Last week our team spent time with Henry Cloud planning for the upcoming Transformation Intensive and discussing ways that we can help churches improve their culture.
In his book Necessary Endings, Henry defines pruning as the process of proactive endings. He says, “The hoarder mentality thrives in garages, but in business and people’s lives, as well” (p. 180).
Henry challenges us with this principle from John 15:2. Growing doesn’t always mean taking on more. You may have to ask “Which one am I willing to give up to have the other one?” Is it time for you to look at your ministry and identify ways for pruning to take place so that the ministry can grow?
- Are there good things that need to stop so your can focus your energy and resources on something that is more strategic to your mission?
- Is there a staff member that has a toxic attitude and although you’ve talked to them about it many times and given them time to improve, they are not?
- Do you have programs that you believed would really serve your congregation and for whatever reason they just aren’t effective?
In the words from Henry’s book, “How well are you maximizing where you are right now and how ready are you to do what is necessary to get to the next place. Sometimes that depends on ending some of what is happening today” (p. 250).
Praying for your endings.
Executive Producer, Transformation Ministry, Willow Creek Association
Looking for next steps…
- Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud
- You may also be interested in The LIFT Project, which offers an e-learning course on "A Leader's Soul." The course will cover stories and theories on how to keep a soul healthy while pouring into the hearts and lives of others
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