By Joy Allmond
We recently asked our audience, “What’s the worst piece of ministry advice you’ve ever received?” This week we wanted to explore the flip side of the coin.
So we asked you on social media, “What’s the best piece of ministry advice you’ve been given?” Below are some of the responses. Do you see a theme? We do.
1. “Spiritual change comes by spiritual means. Pray, pray, pray.”
2. “You can be right the wrong way and be wrong.”
3. “Whales don’t sweat minnows.”
4. “Don’t get caught up in the tyranny of the trivial.”
5. “Take the Bible seriously. Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
6. “Never sacrifice your family on the altar of ministry.”
7. “Always put people before projects.”
8. “Ministry is about people.”
9. “Just be present for people, particularly in times of grief. Don’t think you have all the answers, because you don’t.”
10. “It’s people over projects (God doesn’t call to minister to projects).”
11. “Progress over perfection (everything is a work in progress).”
12. “Things are never as bad or as good as they seem.”
13. “Don’t do anything because you think it’s your only option.”
14. “‘It’s OK for someone else to get the sandwiches.’ Or, ‘It’s OK to say no.’”
15. “You are responsible for how you are perceived.”
16. “Learn names.”
17. “You are loved.”
18. “Listen and let people know they are heard and they matter.”
19. “A commitment to an effective preaching ministry is a commitment to be a lifelong learner. Stay disciplined in your discipline.”
20. “Protect your margins so you can engage every moment.”
21. “Preach the gospel and quit worrying about what the world thinks.”
22. “Don’t change anything that would go back to the way it was the day after you left.”
What’s some of the best advice that continues to shape your ministry today? Let us know in the comments.
JOY ALLMOND (@joyallmond) is managing editor of Facts & Trends.