Before we were married , my wife Lauren taught elementary school in the inner-city of Chicago . The principal ’ s motto was “ Blessed are the flexible , for they won ’ t get bent out of shape .” This proved to be a motto that carried her through that year . Even more , it has been a phrase that has sustained us through the years of planting , as planting is not as structured as some people prefer . So , with the goal of being victorious on the ministry and personal frontier , here are some thoughts we have gathered over the years on how to plant a ministry without getting bent out of shape .
1 . Gather a team of intercessors , regardless of their location , who will commit to supporting your core ministerial team . Reprioritize some of your efforts toward taking the time to gather this support base .
2 . The people the Lord brings will determine the “ vision ” as much ( or more ) than any ideas or prophecies you have for this ministry . They are the “ answer ” to the vision and prophecies you ’ ve received . Are you flexible enough to pivot when they walk into your life ? Your initial vision may change or expand .
3 . This new ministry might end up being a small group , a para-ministry , or even a congregation . You do not need to know the answer to this question right away . You are birthing it , and you may not know if it ’ s a boy or girl , twins , or even triplets !
4 . Those called to help birth the new ministry will enjoy the gestation period without being stressed ; rather , they will be excited to be on the journey with you . The gestation period allows for relational development on your team , helping you all find out if you can get along as the honeymoon period within the ministry subsides .
5 . The Lord may be stirring you to “ pray in the Spirit ” more often . Why ? This spiritual discipline is praying the “ perfect prayer ”— tearing down what we could not see and building up what we did not know we needed . It is humbling to admit that you do not have the best plans and vision and next steps . Yet the breakthrough into humility is worth it ! Praying in the Spirit functions as a “ check and balance ” against our pride , ignorance , and the lack of a robust team .
6 . Consider having a “ high standard ” during the early season of vision casting . This will actually help you attract other leaders who expect a higher standard .
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