The Essential Guide to Running a Ministry Today
Heart Happy
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Ministry rarely begins with a strategic plan. It begins with a burden. There’s a moment when God takes something that is heavy on His heart and makes it heavy on yours.
That’s how Prague found me.
The first time I visited the Czech Republic, my heart burned with a love for its people. Prague is the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen. Church spires jut into the skyline, evidence of a rich religious past. But beneath the stunning views lies a deeper reality: the Czech Republic, like much of Europe, is highly secular.
Roughly 80% of the population identifies as atheist. Many people, disillusioned with institutional religion, are searching for meaning within themselves or through trusted friendships.
That search is exactly where we step in. And it’s taught me that running a ministry today isn’t a formula. Instead, it’s a series of faithful responses to God. Here’s what that looks like, step by step.
1. Ask God to Burden Your Heart with What Burdens His
Every ministry starts here. Not with a program, not with a five-year plan, but with a willingness to ask God to break your heart for what breaks His.
When I stood in the streets of Prague and felt that ache for its people, I wasn’t manufacturing compassion… I was receiving it. Scripture is full of leaders whose ministries began this way.
Nehemiah wept when he heard Jerusalem’s walls lay in ruins before he ever picked up a trowel (Nehemiah 1:4). The burden came first. The building came after. If you want to know where God is calling you to serve, start by asking Him to show you what’s heavy on His heart. That prayer will change the direction of your life.
2. Serve
A burden that never turns into action is just sentiment. James reminds us that faith without works is dead (James 2:14-17) — and the same is true of vision. Vision without service is just a nice feeling.
Serving looks different for every ministry. In the Czech context, it means building genuine friendships with university students and local families, walking alongside local believers, and encouraging church planters doing the slow, faithful work of nurturing new believers (Galatians 6:9). Ministry moves at the speed of trust, and trust is built through service, not slogans.
Whatever burden God has placed on you, the next right step is almost always the same: go serve someone.
3. Take Steps of Faith
Ministry requires movement before you have all the answers. Building friendships with the Czech people — a culture where trust doesn’t come quickly — requires steadfastness and faith (Hebrews 11:1). That’s true of nearly every worthwhile work God calls us to.
Faith isn’t the absence of uncertainty. It’s taking the next step anyway, because you trust the One who called you. You may not know exactly how the trip will unfold, how the funding will come together, or how the conversations will go. Step forward regardless. God rarely reveals the whole staircase — just the next step.
4. Pray
Prayer isn’t a box to check before “real” ministry begins — it is ministry. Paul described his ministry approach as sharing not only the gospel but his very life with the people he loved (1 Thessalonians 2:8), and that kind of investment is sustained by prayer, not willpower.
I am praying for the team that will join me in Prague — for their hearts, their preparation, and the people they’ll meet. Prayer covers a ministry the way a foundation covers a building: unseen, but holding everything else up.
5. Share the Vision
Once God has given you a burden and confirmed it through service, faith, and prayer, it’s time to say it out loud. Vision that stays private rarely grows.
As I prayed about presenting this opportunity to my local church, God’s whisper to my spirit was clear — not an audible voice, but a knowing that filled me: this isn’t about a church; it’s about THE church. We are called to invite Christ followers from around the United States to join this work, not to keep it contained to one congregation.
Share your vision plainly and often. People can’t join a mission they’ve never heard about.
6. Invite Others to Join You
Ministry was never meant to be a solo act. God designed the body of Christ to work together (1 Corinthians 12:12-27), and every effective ministry eventually reaches the point of invitation.
That’s the heart behind our August 2027 trip to Prague. It’s an invitation to:
- Build relationships with university students and local families through community outreach and genuine friendship.
- Support local believers, encouraging congregations and church planters in their slow, faithful work.
- Connect culturally, experiencing the history of Prague while bringing the hope of the gospel to a post-Christian society.
- Return and multiply, going back to our own churches and communities to invite others to love and support the Czech people too.
Together, we can share Christ’s love and be a light in a country that truly needs it (Matthew 5:14).
7. See God Work
The final step of ministry isn’t really a step at all — it’s a posture. Watch. Expect. Give God room to move in ways you couldn’t orchestrate yourself. Ministry run by human effort alone runs out of steam. Ministry surrendered to God bears fruit that lasts (John 15:5).
Join Me in Prague — August 2027
I’m eagerly preparing for our upcoming travel experience to Prague in August 2027. This journey goes far beyond seeing the breathtaking sights of the golden city. It’s a specific invitation to walk alongside local believers, participate in prayer, and engage in meaningful conversations.
