Characteristics of a Wise Builder
A smart man learns from his mistakes, but a truly wise man learns from the mistakes of others.
A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel. – Proverbs 1:5
The problem with learning from your own mistakes is that it can be very painful, and sometimes expensive. This is especially true in church construction. In building a church, mistakes can be very costly, and not just in terms of money. While a mistake in construction or financing can end up costing the church tens of thousands of dollars, mistakes can also have other very serious consequences.
Mistakes in construction often lead to expensive corrective measures, but can also have an impact on your church and its mission. Not following a good process can make the who building program take longer and be more of a burden to the leadership and the church. Not correctly addressing the real needs of the church can hinder people getting behind the program, creating division and a potential lack of financial support. Mistakes in the design phase, if caught, must be corrected (if possible) in the construction phase. Depending on the issue, this can be a very expensive proposition.
A mistake in building design may also prevent growth or hinder ministry in particular areas. Unfortunately, mistakes in building design often do not manifest themselves until after construction of the church is complete, sometimes several years later when portions of the building become maxed out while other areas are under-utilized.
The best solution is to learn from the mistakes of others. The services of a church building consultant can provide your church with invaluable experience and insight that will will help prevent mistakes and greatly increase your overall satisfaction with your building program. Your church will benefit from the best practices that are the result of learning from not only the mistakes but also the right decisions of other churches.
Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety.
Proverbs 24:3-6
