How to be Resourceful: Keep an Eye Out for Opportunities

My church is a three year old church plant which is part of a church planting movement in our city. Therefore, there are 15 churches we're associated with within 30 minutes. In fact the original church in the association has 5,000 people in regular attendance. Why do I mention this? Because it means there are plenty of opportunities to be resourceful in my setting. 

Most likely there are plenty of opportunities to be resourceful in your setting as well.

Look at other ministries in your church

We're a church on wheels. Therefore, our churches entire sound system is tucked away in storage all week long. That's an opportunity for the student ministry to upgrade their system during the week. What opportunities exist within in your church? What resources are just sitting in a closet?

Churches you're officially connected with
Churches you do joint efforts with

The church which planted our church has multiple rooms filled with items which they only use a couple of times each year. I've assembled the better part of sound system based off of extra stuff just sitting in their closet.

Members of the church

Figure out what resources members of your church have. It's not uncommon to borrow large vehicles for retreats and events. Why not do the same with other stuff? I'm not talking about taking advantage of people, but if someone has stuff just lying around, why not put it to use in ministry?

Local businesses which are going out of business

The church I used to work at built an entire stage out of display units from a store which was going out of business. We build a $2,000 stage for under $500. The children's ministry did even better. I think they built an even bigger stage for under $200. 

Sales at stores

I recently purchased a $450 light truss with stands for $125. We didn't go to the store looking for a light truss, but met a need we had and the price was certainly right. Keep an eye out for super-sailes.