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Why Your Prayers Might Be Holding Back Your Financial Breakthrough

Why Your Prayers Might Be Holding Back Your Financial Breakthrough

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Empowerment

We've all been there—stressed about finances, overwhelmed by bills, and wondering why it feels like no matter how hard we work, the breakthrough never comes. But what if the answer to our financial struggles isn't found in working harder or saving more? What if the solution starts with something as simple, yet powerful, as prayer?

In this post, we'll explore how praying boldly for your finances can open the doors to breakthroughs you may have never imagined. This blog post is inspired by my sermon "Why Your Prayers May Be Holding Back Your Finances," which dives into how you can pray with faith for financial provision.

While many people focus solely on practical financial strategies, the power of prayer in achieving financial breakthroughs is often overlooked. Let's explore how changing your approach to prayer can transform your financial situation.

It Starts with a Change in Your Prayers

Financial breakthroughs don’t begin with a change in your bank account—they begin with a change in your prayers. Many of us, in times of financial stress, rely on our own strength, trying to work harder or budget more strictly. While these actions are important, we often miss the most powerful tool at our disposal: bold prayer.

The Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:19 that “God will supply all your needs from His glorious riches.” It’s a beautiful promise, but are we truly trusting in God’s provision, or are we holding back, relying too much on our own ability to fix our situation?

While bold prayer is the foundation for financial breakthroughs, it's important to remember that faith without action is incomplete. This leads us to consider the practical steps we can take alongside our prayers to align our faith with action.

The size of your prayers says a lot about the size of your faith. If you’re not asking big, are you really trusting God to do big things? #BoldPrayers #Faith

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The Fear of Bold Prayers

One of the reasons we may hesitate to pray boldly for our finances is fear. Fear of asking for too much. Fear that God won’t answer. Or maybe fear that we’re not deserving of the breakthrough we need. This tension between relying on ourselves and trusting God can keep us from experiencing the full blessing He has in store for us.

James 4:2 speaks directly to this hesitation: “You do not have because you do not ask God.” Think about that for a moment. How often have you avoided praying for something specific, like debt relief or a new job, because you were afraid it was too much to ask?

Bold prayers show bold faith. It’s about trusting that God not only hears your prayers but delights in exceeding your expectations. Like Job, who lost everything only to have it restored twofold when he prayed (Job 42:10), we too can trust that God is not only able but willing to provide abundantly.

While bold prayer is the foundation for financial breakthroughs, many people struggle with fears that hold them back from praying with confidence.

Fear should never hold us back from asking God for what seems impossible. We serve a big God who invites bold requests. #PrayBoldly #TrustGod

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Practical Steps: Aligning Faith with Action

While prayer is essential, it’s also important to align your actions with your faith. Praying for a financial breakthrough doesn’t mean passively waiting for money to fall into your lap. God often works through our actions, and we can combine faith-filled prayers with practical financial stewardship.

Here are some practical steps to take after committing your finances to God in prayer:

  1. Create or review your budget. Being a good steward of what you have is an act of faith and discipline.
  2. Seek financial advice. Whether through a mentor, financial advisor, or educational resources, gaining wisdom about managing your money is part of trusting God with your finances.
  3. Practice generosity. Luke 6:38 tells us, “Give, and you will receive.” Being generous, even when it feels counterintuitive, can open the doors to blessings beyond what we expect.

While taking these practical steps is important, it's equally crucial to understand that financial breakthroughs often require patience and unwavering faith.

Bold prayers aren’t about convincing God—they’re about convincing yourself that God’s got this. #BoldFaith #GodsPlan

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The Role of Perseverance and Faith

It’s important to remember that financial breakthroughs don’t always happen overnight. Frederick Douglass, a historical example of perseverance, prayed boldly for his freedom and financial future. Though the results didn’t come immediately, Douglass saw God’s hand at work through years of prayer and steadfast faith.

You may be praying for financial freedom, job promotion, or better financial management. Whatever your situation, don’t give up. God is at work, and His timing is perfect.

