11. You’re not an original. While we can learn from others, God’s calling and purpose for your life & ministry requires authenticity. I agree with Paul Tillich when he said, “To be Christ-like is to be authentic.” Believe in what God has put in you and trust that you don’t have to copy the ministry down the street to thrive in Jesus Christ.

12. You don’t stay aware of the community you serve and serve in. Demographics isn’t everything, but it means a lot. Opening a Steak Restaurant in a vegan community may not be the best decision. It is important to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and conscious of the ethos of where you are going to plant.

13. You’re not willing to upset somebody. No matter what you do somebody is not going to be happy about it, possibly even on your team. Moving past others feelings on things essential to your ministry and ethos is essential.

14. You don’t take criticism well. Criticism is a good thing. Although some of it is ephemeral and negative, as a rule criticism is one of the primary guides that let you know your ministry’s effectiveness. If your goal is to reach the masses and you hear the criticism “they have too many people,” that’s a good thing. :-)

15. You can’t handle success. Sometimes success is failure. Stay grounded and centered on purpose and service. Though success will come through you it’s not about you.