In an earlier post, (February 19, 2024), I wrote, “To me, innovation is not an idea but a process. Innovation is not the introduction of a new idea. It is the ability to take the bold steps to bring that idea into reality. Everyone dreams, but few innovate.” Since then I have written four posts about innovators and opportunity seekers. Here is one more with steps to unleash the innovator in you and your church (organization).

Innovators usually break through the norms of the day and most often are criticized for it. This is a fact of life. When you are an innovator, you are reaching beyond what everyone else is doing. Innovations are implemented to improve something or to overcome an obstacle. Most people will talk and talk about an issue without ever attempting to overcome the obstacle. Then they will criticize someone (church) that is innovatively combating the issue and in many cases overcoming the obstacle.

Today’s innovations become the norm of the next decades. But how? How do you become an innovator especially with limited resources?

1, Pray! Our God is the God of all resources. You do not need the resources of the mega churches to be God’s fruitful source in your community. God has given you resources that you are likely not fully utilizing. Ask Him to guide you and your church in using them for his glory in his way. Pray for outside the box ideas.

2, Seek out the true strengths of your church. Do you have good cooks?, Is there a group in your church who have a passion for children and could volunteer within the school system in various ways. Do you have handymen in your church? Every church has strengths that can be used for God’s glory and fulfilling The Great Commission.

3, What are the needs in your community in which you are particularly gifted to assist? Here are three questions to ask, door to door, in the office of mayor, schools, police chief and others. 1) in your opinion what are the two greatest needs in our community? 2) How could a church help meet those needs? (do not use the name of your church, say “a church”) 3) How can we pray for you right now? – If they allow you to pray and give you a prayer request, follow up in 30 days saying, “You told us last month about______. We’ve been praying, how’s that going and how can we continue to pray?” This is where gospel conversations begin because you have demonstrated that you truly care.

4, Connect the dots of your strengths and the needs in the community. – They will connect. That’s God’s purpose for you and your community.

5, Brainstorm and work with your leaders and congregational groups to implement a course of action within your God-given means– even if it sounds far-fetched and has never been done before. Implement and follow up. That is innovation.

George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life. Click here to receive this blog in your email inbox each Tuesday.