Key Takeaway: God Exceeds Our Expectations

At the heart of this message is a simple truth: God doesn’t just meet our needs; He often exceeds them when we fully trust Him. Luke 6:38 gives us a vivid image of this: blessings “pressed down, shaken together, and running over.”

The profound question to ask yourself is this: “Do I believe that God is both able and willing to provide beyond my expectations?”

When we start praying boldly and trust God’s timing, we begin to see Him work in ways we couldn’t have anticipated. Whether you’re seeking debt relief, a new job, or financial peace, remember that God’s resources are infinite, and He is eager to bless you.

While taking practical steps is important, it's equally crucial to understand that financial breakthroughs often require patience and unwavering faith.

Conclusion: Start Praying Boldly

Your financial breakthrough begins when you stop focusing on what you lack and start trusting in what God has. It’s time to start praying boldly, asking God for the things that seem impossible, and trusting Him to provide.

The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:33 to seek first His kingdom and righteousness, and everything else will be added to us. When we align our hearts with God and bring our specific financial needs to Him in prayer, we open the door for Him to move in our lives in remarkable ways.

God invites us to ask boldly, trusting that He can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. #AskBig #FaithInAction

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So, what’s holding you back from praying boldly for your finances?

Today, commit to bringing your financial needs to God in faith. He’s ready to exceed your expectations—are you ready to trust Him fully?

For more guidance on how to pray with confidence and expectation, check out Bold Prayers: How to Pray With Confidence and Expectation. 

This book will help you dive deeper into the power of bold, faith-filled prayers. Available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. Start transforming your prayer life today!

Lastly, don’t miss the full sermon that inspired this post, Why Your Prayers May Be Holding Back Your Finances, available on YouTube. 

Watch it to gain even more insight into the power of bold prayer for financial breakthroughs.

Clearing the Clutter: Discovering Life’s Hidden Gems in Simplicity

Clearing the Clutter: Discovering Life’s Hidden Gems in Simplicity

by | Dec 20, 2023 | Empowerment, Goals

The Cluttered Journey of Grace

Grace lived in the busy streets of Nashville, Tennessee, a middle-aged woman whose life was a vivid tapestry of experiences, yet overshadowed by the clutter surrounding her. Grace's home, once a sanctuary, had become a physical manifestation of her inner turmoil – every corner filled with possessions reflecting forgotten dreams and unmet aspirations. But more than her home, Grace's heart and mind were cluttered, leaving her gasping for clarity.

One day, amidst the chaos, Grace stumbled upon an old photograph of her younger self, radiant and full of life. This stark contrast sparked a deep realization within her. It was time to peel away the layers of accumulated life clutter, like shedding old skin, to rediscover the essence of her true self.

Her journey was a challenging one. Grace faced the daunting task of letting go – not just of physical items but deep-seated habits and fears. Each object she discarded was a step towards liberation, each empty space a new canvas for possibilities. Slowly, the transformation began, not just in her surroundings but within her soul.

The Science of Decluttering

Scientific research supports Grace's story, indicating that it is not just an anecdote. Studies have shown that decluttering can reduce stress levels and increase productivity. A cluttered environment often leads to a cluttered mind, impacting our emotional well-being and cognitive functions. A study by Princeton University found that physical clutter competes for our attention, resulting in decreased performance and increased stress.

 A cluttered environment often leads to a cluttered mind, impacting our emotional well-being and cognitive functions.



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The Transformative Power of Simplicity

Grace's journey is a testament to the transformative power of simplicity. By creating space in her environment, she allowed her mind to breathe, to find stillness amidst the noise of life. Her days became less about doing and more about being.

In her quieter, less cluttered world, Grace started appreciating life's simple pleasures — the morning sun filtering through her window, birds chirping at daybreak, and the peacefulness of starry nights.

It's a common revelation: cutting down the excess brings a new appreciation for the everyday, a discovery many in the hustle of city life are starting to embrace. Grace's story is familiar. Many have found solace in simplifying their lives.

It's a common revelation: cutting down the excess brings a new appreciation for the everyday, a discovery many in the hustle of city life are starting to embrace. 



