I love a good DIY project every once in a while. I find joy in making the things I need instead of buying them from the store or paying someone else to do it. I’m not alone. Many people share the same sentiment as I do – just look at how many people turn to Pinterest to fuel their next home improvement idea!
However, when it comes to a community need, people are more hesitant to start something. It’s so much easier to just participate in something that’s already been prepared by someone else.
I totally understand why some are so hesitant. Sometimes I am too. Being the one who starts something can be overwhelming. You have to assume responsibility, and you make yourself vulnerable to other people’s judgement. But without anyone sowing the first seed, we’ll miss an opportunity of something great growing among us. If you see a need in your community, maybe it’s God’s calling for you to start something.
Keep in mind these three simple points, to help you get started:
1. Start Small
When you have a grand idea, sometimes it’s hard to even begin! Not all efforts have to start big or are perfect and polished. Most people know this verse by memory: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matthew 18:20 (ESV). Maybe your idea begins with one or two people, and it’s not perfect from the get-go, but that’s okay. Start small, bigger things will follow.
2. Start Close
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, bring in people who are close to you. Share your thoughts, concerns, and goals. Maybe you’ll gain a supporter or even a partner. No one can survive alone, and we need to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
3. Start Sincerely
Before starting your great idea, make sure your heart and head are in the right space. Find the purpose of your idea and keep that in mind as you’re starting your journey. God’s provisions and guidance will surely follow. Let this verse from 1 Peter 3:8 (NRSV) give you hope and strength: “Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.”
I hope this inspires you to kickstart that project or idea you’ve been putting off, no matter how small.
The opinions expressed in articles posted on Mosaic’s website are those of the author and may not reflect the official policy of Mosaic Conference. Mosaic is a large conference, crossing ethnicities, geographies, generations, theologies, and politics. Each person can only speak for themselves; no one can represent “the conference.” May God give us the grace to hear what the Spirit is speaking to us through people with whom we disagree and the humility and courage to love one another even when those disagreements can’t be bridged.
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)