Preparing for God to Grow Us
THE SHOCK ABSORBER
At Soul Revival Church, Planning Day is about preparing our church family for what God might do next. In this episode of The Shock Absorber Podcast, Joel and Tim share what happens on Soul Revival’s 2025 Planning Day — a day designed to celebrate growth, reflect on God’s work, and invite everyone in the church to have a say in shaping the future.
Why Have a Planning Day?
Planning Day isn’t just for staff or leadership — it’s for the whole church. Each year, we pause to reflect on what God has done through the community and to consider what’s ahead. Around 100–150 people join in, contributing ideas, highlighting challenges, and helping guide the church’s vision. It’s a day that celebrates being part of a church family, sharing stories, and thinking together about how to follow God in the year ahead.
A Collaborative Approach to Church Growth
At Soul Revival, everyone’s voice matters. By inviting a wide variety of members — from long-time attendees to new faces — the church ensures decisions reflect the experiences of the whole community. Tim shares stories of members whose insights highlight things leadership might not notice, reinforcing the value of listening to one another. Collaboration isn’t just practical; it’s an expression of living out the body of Christ, where every gift and perspective contributes to the church’s mission.
Preparing for God to Grow Us
Tim and Joel explain that Planning Day is about readiness: “Prepare for God to grow us, and be ready if He chooses to do that.” Growth isn’t only about numbers — though Soul Revival has grown from 30 people in a lounge room to over 780 people across multiple locations. Growth also means seeing discipleship flourish, supporting mission, and equipping members to live out their faith. Planning Day allows the church to celebrate what God has done, reflect on what is working, and plan for how to continue serving the community well.
Collective Memory and Church Identity
One of the most unique aspects of Planning Day is how it helps tell the story of Soul Revival Church. Sharing stories — from the local church’s history to the faith journeys of members — strengthens identity and reminds everyone why they do what they do. It’s not only about looking forward; it’s about remembering the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the church family for what lies ahead.
Looking Toward 2030
Planning Day is also guiding the church toward our 2030 Double Up Vision and how we will achieve that in the three main categories of discipleship, mission, and resources. Members complete surveys and ministry health checks to help leadership make informed decisions about resources, gatherings, and new initiatives.