If God has placed a burden on your heart for the nations (or if reading this has stirred one), I’d love for you to consider joining the team. Fill out the form and let’s talk about being part of what God is doing in the heart of Europe.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
August 24
Jeremiah 32-33, Ezekiel 26:1-14
Replanting with Purpose
In today’s readings from Jeremiah 32-33 and Ezekiel 26, we encounter profound messages of hope and renewal amidst impending judgment and destruction. God’s promise to replant His people serves as a powerful reminder of His unfailing love and sovereignty.
Jeremiah 32: A Symbol of Hope
While imprisoned, Jeremiah receives a message from God to buy a field from his cousin, symbolizing the eventual restoration of the land. Despite the impending destruction, this act of faith reflects God’s promise of renewal and His plan to bring His people back from exile.
Like Jeremiah, we are called to trust in God’s promises even when circumstances seem bleak. Remember that God’s plan for replanting us involves hope, growth, and a future filled with His blessings.
Jeremiah 33: A Covenant of Restoration
In Jeremiah 33, God reassures His people that He will fulfill His promises to them. He will restore prosperity, bring peace, and raise a righteous descendant from David’s line, ultimately pointing to the coming of the Messiah.
God’s commitment to His people is unwavering. We can find strength and encouragement in His faithfulness, knowing that He will always work for our good, even in the hardest times.
Ezekiel 26: The Downfall of Tyre
Ezekiel 26 prophesies the destruction of Tyre, a city that rejoiced in Jerusalem’s downfall. This judgment serves as a warning against pride and celebrating others’ misfortunes.
Let’s strive to embrace humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s justice is righteous and that we should seek to build others up rather than delight in their struggles.
Word of the Day: Replant
Definition: to plant something again, often with greater care and intention, ensuring it thrives in a new environment.
In Jeremiah 32:41, God promises to “replant” His people in their land, emphasizing His commitment to restoring and nurturing them after a time of exile.
The Beauty of Replanting
Replanting is a process that requires care and intention. Just as God promises to replant His people, He invites us to experience renewal in our own lives.
- Jeremiah 32:37-40: God will bring His people back and give them one heart and purpose—to worship Him forever.
- Jeremiah 32:27: God reminds us that nothing is too hard for Him, encouraging us to trust in His power and plan.
In the hands of our loving God, we can flourish even after being uprooted. Trust in His promise to replant you with purpose, knowing that He will never stop doing good for you.
August 25
Ezekiel 26:15-21, Ezekiel 27, 28:1-26, 2 Kings 25:3-7, Jeremiah 52:6-11, Jeremiah 39:2-10
Destruction as a Turning Point
In today’s readings from Ezekiel 26-28 and 2 Kings 25, we explore the theme of destruction and its profound impact. The fall of Tyre and Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and disobedience. However, even in destruction, there is hope and an opportunity for renewal with God.
Ezekiel 26:15-21 and Ezekiel 27: The Fall of Tyre
Ezekiel 26-27 describes the destruction of Tyre, a once-magnificent and thriving city. Known for its wealth, commerce, and beauty, Tyre became prideful and complacent, ultimately leading to its downfall.
Pride can blind us to our vulnerabilities, leading to destruction. Let’s remain humble and grounded, acknowledging our dependence on God to avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and arrogance.
Ezekiel 28: The Judgment of Tyre’s King
Ezekiel 28 continues the prophecy against Tyre, focusing on its king, who exalted himself as a god due to his wisdom and wealth. This arrogance led to his demise, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God’s judgment.
The story of Tyre’s king reminds us that true wisdom comes from recognizing our place before God. Embrace humility, knowing that God’s sovereignty transcends all human power and understanding.
The Fall of Jerusalem: 2 Kings 25:3-7 and Jeremiah 52:6-11
These passages recount the tragic fall of Jerusalem, where famine, destruction, and exile mark the end of the Davidic line of kings. King Zedekiah’s capture and the city’s destruction symbolize the severe consequences of disobedience.
Even in destruction, God’s presence offers hope and renewal. The fall of Jerusalem teaches us that our brokenness can be a turning point, leading us back to God and His promises.
Word of the Day: Destruction
The word “destruction” signifies the process of causing so much damage that something ceases to exist or cannot be repaired. It evokes strong emotions of loss and devastation, yet it also holds the potential for transformation and new beginnings.
Embracing New Beginnings
Destruction, whether personal or collective, strips away the superficial and opens us to deeper connections with God. It humbles us, making us aware of our need for His grace and guidance.
In the face of destruction, let us turn to God, trusting in His ability to rebuild and restore. No situation is too broken for His loving touch. As we navigate the ruins of our lives, may we find hope and strength in His promises.
