As we are in the midst of the holiday season, the end of another year is right around the corner. And, because of a busy season, ministry leaders may feel drained and exhausted closing out the year with Christmas and other demands of serving the Church and community. Rather than finishing the year on burned out, choose to end the year with impact.
How can you finish the year in your ministry strong? Here are a few practical ideas to finish strong.
Reflect and Give Thanks
It’s a busy season but take time to carve out time for personal reflection. One thing you can do is start a thankful journal to reflect and remember the blessings God has given you over the past year and turn your heart toward thankfulness. Write down the year’s blessings and victories, as well as any hardships. Assess your spiritual and emotional growth over the past twelve months. Determine what went well and what needs adjustment to finish strong. As you do this, make sure you sive thanks to God for sustaining your ministry.
Cast Vision
Casting vision is really important, not just to end the year, but as you start the new year. Get your team together to remember all God did the past year and why you serve together but also to cast vision for the new year. Share stories and encouragement. Then, take time to brainstorm and pray together for strength and wisdom as you end the year and start a new one.
Care for Volunteers and Team Members
Show your volunteers and team members just how much you value and appreciate their service by providing encouragement and support. The holidays are busy and can be challenging in their personal lives. That is why is important for you to be sensitive to what they are going through while also appreciative of what they have and are currently doing. One way to do this is to personally handwrite thank you notes. You could also do special treats and fun giveaways during this time, as well.
FINISH THE YEAR STRONG AND START THE NEW YEAR STRONGER WITH THESE DIGITAL TOOLS. THEY CAN HELP YOU EXPAND YOUR EFFECTIVENESS AS A MINISTER.
Take Time Off
The Christmas season is a very busy time of year. However, if you want to finish the year strong, it’s important to get some rest and time off or you will burn out. Even in the busy seasons, there is always time to find some time to rest. That is why its important for you to set healthy boundaries so you can stay fresh as a new year starts. And, this isn’t just for you. Encourage your fellow teammates and volunteers to rest and take time off, as well.
Even in busy seasons, there is always time to rest. Make sure you take some time off this Christmas season so you end the year strong. Click To TweetSpend Personal Time with God
When you are working at a fast pace, it can be easy to cut things out so you can do more. However, one of those things you SHOULD NOT do is cut time with God. In fact, you should be even more dependent on God to give you the strength and energy to do all that you have to do. Make sure you make it a priority to spend personal time with God this Christmas so it keeps you fresh as you finish the year. And, make sure you are keeping your ministry team focused on spending personal time with God. That way you and your team will be the best version of yourselves as you end the year.
Conclusion
Every year we have a choice. Do we finish the year strong or do we allow ourself to be sucked into the craziness of the holidays and end the year on fumes? Choose to invest in yourself and your team so that you finish strong and are ready for a whole new year in a few weeks.
Before you finish reading this post, write down a quick action plan. How else can ministers get to know people in their Church? Share them below or on social media.
Interested in being a Digital Missionary or want to learn digital tools to expand your reach in ministry this year, join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group!
