminding myself to let God take the lead.
-Sierra
Sierra I am right there with you. So glad God doesn’t give up on me when I try to take the lead! Thanks for stopping in today! Blessings!
I love this. Definitely need to let God be our guide. I don’t/can’t dance but I’m always amazed to watch people move around so gracefully. I’ll think of this the next time I see someone dancing.
Hello Marsha. Do you think that maybe we will both get our dancing feet when we get to heaven? Haha, I sure hope so! Thank you for visiting today. Come back soon!
Love this story . Oh to dance with Jesus. His leading is the best. For him to lead and me to follow are such great steps . You always enjoy the dance . Thank you for such s great reminder of who needs to teach me my steps.
Yes Lisa you are so right! Every moment spent with Jesus, dancing or just enjoying his presence, is special! Thanks for your comment.
I love this analogy! I envision God dancing with me on this beautiful dance floor, as I follow His nudge and lead….never to flounder again!!!
God is so good and His love endures forever!!
Love you Rosie
Barb, yes, that is a beautiful vision of how much God loves us. He is always there to guide us. Always and forever! Blessings to you sister. <3
Wonderful Rosie, this is just what i need it today. I’m saving your post on my Pocket to read it again. God bless you, hope you have a lovely week!
Hi Marvy. Isn’t that just like God to bring us a “nugget” at just the right time! Thank you for your comment and for visiting again. God bless you also sister.
Beautiful story and Awesome word!!! Thank you Rosie!!
Thank you for your comment Debbie. And thank you for being such a loyal follower. Blessings to you always.