August 26
Jeremiah 39:11-18, Jeremiah 40:1-6, 2 Kings 25:8-21, Jeremiah 52:12-27, 2 Chronicles 36:15-21, Lamentations 1:1-22
From Captivity to Freedom
The Fall of Jerusalem and Jeremiah’s Unyielding Faith
Jerusalem has fallen. We’ve been reading about the prophecies foretelling this tragic event for months. Jeremiah, the prophet, not only had the burden of delivering these warnings, but actually lived through the devastation. Yet, even in overwhelming despair, God’s care for His people shines through in surprising ways.
God’s Unexpected Care: Jeremiah and Ebed-Melech
Even as Jerusalem fell, God showed that He had not abandoned His people. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, ordered his captain of the guard, Nebuzaradan, to look after Jeremiah. Jeremiah, who had been warning his people for years, was cared for by their very enemies. But God’s care was evident even earlier, in His promise of safety to Ebed-Melech, the Ethiopian who saved Jeremiah from the cistern. God’s words to him were clear:
“Because you trusted me, I will give you your life as a reward. I will rescue you and keep you safe” (Jeremiah 39:18)
Ramah: A Place of Mourning and Release
Jeremiah’s release at Ramah is deeply symbolic. Ramah, the place associated with Samuel, is also the setting of a prophecy of deep mourning: “A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping…” (Jeremiah 31:15). It is here, among the captives, that Jeremiah was freed, while the rest of Jerusalem’s exiles were led away to Babylon.
Word of the Day: Captivity
Definition: Confinement, bondage, or a loss of freedom.
Finding Freedom in Captivity
Captivity is a powerful metaphor. In Jeremiah’s time, the people of Judah found themselves in physical captivity under Babylonian rule. However, this physical bondage was preceded by spiritual captivity—their stubborn resistance to God’s Word. Yet, even in their rebellion and sin, God did not abandon them. He cared for His prophet, He mourned with His people, and He was with them in their suffering.
Today, we might find ourselves in other forms of captivity—trapped by fears, sins, or circumstances. But just as God was with Jeremiah, He is with us. Our true freedom comes not from escaping our circumstances, but from surrendering to God’s will. In this surrender, we find the freedom that only He can give.
Jerusalem’s fall was tragic, but it also marked the beginning of a journey toward freedom—a journey that began with recognizing their captivity and turning back to God. The same God who cared for Jeremiah and His people then is the same God who reaches out to us now. Let us lean into Him, trust in His care, and allow Him to turn our captivity into a beautiful journey toward freedom.
August 27
Lamentation 2-4
Rejected, Yet Not Forsaken
Jerusalem’s Fall and the Pain of Rejection
Lamentations paints a heartbreaking picture of Jerusalem’s fall—a time when God’s chosen city lay in ruins, the temple destroyed, and its people scattered. The once vibrant city, cherished by God, now rejected due to the people’s disobedience. Lamentations 2:19 calls the people to cry out to the Lord, to pour out their hearts like water. Yet, amid this mourning, Jeremiah reminds us that even in the darkest times, God’s mercy is ever-present.
The Purpose Behind Rejection: A Call to Return
Rejection, as painful as it is, often serves a purpose. For Jerusalem, it was a call to return to God, to self-examine and repent. Rejection can be an invitation—a painful but necessary pathway back to the heart of God. It forces us to confront our own shortcomings and to rebuild our relationship with God on a foundation of trust, obedience, and love.
Word of the Day: Rejected
Definition: Not given approval or acceptance; to refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.); to discard as useless or unsatisfactory.
The word “rejected” echoes through the lament of Jerusalem’s fall. The city, once a symbol of God’s presence and favor, was now rejected because the people had turned away from God. This rejection wasn’t arbitrary—it was the result of a broken covenant, of a people who had forsaken the ways of their Creator.
Rejection as an Invitation to Restoration
We’ve all experienced rejection in one form or another—whether from people or from a perceived distance from God. But rejection doesn’t have to define us. Instead, it can be a stepping stone toward deeper faith and renewal. God’s rejection of Jerusalem wasn’t the end of the story. It was an invitation to return, to be restored, and to rebuild.
The same is true for us. If you’re feeling the sting of rejection today, let it be an opportunity to turn back to God, to seek His compassion and mercy. His love is unwavering, and His compassion never fails.
As Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us:
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassion never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Jerusalem’s rejection led to mourning, but it also paved the way for restoration. In our own lives, rejection can feel like the end, but with God, it can be the beginning of something new. Let “rejected” not be the label that defines you, but a stepping stone toward a deeper relationship with God. Remember, He is the One who never truly rejects you. In His eyes, you are cherished, loved, and His forever.
