There are seasons in nature and there are seasons in life and ministry. If you’re not sure about this, check out Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Currently, we’re experiencing an incredible time of growth at VALLEY Christian Church that is unprecedented in the history of our church; attendance up 30% in the last 15 months! Many are coming to Christ and we’re hearing stories of lives being transformed on a weekly, if not daily basis. Here are a five truths I’ve discovered during this season of growth:

1. There are no tricks, gimmicks or shortcuts in Kingdom work. It’s work, and the fact is, more time is spent plowing, sowing and watering than reaping. Nothing replaces good ‘ol fashion prayer, sacrifice, denial, serving study and generosity!

2. No one does it alone. Ministry (and life) were created by God to be done together. The stronger the team, the greater the impact and the more shared responsibility and reward.

3. Give it away. If it’s not your strength, find someone who has the strength and give the job to them. Delegation is a humbling and necessary part of leadership. “Jack of all trades” is often a title that Control Freaks cling to.

4. Perseverance is one of the most undervalued character traits of a Christian. People with tenacity demonstrate character over the long haul, week after week, year after year. Some of the greatest Bible giants were all bout perseverance (Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua and David to name a few). Surround yourself with people who persevere.

5. Simplify. Every sermon, every meeting, every ministry should have a clear, simply expressed goal or purpose. If you can’t explain it simply, you’re not really sure what you’re doing and you’ll never experience success (Kingdom fruit).

This is just a quick list of what I’m learning these days. My heart is full of gratitude to God in this season and I’m enjoying every minute of it realizing it is just that, a season. More truths are sure to follow in future posts.