Focus on Old Peeps?

Interesting stuff from PHIL COOKE
(I don't buy it all; I am thrilled to have a few ex-teens on my support team; but...)

Everybody wants to reach "the next generation," and I can understand that. So when non-profits come to us for help, they want to focus on the 20-something crowd, and make sure their website is hip and cool and appeals to younger people. But the brutal truth is - when it comes to fundraising, older folks carry the load. Pop music belongs to the young, but trust me - giving belongs to the old. That's not to say we should turn off younger people, but don't be fooled by the illusion that they will actually support your cause.

People will reply: "Remember the massive amount of money that was raised through text messaging by young people after the Haiti earthquake?"

Yes I do, but where is it now? Young people are impulse givers. They get emotional and shed a few tears, and will text a $10 gift. But soon after, they're off to the next big thing. It's the older crowd that continues to give for the long term. The millions that were raised for Haiti or the Live Aid concerts are really peanuts compared to the long-term, sustainable giving that age 50 and older people do on a daily basis.

There's lots of reasons that I don't have time for now, but suffice it to say - focus on the older audience if you need to raise serious money.

By the way - that doesn't mean your TV, radio, or web campaigns have to be traditional or stodgy. Even old people want to be cool. But focus it on their interests, their values, and their goals.

Your chances of success will be much greater. My advice? Raise MONEY from the older audience, but raise your PERCEPTION with the young. After all, they'll be the next generation of givers.

Incredibly Valuable Advice!

WOW! I wish I had written this...well, come to think of it, I have, in varying forms over the years. But "The Body Builder" put it in a form that, yeah, I envy.

I beg you to make time (you'll never "find" time) to read and heed:

Successful Support Raising: Is it About Character or Gifting? Straight from the annals of Diary of a Wimpy Support Raiser come these pitiful excuses: “Shadrach, the reason I am not able to raise a lot of support—but you are—is because… 1. “You are gifted to do so” 2. “You have an outgoing personality” 3. “You have a lot of wealthy friends” 4. “You have a ‘cutting edge’ ministry position” Bull hockey! Thanks for allowing me a moment of crudeness as I debunk those four mythical statements. For the record: 1. There is no spiritual gift of fundraising. Please get that out of your mind. It is a decision of the will. 2. Actually, having a “life of the party,” used-car salesman persona can work against you. The best support raiser in our organization is a quiet, behind-the-scenes, 30 year-old single administrator who has simply met personally with every ministry partner and sincerely shared from the heart her vision and passion, and then….she asked! 3. Don’t we all get to choose our own friends? If so, why not broaden the number, location, and categories of the people you are building relationships with? If you love, serve, and minister to enough people, some of them are bound to end up having significant resources. And guess what? They’re going to want to invest in you…IF you will ask them! 4. I sit in a small office in Fayetteville, Arkansas, praying for and encouraging the staff around me. Most of my time is on the phone and computer. I’m not out on the campus or mission field. Maybe like you, I’m basically a home-office administrator. Sorry—nothing glamorous about it! OK, now that I got that off my chest, let’s make a list of five essential characteristics of a successful support raiser. Notice the word “characteristic” has the word “character” in it. In my opinion and experience, there is no heavenly anointing, magic formula, or magnetic personality. NO! Who we are in private will determine who we are in public, and if you will pray and cultivate these “characteristics” into your life and support raising, I believe you will see dramatic results: 1. Vision—Get with your co-workers to intercede and determine what is the specific and strategic part of fulfilling the Great Commission God has assigned to you. Illustrate it in crystal-clear terms your supporters can easily see and embrace. 2. Passion—Go to your prayer closet and ask the Lord to so burden you to fulfill that vision you want to weep and pound the table until it is reached. Share from your life and heart, and people will want to jump on your team! 3. Conviction—Draw a line down the middle of a notepad. One side: My beliefs. On the other: My convictions. Beliefs are simply your thoughts, doctrines, ideas about God, life, and ministry. Convictions, though, are different. They are the firm and resolute implementation of your beliefs; something you will sacrifice, even die for, if need be. 4. Courage—Are you willing to call or meet with anyone, anytime, anyplace to lay out your ministry vision, then muster up the audacity to ask them, face to face, to give…and then lend them enough dignity and honor to let them answer? 5. Perseverance—Day after day, year after year, in the midst of incredible obstacles and spiritual warfare, never ever give up. Being devoted to living and ministering on support requires an unswerving adherence to the vision, passion, conviction, and courage only God can provide. All the slick words and gifting in the world can’t help you, but “character” will withstand the test of time.

