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The summer brings inconsistent schedules. People are in and out. As a result, it’s easy to slip into a reactive posture and just try to keep up.

But what if this summer could be about more renewal and deeper discipleship - for you and for your church?

Start Here: Your Time with God

Before strategy or communication, start here. Your time with God is the source of your clarity, creativity and leadership. In a scattered season, even a simple daily faith rhythm can anchor you.

Begin by:

• Spending a few consistent minutes in Scripture and prayer each day. 

• Taking a walk and talking with God instead of reaching for your phone.

• Writing down and reflecting on what God is teaching you.

Make Space for Rest

You don’t have to earn rest. You need it. Whether it’s a slower morning, a long weekend, or a week or two of vacation, creating margin and time for rest can restore your energy and perspective.

Focus on:

• Taking a 24-hour Sabbath every week. 

• Blocking out additional time off - maybe a long weekend or a week-long vacation - that you can look forward to.

• Actually unplug, set your work down and step away. 

Lead by Example

People don’t need perfect. They are asking for real! As you pursue God, rest well, and live with more depth, you encourage others.

Aim to:

• Share simple, honest glimpses of your faith as you communicate in person and online.

• Normalize everyday rhythms of discipleship and rest.

• Encourage your team with what God is teaching you.

Choose Depth

In a world full of over-commitment, a lot of content and endless scrolling, you and the people you lead are craving what is genuine and has depth.

Before you communicate, ask: Is this humble? Is this helpful? Is this pointing people to Jesus? Is this pointing people to deeper relationships with others?

Commit to:

• Saying less, but making it more meaningful and encouraging.

• Sharing purposeful stories and highlight life change and impact instead of announcements.

• Write like you’re talking to one person. Aim to serve that person and bring them value. 

Keep It Simple for Your Church

Summer discipleship doesn’t need to be over-done. As people are on the go, your church's discipleship can be practical, accessible and even fun.

Consider:

• A weekly Scripture or prayer focus.

• An easy-to-engage-with Bible study or other meaningful content with prompts for journaling.

• Something for all ages! What's a study that a family could work through together with kids and students?

• "On the go” faith ... it's fun to think about reading Scripture as you travel, praying as you push a stroller, serving as you see neighbors in the cul-de-sac and more.

And, it's great if this content is shared about in all of your church's communications channels (in person, on the website, through social media, text reminders, etc.).

This Summer Is an Opportunity - and we'd Love to Help!

At Fishhook, we come alongside churches to help you communicate in ways that are clear, meaningful and authentic - especially in seasons like this summer when rhythms are in transition.

We'll be talking more about this topic at our next Table event - a gathering for church leaders and communicators to learn and connect - on Wednesday, April 22. Learn more and register at fishhook.us/thetable!