So Says the Prince

Pastor, you might want to remember this the next time you try to plant or church or make a change or try something new:

There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things. Because the innovator has for enemies all those who have done well under the old conditions, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new. This coolness arises partly from fear of the opponents, who have the laws on their side, and partly from the incredulity of men, who do not readily believe in new things until they have had a long experience of them (Niccolo Machiavelli, The Prince)

That would be discouraging...if we didn't have an almighty, overcoming God on our side.