How many times have you talked with someone about something in their life and have them tell you that "I've got it under control."?  How often in life do we really have "it" under control" whatever "it" is?  We usually have a pretty good idea or find out that they really have very little under control.  Many times this is used as an excuse to not discuss "it" further or truly believe that they can manage "it" on their own without any help.

CorrValues gets the opportunity to talk with many churches and ministries around the country.  Many of these conversations have happened because there is someone that we know that is connected to the church in some capacity and sees the gap in the safety and security of the church.  When we reach out to the church leadership we have experienced the "Thank you but, we've got It." or "Once we get some things lined up we will proceed." response.  Much like coming to a relationship with Christ, we don't need to come already cleaned up but to just come as we are.  Someone looking at us from the outside can often see things in our lives that we don't want to see or acknowledge as an issue.  A Safety and Security Assessment can easily be the first step in the right direction of getting "it".  Like in our own lives, when we put self and pride aside and realize that we cannot truly do "it" without the help of those around us.  

I think that sometimes we forget how important good and constructive communication is in our relationships.  How we communicate is just as important as what we are communicating.  When we think of relationships, what may come to mind is your spouse, kids, parents, co-workers, etc.  But in a ministry setting, communication to establish a relationship with someone starts at the door or even in the parking lot. How many times have you seen someone that just seems a little out of place in or around your ministry?  I encounter many ministries that have a policy of just observing from a distance.  I believe Safety and Security best happens when we engage those that are coming to our ministry.  Showing that someone is aware that they are there and care about them.  "Can I help you find something?"  "Is everything okay; you seem lost." or whatever is fitting for the situation.  This gives the Safety and Security person, trained staff member, etc. an opportunity to assess what might be going on with that person while communicating that you care about this person.  You can usually tell if there has been some drinking going on.  Maybe their skin or eyes indicate a drug habit.  Are they wearing clothing that is out of place for the season.

Jesus calls the hurting and wounded to come to Him for healing.  That may be the very thing these people need.  Be ever so vigilant, don't work alone, get the necessary training to do your ministry well, and usher these people with a welcoming smile.  Nehemiah gives us a great example of doing the work of the Lord while they still had one hand on their sword.  

Take a look at how you do ministry and if you need assistance in assessing what your ministry is doing or training on how to be better  prepared, CorrValues is able to provide assistance in a variety of ways to fit the culture of your ministry.