Where there is no vision, the people will perish,
But happy is he who keeps the law. - Proverbs 29:18 NASB
In the last email, we talked about the importance of vision in our professional lives, as well as our personal lives. Let’s take the discussion a bit deeper.
Vision vs Mission
Vision and mission are two different things. Though often used as the same word, they guide ministries differently. Vision is defined as “a clear mental picture for a preferable future imparted by God” (Barna, The Power of Vision, pg. 28). Along with that, the mission defines how the organization will accomplish the vision within the specific industry and activities.
Vision is why the ministry was created in the first place. It is the driving force for all of the goals, strategies, policies, and activities. Mission is how we get there.
Vision is the Starting Point for Strategic Planning
One of the most priceless gifts an organization can create for the ministry is a Strategic Plan. I am often blessed to walk beside organizations in this process. One of the foundational pieces in the process is to identify the vision statement. The vision statement is then used in conjunction with the entire strategic planning process. We make sure every goal aligns with this vision.
God MUST BE in the process
When starting Five Stone Consulting, I knew the Lord was guiding me toward working with Christian leaders. It is very difficult for me to talk about leadership and keep the Lord out of the conversation.
My clients know there will be times that all of the education can only go so far. I will stop talking, and encourage them to pray and ask the Lord for wisdom. He can give new and creative ideas. He is the true leader of the ministry, and He knows the direction that He wants it to go in. Please do not make Him the last resort in the process. He is the first.
If you are contemplating a strategic plan for your ministry, I would love to discuss how I can help in the process.
Stay on Vision!
Dr. Ashley Graves
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