August 28
Lamentations 5:1-22, Obadiah 1:1-21, 2 Kings 25:22-26, Jeremiah 40:7-41:18
Desolation Doesn’t Have the Final Say
Embracing the Unresolved
Have you ever felt like the story just… ends? No resolution, no neat conclusion, just lingering pain? Today, we reached the final chapter of Lamentations, and it’s clear—Israel is in deep sorrow. Their joy has turned to mourning, their strength to weakness, and they cry out to God, questioning if He has utterly rejected them. Lamentations 5 leaves us hanging, unresolved. Yet, this unresolved anguish was never meant to be the final word. It’s a poignant reminder that sometimes, our stories feel incomplete, filled with lament, grief, and suffering. But is that the end?
Obadiah: A Prophecy of Destruction
As we turn the page to the book of Obadiah, we’re met with a prophecy against Edom, Israel’s bitter enemy. God declares that He will cut Edom down to size, exposing their pride and bringing them to desolation. Edom rejoiced over Israel’s suffering, but now their judgment is at hand. Their fate is sealed—complete destruction, with no survivors. Yet, even in this harsh judgment, there’s a contrast: while Edom faces utter desolation, God promises to restore Israel.
The Drama Continues: 2 Kings and Jeremiah
In 2 Kings 25 and Jeremiah 40-41, we witness more chaos and treachery. Gedaliah, appointed governor after Jerusalem’s fall, is assassinated despite warnings. Fear and uncertainty grip the people, leading many to flee to Egypt. Desolation seems to rule the day, but is this really the end of the story?
Word of the Day: Desolation
Definition: The state of complete emptiness or destruction.
This is a word that resonates deeply with today’s readings. The pain of Lamentations, the judgment in Obadiah, the betrayal and chaos in 2 Kings and Jeremiah—they all point to a time of profound desolation. But here’s the truth: Desolation might describe a season, but it does not define our destiny.
Desolation is Not the End
As we reflect on the word “desolation,” it’s natural to want to look ahead to a brighter day. Yet, God often meets us in our desolate places. The Bible teaches us that desolation is never the final word. God is a Redeemer and Restorer. Even in the most barren times, He’s working behind the scenes, shaping and molding us for what’s to come.
When you find yourself in a desolate place, remember that it’s not your final destination. Desolation may mark a difficult season, but God’s plan for you is one of restoration, hope, and renewal. Cry out to Him in your pain; He hears you and is near to the brokenhearted. Trust that He’s writing a beautiful story with your life, one that will turn desolation into something thriving and beautiful.
From Desolation to Declaration
Desolation does not have the final say—God does. And His declaration over your life is one of unfailing love and faithfulness. Your desolation is not your destination; it’s a stepping stone to God’s glorious purpose for you. Trust Him, and watch as He turns the broken places into something beautiful.
August 29
Jeremiah 42-44, Ezekiel 33:21-33
A Canopy of Protection
A Remnant’s Fear and Disobedience
In today’s readings from Jeremiah 42 and 43, we see the remnant of Israelites in Jerusalem, a group broken and afraid. They ask Jeremiah to seek God’s guidance, promising to obey whatever He commands. After ten days, Jeremiah returns with God’s instructions:
“Stay here in this land. I will build you up and plant you; do not fear, for I am with you.”
But the remnant, consumed by fear and doubt, chooses disobedience. Despite God’s clear command, they decide to flee to Egypt, dragging Jeremiah along with them. This decision marks a significant moment of defiance, highlighting their lack of trust in God’s protection.
God’s Hidden Plan
As the remnant heads to Egypt, God speaks to Jeremiah again, instructing him to bury large stones at the entrance of Pharaoh’s house. These stones symbolize the foundation upon which Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, will set his throne—an assertion of his conquest over Egypt. Jeremiah 43:11 reveals a powerful image:
“He will spread his royal canopy over them.”
This canopy, a symbol of authority and shelter, signifies God’s control over the events that will unfold. Though the remnant defies God, He remains sovereign, orchestrating His plans under this symbolic covering.
Continued Defiance: Worshiping the Queen of Heaven
Jeremiah 44 brings a strong message from God to the Judeans in Egypt. Despite witnessing the destruction of Jerusalem due to idolatry, they boldly continue to worship the “Queen of Heaven.” Their defiance is astonishing, as they openly declare their intent to continue their idolatry, believing it brought them prosperity. God, through Jeremiah, warns them of impending judgment, but their hearts remain hardened. This chapter underscores the dangers of idolatry and the importance of obedience to God.
