Foundations for Growth

If you were asked to build the strongest building possible, how would you start the endeavor?

Looking at other buildings similar to what you hope to build would be wise. Maybe you’d have some elevation drawings done of a few concepts to showcase the design and architecture. However, the key to building the best structure possible starts with the foundation. 

What we don’t see on the surface is what actually makes fruitful growth possible. Integrity. Values. Purpose. The outcome of these foundations produce strong and lasting results. Fruitfulness comes from a healthy tree, and a tree that bears fruit has strong roots. “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30 

Personally, I am reflective during this season for New Missions. Why? Because it’s not my job to build—it’s my job to preserve and protect the foundation. Being the steward is honoring what God has entrusted to us. God is building, and it’s His mission and work. Together, we are serving His mission. What excites me the most are the new leaders in Haiti and the Dominican Republic serving through New Missions. These Haitians and Dominicans are passionate and dedicated to their calling. We are releasing God’s people to do His ministry through their lives to impact their countries. Nothing thrills me more than seeing discipleship in action! 

Here are three keys to foundations for growth. First, God is the rock upon which we build. Second, prayer keeps us grounded in our faith. Third, keep the main thing the main thing. Too often organizations become unfocused and ineffective. I believe we lead an effective organization making an eternal impact. As we reach this milestone of 37 years, I say “thank you” for your faithful friendship. Together, we are serving God’s mission to change lives. This is truly an honor. 

I see the days ahead as mobilizing God’s people to lead the greatest force of good in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This centers around the local church. Already, reports are coming in of new church plants that are growing from our original churches. Our churches are planting churches. This is a healthy sign. Trees bear fruit and seeds grow new trees. “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” John 15:4 

Please join me in prayer. Our work over the past 37 years has laid an amazing foundation for us to grow upon. We carry on—not for the sake of growth, but as good stewards. Let’s honor God together with what He has entrusted to us. In the parable of the talents, the master gave more talents to the servant who was faithful in the little. Humbly, we are honoring God. “He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.” Luke 6:48  

Certainly, over the past 37 years we have seen our share of storms, disasters, and struggles. With God’s strength we have persevered and continue on! We are building on the foundation—a beautiful foundation—the Rock of Jesus Christ. ~Tim DeTellis