Don’t engage a battle just because you can win. This lesson is so difficult to learn. There’s a lot more to consider than just coming out on top.
COUNT THE COST
Slow down your reaction and take time to ask yourself, “What will it cost me to win?” Every battle has a cost… even when it’s won. It doesn’t matter if you are 100% right or if its an “easy” win. In every circumstance, the battle takes a toll.
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Serving as a youth worker in a smaller church can be one of the most
difficult assignments – but the rewards are undeniably satisfying.
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With every battle, you are earning a reputation, and how others perceive you will impact your ministry. Some will boldly claim, “I don’t play the politics game.” That’s fair and noble! Don’t sacrifice your integrity or act from an impure heart. But, at the same time, it’s wise to pay attention to the feelings and perceptions of others who will be impacted by your decisions. Ignoring others isn’t talking the “high ground” away from politics, it’s lacking compassion and expressing selfishness.
Consider the cost before you engage. You don’t want to win a battle now that will ensure your next one is a loss.
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Serving as a youth worker in a smaller church can be one of the most
difficult assignments – but the rewards are undeniably satisfying.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
AVOID EMPTY WINS
You’ve slowed down enough to make it this far: you are confident you can “win” without the cost being too high. There’s another question to consider: “What will you really be gaining for your ministry?”
It’s our advice to avoid empty wins. It’s not a win if it doesn’t move your ministry forward in significant strides. What will happen if you don’t engage? Will your lack of engagement limit or hurt your ministry? These are significant questions that need to be asked before your pride swells and you fight for the sake of fighting.