We have all experienced it before – the stress associated with leading organizational change. Change is the most taboo topic in established churches.
There is a nervous tension when you walk into a room because you are trying to read the minds of a few critics. You start avoiding phones calls. And every conversation is spoken as if you are walking on eggshells — carefully examining every word that you say for fear that it might come back to you as a weapon.
Regardless of your context, leading change is one of the most difficult aspects of ministry. Whether you are starting a building fund, restructuring a program, or starting a new initiative, you must get the support of the congregation to bring about the change you believe God has laid on your heart.
As a young church pastor, many older (and much wiser) leaders tell me that the only way to change a church is to leave and build one from the ground up.
Yes, church planting must happen, but I for one have not given up on established churches. As I read scripture, I am reminded that God never gave up on the covenant with His people.
In Exodus 3, God revealed His plans for redeeming His chosen people. God told Moses, “I have seen,” “I have heard,” “I am concerned,” and “So I have come down” to rescue His people from the suffering in Egypt. The person selected to carry the message to the people was Moses.
I love this account because of how it parallels to hope we have in Jesus.
God saw our sin. He heard our cry for a savior. He is filled with compassion. He sent Jesus down to the earth to rescue us from death. And now, He has called all believers to carry the Good News of Jesus to all regions and people. Too often, we sideline God’s call because we think up some reason that He is wrong about sending us.
Have you voiced any of these excuses as you are leading change?
5 Excuses Moses Gave God When He Was Called To Lead Change
1. I’m not a big deal!
- “Who am I that I should go?” (Exodus 3:11-12)
- Moses was afraid that others would not follow his leadership.
2. I’m not prepared!
- Moses gave the excuse that he wasn’t prepared to answer the questions that people may have when he went into Egypt. (Exodus 3:13-22)
3. I don’t have proof!
- Moses claimed that he needed a sign to prove that his calling was in fact, from God. (Exodus 4:1-9)
4. I lack ability!
- Moses wasn’t the best public speaker. (Exodus 4:10-12)
- This is probably the best reason he had. I mean, who can blame him for bringing up the fact the he has a speech impediment? But God knew Moses’ weaknesses and had assembled a plan to show His glory.
5. Please, won’t you just send anyone else?
- When everything else failed, he pleaded with God to send anyone other than himself. (Exodus 4:13-17)
God has everything under control. Every potential problem that we voice, God has already come up with a solution. The truth is, if God has called, God will provide.
So take a deep breath, pray for the people, and have some faith in God’s plan.
What are your go-to excuses when God is calling you to step out in faith?
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