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Week 2: The Lies of the Enemy: Three Temptations We All Face

In Chapter 2 of The Choice , the authors explore the three temptations every pastor faces: the temptation to find our worth in success , the temptation to control outcomes , and the temptation to seek glory and fame . These temptations, while not new, are subtle and insidious. As pastors of small churches, you may feel the weight of these temptations more acutely, as pressures to achieve or conform to expectations are constant. The Temptations We Face: The Temptation to Find Worth in Success: It’s easy to tie our sense of identity and value to the outward signs of success in ministry—church size, influence, and recognition. But the authors remind us that our worth is found in Christ alone, not in the size of our ministry. Ministry success, as we learned last week, is not about numbers but about Kingdom outcomes. The Temptation to Control Outcomes: Pastors are often tempted to take matters into their own hands, thinking that only by controlling everything can they ensure success. But,...
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Week 1: Setting the Stage - Defining and Measuring Success in Ministry

Ministry in small churches often involves a complex web of roles, challenges, and responsibilities. As a pastor, it's easy to find yourself overwhelmed by the demands of leadership and the high expectations that come with it. But how do we define success in ministry? Is it based on numbers, programs, or influence? In their book The Choice: The Christ-Centered Pursuit of Kingdom Outcomes , Gary Hoag, Scott Rodin, and Wesley Willmer present a powerful and challenging message about success in ministry. This week, we dive into Chapter 1: " How Do We Define and Measure Success? " and lay the foundation for a series that explores the temptations, challenges, and realities that every pastor faces as they lead in pursuit of Kingdom outcomes.  D efining Success: A Shift from Worldly Standards In the opening chapter of The Choice , the authors ask us to reconsider how we measure success in ministry. The world often defines success by the metrics of growth, influence, and visibility...
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Stay in the Fight: An Encouragement for Pastors

Pastor, I know that the weight of ministry can feel heavy at times. You have been called to shepherd a small flock, and at times, that can feel isolating. Perhaps you're facing challenges that no one else seems to understand. Maybe you're discouraged by the slow pace of growth, or maybe you're feeling weary from all the demands that never seem to end. But I want you to hear this— God sees you , and He has called you to this work for a reason . The calling on your life is significant, and the work you are doing is not in vain. This post is for you. It's a reminder that you are not alone in this journey, and the God who called you will equip you and sustain you. I want to encourage you—spiritually, practically, and personally—to keep fighting the good fight. You are making an eternal difference. Don’t grow weary in well-doing, and don't give up. Keep pressing forward with the hope and strength that comes only from God. 1. God Knows You Are Faithful, Even in the Small ...
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Week 2: Continuing the Journey of Advent: Joy and Love

Advent Theme - Joy “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”  – Luke 2:10 (NIV) Joy is the third theme of Advent, and it’s one of the most powerful aspects of the Christmas story. The announcement of Jesus' birth to the shepherds was a declaration of joy for all people. In a world often marked by sorrow, Jesus' arrival brought a deep, unshakable joy—a joy that transcends circumstances and fills the hearts of believers. For small church pastors, joy can sometimes feel elusive in the face of struggles and challenges. Yet, Advent calls us to rejoice, not in the absence of difficulties, but in the presence of Christ. His coming brings a joy that is both personal and communal, and it is to be shared with others. Celebrating Joy: Light the third Advent candle (the Joy candle) and invite your congregation to reflect on the joy that Christ brings into their lives. Preach about the joy found in Christ and encourage your congregation to share that joy with oth...
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Week 1: Embracing Advent: A Journey of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love

As the Christmas season approaches, the church enters a season of preparation and reflection called Advent. For pastors of small churches, Advent offers an opportunity to reflect deeply on the anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ. The four themes of Advent—Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—serve as a reminder of the promises fulfilled through Jesus’ birth and the hope we continue to await in His second coming. This two-week series will explore the significance of Advent, its history, traditions, and practical ways to celebrate these themes in your church, regardless of denomination or background. Advent: History and Meaning Advent, meaning “ arrival ” or “ coming ,” is the season observed in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and culminates on Christmas Eve. The season traditionally marks a time of waiting, anticipation, and preparation for the arrival of Jesus. Historically, Advent was a time of fasting and penance in the early church, r...
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Week 3: The Third Secret – One Minute Reprimands

"The more we value our people, the more they’ll value the work." – Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, The One Minute Manager The third secret of The One Minute Manager is One Minute Reprimands. Although this may sound negative at first, it’s actually a vital component of leadership, helping to address issues or behaviors that need correction in a constructive and loving way. As pastors, we are responsible for guiding our congregations and teams toward growth, and part of this involves confronting missteps in a way that leads to improvement rather than discouragement. The key here is to separate the person from the behavior and ensure the reprimand is focused, brief, and corrective, not punitive. Why One Minute Reprimands Matter: Blanchard and Johnson explain that One Minute Reprimands help keep people accountable, ensuring that they understand the impact of their actions without feeling disrespected or discouraged. This principle is particularly valuable in small churches, ...
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Week 2: The Second Secret – One Minute Praisings

"The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone." – Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, The One Minute Manager The second secret of The One Minute Manager is One Minute Praisings. This principle emphasizes the importance of quick, focused praise to reinforce positive behavior and actions. As pastors, it’s easy to focus on the things that need improvement, but One Minute Praisings encourages us to celebrate and affirm what is already going well. In a small church, where resources may be limited, recognizing and celebrating the efforts of your team can go a long way in boosting morale and encouraging continued growth. Why One Minute Praisings Matter: In the book, Blanchard and Johnson explain, “The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone.” This short, intentional praise helps people feel valued and motivated, which is crucial in a church environment. When volunteers, staff, or congregants receive praise for their contributions, it reinforces ...
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