Write for Lazy Readers

If you are "on support" the Lord is your source, as He is for every one.

But, if you are "on support," your newsletter is your lifeline. As I've said before, a monthly letter is, in my mind, mandatory...assuming, of course, you'd like your donors to invest at least monthly?

It is ideal if they actually read your letter...prayer cover is priceless...

Interesting commentary from the guys at "Magneto Communications," a "secular" outfit:

I'm amazed you're reading this. I mean, it's hard work, isn't it? You're having to drag your sorry eyeballs along the line, making meaning of all these letters and words. Outrageous!

Actually, you're probably NOT lazy. BUT if you assume your readers are lazy, you'll write in a much more engaging, interesting way. People will be more likely to start reading, read more, and act on what they've read. Apply these tips to light a fire under your lazy readers:

• Pique their interest: Half the battle is getting people to start reading. Once they start, they'll probably continue (if you've done a decent job). To pique their interest, consider big, benefit-oriented headlines and subheads; large, interesting pictures, graphs or charts; and bullet points instead of long sentences.
• Short chunks: Long, dense blocks of text scream "hard work" to lazy readers, so chunk them down.
• Do the work for them: What work will they have to do when they read your writing? Do it for them. Readers will love you for including a short summary of the key points, interpreting results for them, partially filling in forms for them, and making the next steps clearer.

What do you think about this?

This is from "The Body Builders" people...I've read it a couple times, not even sure what I think...but I share it with you since some of you are, in fact, of the female persuasion! (In the beginning God created man...took one look and said, Yuck, I can do better than that!)

How Men Vs. Women Raise Support:
Five Differences

Venus—Mars, Oil—Water, Dogs—Cats: What other metaphors can I draw upon to demonstrate there are fundamental differences between men and women? Even though our culture is desperately trying to blur, if not erase, the lines between the two sexes and create a “genderless” society, let’s admit it: GOD MADE US DIFFERENT! It’s a beautiful and harmonizing diversity, though, not to be denied or exploited, but to be understood and appreciated. Consequently, the passages and principles may be the same, but how men and women go about raising their personal support has some wide variances. So, instead of me just “sharing” my heart on this subject, let me (as a full-blooded male) instead “list” my five key points:

1. Women want close relationships with their supporters
Not that men don’t, but for the most part, females who are raising support have a greater interest in finding out the spouse and children’s names, birthdays, ages and schools, interests and needs, etc…And more of their appointments may be in homes with both husband and wife present, seeking to know about their personal life, needs, and prayer requests.

2. Men strongly present their vision and goals
Women certainly do a good job of laying out their mission and role, but many men seem to put a real premium on confidently, even aggressively, reciting their purpose statement, showing alarming (sometimes shocking!) statistics, and communicating the specific and measurable objectives they hope to accomplish in the next 3-5-10 years. And man alive, they can really put together some impressive PowerPoint slides, allowing the donor to graphically “visualize” the story!

3. Women share with empathy and authenticity
Being open and vulnerable, even revealing fears and weaknesses, is the preferable approach many women are comfortable with. Connecting to the heart, rather than just the mind (or the pocketbook!), is of highest priority. Women may interpret some men’s penchant for actually asking for a decision on giving during the appointment as insensitive and uncaring or putting too much undue pressure on the giver.

