Keeping the Vision
KEEPING THE VISION “
Proverbs 29:18 NASB – 18 Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained,
But happy is he who keeps the law.
Before launching anything my pastor asks this simple question: “. . . first – Why are we doing this?” He reasons that before starting it is important to have a clear, concise vision of where you are going.
Think about the underlying theory here. Before committing to a course of action it is vital to know where you are going!
Philippians 3:14 – 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
How can you ‘press on toward the goal’ without having a destination in the first place? Yet way too often we embark on personal and ministerial tasks without taking the time to discern where God is leading us.
Think about your service in ministry for a moment. Do you have a Vision Statement setting the course and direction for your entire ministry effort? What about the “Goal” – do you have a defined end in sight? Is everybody in your group aware of this Vision? Think about a work day where your group participated. Men are motivated and energized when they have a specific objective/goal to work towards. The same is true for the overriding vision for the organization itself.
Next, look towards the men who seem uninterested in your group. The guys who decline to join. Have you discerned a vision and then shared this with them? Today’s upcoming generations of men are busy and aren’t interested in taking time out to do ‘meet ‘n greet’ breakfast activities. But – they will turn out to support an activity, goal or mission that inspires. Particularly when the vision is clearly explained!
If you face challenges in your men’s ministry I’d recommend asking the question that Pastor Trey begins with. Before answering that question, take time to pray and listen to God! Then share the vision and let it lead the way for everything that you do!
Finally, from a personal perspective, ask yourself this question: “Where are you going in this life? Do you have an overriding goal that you never cease reaching towards?” Remember, God has a plan for a “future and a hope” for us all. Seek and you will indeed . . . find!