The Power of Saying “No” and “Thank You” in Ministry

In the hustle and bustle of ministry life, we are often pulled in multiple directions. People have needs, events require attention, and opportunities seem endless. Yet in the middle of all this, two simple words hold tremendous power for sustaining a healthy, fruitful ministry: “No” and “Thank you.”

What Saying “No” is NOT

One of the hardest words to utter in ministry is “no.” But it’s also one of the most necessary. However, before exploring its value, let’s clarify what saying “no” is not:

• “No” is not about laziness. Saying “no” often requires more strength than saying “yes.” It demands a conscious decision to set boundaries.

• “No” is not about a lack of compassion. Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is to say “no” to maintain the integrity of your calling and prevent burnout.

• “No” is not about selfishness. It is about stewardship—recognizing that God has given you finite time and energy to use wisely.

You have 24 hours daily, and each of us has limited capacity. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5:16 (NKJV) to be “redeeming the time because the days are evil.” Wise stewardship of time often means choosing between what is good and what is best.

Focus on Your Calling

Rev. Lee Stoneking once said, “Be careful; there are decoys.” In ministry, not every opportunity is a divine appointment. Though they look good, some opportunities are decoys—distractions that pull you away from what God has uniquely called you to do.

Jesus Himself modelled this. In Luke 4:42-44 (NKJV), when people tried to keep Him in one place, He said, “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.” Jesus understood His mission and was unafraid to say “no” to distractions.

Saying “no” frees you to say “yes” to the things that matter most—to the assignments God has specifically given you.

The Healing Power of “Thank You”

While “no” protects your time and calling, “thank you” enriches your heart and mind. In ministry, gratitude is not merely polite—it’s powerful.

Here’s how “thank you” benefits us:

1. Physically: Research shows that expressing gratitude reduces stress, improves heart health, and enhances sleep quality. A thankful heart promotes physical well-being.

2. Spiritually: Scripture is clear about the power of thanksgiving. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV) reminds us, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s will and keeps us humble.

3. Relationally: Saying “thank you” fosters a culture of appreciation. It reminds those around you—volunteers, staff, friends—that their efforts matter. In a world where people often feel unseen, a heartfelt “thank you” can refresh weary souls.

4. Emotionally: Gratitude counters negativity. When you intentionally say “thank you,” you focus on what God is doing rather than on what is lacking.

Balancing No and Thank You

In ministry, we need both boundaries and gratitude.

• Say “no” to protect your calling and maintain your energy for God-ordained tasks.

• Say “thank you” to nurture your spirit, build relationships, and acknowledge God’s goodness.

As you navigate your ministry journey, remember that saying “no” isn’t a rejection of people, but a commitment to focus on your God-given purpose. And saying “thank you” isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a lifeline to physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

In a world filled with decoys and distractions, may we boldly say “no” to what pulls us away and humbly say “thank you” for the blessings that sustain us.