The rapid pace of change continues to impact church ministry. Leadership, training, and learning have changed. As you lead through change, focus your women’s ministry on relationships rather than programs. Include as many women as possible in your leadership development.
How do we help the women we lead adjust to change? Here are a few ideas:
1. Lead a Bible study on change. Demonstrate that God expects us to change with His calling and our spiritual growth. Ask church leaders to pray and brainstorm changes for a more effective ministry. Explain your vision and values and enlist their help to inform others about the necessary changes.
2. Affirm stable areas that don’t need change now to reassure those who fear everything in the ministry will be different. Focus on reaching individuals for Christ, discipling them, and creating an awareness of where God is working to motivate even die-hards to consider change’s positive results.
3. Consider emphasizing unsuccessful situations to create dissatisfaction with status quo. Include people in discussions dealing with possible change so they understand, contribute to, and take ownership of reaching more women.
4. Allow women to release the former and embrace the future. Be patient as you listen, empathize, and respond positively to all concerns. Emphasize that positive past results will influence the future.
Leadership is key to effective ministry during transition. We cannot stay where we are and go forward with God. We must make God’s changes if we want to go with Him, both individually and in ministry.
How have you led women through a season of change? What helped? What should be avoided? Leave a comment and tell us about your experience!
This article is adapted from a chapter written by Chris Adams and found in Transformed Lives: Taking Women’s Ministry to the Next Level compiled by Chris Adams.