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God has impressed upon my heart to write about this fairly new workout that has captured the attention of more than 20,000 instructors in 35 countries (according to Wikipedia), which has thousands of men, women, and including children signing up everywhere for the classes. And now it’s in the church. I did a little homework on it (and you can too). Anyone who knows me is aware that my husband is a strength and conditioning coach. So I know my fair share about genuine exercise and health, and what it takes to be and look healthy. But Zumba raises a question.

Okay, I know that I’m going to get a mixed bag on this topic, but here goes. First of all, what is Zumba? Many Christians are beginning to gravitate to it, yet they don’t really know what it is or why they’re doing it, but they sign up for it anyway. The Bible says that we perish for the lack of knowledge. So let me give you some background information (and you can Google it for yourself as well).

Zumba originated from Alberto “Beto” Perez in Colombia during the 1990’s when as a dance choreographer, he forgot his tape of aerobic music for a class that he was about to teach, and ran out to his car to get a Latin music tape and began a salsa-like workout routine…and from it, “Zumba” was created. The word means “fast moving” and it’s also fused with the word “rumba” which means “party.” So that’s why when you do it, you feel like you’re at a party. It’s described as a sexy workout that is considered “an exercise in disguise” whereas a person doing it can typically burn up to 500-1,000 calories an hour. Wow! Seems like a pretty okay deal right? You get to dance freely and lose the weight. How fun! Right? Hmm…

Now…most people, including some Christians would probably say, “Okay, so what’s wrong with that?” Well, do you still go to the club? Do you dance like that in church? Do you think God would be pleased by you shaking your butt in a crowd of women and men (possibly behind you who could be struggling with lust or homosexuality), doing hip thrusts, and popping it up to secular music (which I know some churches use Christian music to do it as well)? I also believe that some people may say, “Well, I do it at home alone or I can just turn the music down.” BUT what are you watching? Think about it…let me help you…other women and men shaking it up. The Bible says in Psalm 101:3, “I will not put anything wicked in front of my eyes. I hate what unfaithful people do. I want no part of it” (God’s Word Translation). We have to learn to live from the inside out, because God sees everything…in church, at home, even in the gym, etc. He sits high and looks down low. There are no ceilings with God.

Listen, I’m not here to judge the sinner, but church folk…come on ladies. We have to watch the enemy in this and watch out for what we bring into the church and into our Christian lives. Remember, judgment is going to start in the house of God. My job is not to condemn you, but to bring awareness and awaken you in this last hour before Jesus returns. I want you and me to be ready when we stand before a holy and righteous judge someday. For all I know, you could be being convicted on it right now or have had questions about it yourself, or know someone who’s doing it. The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God…The Lord will punish men for such sins…For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit.”

Personally, I wouldn’t choose Zumba. I would stay far away from all appearance of evil (1 Thess. 5:22). It is indeed a sexy workout, and if you want to defend it by saying, “You can take the sexy moves out of it.” Then I would say, “It wouldn’t be called Zumba, it would just be called aerobics.” I know the truth hurts, but trust God’s word, it will make you free. Put away the former things of this life…you’re a new creature in Him. If you don’t dance like that anymore, than choose not to go back to it…even for a workout. Watch the enemy my sister! He’s subtle. One last note: If you dance in church, most likely if you keep doing Zumba, you’ll have to watch that you don’t bring those sexy moves into the church house. So instead of fighting with your body and the enemy, I lovingly suggest that you to just let it go…because there are other ways to get fit and stay healthy. Ask the Lord what’s the best workout program for you…Jesus said, “Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Luke 11:9)

Selah (pause and consider). Remember Jesus is coming back soon! Those who endure unto the end shall be saved. Let's get ready from the Inside Out.

*And don't forget to check out my latest blog posts every Monday at 7:30am on www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org! Weekly updates on Facebook. Thanks and may God continue to enlighten you on the truth.

~Courtnaye

For videos…viewer discretion is advised.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FC6K3TSK_RY&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bS_g0-QWeek

Disclaimer: I am so glad you read my blog today on Zumba. If you choose to leave a comment, I think that's great! But I also want to mention that this blog is for Christians who are looking for truth and answers as it relates to Zumba and Christianity. As Christians, the Bible tells us that we are called to be holy, because God is holy. That is the whole purpose for this post. With that being said, I will not post negative comments, because it will not edify anyone reading it. If you feel in your heart that Zumba is okay for you, that is between you and God. This is a suggestive read. Everyone has a free will. I just recommend that you don't ignore your convictions for the sake of an exercise program. Remember, God has made everything beautiful in its time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11) Thanks again for reading. :-)[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]