Clarifying Values - Part Two: Courage

Values Help Us Courageously Pursue God’s Calling

Clarifying our values doesn’t just help us understand who we are; it also empowers us to move courageously toward who God is calling us to become. At Hazelwood Baptist Church, our desire to clarify values is deeply tied to our commitment to courageously pursue God’s unique calling in our community.

What Does Courage Have to Do with Values?

When we clearly define our values, we build a foundation strong enough to withstand the fear of change. Change can feel unsettling, especially when traditions or comfortable methods are challenged. Yet, clearly defined values empower us to step into change with confidence and courage, knowing we remain true to our identity and calling.

Author Craig Groeschel notes, “You can have control, or you can have growth, but you can’t have both.” Clarified values help us courageously let go of control—traditions, personal comforts, and familiar methods—so we can embrace growth and change aligned with our mission.

Why Do We Need Courage?

Change can be difficult, even scary. People naturally resist change because it disrupts what’s familiar. Yet scripture repeatedly shows us examples of leaders who embraced courage to step into God’s vision for them. Joshua, tasked with leading Israel into the Promised Land, was repeatedly reminded to “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9). He faced uncertainty, challenges, and opposition, yet clarity around God’s command gave him the courage to move forward.

In the same way, as we clarify our values, we can confidently pursue the changes necessary to live fully into our unique calling. Values provide the courage to confront comfort-driven traditions or preferences that may no longer align with our God-given mission.

What Does Courageous Leadership Look Like?

Courageous leadership, guided by clarified values, allows us to:

· Challenge the Status Quo: Lovingly yet clearly question practices or programs that no longer align with our mission.

· Take Strategic Risks: Try new approaches to ministry, outreach, and discipleship rooted deeply in our values.

· Make Difficult Decisions: Choose the mission and health of the church over temporary comfort or popularity.

Clarified values give us courage because they assure us that our decisions aren’t merely based on preference but rather rooted firmly in God’s direction for our church.

How Does Courageous Leadership Impact Our Future?

When we courageously pursue our clarified values, our church:

•Experiences revitalization as we align every ministry and effort with our mission.

•Moves forward with confidence rather than fear of change.

•Builds trust and excitement as members see intentional, courageous leadership.

Courageous leadership driven by clear values positions Hazelwood Baptist Church for a powerful gospel impact. By courageously embracing our clarified values, we become the church God intends us to be—a church boldly living out His calling over them.

Scriptures to Reflect On:

· Joshua 1:9 (ESV): Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you.

· 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV): …for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.