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 A Call to Action: Embark on Your Decluttering Journey

Now, it's your turn.

Start small – perhaps by decluttering a drawer or your digital space. 

Be ruthless in your approach, keeping only what brings value or joy. Embrace the empty spaces you create, both physically and mentally. They are not voids but fertile ground for new growth and experiences.

Make time for stillness. Just a few minutes of quiet reflection each day can be transformative, helping you connect with yourself and your surroundings. Be open to the miracles of everyday life, the small moments of grace and beauty that are often unnoticed.

The Road Ahead: Tools for Your Journey

To aid you in this journey, I've included a checklist and a short quiz at the end of this post to help you assess your need for decluttering. And for a bit of visual inspiration, check out our before-and-after gallery of decluttered spaces.

Decluttering is not just about creating space in your home or schedule; it's about creating space in your life for what truly matters. It's about finding the miraculous in the mundane, the extraordinary in the ordinary. So, take that first step today. Identify one item, one commitment, or one habit you can let go of and set yourself on the path to a more mindful, purposeful, and miraculous life.

Decluttering is not just about creating space in your home or schedule; it's about creating space in your life for what truly matters.



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Decluttering Checklist

  • Start with one small area: a drawer, a shelf, or your digital space.

  • Ask yourself: Does this item bring me joy or value?

  • Embrace empty spaces as opportunities for growth.

  • Schedule daily moments for stillness and reflection.Be open to the beauty in the small moments of life.

Self-Assessment Quiz

  1. Do you often feel overwhelmed by your possessions or commitments?
    2. Do you struggle to find time for yourself and your passions?
    3. Are there items in your home that you haven't used in over a year?
    4. Do you find it difficult to focus or relax in your living space?

If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, it might be time to consider decluttering your life.

If you're intrigued by this concept and want to delve deeper, I recently taught a session on this very topic. It's packed with insights and practical tips on how you can embark on your own journey of decluttering and simplification. You can watch it here.


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THE BREAKDOWN Message Rewind of Connected by Faith, Not by Location: Redefining Church in the Modern Age 🔄 🎙️

THE BREAKDOWN Message Rewind of Connected by Faith, Not by Location: Redefining Church in the Modern Age 🔄 🎙️

by | Oct 16, 2023 | Mars Hill Baptist Church

THE BREAKDOWN
Message Rewind

The Breakdown of
​Connected by Faith, Not by Location: Redefining Church in the Modern Age

I am excited to recap our enlightening sermon this past Sunday briefly.

Our focus was Redefining The Church IN The Modern Age: Mars Hill Anywhere’s Digital Faith Journey.”The essence of this sermon was to shed light on how we are adapting to the digital era while keeping our faith and spiritual connections alive. In the sermon, we delved into the concept of Mars Hill Anywhere, a digital realm where faith, community, and mission harmonize.

This digital platform is not to replace physical gatherings but to enhance our spiritual connection and adapt to the ever-evolving world.

🎉 Dive into the magic of “The Breakdown | Sermon Rewind” with me! 🚀📖

Have you ever had that Sunday sermon touch your soul, only to feel its essence fade away by mid-week? 🌅 We’re about to change that!

Introducing… 🥁 The Breakdown | Sermon Rewind! It is a unique way to keep the Sunday spirit alive and kicking all week. 🌟Imagine this: That powerful sermon? It’s now your daily compass, guiding you through life’s highs and lows. 🧭✨

📌 Here’s The Rewind” Rundown:

1️⃣ Every Monday, await a curated newsletter, distilling the essence of Sunday’s sermon. 💌

2️⃣ Dive deep into its teachings, reflections, and actionable insights. Make that message a part of your daily mantra! 🌊📜

3️⃣ Engage in soulful discussions, share your revelations, and lift each other throughout the week. 🌐💬

This isn’t just an experiment. It’s a movement. A journey to enrich our minds, fortify our online tribe, and create waves of positive change.
🌍💡Let’s not just be Sunday-inspired. Let’s be everyday-inspired! Join the journey, and let’s elevate together! 🤗

🎥 Watch the Replay of Connected by Faith, Not by Location: Redefining Church in the Modern Age

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Sermon Overview

In my sermon, I emphasized digital platforms’ vital role in reaching out to those distant from God. What’s the point of attending a physical church if it doesn’t truly transform us? The vision for our church is to embrace the digital age, using every tool at our disposal to help souls find their way back to God.

