Ministry Focus & Equipping | Christian Ministry Training Blog

Reliability Makes a Difference in Ministry

Posted on June 10, 2026 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

Reliability in Effective Ministry Workers
We could list a number of characteristics of an effective ministry worker. Reliability could be one of them because of the difference it makes in ministry.

Why Reliability Matters in Ministry

Reliability makes a difference in ministry for a number of reasons:

1) It captures people’s attention, making a good impression on them.

2) People sense that they are valued when we go the extra mile to be there.

3) Reliable leaders, teachers, and ministry workers bring a sense of stability to our churches.

What a welcomed change from what people experience around them in a world of political unrest and so much uncertainty! — “Putting confidence in an unreliable person in times of trouble is like chewing with a broken tooth or walking on a lame foot.” (Prov. 25:19, NLT)

How to Become More Reliable

Since reliability has such a positive effect, certainly we would do well to become more reliable. Consider what it takes:

Reinforcement: We reap what we sow (Gal. 6:7-8). As we yield our lives to the Spirit, walking in Him rather than gratifying our flesh, He builds into us positive qualities that make us more reliable (Gal. 5:22-23).

Reliance: When we turn to God as our primary source of help in ministry, He provides the wisdom and power needed to become more and more reliable. — “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life …” (2 Pet. 1:3)

Reset: If we build some rest and relaxation into our busy schedules, in the long run, we’ll become more reliable. When over-worked and stressed, we tend to make more mistakes, take shortcuts, and become more susceptible to frustration. It’s hard to give our best effort when exhausted. God instituted the Sabbath for a reason (Ex. 20:8).

Reflect on how reliable you are in ministry. Ask God, by His Spirit, to reinforce within you the qualities you need to be more reliable. Rely on His power, not self-determination. Take time to reset. God says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Ps. 46:10)

Motivate by Meeting People Where They Are

Posted on March 25, 2026 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

In our consideration of how to spur others on (Heb. 10:24), we must remember that …

Everybody isn’t at the same place, and everybody isn’t like us.

Sometimes people have needs that hold them back.

This suggests that we must meet people where they are if we hope to be instrumental in motivating them.

To Motivate People, Remember That People Aren’t at the Same Place

People come to our churches and ministries with different backgrounds, belief systems, gifting, personalities, and ministry experience. Being at different places brings unique needs, issues, and time availabilites. A one-size-fits-all approach in our training and discipleship efforts may not yield the results we hope. What motivates one person might not spur on the next person.

Ask: How can we better acknowledge, accept, and affirm individuals’ unique needs and contributions?

When calling fishermen to be His disciples Jesus said, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. If we offer what fits within people’s God-given design or season of life, eventually the unmotivated may become motivated.

To Motivate People, Remember That Sometimes Their Needs Hold Them Back

Like it or not, we live in a world where people ask themselves, “What’s in it for me?” In an ideal world, people would get involved simply because they love the Lord. While that motivation certainly should be encouraged and nurtured, we must be realistic about where people are now. Meet their lower level needs and eventually the unmotivated may become motivated in the higher areas.

Ask: What can we do to help free people up from what holds them back?

Jesus took a holistic approach. He met basic physical needs, like feeding the multitudes and healing the sick as well as meeting their deepest spiritual needs. It’s about tapping into where people are rather than where we think they should be or want them to be. We must remember that just because something would be beneficial to us, doesn’t mean it will be for others.

To Motivate People, Meet Them Where They Are

“People tend to understand no more than one stage above where they are.” (quote from Teacher’s Role in Discipling Students toward Spiritual Growth Resource) Trying to take people too far beyond where they are usually leads to frustration, maybe even despair. Meet people where they are and build upon it, taking them to the next level.

Ask: Where are people? What is their next step?

Jesus would often use common, familiar objects to transition into spiritual truths, taking people from what they knew to the unknown.

For more on Spurring One Another On, Also Read:

Focus of Attention in Your Ministry

Posted on March 18, 2026 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

Where does the focus of attention go in your ministry? … to programs? … church facilities? … technology? … leaders? Our focus of attention in ministry matters because it affects spiritual outcomes. Only when we place the attention on the Lord will we see true fruit. Remember Jesus words in John 15:5. He said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Lessons from John the Baptist about the Focus of Attention in Ministry

John the Baptist put the focus attention on Jesus, not himself. He said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

He promoted Jesus’ AGENDA, not his own. (Mk. 1:4-5; Jn. 1:35-37)

Jesus was seen as the AUTHORITY, not himself. (Mk. 1:7)

He gave ACCLAMATION to Jesus, not making himself look superior. (Mk. 1:6-7a)

And, Jesus got credited for any ACCOMPLISHMENTS, not himself. (Mk. 1:8)

Get more input on each of the above points in the Ministry God’s Way Discipleship Tool. In addition to Ministry Focus, this resource looks at eight different key elements in doing ministry God’s way.

Where Does the Focus Go in Your Ministry?

Who, or what, gets the focus of attention in your ministry? He (Jesus) will increase and you will decrease as you align with His agenda, look to Him as the authority, and give all the acclamation to Him as you credit Him for what is accomplished.

Serving is …

Posted on February 25, 2026 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

What do we know about serving? What do we communicate to others when trying to recruit them to serve? How we view serving could make a difference not only on “if” we serve, but also “how” we serve. So, let’s see what God says about ministry in the Bible.

