There is a song that says: “Everything old is new again.” It reminds me that ministry is always revolving and re-inventing itself. Everything that has life, including a church, will go through cycles of growth―including highs and lows. This reality of ministry shows itself in every congregation regardless of size, location or resources. I believe that even low points are necessary at times to spur us on to greater health. God's pruning allows the congregation to naturally grow itself in abundance.

When I was a corps officer in Gananoque, Ontario, I came across a motto that has become a cornerstone of my ministry: “Go to the people, live among them, learn from them, serve them, plan with them. Start with what they know, build on what they have. And when the best leaders leave, the people will say: 'We have done it ourselves.' ” This saying is filled with wisdom for every pastor and congregational leader, especially those in churches with limited resources.

The first part of the motto, “go to the people,” emphasizes the importance of building relationships with the congregation. Understand their hopes and visions, while recognizing the abilities and gifts that God has given them. I remind myself that this is God's ministry, not mine; he will anoint, resource and equip his people. Spending time with the congregation helps me discover the things that are most important to them. It also gives opportunity for biblical teaching and moments of prayer as ideas are shared together. This fellowship brings a deeper discernment of God's purposes.

“Build on what they have” highlights the importance of communication. Share God's ideas and vision with the congregation until they begin to see his direction for themselves. Christ consistently educated his disciples on certain aspects of faith until they began to understand. Often it takes time for people to catch a vision for ministry and make it their own. Persistence and patience helps in the process as God's Spirit continues to inspire and direct.

If what is old is to be made new again, then certain paradigms may need to change. Scripture is the best authority for these changes. When we allow the Word of God to come alive, it breathes new life and energy into us. Preparing the “spiritual ground” for God to plant his seeds is a necessity. When a congregation immerses itself in the Word, often issues that have frustrated growth can be dealt with and new life can begin.

Unfortunately, many churches have watered down their Bible teaching. Sermons and Bible studies on Army doctrines, discipleship and financial stewardship can help stimulate growth. Theology is important to help your congregation understand why they do what they do and believe what they believe. We often assume that people know the Bible and doctrine, when in fact they do not. Understanding exactly what people know can help leaders begin to equip their congregation for ministry.

As a leader, there are many aspects of ministry that need to be shared. A relationship with Jesus Christ is first and of utmost importance (see Matthew 6:33). When I first arrive into a new congregational setting, I preach salvation sermons until I sense the congregation has the experience. Then I emphasize the issue of building community with each other, followed by loving your neighbour in the wider community.

Breathing new life into a congregation is not easy. Only God can turn what is old into something that is new. But when God starts something, he always sees it through to completion. I learned a chorus in my first appointment that has energized me as an officer in a smaller congregation: “Don't give up, you are on the brink of a miracle. Don't give up, God is still on his throne. Don't give up, you are on a brink of a miracle. Don't give up, remember you are not alone.”

For those who are ministering in a congregation with limited resources, remember: in Christ all things are possible. God allows us to succeed in him if we let him succeed in us. Let's continue to build his Kingdom by building each other up.