Next, I reminded everyone of the significant role technology has always played in Christianity. Remember the roads built by the Roman Empire? Those very roads played a pivotal role in spreading the Gospel. This led me to introduce an idea I’ve been pondering – the possibility of divine connections through digital means. And yes, we’ll dive deeper into this in upcoming sermons.

Additionally, I fervently believe that nothing, not physical barriers, should come between us and our worship of God. I took everyone back to Acts chapter 2, where early Christians built a thriving community without the trappings of physical structures.

It’s fascinating to think that it was over 330 years after Christ’s passing before physical church buildings even appeared. To me, this underscores the true essence of the church: community. Even though I haven’t met many of you face-to-face, I feel a deep bond with our congregation. This also reminded me of the unparalleled value of our personal moments with God.

Driving the point home, I stressed how crucial it is to harness modern technology, especially the internet, to spread Christianity. Just as early Christians utilized Roman roads for the Gospel, we have a golden opportunity to use the internet as our “Roman Road,” reaching hearts worldwide.

It’s intriguing to think that while many internet pioneers might not know Jesus, they’ve unknowingly given us a platform to spread His love and teachings. I wrapped up my sermon by teasing some exciting tech-driven initiatives we’re launching to bring more souls closer to Jesus.

Key takeaways (YouTube Timestamps)

The sermon emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to spread the word of God and maintain a divine connection with Him, even if we are not physically present in a church.

  1. The sermon begins by questioning the effectiveness of traditional church attendance, especially if there is no noticeable change in the attendees’ lives ([21:56]). It suggests that a digital connection to God can be just as effective, if not more so, than a physical one.
  2. The sermon then discusses how the early Christians used the Roman roads, a technological advancement of their time, to spread the message of Jesus ([24:14]). This is used as an analogy to encourage the use of modern technology, like the internet, to spread the word of God today ([26:29]).
  3. The sermon also emphasizes that physical walls do not limit God’s presence and should not limit our worship ([18:45]). This reinforces the idea that a digital connection to God can be as meaningful as a physical one.
  4. Finally, the sermon encourages personal time with God, suggesting that this is when God truly speaks to us ([21:06]). This further supports the idea of a digital connection, as it allows for personal time with God, regardless of physical location.

In conclusion, the sermon encourages us to embrace technology as a tool to maintain a divine connection with God, just as the early Christians used the technology of their time to spread the word of God.

Daily Devotional

Day 1: “God Can’t Be Boxed, But Are You Boxing Him In?”

Reading: Acts 17:24-25

Devotional: Start your week contemplating the omnipresence of God. The day’s scripture reminds us God isn’t contained within walls or rituals. How does this truth impact your relationship with Him? Take a moment to ponder whether you’ve limited God to specific areas of your life.

Reflection Question: “In which corners of your life have you boxed God in? How can you expand His ‘living space’ in your daily walk?”

Day 2: “The Shape-Shifting Savior: Adapting to Share Christ”

Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Devotional: Today’s focus is on adaptability in spreading the Gospel. As you ponder the scripture, consider how you can become a bridge to different people to bring them closer to Christ. What tools and platforms can you use to share the love of God effectively?

Reflection Question: “What’s one way you can adapt your approach to share the Gospel in a manner that resonates with someone different from you?”

Day 3: “Zooming Into Faith: Keeping Community Close in a Distant World”

Reading: Hebrews 10:24-25

​Devotional: Community and connectedness take center stage in today’s reading. How do we ensure our spiritual circles remain intact and nourishing despite our rapidly changing world? Dedicate today to pray for your community and explore ways to enrich these connections.

​Reflection Question: “Who in your faith community needs encouragement or connection today, and what specific step can you take to strengthen that bond?”

