Category Archives: Ministry Focus & Equipping

Having the right ministry focus & equipping involves many factors that all must be done in the power of God to His glory out of love for Him and people.

Discontent or Discouraged in Serving?

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Ever have the ministry blues? We may find ourselves discontent or discouraged in serving if we’re missing some important internal components inherent to contentment and encouragement in ministry.

What’s Missing When We Find Ourselves Discontent or Discouraged in Serving?

1) Joy

Sometimes the stresses and anxieties of life seep into ministry. People may let us down. Circumstances may not be as we wish. Ministry, yes, even ministry, may not seem fair. Yet, when we rejoice “in the Lord” (Phil. 4:4), rather than trying to find joy in our circumstances, we can “rejoice always” and “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thess. 5:16-18).

2) Significance

Sometimes we don’t feel like what we do is very important compared to what others do. Or, perhaps we do think it matters but don’t get much appreciation from others. When we find our significance in and because of God’s grace (1 Cor. 15:10), however, we begin to realize that no matter the size or type of ministry, what we do does matter, even if others fail to take notice.

3) Perspective

Sometimes we do what we should do but obstacles and troubles still come. Even though we trusted God, things still went wrong so we get discouraged. To gain the perspective we need, we must gain a bigger and fuller view of God. Though He’s powerful enough to prevent or fix problems, He’s also sovereign and wise. He knows the beginning from the end. He truly does have the ability to work all things “for the good of those who love him” (Rom. 8:28). The more we cease striving and acknowledge that He’s God (Ps. 46:10), though we don’t understand, we can find peace and contentment in the darkest days.

Overcoming Discontentment and Discouragement

You’ll find the antidote for each of the above components mentioned above. First, however, …

1) Identify why you are discontent or discouraged, remembering the following verses about the need for God to guide this process:

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps. 139:23-24)

All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Prov. 16:2-3)

2) Look to God to supply what you lack, remembering the following verses about God as the Source of all we need:

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Phil. 4:11-13)

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Phil. 4:19-20)

3) Continue praying about it, remembering the following verses about how God will be there for you:

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. (Ps. 55:22)

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal. (Isa. 26:3-4)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)

In Despair, Discontent or Discouraged

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Internal Blessings in Serving

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When asked about the effects of ministry on the one serving, my first inclination is to make it clear that our primary focus in serving should be on what we give rather than what we get. Even Jesus, the Lord of lords and King of kings, came to serve and not be served (Matt. 20:28; Phil. 2:5-8). Yet, God’s Word does refer to honor from the Father (Jn. 12:26) and rewards for what we do (Matt. 10:42; 19:29; Lk. 6:38; Col. 3:23-24). While we might not receive our “crowns” for what we do until later, we certainly can experience internal blessings in serving right now.

Experience Internal Blessings in Serving Right Now

Many byproducts, or blessings, come from serving when we serve for the right reasons and from an undivided heart devoted to the Lord. The transformation that happens inside surpasses any tangible reward we might receive. Reflect on these examples:

>>When we see His power at work through us, it builds a confidence in us. We find ourselves then doing things we would never have imagined ourselves doing — not because of our own abilities but because of God’s “power that is at work within us” doing “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Eph. 3:20).

>>When we realize we have made an eternal difference because of serving, we have a renewed sense of purpose in life. This can bring a joy and passion to life we might not otherwise experience. — “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Rom. 12:11)

>>When we know we have been faithful stewards of what He has given us through serving in the strength He provides, we can be at peace within ourselves knowing all is well and so we find ourselves “content whatever the circumstances” (Phil. 4:11-13).

>>When we sense the presence of the Lord, serving in ways that acknowledge our inability to anything of eternal value apart from Him (Jn. 15:5), we’re able to lay aside our fears and insecurities. We can instead “be strong and courageous … not be afraid .. not be discouraged” knowing that the Lord our God will be with us wherever we go (Josh. 1:9).

>>When we experience God taking care of our needs as we serve, seeking His kingdom and righteousness (Matt. 6:33; Phil. 4:19), we gain a greater appreciation for God’s faithfulness which propels us to keep going even when we don’t see results we might have hoped. We will persevere and not get discouraged because we believe that “He will not forget” (Heb. 6:10). We will “not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Gal. 6:9). Because of His faithfulness, we’re able to give ourselves “fully to the work of the Lord” because we know that our “labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Cor. 15:58).

