by Walt Brock

S trengths and weaknesses evaluated. These are sometimes called differential advantages or disadvantages. Do we have an accurate understanding of both our internal context and our external context?

T eam evaluations. Look at God’s call and at the spiritual gifts, desires, and abilities of leadership and personnel in the entire ministry. What skills, attitudes, and abilities need to improve before we are ready for growth? Do we as a team fit together well? How can this plan result in the growth of our staff, both spiritually and physically? God is more interested in people growth than facility growth. How will this plan accomplish His goals?

O pportunities and problems that must be faced both within and without—resources, timing, competition, and perceptions. Have we done our due diligence, our homework? Have we counted the true cost?

P leasing to God. Are we pleasing God through obedience now? Will this new direction be in God’s thelemic will and be pleasing to Him as well? How can we
know this? Are we exercising faith? Are we willing to wait upon God? Are we content yet not complacent?