Day 4: “Microphones Not Required: The Untechnological Truth of the Early Church”

Reading: Acts 2:42-47

​Devotional: Reflect on the essence of the church as a community. Today’s scripture highlights that the early believers thrived without modern amenities like buildings or technology. What does this teach us about being the church today?

Reflection Question: “If all the church buildings disappeared tomorrow, what actions would you take to embody the essence of the church in your community?”

Day 5: “Your Digital Footprints, God’s Divine Fingerprints”

Reading: Acts 17:24-25; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23

Devotional: As we wrap up the week, look at the overarching messages. How can your digital footprint lead to opportunities for divine connection? In what ways can technology serve as a vessel to bring people closer to God? Spend some time in prayer, seeking God’s guidance on using technology to broaden His reach.

​Reflection Question: “How can your digital presence be a beacon for those searching for God? Name one step you can take this week to make that a reality.

📢 Did You Enjoy This Week’s Sermon Rewind?

Let’s make every day a #SundayFunday filled with motivation and purpose! 🎉 🎯

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Thank you again for joining The Breakdown | Message Rewind. I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with you!

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5 Words of Advice for Young Pastors

5 Words of Advice for Young Pastors

by | Oct 4, 2021 | Empowerment, Encouragement, Leadership

As I've watched the world change over the last few decades, one thing has remained constant: my love for investing in young, teachable pastors.

I think it's one of the best ways to encourage future leaders and provide them with great opportunities to grow their skillset. If you're reading this, I know some of the following apply to you. You are passionate about Jesus and his Church.

You love people sincerely and want to pour into them (and let them pour into you). The pastorate is your call. You are experiencing the ups and downs of ministry life, including some who've invested in you (that you sincerely appreciate) and maybe others that aren't so great.

One constant in ministry life is change. Each week I get to do things I've never done before. When you are a young pastor, the chances are good that you will face times where you feel ill-equipped and overwhelmed.

Now that I have more than twenty years of pastoring, I'm eager to share what I'm learning to help younger pastors. One question I'm generically asked often: What advice would you give to young pastors just starting in ministry? Here are five words of advice for young pastors:

Prioritize Your Relationship With The Lord. Keep Him First

If God has allowed you to be a pastor—it's probably because He wants to use you to impact other people for His kingdom. And one of the best ways for Him to do that is through your relationship with Him.

So make sure you are growing in your faith. You are never too young to walk with God or learn more about Him.

Sometimes we can get distracted and forget about our relationship with the Lord and how He is working in our lives and ministry. His will for our ministry is deeper than we can comprehend, but we must keep Him centered in all that we do.

It may not always be easy to stay focused, but it's worth it! Ask God to help you prioritize your relationship with Him and not let other things take the place of this essential bond.

There are many ways to put God first in your life, but I want to offer a few specific suggestions. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a breath and ask yourself what is essential at this moment.

When I feel overwhelmed, it sometimes helps me to pray, meditate, or read Scripture. Treating other people with kindness and respect is also a way to put God first.

You can do this by being honest without hurting people's feelings, being polite when possible, and not gossiping or judging people behind their backs.

Sometimes we can get distracted and forget about our relationship with the Lord and how He is working in our lives and ministry.



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Prayer is The Foundation So Set It as a Priority

Prayer is the foundation, so set it as a priority in your schedule, or it will be pushed back/out. Prayer is not just about "talking to God" but much more. It is listening to what God has to say. 

When you spend time listening to what God has to say, you also listen for his voice in other places like Scripture, what other people are saying, where you live, work, etc. It's hard to catch God in a vacuum, so being aware of what God is doing around you will help your prayer life.

Prayer is the best thing you can do with your time. For Christians, prayer is talking to God, but it's so much more than that. Prayer is listening to what God has to say and recognizing his voice everywhere. When you spend time listening for him in places other than prayer, it's easier to know when he's talking to you."

Prayer is the foundation, so set it as a priority in your schedule, or it will be pushed back/out.



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Family is Your Top Priority. Ministry Comes Second. Failure in the Family Means Failure in Ministry

I am a pastor, and I understand the heavy responsibility of pastoral ministry. Still, I know that family and ministry go hand in hand. The family is the foundation of life and social connections.

