Planting Eternity is something that I have described to folks lately as the most exciting thing I have ever done, but at the same time it has caused me at times to want to grab a bottle of Pepto Bismol and spend some time in the bathroom. And I haven’t really even started yet.

So looking over the lessons of this church planter and learning from his five years of experience has been a tremendous blessing to me. As I share the final lessons he learned, I truly do resonate with most of them. I think they are very real dangers I face. I’m better for having lived with them for the last couple weeks.

#7 - Problem: We weren’t full time by 5 years.

Reason: We have always felt like I could be more effective and better equipped to lead our church into growth if I were full time. Plus, the fluctuating income adds additional stress with financial pressure.

Solution: By setting boundaries, I can keep sales in its place at the same time trusting God for His provision. I need to protect my days off from sales as much as from the church. We can pray for and set goals with leaders to move toward being full time.

I can vouch first hand how the financial concerns in church planting can be overwhelming and stressful at times. As a shameful plug, if you’d like to help out with that, Eternity would love for you to partner with us.

#8 - Problem: Being overly concerned with what others think about us and what we do.

Reason: We’re working on that.

Solution: Continue to work the through the book “The Emotionally Healthy Church.” Also, we will deal with the core issues that bring us to unhealthy responses in ministry.

I love the honesty in saying that we don’t have all of them conquered yet or just the humility to say that we are a work in progress. It’s true. No one planting a church or doing anything in life is perfect and we are all in process. Sanctification is like that. Recognizing the dangers is the first victory. Overcoming them, that is a lifelong work and a constant work.

#9 - Problem: Isolating ourselves in ministry

Reason: Didn’t think we had the time for outside relationships because of the time invested in relationships at church.

Solution: Presently working on building relationships with others in ministry that are real and authentic and transcend the usual shallowness. We will be intentional with these relationships, otherwise they won’t “just” happen.

This is one thing that I am truly blessed with and that is an extensive network of relationships, friendships, and mentors that will be completely outside of Eternity. Also, the pastors and friends that I have already had the chance and privilege to meet and spend time with in Jefferson City has been invaluable. It’s great to know that I am not going to be alone. I think that’s one of the greatest fronts we are attacked on.

So what are your thoughts? What have you learned?