Great Efforts Result in Great Success

Success in ministry is a wonderful thing but it’s also a personal thing. We have been socialized to believe that money, influence, and prestige are indicators of success. So, when an individual we characterize as successful harms themself and takes their life, we are baffled. The big question that the experts try to answer is why. Why did he or she do it? In man there are desires  that material things cannot satisfy. Maybe, we need to reexamine our definition of success.

Belmont Wesleyan Holiness Church is not the place where people are lining up around the corner to get a seat, but they have been able to accomplish a seemingly impossible task; how to regain the members they lost and experience growth in this post-pandemic season. We saw where they employed two strategic activities in their outreach ministry launch. Both events resonated with the community members and there was a heartfelt emotional response. It was not the quality of the artist, although he is dynamic, and I love his music. It was not the expertise of the Christian  Psychologist who was awesome because they came back to hear from her again. It was the power of the Holy Spirit at work in the heart and lives of the people in the community.

What does that mean for our struggling churches? The answer is not in the latest study about church growth, although it might contain information that might prove beneficial. That should not the first step. The first step is to spend time with God. Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart,  And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]. (Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP)

That is what this church did. They fasted and prayed on Wednesdays from 10 am to 6 pm. They fed the hungry with the word of God and a meal. They recognized that the gospel is all about service; and they served and continue to serve their community. Out of this, they operate two satellite Sunday School Programs on Sundays after church to instruct children about God and His love. I’m no expert but this a model that any church can duplicate. Today, this church has regained the fifty percent who did not return plus they have surpassed their pre-covid attendance by fifty percent. Look at my God! These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe. (Mark 16:17-18) Ask the people at the Belmont Wesleyan Holiness Church, God showed up for them and miraculous things happened. 

Thought for Today: Friend, reexamine your definition of success.

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Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.