When the family is working together, it provides stability for all members. The family also helps to set expectations for life and gives direction- both spiritually and practically. Failure in one area can lead to failure in another.

"Family is your top priority; ministry comes second." This statement needs to be lived out for it to be taken seriously by those who are still calling themselves pastors while their marriage crumbles or while they neglect their children because they're working more than they're home. Young pastors who are entering the workforce must get a firm grasp of this truth.

Family is your top priority. Ministry comes second. Failure in the family means failure in ministry.



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In Proverbs, we read, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). This verse teaches us that God wants to build His church through families- not just children, but families.

The home is the primary place where a child learns about God and their identity as an adopted son or daughter of God (John 1:12). These foundational truths are planted in the soil of our hearts through family relationships.

The home is the primary place where a child learns about God and their identity as an adopted son or daughter of God (John 1:12).



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Find Mentors and Encourage Them to Mentor You

Finding the right mentors is a crucial part of entering ministry. Mentors can help you learn what it takes to be in ministry, and they can teach you how to prioritize your time and give you advice on the best ways to approach people. A mentor can help you interpret your new culture and navigate complex issues.

Mentors can help you learn what it takes to be in ministry, and they can teach you how to prioritize your time and give you advice on the best ways to approach people.



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Your mentors should be trusted people who also see the vision God has for you in ministry. When interviewing a potential future mentor, choose someone who will stretch, encourage and inspire you to be your best self while loving on you through some hard conversations. You need to be open with them and know that they have your best interest at heart.

It's okay to have a mentor who has more experience than you; remember that God did not call them to be YOU. You are called uniquely by God, and the wisdom of other pastors will never compare to how he may guide you through his word. Find someone who will see your potential and come alongside you while encouraging you to pursue what God has called you to do.

When interviewing a potential future mentor, choose someone who will stretch, encourage and inspire you to be your best self while loving on you through some hard conversations.



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You Can't Do It By Yourself, Don't Be Afraid to Ask For Help

Someone once said, "if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go further, go with a team." Translation: Become a part of a tribe that will hold you accountable and encourages you to pursue what God has called you to do. Your well-being is never more important than the greater vision God has for your ministry.

It's great that you have a heart for ministry, but your priority should be yourself after God. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Being too tired to function correctly will lead to mistakes and causing more harm than good. If you don't prioritize your well-being, you won't last in ministry for very long.

Being too tired to function correctly will lead to mistakes and causing more harm than good. 



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You should always be learning and growing, but that can come at a cost if you don't manage your time wisely. Ask yourself the question, "What will I miss out on by saying yes?" It may have been good for others, but was it necessary or correct for you? Practice learning to say no. Don't let yourself fall into the trap of yes, just because you're too afraid to say no.

Your leadership will make or break the people you're leading. The more empowered and encouraged they feel by your leadership, the more likely they will stick around and grow with you toward a common goal.

Jesus said that "All of you should be of one mind; united in spirit with one purpose." Don't be afraid to surround yourself with people who see the vision God has for you and want to see you succeed as a leader.

Did you find today's post helpful? What additional advice would you give to young pastors?

Something’s Off: Here’s Why It’s Harder Leading Today

Something’s Off: Here’s Why It’s Harder Leading Today

by | Sep 27, 2021 | Empowerment

Leaders, I'm sure you've noticed that something feels off lately.

Maybe it's in your work life, or perhaps it's at home. You're trying to do more with less because of budget cuts but are frustrated that the quality is dropping. Or you're feeling exhausted and overwhelmed by all the tasks on your plate when there just aren't enough hours in the day.

The thing is, leaders today are expected to do MORE with LESS - not only for themselves but also for their staff members - without any additional resources or support from their organization! Leaders are in a tough spot. The world is changing faster than ever before, and the tools they need to succeed are evolving at an equally rapid pace. 

This blog post will explore what has changed about leading today and how we can adjust and make a real difference in this world. Something happened in March 2000 that changed our lives forever and ushered in Culture Shock.

