Change happens.  It can come fast. It can come slowwww.   A ministry endeavoring to be on target is going to embrace the change possibilities.  While it’s happening it can be a painful, but  wow– what a worthy trek to find the finish line.   I’ve learned to take a look in the  rear view mirror to see how far ministry to both kids and families has come.  It helps spur me on in reach kids and families.

My gauge for review of a ministry week:

(1) Kids came and were taught in a fresh, insightful age appropriate way.

(2) We partnered with parents for the coming week  to reinforce and create their own ministry moments with their kids.

(3) Volunteers were connected, engaged and valued like crazy!

(4) God was honored and lifted up.

To be healthy, vibrant and growing you’ve got to keep it fresh.  If you think you’ve got the plan in place…think again. It will change.   Balance the unchangeable Message with what’s on the horizon in your ministry area. Open the doors to new ideas.   Our path ahead grows brighter and brighter! ( Proverbs 4:18 )  Just take a look in the rear view mirror and see.

Lead Yourself: It’s About Time.

Ministry leaders rarely look for more to do.  “Busy” could be a middle name for some us.  Focusing on some downtime is an ingredient that we can miss.  It keeps vision fresh and ministry vibrant.  I believe the lack leading oneself contributes to all kinds of ugly stuff in the role of leadership.

Want to be effective at home and in ministry?  Then you’ve got to lead yourself.  Lead yourself by guarding against compromising your first love.  The relationship between  God- your Father, and you- His kid.  I like to call it the seek ye first rule (Matthew 6:33).  The disciplines of prayer, worship and Bible study are paramount.  Lose the art of leading yourself and life will get blurry.