Surviving the Storms of Church Revitalization

As a church revitalizer, you’re no stranger to storms. They come in all forms—some hit hard and fast, others build slowly into a crescendo, and still others brew from disagreements, controversies, or relational tensions. These tempests can test your resolve, but they’re an inevitable part of the renewal journey. Here’s a look at the kinds of storms you might face and how to navigate them with faith and grit.

The Types of Storms You’ll Encounter

Short Shower Storms: These light squalls may dampen your efforts temporarily, but they pass quickly. Keep pushing forward until the sun breaks through.

Springtime Storms: Refreshing for some, these changes can threaten others—especially former members uneasy with new growth in the congregation.

Summer Storms: Ferocious and intense, these hit when growth is peaking. They can escalate fast, testing your leadership under pressure.

Thunderstorms: Sudden and loud, these can tempt you to hunker down. Instead, stay calm and press on toward the goal.

Lightning Storms: Dangerous yet beautiful, these illuminate tensions as some flex their strength to resist the good work underway.

Windstorms: Noisy and disruptive, these often fizzle out fast if you refuse to let them derail you.

Sandstorms: Messy and chaotic, these stir up debris. Don’t let the clutter pile up—address it and move on.

Storms pass. Your job as a revitalizer is to let them blow over without lingering too long. Then, take a moment to reflect: What sparked this storm? Understanding its roots can equip you to weather the next one.

What Fuels These Storms?

Varied Pressures: Conflict isn’t something most pastors enjoy but avoiding it doesn’t make it disappear. Pressure can come from foes (like the Pharisees Jesus faced in Mark 3:1-6), friends (Mark 3:21), family (Mark 3:31-35), or even faithful followers. It’s part of the territory.

Difficult Phases: Not everyone in your church wants growth. Spiritual immaturity can spark storms, much like the disciples’ faithlessness exposed their fears when Jesus walked on water (Mark 4:35-41).

Divine Decisions: Sometimes God stirs the storm. In Mark 4:35, Jesus chose who went with Him and where they were headed, leaving some behind. Today, revitalizers face resistance when leading the flock forward—especially from those reluctant to release control.

Demanding Places: Jesus sent away the uncommitted multitude (Mark 4:36), focusing on those ready to join the mission. In tough settings, storms can either bitter you or better you, depending on whether you trust Jesus’ presence and power.

The Rewards of Enduring

Storms aren’t just obstacles—they’re opportunities. Like a sailor caught in rough seas, I’ve learned they teach you something valuable. They stretch you, growing your faith and resilience (Mark 4:39-40). When you stand firm, eyes fixed on Christ, you emerge stronger. They also set the stage for glorifying God (Mark 4:41). Fear can flip to praise when you see His hand at work.

There’s a time to rebuke the wind, as Jesus did—calling out chaos and reclaiming peace. But every storm, handled well, prepares you to lead with greater confidence and give God greater glory.

A Final Word

Church revitalization isn’t calm waters all the way. Storms will rise—some small, some fierce—but they don’t define the journey. Keep moving forward, learn from the squalls, and trust the One who calms the seas. As my friend Jim Wigton, a seasoned revitalizer, can attest, these trials shape you into the leader your church needs. So brace yourself, lift your gaze, and sail on. The shore’s closer than you think.