Listening to God’s Word and Longing for God’s Way Taking Steps toward Visioneering

So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:16-17

Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. King James Version Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is he who keeps the law. New American Standard Bible Where there is ignorance of God, the people run wild; but what a wonderful thing it is for a nation to know and keep his laws! The Living Bible If people can't see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed. The Message

Vision keeps us from ‘stumbling around’ physically AND spiritually.

"If you got it, you don't need no definition. And if you don't got it, ain't no definition gonna help." Speaking of rhythm….

Thinking about your dreams….

Vision might be defined as foresight based on insight, with the benefit of hindsight. George Banner, The Power of Vision

Vision is composed of one part foresight, one part insight plenty of imagination and judgment, and often, a healthy dose of chutzpah. Burt Nanus, from his book, Visionary Leadership

"Vision for ministry is a clear mental image of a preferable future, imparted by God to His chosen servants, based upon an accurate understanding of God, self and circumstances." George Barna, The Power of Vision

Guideposts to God’s Vision….. 1.Repentance first.....Vision to Follow "...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.“ 2 Chronicles 7:14-16

Guideposts to God’s Vision…. 2. Don't go to God with an Agenda....go to Him with Open Hands.

Guideposts to God’s Vision…. 3. Stay on the Anvil, despite His Refining Blows Peter 1:6-7 "For a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith-- of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-- may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."

Guideposts to God’s Vision…. 4. Beware of the Vision Killers!......

Beware of the Vision Killers…. Tradition Fear Stereotypes Complacency Fatigue Short-term Thinking

In religious life, vision is always connected to the work of God’s Spirit. Vision is inspired…meaning that it comes TO us and not merely FROM us. Taken from Wesley Ranberg-Michaelson’s book, Leadership From Inside Out, p. 92,93

6 Senses of Vision.. For the Eye… A Dream For the Ear…A Calling For the Heart…A Passion For the Mouth…A Hope For the Hand…A Project For the Feet….A Map

** As you consider the ministry of ABCOPAD, what are some ways that we have been able to successfully partner in ministry with local congregations and leaders? ** A) As you think of your local congregation, where do you see God moving in your church ministry? What are the visions for ministry that the LORD has planted in your midst? **B) And secondly, as you think beyond your local congregation and the way that the culture impacts your ministry, what are the prevailing challenges of our culture that must be addressed by the 'salt and light' of the church? ** As we look to the future, what are some new and strategic ways that the regional family could be supportive of local congregations and leaders in their efforts for the cause of the Kingdom? How can we enhance our Partnership in Ministry with them? Small Group Discussion Questions…..