Fundraising…
It’s not about the money.
It’s an opportunity to learn dependency on God and address the human tendency of self-reliance.
Our Protestant work ethic and American individualism tell us our survival depends on our abilities and effort and deceive us into thinking that our sustenance is within our control. The certainty of a paycheck lulls us into a false security that it is up to us. Yes, laziness is unacceptable, and taking advantage of others’ responsibility and productivity is not appropriate. But there must be balance…between doing our part while acknowledging that our existence depends on the Self-Existent One, Who needs nothing from us – upon Whom we rely for our very breath.
Dependency on God and the willingness to experience the unfamiliar are foundational qualities of effective ministry leadership.
Unchartered waters that take us beyond our comfort zone teach us something. They leave us more vulnerable and less confident. It is here that we become most sensitive and aware, exposing the desperateness of our need – for something larger and more powerful than ourselves. Testing reveals our heart. Uncertainty produces growth and helps us realize the power to provide for ourselves is not within our ability. Through this process, we find a solid foundation. The desperateness of our need gives way to the journey, and the journey becomes known as part of the preparation – to know reliance on the Lord for direction and provision. A willingness to be led through the journey prepares us for the road that lies ahead – for that which our future holds. Remembering then becomes a way of life & worship. Only then will we experience His power.
It’s an opportunity to increase faith and learn a facet of God.
Of course, traveling unchartered waters requires a step of faith. Someone can lead us to the edge, but we must step into the water. Faith is then challenged and strengthened as we move closer to Christ with unwavering gaze. He walks with us with every increasing step through the journey revealing Himself in ways we would never have otherwise known. We come to know firsthand God, our Provider. Through stories gained in the journey, we testify of El Shaddai, the Giver of Blessings. In the end, we understand His goodness and faithfulness at new depths and honor Him as Sovereign Lord with greater intensity.
It’s biblical. It’s about a spiritual family meeting Kingdom needs. It’s God’s design.
To be a part of the family, we must know our place and cherish the value of relationships. Humble sensitivity to each one’s God ordained purpose and willingness to serve each other’s needs is the essence of spiritual community. The sacrifice of self – one ministering to the soul, another providing for a need – this is the beauty and privilege of being a child of God in the Body of Christ. This is the way God meant the Church to be.
It’s about inviting people to participate in the Kingdom. It’s an opportunity to learn a crucial ministry skill.
In the Body of Christ, the opportunity to bless others and inspire service is a constant reality. Knowing our place in the Body and participating in His activities allows us to perceive His Kingdom. Extending the invitation to find out what God is doing and get involved – connecting with others to carry out His plans – this is the premise of ministry. Whether soliciting people’s time, talents, service, prayer or finances, there is value in learning this skill of inviting people to participate. And there is joy in responding to the opportunity. If we are passionate about what God has called us to do, then we will be passionate about asking others to join us. If we are passionate about what God is doing, we will passionately accept and respond to the invitation.
As ministers, how will we lead others to this place of understanding if we have not first experienced this ourselves? Ministry without dependency and reliance is not of God. Through the process of fundraising, you will see God at work and experience His power and blessings. You will learn dependency – if you will trust, if you will diligently follow. Will you deny yourself this opportunity? Will you deny others the blessing of involvement?
It’s an adventure of faith. It’s about the journey.
As members of the Body, how will others go if we do not respond? How will they carry out what God is calling them to do if we are not obedient in giving of our resources – resources God has chosen to bless us with, resources God has entrusted to our management for His Kingdom purposes? Will you deny yourself this opportunity of investment and involvement? Will you deny others the blessing of provision from your act of worship?
“Now to Him Who is able to do – exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21