Serving is a Matter of Obedience and Stewardship

Both “if” and “how” we serve comes in the form of a command. God holds us accountable for serving wholeheartedly and by His power.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Rom. 12:11)

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Pet. 4:10-11)

Serving is More Than a Mere Command and Responsibility; It’s God’s Plan for Us

God didn’t save us merely to give us an eternal home in glory one day. He has purpose for us right now.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Eph. 2:10)

… those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone. (Titus 3:8)

From the beginning, God wanted people to work in cooperation with Him (Gen. 2:15, 19). As the Almighty God, He certainly doesn’t need help but rather desires our participation. What a privilege!

For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. (1 Cor. 3:9)

Serving is a Christ-like Way to Live

When we serve, we showcase our wonderful Lord to others “for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk. 10:45).

We showcase His grace when we serve. It’s like we’re dispensers of His grace. — “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Pet. 4:10)

We show His love when we serve because truly serving isn’t about what we get out of it but what we give. — “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”(Gal. 5:13-14) — We not only love others by serving them but we also show love for the Lord when we serve others. — “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matt. 25:40)

Serving is a Way to Give Back to God

We could never repay God for all He’s done for us but we can demonstrate our gratitude through serving.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship. (Rom. 12:1)

But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. (1 Sam. 12:24)

We can serve to bring praise and glory to God.

… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matt. 5:16)

… serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. … so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Pet. 4:10-11)

Serving is a Rewarded

In light of what we’ve noted above, reward is just a fringe benefit of serving. Certainly we have higher motivations. God does, however, promise rewards for serving when done with all our heart, as unto the Lord.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Col. 3:23-24)

Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do .. (Eph. 6:7-8)

This is serving done as an outgrowth of our relationship with Him, pulling on His wisdom and power to do so. It is ministry done God’s way.

Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. (Matt. 7:22-23)

If anyone builds on this foundation (Jesus Christ) using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. (1 Cor. 3:12-14)

We may not see instant results in ministry. Serving God’s way may not always be easy. We can, however, persevere by clinging to His promise. It’s what enables us to “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Rom. 12:11)

Let us 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)

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. (Heb. 6:10)

Volunteers Versus Paid Church Staff?

Posted on October 8, 2025 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

People often make a distinction between laity and the professionals (i.e., clergy/pastors and other paid staff members). When we start talking about volunteers versus paid church staff, we often move into a “them versus us” perspective. But, is that biblical? How do the two fit together?

What God Says About People Who Serve in the Church

Page through Scripture about the Church and you won’t find a distinction between volunteers and paid staff. Consider these four points:

God calls leaders (many of which in today’s church are paid) to be servants (Mk. 10:42-43; 1 Pet. 5:2) but He also calls all members of the Church to do the same.

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. (Gal. 5:13)

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Phil. 2:5-7)

In the Church we all belong to each other based who we are in Christ, not whether paid or volunteer. We simply have different functions, some of which may also be a person’s livelihood.

For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. (Rom. 12:4-5)

Everybody in the Body is to be valued. It isn’t based on position, function, or whether paid or a volunteer.

The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable … But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. (1 Cor. 12:21-25)

Everybody in the Body is important to the on-going work and growth of the Church, whether paid or volunteer. In Scripture we find a priesthood of all believers.

From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Eph. 4:16)

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Pet. 2:9)

An Example of a Biblical Perspective of Volunteers Versus Paid Church Staff

Unfinished Business about Paid versus Volunteer Staff in the Church — Click on book cover to learn about book in our affiliate store.

In his book, Unfinished Business: Returning the Ministry to the People of God, Greg Ogden shares an example of how a church bulletin lists paid staff:

“Ministers: all the members of [church name]. Assistant to the ministers: the church staff“

So often churches function the opposite with the paid church staff at the top and the ministering members below them. The above example, however, does the following:

It removes hierarchy of professionals at the top and laity working for them.
It puts the responsibility for ministry in the hands of everyone.
It makes it clear that paid staff aren’t doing all the work.

What is your church communicating?

For More about Staffing, Go To: Staffing Ministry Resources

Leaders & Change Management

Posted on September 10, 2025 by Ministry Tools Resource Center — No Comments ↓

Change is inevitable in the Church, especially if we want to grow. How leaders manage that change can make the difference between it being accepted or resisted. Leaders must honestly assess their approach to change management and seek the kind of balance that leads to a healthy means of navigating change. Our spiritual gifting can affect our approach.

How a Leader’s Spiritual Gifts Can Affect Change Management

Type of Leader You Are Can Affect How You Handle Change Management — Click image to enlarge it in Pinterest & repin.

People with the spiritual gift of leadership are visionary. Those with the gift of administration are administrative. And, leaders with the gift of pastor are shepherds. Each of these leaders tend to approach change from a perspective that aligns with their gifting.

Visionary Leaders (gift of leadership) are the change makers whose emphasis is on propelling the ministry forward.

Administrative Leaders (gift of administration) are the change implementers whose main concern is developing a plan and procedure to best accomplish change.

Shepherding Leaders (gift of pastor) are the change navigators out to help people cope with and navigate through the change.

Of course, people’s personalities and gift mix also factor in to the way a leader approaches change.

Seeking Balance for a Healthy Approach to Change

It shouldn’t be hard to see that we need all three types of leaders for a healthy change process since they each tend to focus on different aspects of change. To move forward, we will have to make changes yet we must be careful we don’t charge ahead with little thought to doing so efficiently and with people a priority.

Change Management is one of the 15 leadership responsibilities found in the Balance in Church Leadership Based on Spiritual Gifting resource. In addition to considering what motivates and concerns these leaders in change management, it looks at what’s needed for each of them to overcome challenges to bring greater balance into the change process.

For more on Change Management: Church Leaders Practicum on Change