Why Start with Healthy?
In Why Start With Healthy?, pastor and consultant Jason Helveston makes a compelling case for prioritizing health—not growth—as the foundation for any church or ministry. Drawing from 1 John 1, Helveston reminds us that true health is found in walking in the light, where truth and love meet in authentic fellowship. Churches often drift toward one or the other: truth without grace, or belonging without transformation. But lasting fruit only grows from spiritual and relational health.
Helveston outlines three reasons to begin with health:
Health leads to fruitfulness (Matthew 7:17). Whether it's the fruit of the Spirit, numerical growth, or community impact, it all starts with a healthy root system.
We become what we behold (Matthew 6:22). Our focus shapes our formation. If we don't start with spiritual health, we'll mistake cultural noise—Mammon—for God’s voice.
Real growth takes time (Galatians 6:9). In a world obsessed with fast results, Helveston invites leaders to embrace long-term formation, where faithfulness beats quick wins.
In a culture obsessed with quick wins and measurable metrics, Helveston invites leaders to rediscover the long, patient path of spiritual maturity—what Eugene Peterson called “a long obedience in the same direction.” If you’re leading a church, team, or nonprofit, don’t skip the slow work. Start with healthy.
