“The church was established on the promise of change. Hearts would be changed, families would be changed, marriages would be changed, communities would be changed, cities would be changed, and, yes, even the entire history of humanity and the earth itself would be changed by those swept up in this movement of God.” (An Unstoppable Force, Erwin McManus)
Coaching Ministry Leaders world-wide is fascinating. We all believe God has a plan. We know that God’s plan for us as individuals and churches is achievable and desirable. Yet our research and experience suggests that 70% of churches consider themselves unhealthy. The contradiction is obvious. We believe in God’s plan, yet we implement our own.
Look at Scriptural leaders. Moses preference was to avoid leadership (Exodus 3:11) yet his impact on his people is beyond imagination. Caleb and Joshua introduced the incredible opportunities in the Promised Land but the people refused (Numbers 13-14). Paul met God on the Damascus road, he accepted God’s plan and we are still influenced by him. (Acts 9:3-18 NIV)
Scripture challenges us, “… humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways then I will … heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV). “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3 NIV) Haggai encourages us to consider our ways (plans systems, activities) to see if they are working, “the word of the Lord came through Haggai the prophet, saying, “Consider your ways!” (Haggai 1:3 NIV)
Paul tells us, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal.” (Philippians 3:13-14 NIV)
My premise today is not to change your theology or doctrine but to seriously challenge your methods to accomplish God’s plan for your community.
Leadership is … changing our future by doing something different today.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com