Vision continues to be my theme, as we uncover the pitfalls of ministry in Rural America. I am sure they are the same everywhere, but I am learning what happens when you do what God’s Word says. When God’s vision is stuck on you as the leader, it will stick on those you lead, like BAND-AID. I have been WRECKED by God these last few weeks, and here are a few things stuck on me forever as a leader:
#1 Be focused on the Anthem of God…feed the hungry, cloth the naked, defend the fatherless, meet the needs of the widow!
#2 God’s vision becomes your vision when you don’t change at every “fad” or “program” found in the church next door.
#3 Unpaid “full time staff” can be as effective as paid “full time staff”.
#4 Straying from the Father’s best always leads to Famine…just ask the Prodigal Son.
#5 When God starts a wave of momentum…get a surf board and ride it.
#6 Celebrated Vision is more powerful the Communicated Vision.
#7 No one loves everything you do…not even my wife!
#8 When you Move…God Moves!!!
#9 You cannot manufacture ENERGY…you must model it.
#10 The Right Person, will always make up for The Right Facility. Get the right leader, then worry about the Location.
Let me know what God has stuck on you that you know is in your Leadership DNA.
Eddie Jones says,
Wow, great stuff Shannon. Thanks for inspiring others and the investment of yourself
on 10 November 2010 / 9:07 AM
Doug Clark says,
I am just now reading your book, “Transforming Church…”, and I can’t tell you how much it is resonating with my heart, the vision God is giving me for my “little place”. I too am ready to believe, and I am leading my leaders to believe. It is challenging, as we have never seen breakthrough ministry in this community that resulted in a transformed church and community. Yet, I believe that it is not only possible, but that it is going to happen. It seems illogical, unlikely, even crazy considering the state of affairs now-an aging congregation of 50, a community of 200, 60 miles from a city of any size (Rapid City, SD), and traditions that run deep. Yet I am convinced that God wants to do a mighty work here, that He might be glorified in a big way in another out-of-the-way place where hurting and lost people live.
I am praying for three things:
1)Renewed fire-fresh Holy Spirit fire of passion for God and compassion for people on the part of God’s people here. God always works through His people, and unless we are wiling and available, God often doesn not move.
2)Redoubled opportunities-open hearts and homes the gospel. I believe God already has many opportunities waiting for those who are serious about following Him.
3)Resulting growth-spiritual growth as well as souls saved. The Lord of the harvest I believe will provide the increase in His time.
What counsel can you give me, Shannon? Please pray with me for life transformation in our church and community!
on 10 November 2010 / 11:54 AM
Shannon O'Dell says,
Doug…let’s set up a call and chat in detail. Contact my assistant…tammy.satterwhite@brandnewchurch.com. So excited for you!!
on 10 November 2010 / 2:29 PM