Have you ever heard a beat that was so catchy, so full of life, that even the most conservative person couldn’t help but clap their hands, tap their feet, or snap their fingers? There’s something universal about rhythm and movement; it stirs something deep within us, something that connects us to the joy of life itself. Now, imagine that joy amplified by the presence of the Lord. Does the joy of the Lord make you want to dance, shout, or run? Does listening to music that glorifies God cause you to want to raise your hands, sway, or clap your hands? When you hear God’s Word preached, do you feel that deep, soul-stirring moment where everything else fades away, and you’re left in awe of His greatness?

The Bible is filled with references to dance as an expression of joy and worship. In Psalm 149:3 (NIV), it says, “Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp.” And in Psalm 150:4 (NIV), we are encouraged to “praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe.” These scriptures show that dancing is not just a form of physical expression but a way to worship and celebrate God’s goodness.

Perhaps one of the most famous examples of dancing in the Bible is the story of King David. In 2 Samuel 6:14 (NIV), it says, “Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might.” David’s dance was an uninhibited, unrestrained display of joy and gratitude as he brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. He was so caught up in his worship that he didn’t care how he looked or what others thought. In fact, David’s wife, Michal, despised him for his undignified display, but David responded in 2 Samuel 6:21-22 (NIV), “It was before the Lord… I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes.”

David’s dance was not about performance; it was about pure, heartfelt worship. He danced however he chose, whenever he chose, because his joy in the Lord overflowed from his heart and moved his entire being. His dance was an outward expression of an inward reality—the overwhelming joy of knowing and serving God.

Despite the biblical references to dancing, some churches teach that dancing is inappropriate or even sinful. They argue that dancing can lead to temptation or be a distraction from true worship. While it’s true that some forms of dancing can be inappropriate—like dirty dancing or dancing in settings that don’t honor God—the Bible doesn’t condemn dance itself. Instead, it encourages us to use our bodies to glorify God.

The key is the heart behind the dance. Are we dancing to draw attention to ourselves, or are we dancing to express our love and adoration for God? Are we dancing in a way that honors God, or are we participating in something that could lead us or others away from Him? These are important questions to ask ourselves.

When we show our adoration for God—whether through dance, music, or other forms of worship—we outwardly display what God is doing in our lives. This expression of worship can have a profound impact on others, especially our children and new Christians who are watching and learning from us.

For those who are shy or introverted, it might be difficult to express their joy in the Lord outwardly. But it’s important to remember that worship isn’t limited to one form. Maybe dancing isn’t your jam, but there are countless other ways to show your love for Jesus. You might find joy in painting, writing, singing, or serving others. The important thing is that you find a way to worship God that is authentic to who you are and that honors Him.

As parents and mentors, how we react to all things God-related teaches our children and those around us how they should react and behave concerning God. If we are passionate and expressive in our worship, they will learn that it’s okay to show their love for God openly. If we are reserved and hesitant, they may think that worship is something to be done quietly or privately. We are setting the example, and our actions speak louder than our words.

It’s important to make a distinction between appropriate and inappropriate dance. Inappropriate dance—such as dirty dancing or dancing in settings like nightclubs—can lead to sinful behavior or take our focus away from God. These environments often promote a lifestyle that is contrary to biblical values, and participating in them can be harmful to our spiritual well-being.

On the other hand, appropriate dance is done in a spirit of worship and celebration, with a focus on glorifying God. Whether it’s during a church service, a Christian concert, or even in the privacy of your home, dancing as an expression of worship is a beautiful way to connect with God and express the joy He has placed in your heart.

Not everyone will feel comfortable dancing, and that’s okay. God has created each of us uniquely, and we all have different ways of expressing our joy and love for Him. If dancing isn’t your way of worship, challenge yourself to find other ways to show your joy in the Lord. Maybe you’re a painter—use your art to glorify God. Maybe you’re a writer—write songs, poems, or stories that reflect His goodness. Maybe you’re a singer—lift your voice in praise.

The important thing is that you find a way to express your love for Jesus in a way that is meaningful to you. God created us to worship Him, not just silently and in private, but out loud and with our whole being. So today, however you choose to do it, show the world how much you love Jesus.

Worship is about more than just going through the motions. It’s about engaging our whole selves—body, mind, and spirit—in adoration and praise of our Creator. Whether through dance, music, art, or any other form of expression, we are called to worship God with all that we are. Don’t be afraid to express your joy in the Lord, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone. Remember David, who danced with all his might before the Lord, unashamed and full of joy. Let his example inspire you to worship God in a way that is true to who you are, and let your worship be a witness to those around you of the incredible joy that comes from knowing Jesus.

As you go about your day, find moments to celebrate God’s goodness, and don’t be afraid to show your love for Him in whatever way feels right for you. Dance however you choose, whenever you choose, and let your worship be a reflection of the joy that is found in Christ alone.