Resources on Prayer

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Starting Point for Training Ministry Leaders

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Someone commented on a previous post about ministry training that they want to train leaders but find it overwhelming on where to start. Though training should be tailored to specific needs in one’s church or ministry, the response given to this comment may prove helpful to all. It suggests a starting point for training ministry leaders applicable to all of us wherever we’re located, whatever the size or makeup of our church or ministry, and whoever the leaders might be.

Make the Big Picture the Starting Point for Training Ministry Leaders

While we should provide training specific to the ministry leader’s area of oversight, it can be helpful to first provide the framework on which to hang the particulars. The big picture lays the foundation for what we do. Here are two factors that should infiltrate and guide all we do as leaders.

1) Our Purpose

Individual ministries will have specific purposes for which they exist which must be understood. But, God provides an overarching purpose that applies to all ministries — to love God with all of who we are and to love people (Matt. 22:37-40). Our purpose to love is so important that no matter how spectacular our ministry might seem, we gain nothing without love (1 Cor. 13:1-3).

The following links will take you to resources for a group of up to twenty-five so you can provide training for all ministry leaders at a greatly reduced cost. They are also available for a single copy.

A Starting Point for Training Ministry Leaders Might Include Our Big Picture Purpose

2) Our Standard

Of utmost importance, is that we learn to do ministry God’s way. He is our Standard. The Word provides overriding principles that should be applied in whatever capacity we might serve. These are principles leaders should apply in their leadership but also should encourage both paid and volunteer staff to pursue.

Resource: Key Elements to Doing Ministry God’s Way

These two factors are important for leaders to effectively oversee their own areas but also to pursue a coordinated effort among all leaders so the whole Church heads in these directions.

Also Provide a Broad Look at Biblical Leadership

Who does God tend to call into leadership positions? How do our spiritual gifts affect the way we lead? How do the basics of our life in Christ affect the way we lead? What challenges might we face? How might we as leaders affect the church’s culture? How do we measure ministry success?

Resources:

Then Help with Training Related to Specific Areas of Oversight

Once again it might be helpful to begin with the big picture for that particular area of ministry. What are some of the specific tasks and needs? Where should the focus be? What is the potential?

Check out the Ministry Manuals Related to the Following Ministry Areas:

Christian Education
Nuts & Bolts, Serving Types of Ministries
Outreach
People Helping Ministries
Prayer Ministry
Shepherding
Staffing
Teaching
Worship

If it seems too overwhelming to provide training for all the different ministry areas, start with the greatest areas of need. As you are able, provide training for other areas. Sometimes you just need to start small and build on that.

Leadership Training Also Needs to be Tailored to One’s Setting and Leaders’ Needs

At some point, you would need to provide training that would be tailored to your specific ministries and leaders’ needs. However, beginning with the big picture, as well as a broad understanding of biblical leadership and specific ministries, often gives leaders sufficient foundation upon which to build and head in the right direction. During that kind of training, specific needs tend to surface, making the next step or direction for further training obvious.

If you’re interested in developing future leaders, go to: Developing Future Church Leaders: The Training Process

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The Process of Providing Christian Nurture

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When we love God, we want to grow more and more in that relationship. That love spills over into love for others which leads to wanting them to know Him better too. God’s Word provides us with help about the process of providing Christian nurture.

3 Points to Remember about Providing Christian Nurture

Whether for ourselves, or to provide Christian nurture for others in the Church, the following three points should guide the process.

1) Christian nurture is a life-long process. We never stop learning.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. (Phil. 3:12)

2) The growth process is developmental. Not everyone will be at the same place.

Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity … (Heb. 6:1)

3) Nurturing our walk with God should happen in different settings. Each setting adds a different layer to the growth process.

Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. (1 Tim. 4:13)

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (Col. 3:16)

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. (2 Tim. 2:15)

Providing Christian Nurture in the Church Purpose Ministry Manual
You’ll find these points listed in the Church Purpose Ministry Manual which looks at Christian nurture, taking time to get to know Him better, as one of the ways to express our love to God.

For resources about some venues for Christian nurture, go to:

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Keeping Issues from Blocking Church Growth & Health

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We want to see our churches grow and become spiritually healthy. Yet, church leaders must deal with many issues that can prevent or stunt reaching those objectives. We can, and should, learn as much as we can about the obstacles but keeping issues from blocking church growth and health requires aligning with God’s overall purposes for the Church.

