Relating to Priorities- Entrepreneurial Ministry

In ministry, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most. We can be busy, diligent, and even productive—yet still miss the heart of why we do what we do. Entrepreneurial leadership requires us to think differently. It challenges us to multiply our effectiveness and resources by focusing on our true priorities and aligning our actions with God’s heart.

Focus on What Matters Most

Jesus addressed this tension head-on when He said:

“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.” (Luke 11:42)

The Pharisees were meticulous about religious duty yet neglected the things that mattered most: justice, mercy, and love. It’s no different today. When we fail to train ourselves to think in priorities, we drift into legalism or mindless routine. We can spend our days measuring out herbs while overlooking the people God has called us to love.

Align Actions with Core Values

It takes intentional awareness to examine our lives and ask ourselves:

• Why do we do what we do?

• What are my purposes and priorities?

• What are the core values that anchor my decisions and actions?

These values act as a compass, keeping everything we build consistent and authentic, even as we expand and adapt.

God’s Way to Prosperity and Peace

A life of prosperity, peace, and joy doesn’t materialize magically. God shows us the way through His Word, teaching us how to succeed and enjoy life fully. Trusting Him means learning to obey the Scriptures with a willing heart.

Even diligent people can go off track when they stop measuring their efforts against core principles. Jesus never discouraged tithing; He simply warned us not to neglect the weightier matters of the heart.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Values

There’s a difference between living by vertical and horizontal values. When everything feels urgent or important, we slip into a horizontal mindset that exhausts us. But when God remains at the center, we begin to see life in proper order.

One priority fuels the next:

• Being a good husband makes you a better preacher.

• Being a faithful friend makes you a better leader.

Every part of your life touches every other part.

Believe and Obey

In the original New Testament, the words believe and obey are the same. Any area where we struggle to walk out God’s Word reveals where our trust in Him needs growth.

Fear of failure or doubt doesn’t hinder God’s grace. Every time you trust and obey, you discover how trustworthy He is. Each step strengthens your faith.

Avoid Paper-Shuffling Syndrome

Many leaders stay busy with tasks that feel necessary but accomplish little. Busyness is not the same as fruitfulness. Ask yourself:

• Am I spending my time well?

• Am I focusing on what is essential?

Important things are always important, even if they don’t scream for attention. Don’t let urgent tasks crowd out significant ones.

Practical Tips: Prioritize Like a Leader

1. Take 10 minutes before any work session to plan priorities.

2. Use a calendar or planning tools to block absolute times. Protect them fiercely.

3. Schedule rest intentionally—it’s part of stewardship.

4. Ask two questions for every task:

   • Does this minister to anyone?

   • Does this create resources to sustain ministry?

5. Avoid procrastinating on dreaded tasks. Solve problems instead of avoiding them.

   
   

Step Into Entrepreneurial Leadership

No one learns to think in priorities by accident. It requires a deliberate, thoughtful process. Over time, it becomes second nature. You make decisions faster and with confidence because you know exactly why you are doing what you are doing.

When you approach ministry this way, you step into true entrepreneurial leadership—stewarding God’s resources wisely, loving people deeply, and focusing relentlessly on what matters most.

Reflection Questions

Take a moment to reflect on your priorities and alignment with God’s heart. Consider these questions:

1. Core Values: What are the core values and priorities that guide your life and ministry?

2. Urgent vs. Important: In what areas are you prone to let urgent tasks crowd out important ones?

3. Dreaded Tasks: Are there any parts of your work you avoid that you need to tackle first thing in the day?

4. Trusting God: How can you trust God more fully to empower you with grace for obedience?

5. Leading with Love: What does it look like for you to govern your ministry by love above all else?