CHALLENGES TO CASTING VISION

Whenever a pastor or a leader casts vision it can be challenging for a number of reasons. The primary reason is because the devil doesn’t like it when we cast a vision that results in changed lives and the spreading of the gospel.  Here are a few challenges you may face and some suggestions as you cast vision… 

 Stay Focused– When you have a vision from God don’t get distracted or discouraged.  Every great leader faces the challenge of getting their eyes off of what God has called them to do.  No matter what happens keep your eyes on Jesus and what He has called you to do. Check out

Hebrews 12:1-2 - “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.”

Take Care of Yourself– Make sure that you get plenty of rest, exercise and eat healthy. If you need ideas of how to eat healthy check out MarthaFry.org But no matter how awesome the vision is what good is it if you run out of energy or strength?

Surround Yourself with a Strong Team– Every leader needs to have a team around them that is strong and positive.  If there is ever a time that you need people with a “God Can Do” attitude it is during this season. I am so blessed to have a team of strong, faithful, positive leaders that work closely with me.

Vision Shows You Who is With You– Whenever we cast vision for the future, especially when it is a long range vision that is going to require large resources you will find out who is with you. This is not a bad thing. There are some that may be on your team or in your ministry that are with you until they have to sacrifice at another level.  Don’t get discouraged and don’t get angry. Sometimes you have to let people go and allow God to do His work in them.

Remember Leaders Go First – Martha and I would never ask our church to do something that we aren’t willing to do.  Whenever we challenge them to give, pray, fast or sacrifice we understand that leaders set the pace. As John Maxwell says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership”. And remind your staff and leaders that they also need to step out on faith and not wait to see what everyone is going to do.  This may be the most important principle of all.  If we aren’t willing to do it than how can we expect others to?

Pray, Pray, Pray– I’m not trying to be over spiritual but don’t underestimate the power of prayer! Casting vision and challenging your church or ministry is a spiritual journey.  Without God we don’t have hope! Without Jesus it’s just a man made agenda.  Pray personally, pray with your family, pray with your connect group, pray with your staff and organize times for your church family to pray. James 5:16, “…The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.”

These are just a few challenges and ideas as we cast vision.  Let’s do all that we can to lift up the name of Jesus and move forward with the good news of the gospel.  Together we can change the world!