Five Compelling Reasons to Articulate Your Vision for the Coming Year
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Why do some people rise out of the ordinary to create or do something extraordinary?
Isn’t it true that those kinds of leaders tend to clearly see and relentlessly pursue a driving purpose?
Yet many of us get so caught up in the mundane demands of everyday life that we rarely take time out to envision something greater than what is; much less determine to go there!
Today, in our current tumultuous environment, we also have to struggle against an “if I can just get through this” mindset. Under stress, we can fall into the trap of altogether giving up on goals and aspirations. That’s an understandable reaction but doesn't usually generate any enthusiasm and energy!
A person who lives and works only to complete the routine tasks of life and ministry misses out. Pursuing a dream, for example, as Martin Luther King did, requires hard work, extraordinary passion, and vision. Martin Luther King was able to describe his dream and passion so clearly that others could also see it and strive for it even after his death.
Are visionary dreams only for the Martin Luther Kings of the world?
I believe that you can state your own vision and goals clearly and if you do, you will enjoy the ability to:
Gain a sense of control over your own schedule and priorities
Energize yourself at your lowest moments
Wake up each morning with a renewed sense of purpose
Communicate more clearly, persuasively, and passionately with staff and parishioners
Excite and motivate others toward a common purpose
A vision paints a broad statement of the future. Clearly stated, it creates momentum and excitement. Martin Luther’s King ‘I have a dream’ speech painted such a vision. So vividly and clearly articulated, so immediately resonant with his listeners, the dream lived on through others long after his death.
Experts recommended that churches revisit their vision statements periodically. Ensure that they are not just a cursory statement sitting idle on a shelf somewhere but a living, breathing expression of where the church body sees themselves headed.
You can get my Vision Tool here for a few simple quick-start steps to help you get in touch with the vision that likely already is in your heart.
Inspiration for your vision lies all around you!
Consider the spiritual needs of your congregation. What area of spiritual life requires focus and attention?
What natural opportunities lie before you or your congregation? What obvious areas need to be strengthened?
What crises or problems exist? What would the church be like if those were solved?
Most importantly, of course, what is the Holy Spirit speaking to you about?
Meditate on what the future could be. Pray for divine insight into God’s direction. Don’t lose the extraordinary benefits and abilities that accompany a well-stated vision!
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