When I first started my job at NBCC a year ago, I thought I’d be working with a team of at least three volunteers. As it turned out, the original team had three dedicated and talented people, but I could only convince one to stay.
Not exactly the dream start I’d hoped for.
Even though I did all the “leadership” things they tell you in various books: vision cast, set clear expectations, have a good structure, none of that helped. The other two OG volunteers left for valid reasons, but if I’m being real, it’s human nature to focus on the ones who left rather than the one who stayed.
Starting something new is exciting, but it’s also hard. Even if you’ve done it before, doubts can creep in. You ask yourself, “Maybe the approach isn’t right? Maybe the culture is too different?”
When things go sideways or just not how you planned, here are three things I always come back to:
1. Pray
As a follower of Jesus, prayer is my first move (usually).
And no, it’s not a “genie in a bottle” thing where I pray for blessings and expect God to grant them (although, I’ll be honest, I do ask for plenty). For me prayer is about sharing my hopes and asking for guidance in how to walk them out. I usually don’t get the whole picture, I just have to walk in faith more often than not.
Sometimes I’ll wake up early, and an idea will just hit me. Other times? Nothing. But, I’ve learned that the Holy Spirit moves on His own timing and waiting on God is just part of the process.
He’s a good God. I’m not. So I trust Him to answer my prayers, even when the answer looks different than I expected.
2. Have A Clear Vision & Mission
Few things frustrate a team/ministry member more than unclear direction.
A vision doesn’t guarantee success, but it gives your team a foundation and a destination.
Volunteers thrive when they know where they’re headed and why it matters.
The best way to empower your team is to clearly define what they SHOULD be doing and what they SHOULDN’T. Then repeat it (probably more than you think you need to). Although I lost two of the original members, they knew what was expected of them. Being transparent and upfront is better for all parties involved, even if it means some people step away. A healthy, forward-focused team happens when everyone is on board and rowing in the same direction.
When people understand the goals, they’re also free to dream up creative solutions. Suddenly, they’re not just “helping out,” they’re owning the mission with you. At the very least it simplifies what they’re responsible for.
3. Love Your Team
Gift cards and pats on the back are nice, but they don’t replace relationships.
When I first started following Jesus 20 years ago, I was “on fire” and joined three ministries: audio, video, and college. I loved the tech work, but didn’t feel much love from the teams. Where I actually got care, love, and discipleship from was from Dusty White, the college pastor. He poured into me and left a lasting impression on my faith journey and it made all the difference.
You can’t love every team member equally; it’s not realistic, but you can pour into your leaders, and teach them to do the same for the other team members. Love multiplies when it's shared. I know Jesus loved all his disciples, but he had three (Peter, James, and John) that he spent a little more time with.
It’s been a year since I joined the NBCC video team and I can say this: these three principles work.
Now, the NBCC Video Team is 10 deep (being as high as 14 at one point). And honestly, the best part of my job isn’t the growth, it’s training and getting to know each person’s story. They’re an incredible group, and I’m grateful God answered my prayers and brought them to the team. They now get to help spread the Gospel in a very meaningful and impactful way.
If you’re starting something new, whether it’s a ministry, a team, or even a personal project just remember this; Pray for guidance and provision, lead with vision, and love your people well. God will take care of the rest.
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