Seven Skills for Ministers

Let’s talk about growth. Not just the kind that adds numbers to your congregation but the kind that transforms lives, expands your reach, and deepens your impact for the Kingdom. Many of us in ministry shy away from conversations about strategy—but the Bible doesn’t. It speaks volumes about stewardship, multiplication, and bearing fruit. So today, let’s dive into seven skills that can help ministers grow their ministries and fulfill their calling. "The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it" (Psalm 24:1), so let’s learn how to steward it well.

1. Connecting: Relationships Are Currency

Jesus Himself was the ultimate connector. He built relationships across cultures, economic statuses, and belief systems. Think about Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). Jesus didn’t just notice him—He called him by name. Relationships are the foundation of any impactful ministry.

To build these connections, remember:

  • Learn Names: Dale Carnegie said, "A person’s name is, to them, the sweetest sound in any language." Jesus demonstrated this when He called His disciples by name. Make it a priority to remember names—it’s a small act with a big impact.

  • Be Curious: Ask better questions. Instead of generic small talk, dive deeper. Questions like, “How has God been working in your life?” open doors to meaningful conversations.

  • Follow Up: The Apostle Paul often wrote letters to stay connected with churches he planted. A text, call, or visit to check in on someone can be the relational glue that keeps your ministry thriving.

  • Get in Bigger Rooms: Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you to grow spiritually and personally.

2. Being "Lazy": Work Smarter, Not Harder

Before you grab your pitchforks, hear me out. By "lazy," I mean strategic. God calls us to be wise stewards of our time and energy. Exodus 18 tells the story of Jethro advising Moses to delegate, saying, “The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone” (Exodus 18:18).

Here are some ways to work smarter:

  • Fix Frustrations: Identify repetitive tasks and create systems to handle them.

  • Create Templates: Think of them as modern-day loaves and fishes—a little effort that feeds multitudes.

  • Delegate: If someone can handle a task for less time or money than it costs you, delegate it! Focus on your unique calling.

  • Set Sensors: Establish accountability systems to ensure things run smoothly without constant oversight.

3. Creating: Amplify Your Message

We’ve been entrusted with the greatest message of all time: the Gospel. But if no one hears it, how can lives be transformed? Romans 10:14 asks, “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?”

Here’s how to start creating:

  • Say Yes to Opportunities: Whether it’s preaching, a podcast, or a blog, step out in faith and share your story.

  • Use Social Media: Paul traveled on foot and by ship to spread the Gospel; we have the internet. Post that sermon clip, that devotional thought, or that personal testimony. It’s not about going viral; it’s about being faithful.

  • Coach and Teach Weekly: Pour into your team, your small group, or your congregation. Sharing insights regularly sharpens your communication skills and deepens your impact.

4. Selling: Communicating Your Vision

The word “selling” might make you cringe, but hear me out. Selling isn’t about being sleazy; it’s about communicating the value of something so effectively that people want to be part of it. Jesus “sold” the vision of the Kingdom of God with parables, stories, and miracles.

To "sell" effectively in ministry:

  • Persuade with Integrity: Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

  • Ask Questions: Great leaders listen more than they speak. Ask what people value and how they want to be involved.

  • Cast Vision: Habakkuk 2:2 says, “Write down the revelation and make it plain.” Paint a clear picture of what God is calling your ministry to accomplish.

5. Leading: Influence with Purpose

Leadership in ministry isn’t about wielding authority but serving others. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing us that leadership is grounded in humility (John 13:12-17).

Here’s how to lead effectively:

  • Be the Example: Live what you preach. People follow authenticity.

  • Set Clear Expectations: Proverbs 29:18 reminds us, "Where there is no vision, the people perish."

  • Coach with Grace: Correct mistakes lovingly, helping others grow rather than tearing them down.

6. Grit: Persevere Through Challenges

Ministry is not for the faint of heart. Paul reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

To cultivate grit:

  • Learn from Failure: Every setback is a setup for a comeback.

  • Stay the Course: Remember, Joseph spent years in prison before stepping into his destiny. Keep trusting God’s timing.

  • Lean on God’s Strength: Isaiah 40:31 promises, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”

7. Vision: Dream Big, Trust Bigger

The Bible is full of big dreams—Abraham’s descendants, Moses leading the Israelites, and Nehemiah rebuilding the wall. Proverbs 29:18 reminds us of the importance of vision.

Here’s how to sharpen your vision:

  • Write It Down: Be specific about what you’re asking God to do. Write the vision, make it plain.

  • Look at It Daily: Keep your goals in front of you to stay focused and motivated.

  • Speak It Boldly: Declare what God has placed in your heart. Romans 4:17 says we serve a God who “calls into being things that were not.”

Final Thoughts

These seven skills—connecting, working smarter, creating, selling, leading, persevering, and dreaming—aren’t just about growing your ministry; they’re about stewarding your gifts for the glory of God. As you apply these principles, remember Philippians 4:19: “My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”

You were created for such a time as this. Go out, connect, create, and lead boldly in His name.