Selected thought from: IT: How Churches and Leaders can get it and Keep it, written by by Craig Groeschel

“What is it, and how can you and your ministry get—and keep—it? Combining in-your-face honesty and off-the-wall humor, this lively book helps believers understand the elements needed to obtain it.” From the book jacket.

As I read this book I was struck by how accurate this statement applied to the whole book. Craig’s style is personable and easy to read, yet full of a candid vulnerability with a focused message. IT is all about IT. That “something” that defies an explanation, yet is the hallmark of individuals and ministries which seem to be in the center of God’s will. Overall I found the content to be insightful and one of the books I’ll recommend to others – particularly pastors who are serious about revival.

My favorite chapters dealt with vision (chapters 4 and 5), innovation (chapters 7 and 8), and Outward focus (chapters 9 and 10). Honestly, the chapters on vision are as good as anything I’ve read on the subject and infused with a sense of passion and relevance which was compelling.

Here are some selected quotes:

“When a church has it, lives are changing, and everyone around knows it. The only thing constant is change, which it-soaked people seem to thrive on.” P. 29

“It is what God does through a rare combination of these qualities found in his people:

· Passion for his presence

· A deep craving to reach the lost

· Sincere integrity

· Spirit-filled faith

· Down-to-earth humility

· Brokenness? P. 31

“Ministries that have it always have a clear vision. The people know the vision, understand the vision, believe in the vision, and live the vision. The vision guides them, motivates them, and energizes them.” P. 39

“Anthony Robbins once said, ‘One reason so few of us achieve what we truly want is that we never direct our focus; we never concentrate our power. Most people dabble their way through life, never deciding to master anything in particular.’” P. 58

“Without regular reminders of why we do what we do, of how our part contributes to something wonderful, a team will lose it and simply be a bunch of people doing their own gig.” P. 77

“Warren Bennis said, ‘Innovation . . . by definition will not be accepted at first. It takes repeated attempts, endless demonstrations, monotonous rehearsals before innovation can be accepted and internalized by an organization. This requires courageous patience.’ “ p.99

“Across the board, almost every with-it church I’ve observed is virtually obsessed with reaching those who don’t know Christ. A passion to share Christ consumes them in a beautiful way.” P. 128

“ A church that has it recognizes that reaching people is not just the pastor’s job. It is everyone’s job. I can’t do it alone. You can’t do it alone. It takes all of us.” P. 134