Forging the Mighty Rivers of Change
An unwilling to negotiate change can hamper the growth and forward progress of ministries.
Change often flows like a mighty river. The current can be swift and strong with no obvious place to cross. But people soon come to realize that crossing the mighty river of change is not only inevitable, but necessary.
For change to happen, four (4) mighty rivers, characteristic of people’s culture, values, and perception of reality, must be bridged. These bridges pave the way for a successful crossing. Keep in mind these mighty rivers as you plan your safe crossing.
River of the Mind - people’s intellect (knowledge and perception of reality). A "bridge" of good information must be built. This requires providing new information for people to digest. This must include facts, statistics, and testimonies that "raise people’s eyebrows," creating a sense of urgency for progress and growth.
River of the Heart - people’s emotions (beliefs, values, and attitudes). A "bridge" of meaningful relationships must be built. This requires intentional processes in the building of good relationships. The kind built on trust and a growth-oriented environment that values individual contributions, celebrates differences, and promotes unity of purpose. We can impress people with facts and figures from afar, but we cannot impact their lives except through up-close and personal encounters, which foster understanding and empathy.
