8. Trying to be the primary disciple-maker of kids.
This is a trap we all fall into from time to time. But it’s vital for preventing ministry failure. Parents are the primary disciple-makers of their children. Spiritual formation must be done by parents, not for parents. Your role is to empower, equip and encourage parents in discipling their children.
9. Failing to find balance between family and ministry.
This is still a battle I fight every day. I love what I do; if I didn’t, I’d do something else. You need to learn to guard against giving all your time, energy and attention to the ministry and giving your family the leftovers. Here’s what I try to do: Guard my family time and take regular scheduled time off every week. It’s called a day off! When’s the last time you had one?
I use the same skills that make me successful in ministry to plan family time. In other words, I set priorities at home and manage my home life with the same intentionality and effort as I do at church. I identify people and things that throw me off balance and then take action to address them.
10. Working toward your own vision.
The role of the Children’s Pastor and Children’s Director is to serve another person’s vision. I exist to serve my Lead Pastor and help him shepherd the congregation. You must represent the leader in everything you do. You must take the vision of your children’s ministry the same direction as the rest of the church. The direction set by the pastor. You shouldn’t have a separate vision for your department; it should match the vision of your leader.
Other mistakes didn’t make the top 10. It would be impossible to create an exhaustive list. But by overcoming these mistakes and preventing ministry failures, your ministry and families will be stronger. Avoiding these “unforced errors” will have an extremely positive impact on your ministry.
Pick one mistake from above. Then decide how you can take steps this week to avoid it moving forward.
Question: What would you recommend for preventing ministry failure? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
