31. Are you afraid to pursue further education because you don't know how to pay for it even though you believe your educational goals are pleasing to God? Perhaps there are ways to fund your study—through the church, a personal donor or personal sacrifice—but "you have not because you ask not."

32. Is there something you need to do to get your financial house in order so you can pursue further education? Put together a plan for getting yourself where you need to be financially so you can do what God wants you to do.

33. Is God growing a vision in you? Write down your vision, and don't let it overwhelm or discourage you. Let it energize you. If the Lord of the harvest has pointed you toward a goal, believe that He is able and willing to bring it about.

34. Is your vision too small? You can't think too big for God, so consider expanding your expectations of the future.

35. Is there a message God is calling you to preach with which you're not comfortable? If so, double-check in prayer that you're hearing correctly and set your mind to obeying, no matter what.

36. Do you allow other ministry tasks to pull you away from study and preparation because you feel guilty doing something you enjoy so much? Being paid to study Scripture every week can sometimes feel too good to be true. But don't let that stop you from indulging fully in the blessing God wants you to enjoy—and pass on to your people.

37. How well do you mesh with the folks to whom you preach? Sometimes a preacher's mannerisms don't connect with the local culture. But if you're preaching to a congregation that doesn't offer the response you're used to, the worst thing you can do is keep saying, "Can I hear an 'amen'?" or "Can I get a witness?" Learn to adapt in healthy ways to your audience.

38. Which is your mindset: To hunker down and only do what you know your church can afford or move ahead with what you believe God has called you to do and trust Him for the resources? Moving ahead is better.

39. Do you know—but perhaps don't want to admit—God is calling you to take a step of faith in staffing for growth? Talk to your church leaders, and challenge them to move ahead with you.

40. Is there someone in your congregation who demonstrates ministry eligibility that you should seriously consider bringing on staff? Consult with your leadership team about whether to hire the person you have in mind.

Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.

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