Ezekiel’s Warning: A Call to Genuine Obedience
In Ezekiel 33, we see a similar theme. God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for Israel, but the people listen to his words without acting on them. They treat his prophecies like beautiful songs—pleasant to hear but not worth obeying. This passage emphasizes personal responsibility in our relationship with God. It’s not enough to hear the word; we must respond in obedience.
Word of the Day: Canopy
Definition: A sheltering cover that signifies protection.
In Jeremiah 43:11, the canopy represents God’s sovereignty and His ability to shelter His people, even in their disobedience. It also symbolizes the hidden plans of God, which He carefully covers and reveals in His time. Just as Nebuchadnezzar’s throne was set over the hidden stones, our lives are often guided by God’s hidden hand, working in ways we cannot always see or understand.
God’s Canopy Over Our Lives
As we reflect on the word “canopy,” we see how God’s protection and sovereignty extend even into our moments of disobedience. The Israelites chose to defy God’s command, yet His plans remained intact. This should be a powerful reminder that while our choices have consequences, God’s overarching plan is never thwarted. He is our shelter, our canopy, even when we stray from His will.
In your life, there may be times when you feel tempted to flee from God’s guidance, thinking that your way is better or safer. But remember, God’s canopy of protection covers you wherever He leads you. Trust in His shelter, His timing, and His plans. Even when things seem hidden or unclear, God’s canopy is a sign of His ever-present care and sovereignty.
Today’s readings challenge us to trust in God’s covering, even when we are afraid or tempted to go our own way. His canopy is not just a symbol of authority, but of shelter and protection. Whether you are standing firm in faith or struggling with doubt, remember that God’s canopy is over you, guiding and sheltering you in every season of life.
August 30
Ezekiel 34-36
Eden Restored: Finding Delight in God’s Promise
A Shepherd’s Love for His Flock
In Ezekiel 34, God delivers a powerful message to the leaders of Israel, likening them to negligent shepherds who have failed their flock. These leaders have sought their own gain, leaving the people neglected, weak, and scattered. But God, in His compassion, promises to take on the role of the Good Shepherd Himself. He declares that He will search for His lost sheep, heal their wounds, and bring them back to safety. This imagery not only reflects God’s care for His people in the present but also points forward to the coming of the Messiah, the “Davidic Shepherd,” who will rule with justice and mercy.
Ezekiel 35: Judgment on Edom
As we move to Ezekiel 35, God’s judgment against Edom, a nation that has harbored animosity against Israel for generations, becomes clear. Edom’s pride and hostility have led to its downfall. God’s judgment is a reminder that no nation or people can oppose His will and escape the consequences. Edom, once filled with hatred and aggression, will become a desolate land, a stark contrast to the restoration that God promises to Israel.
The Promise of Restoration: Ezekiel 36
Ezekiel 36 brings a message of hope and restoration. After addressing the failures of the past and the consequences that Israel faced, God promises to renew the land and the hearts of His people. The desolate places will once again flourish, and the land of Israel will be like the Garden of Eden—full of life, beauty, and delight. But this restoration is not just about physical renewal; it’s about spiritual transformation. God promises to cleanse His people, give them new hearts, and place a new spirit within them. This echoes the promise of Eden—a place of pleasure and delight—pointing us to the ultimate fulfillment in heaven.
Word of the Day: Eden
Definition: A place of pleasure and delight.
In Ezekiel 36:35, God compares the restored land of Israel to the Garden of Eden. The Hebrew root of the word ‘Eden’ is linked to the concept of pleasure, as seen in other scriptural references. This connection to Eden not only recalls the beauty and abundance of the original garden but also points us forward to the eternal Eden—heaven. While Eden was touched by sin, heaven will be untouched by it, making it a place of eternal delight.
The Restoration of Our Hearts
As I read Ezekiel 36:25-26, my heart soared:
“Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.”
This passage is not just about the physical restoration of Israel, but about the spiritual renewal of our hearts. It’s a reminder that God is in the business of transforming lives, taking what was once hard and unyielding and making it tender and responsive to Him.
Eternal Eden: A Promise for Us All
The restoration of Israel is a foreshadowing of the eternal Eden that God promises to those who follow Him. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of the renewal of all things, where those who have followed Him will inherit eternal life. This eternal Eden is not just a place; it’s a state of being—one where we live in perfect harmony with God, in a place untouched by sin and filled with eternal delight.
For the Sake of His Name
God’s restoration of Israel was not just for their sake but for the sake of His holy name. As we look forward to the eternal Eden, let’s remember that it is by God’s grace that we are invited into this place of delight. It’s not about what we have done, but about what God has done for us. As we turn our hearts to Him, we can trust that He will lead us to that eternal Eden, where we will dwell with Him forever.