Objective to Grow & Become Spiritually Healthy

First spend some time reflecting on your desire for church growth and health. Ask God to help you understand your part in it and how to handle blockages to that growth. Here are some articles and books that can help you grasp a better understanding of this objective:

Issues That Might Be Blocking the Realization of These Objectives

Obstacles of both a physical and spiritual nature can sometimes block church growth and health. This post won’t provide solutions but rather point to other resources for you to read, reflect on, and pray about.

  1. Physical concerns like safety and legal issues can get in the way of spiritual growth and health if not dealt with effectively. They could become distractions and even cause people to become disillusioned with the church. Perhaps the following resources can help you with these kinds of issues:
  1. Sometimes people stray from God and His ways. Similar to the account of Achan in the Old Testament whose disobedience to God affected the whole camp (Josh. 7), so will sin left unchecked in the Church lessen its light and saltiness in the world (Matt. 5:13-16). If the people in the church act and react no better than everyone else, what’s the benefit of becoming part of it? Church leaders can find help thinking about their role in these situation in the following resources:
  1. When conflict festers in a church, it tends to derail real ministry and can even lead to division. Jesus clearly stated that a house “divided against itself will not stand” (Matt. 12:25). Leaders can become so consumed with putting out relational fires that they have little left to steer the church toward health and growth. If we can’t reconcile with one another and find ourselves wrapped up in political power plays, how are we any different than the world around us?

Keeping These Issues from Blocking Church Growth & Health Requires Aligning with God’s Purposes

We must always remember what Jesus identified as the Greatest Commandments — to love Him with all of who we are which spills over into loving others (Matt. 22:37-40). Jesus also said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (Jn. 13:34-35). Church life will at times get messy as a diverse group of people come together as one living in a world full of trouble (Jn. 16:33). But, if we keep bringing each other back into alignment with God’s overriding purposes, we will overcome and continue to grow and mature in Him. To keep from letting issues destroy and divide rather than build up and propel us, we need to “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Pet. 4:8). Use the resources below to work through how to continue on this pursuit:

Keeping Issues from Blocking Church Growth & Health Requires Aligning with God’s Purposes

More Help for Leaders: Leadership Resources

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When Things Go Wrong in Ministry

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When Things Go Wrong in Ministry Ask God to Search Your Heart
When things go wrong in ministry it’s important to get to the root of the problem. Before pointing our finger at other people, let’s ask God if we could have done something differently.

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Ps. 139:23-24)

If we don’t ask ourselves some strategic questions, we might apply the wrong solution and potentially make things worse. And, history will possibly repeat itself as we didn’t learn from what happened.

Questions to Ask When Things God Wrong in Ministry

1) Did I adequately prepare?

Sometimes just a little more time, effort, or foresight in the planning stages could have averted a lot of problems. — We may need to learn to be more patient with the process so we’re more careful and wise in making the most of every opportunity. (Eph. 5:15-16)

2) Did my non-verbal communication match what I said verbally?

When we say what we mean and mean what we say, our non-verbal communication usually aligns. A lack of such authenticity, however, sends mixed messages and often results in misunderstandings. — We may need to learn to better guard our heart since what’s in our heart tends to come out. (Prov. 4:23; Lk. 6:45)

3) Did people know what was expected of them?

If we fail to let people know what’s expected of them, can we really blame them when things go wrong? — We may need to learn to communicate more clearly and honestly. (Eph. 4:15, 25)

4) Did my methodology match the abilities and needs of the people I serve?

The better we understand the people we serve, the more we can adapt what we do to best meet their needs and gain their cooperation. — We need be more willing to take the time and effort to truly get to know the people we serve. (1 Cor. 9:19-23)

5) Did I get others involved in the process or did I push through my own agenda?

If people lack a sense of ownership in the process, or feel devalued, we are looking at potential problems. — We may need to learn to relinquish control. (Matt. 20:25-28; Eph. 4:2-3)

6) Did I fully rely on God’s Spirit to be at work in and through me?

When we rely on our own understanding and efforts, we can only blame ourselves when things go wrong. However, if we are truly relying on God’s Spirit to be at work in and through us, then we can be confident that God will use the adverse circumstances for some sort of greater good we don’t yet understand. — We may need to learn pray more from start to finish, trusting God in all our ways. (Prov. 3:5-6; Col. 4:2)

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