Good ideas aren’t bad—they are by nature good. So why is it that I find myself saying “no” to so many good ideas?
I think it’s because I understand that not every good idea is the best idea when it comes to ministry. Good ideas can easily derail mission, and therefore waste much time and energy. You see, sometimes “no” can ultimately release the freedom to say “yes” to what matters. Having a clear ministry focus and vision will keep mission driving the church rather than a random good idea.
One of my favorite examples of this is in the book Confessions of Reformission Rev by Mark Driscoll. Let’s just say it involved a Brethern family, a couple kids that played hand-bells, and a church in the heart of Seattle trying to reach young men in their twenties. Classic!
Read the story on Google Books here (p62-63).
At Praise Chapel Chicago, our vision is WIN – BUILD – SEND (evangelism, discipleship, and church planting). Thus everything we say “yes” to should ultimately enhance this vision in the context we are in. If not, then it just isn’t worth our time pursuing.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEOA872zmjE&w=640&h=390]