If you are reading this then you should be scared! Why? You could be starting a dangerous journey away from God’s will down a path of desperation, fear, and/or selfish gain. I bet you saw the title of this post and expected it to reveal the next church growth fad that is going to create an unstoppable revival within your community. Let me be the first to tell you, STOP IT!! There is absolutely nothing man made that can create a revival. A revival happens only when God decides that YOU and the church are ready for an outpouring of His Holy Spirit.

Hey, don’t feel bad. We have all been in your shoes at some point. Maybe you’re frustrated because everything YOU have tried “just doesn’t work”, or maybe you’re desperate because leaders within your church are sneaking out the back door? Shopping around for gimmicks will never solve your problems, create a revival, or reveal a vision from God. The only way for your church to grow is for you as a leader to grow. Get real with Jesus! Release your burdens, sins, fear, and selfish ambitions. Become desperate for Him and what He would have you do, instead of what YOU think He wants you to do. Carve out time to be alone with the Holy Spirit. Invite Him in and ask Him to reveal His vision for you and your community. Get down in the trenches with those you lead by investing in their personal lives and sharing yours. Being 100% submissive to the Holy Spirit and 100% transparent with your followers will produce an authenticity that desires Kingdom growth.

Chasing rainbows, gimmicks, and fads is a scary and dangerous path for all leaders and those around them. Let me encourage you to stick to the basics. The greatest gift the local church can give to its community is a high quality, spirit filled, salvation oriented, Christ focused worship that is relevant and consistent. So, maybe it’s time to “do” less and become great at the first thing your community is looking for… a place to find Jesus, experience the Holy Spirit, and see lives changed!