Leaders today are expected to do MORE with LESS - not only for themselves but also for their staff members - without any additional resources or support from their organization.



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Culture Shock

Culture Shock happens when we experience cultural differences in a way that confuses, frustrates, and even frightens us. In culture shock, culture change seems too fast for our culture-adjustment capabilities. 

Culture Shock happens when we experience cultural differences in a way that confuses, frustrates, and even frightens us.



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The Four Stages of Culture Shock

Church culture, post-pandemic, can be hard to adjust to, especially if it's completely different from what you're used to. There are four stages of culture shock, and the church is not exempt. They are 1) The Honeymoon Phase, 2) The Frustration Phase, 3) The Readjustment Phase, and 4) The Acceptance Phase.

Stage 1: The Honeymoon Phase

The Honeymoon Phase stage usually lasts for about 3 months, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your situation. During The Honeymoon Phase, culture shock is still low, and you are enjoying your culture change. This stage usually lasts for about 3 months or so, but it can be shorter or longer depending on your situation. During the honeymoon phase, you're excited to explore new things and experience new technology like live streaming, Zoom, social media, and learn the latest industry trends. You might find yourself getting too tired at night because you've been doing so much during the day to understand this new culture.

During The Honeymoon Phase, culture shock is still low, and you are enjoying your culture change.



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Stage 2: The Frustration Phase

The second stage of culture shock is called the frustration phase. This typically takes place between 4-6 months after arriving in a culture different from one's own (though this timeframe may vary). You might start getting more emotionally upset about culture-related things as well as starting culture-related fights with colleagues, friends, and family as you're trying to figure out how everything works. Culture shock is more significant now, and you are resisting the culture change that surrounds you. You might not understand why you must lead differently than before.

Stage 3: The Readjustment Phase

The third culture shock sensation is the readjustment phase, usually around the 3-6 month mark. By now, you might feel like you're never going to be able to fit in with anyone or anything, and you've probably hit a culture-related low point. You'll start getting really upset about leadership-related issues that used not to bother you at all. You'll probably feel worse about leadership-related activities than you did before arriving in your new culture. You do not like the culture change and long to return to what's familiar and worked. You've grown weary of Zooming, streaming, and all things online, or even hate it because culture shock is so hard on the mind, body, and soul.

During the Readjustment Phase, leaders do not like the culture change and long to return to what's familiar and worked.



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Stage 4: The Acceptance Phase

The last stage of culture shock is the adjustment phase, and it's typically reached after 6 months (though again, the timeframe may vary depending on the culture). The Adjustment Phase occurs when culture shock comes to an end; you've adjusted into your new culture, and culture-related things (mostly technologically related) don't bother you anymore. Leaders feel they understand how everything works and that they fit in; culture shock is gone at this point.

The Adjustment Phase occurs when culture shock comes to an end; you've adjusted into your new culture, and culture-related things (mostly technologically related) don't bother you anymore.



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Where Do We Go From Here?

Culture shock is a response to cultural differences. It's happening today as leaders navigate cultural changes brought on by this pandemic. Some leaders cannot keep up with the culture change and are thrown us off balance. Some leaders refuse to change, and culture shock turns into culture shock resistance.

Culture shock doesn't have to control your leadership journey. With the right attitude and culture-related tools, church leaders can keep culture shock from controlling them or their church culture.

Many church leaders have culture shock resistance which makes being a church leader in today's culture extremely challenging. Church leaders need to understand that culture is never going back to how it was in the past. Church culture needs to adjust, mature, and grow into this culture change if church culture survives.

Leaders need to understand that culture shock only becomes culture shock resistance when the leader resists culture change and culture-related difficulties. Culture change doesn't happen overnight, but culture shock can. If leaders want to lead effectively in culture today, they must become culture savvy and culture prepared.

As a leaders, were you prepared for the changes that the pandemic brought to our culture? I'd love to hear your response. 

Culture shock doesn't have to control your leadership journey. With the right attitude and culture-related tools, church leaders can keep culture shock from controlling them or their church culture.



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