How to Have a Growing Department
Over the years, I've learned that in ministry leadership, it's easy to get caught up in the mechanics—policies, procedures, personnel, and programs. But at the heart of a thriving department lies a simple truth: the bottom line is ministry. Growth happens when we prioritize spiritual vitality, vision, and people development above organizational maintenance.
Prayer and Organization: A Divine Partnership
I've come to understand a critical balance:
Prayer cannot do what organization can do.
Organization cannot do what prayer can do.
Success in ministry depends on knowing when to organize and when to intercede. One must never replace the other.
Ministry Skills That Matter
To cultivate growth, ministry leaders must commit to lifelong learning in key areas:
Organize, delegate, recruit, and train.
Equip and establish protocol.
Relate to people:
Handle them with care
Deal with challenges
Attract them through vision and purpose
Lead them to follow and give
God uses vessels of honor—those who work, plan, strategize, pray, equip, change, and fine-tune their efforts consistently.
From Saved to Sold Out
A major goal in departmental leadership is moving people from being saved to being sold out. This transformation means shifting:
From the outer to the inner circle
From casual to committed
Whatever we emphasize, we empower. If we want people to step up, we need to talk about it, model it, and invite them into it.
Keys to Departmental Growth
Here are some timeless truths for building a strong, expanding department:
1. Teach the Vision
Make it clear
Help people own it
Show them how they matter in it
People don’t commit to confusion. They commit where there is:
Clarity
Care (they must know they’re valued)
Cause (a purpose that matters)DAVID BLUNT
2. Ask the Right Questions
What do we want to be remembered for?
What are we willing to die, live, give, and change for?
Commitment grows where there is:
Class: an environment of excellence
Course: a clear plan
Commitment: modeled and multiplied
3. Teach Discipline
Time management
Handling setbacks, delays, disappointments
Knowing strengths and weaknesses
Discipline is the key to life.
Attracting and Motivating People
Great departments know how to draw the right people. Jesus Himself said there are two kinds: those who gather and those who scatter.
Teach your people to:
Attract those who are faithful, available, and teachable
Use tools, systems, and training
Deal with negativity swiftly and biblically
Understand and grow through tests
Embrace an attitude of change, growth, and flexibility
Final Thought
“Vision makes the man change.” When vision is clear and compelling, it transforms both the leader and the followers. This blueprint for department growth is more than a system—it’s a spirit of excellence, humility, and dedication to God's call.
