Values 10-12
10. Partnerships
God has provided all that we need in terms of people, pounds and prayer, but they are not all invested in one group. When you partner with different organisations you can utilise the strengths and resources of those organisations for the good of your community. But partnership means a willingness to be interdependent rather than independent, each bringing something of the goodness of God to the party.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
Questions
- What other organisations or churches are working in and around your area?
- How could you work together to bless the community and build effective partnerships?
11. Sign not the solution
It’s oh so tempting to think we have the answer to everything and can solve every problem, especially when those around us seem to be struggling. But we need to remember that even though the need around us may be great, we are the sign that points to the one that has the solution. So, don’t be tempted to ‘wear your pants over your trousers’.
“So, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”
Questions
- Are you taking too much on your own shoulders?
- How can we help our communities look to Jesus more?
12. Prayer is the fuel
To keep a fire going you need to have fuel and to keep mission going you need prayer. But prayer comes in all shapes and forms: individual, group or in a network and creative, formal or spontaneous. The more you pray the more happens and the more transformation you will see. Prayer breaks up the ground, waters the seeds and enables good conditions for growth. Prayer also aligns our hearts with God’s, so it’s easier to be where we should be, when we should be, doing what we should be doing.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Questions
- How are you praying for your community?
- What different ways could you get your community praying together?
