3. I will make a plan rather than excuses for my addiction to work.
Shawn stated that one of the greatest temptations church planters face is workaholism.
Acknowledge this. Admit it.
Then make a plan for it rather than make excuses for it.
He advised us to seek a healthy rhythm in our life rather than pursuing balance. If you’re always striving for balance, you’ll live with a sense of guilt each day you don’t hit it. But striving for a healthy rhythm acknowledges that some days and some seasons are more demanding than others.
What excuses are you making? Now, what’s your plan?
4. I will think as strategically about my marriage as I do my ministry.
We will spend hours solving problems, setting goals and strategizing dreams for ministry.
But we can put family on autopilot. Shawn challenged the men to take the lead in scheduling dates, arranging for baby-sitting, scheduling vacations, etc. Write out a one-month strategy for the enhancement of your marriage.
Where do you need to grow in your marriage? What next steps can you take?
5. I will honor my wife by continually encouraging her in the development of her gifting.
Church planters, we dishonor our wives when we expect them to fill a ministry gap rather than encourage them to use their gifting.
Tricia reminded the women that they have a call to ministry too, and if their husband is called, they are “one” in that call. But make sure you operate in the unique gifting that God has given you.
What is your spouse good at? What are they passionate about? How can you encourage them in that this week?
These are just a few of my takeaways. Why not listen for yourself … or better yet, listen with your team.
You can listen to the MP3 here: Marriage & Ministry, and then use the Whiteboard Conversation Guide provided to process what you learned and how you will apply it. Lovejoy Discussion Guide Final