4. Men focus on the big picture rather than details
“We want to win the entire world to Christ!” a guy might boldly proclaim, while a gal raising support may go hour by hour as to what her daily ministry schedule entails. At the same time, a woman may be busy producing and sending well-done (and personalized) monthly newsletters, while the man may be praying and building up enough courage to approach that major donor for a $5,000 or $10,000 ask!

5. Women enjoy the journey, not just the destination
For most ladies, support raising is not just a “necessary evil” or bothersome hoop they must jump through to get to their ministry. Many times, they find joy in the process, make new friends, and record lessons God has taught them in their journal. Yes, men may sometimes get to full support quicker because they are more focused on the end result (i.e. just “show ME the money!”), but they might miss out on the incredible blessings along the way.
Agree? Disagree? Add or subtract? I know it appears like I have been harder on the men than the women in this article. Maybe it’s just because I am all too familiar with the evil that lurks within our hearts!

Finally, if you want to become the COMPLETE and TOTALLY BALANCED support raiser: men, you may have to get in touch with your feminine side, and ladies, you may have to toughen up and think like a guy sometimes!

Not Support Related...or is it?

What follows is worth two minutes of your time...if for no other reason for you to then pass it on to those to whom you minister. The music is, well, a bit odd...but the insights significant:

Idolatry in Ministry

David Powlison observes, “Idolatry is by far the most frequently discussed problem in the Scriptures.”

In an hour-long message Mark Driscoll describes idolatry - particularly idolatry in ministry. You may not have the time to watch (but I recommend you do); so here is a summary.


Got enough guts to read it? It may be painful...



Driscoll shows that idols lie to us by presenting themselves as Saviors and mediators who can give us identity and make us righteous. But in reality they dishonor God and destroy people.
Driscoll asks 11 questions about ministry idolatry in particular:

1. Attendance idolatry: Does your joy change when your attendance does?
2. Gift idolatry: Do you feel that God needs you and uses you because you are so skilled?
3. Truth idolatry: Do you consider yourself more righteous than more simple Christians?
4. Fruit idolatry: Do you point to your success as evidence of God’s approval of you?
5. Method idolatry: Do you worship your method as your mediator?
6. Tradition idolatry: What traditions are you upholding that are thwarting the forward progress of the gospel?
7. Office idolatry: Are you motivated primarily by God’s glory or your title?
8. Success idolatry: Is winning what motivates you at the deepest level?
9. Ministry idolatry: Do you use the pressure of ministry to make you walk with God?
10. Innovative idolatry: Does it matter to you that your ministry be considered unique?
11. Leader idolatry: Who, other than Christ, are you imaging?

Here are the resources I’ve found most helpful in thinking through what the Bible says about idols and how to destroy them:

• David Clarkson, “Soul Idolatry Excludes Men out of Heaven” (1622-1686)
• David Powlison, “Idols of the Heart and Vanity Fair” (Journal of Biblical Counseling)
• Tim Keller, Counterfeit Gods (watch his TGC talk here)
• G.K. Beale, We Become What We Worship: A Biblical Theology of Idolatry

The Disaster of (typical) Youth "Ministry"

((I posted this on my OTHER BLOG and felt I need to put it here; please read it carefully and do not misunderstand...I am NOT against "invitations" as long as they are not manipulative and clearly explain that "going forward" does not save; and that adequate time for counseling is given etc...but I am against long drawn out emotional fourteen choruses of Just as I am stuff...and, since there is no biblical mandate for "invitations" it is possible to preach/teach without giving a formal invitation)...DISAGREE? Then get involved by commenting etc...))

The front page headline on yesterday's USA Today read, "Young Adults Less Devoted to Faith" with the subtitle, "Survey shows steady drift from church life." These statistics mirror countless surveys over the last couple years and should not come as a shock; but they diagnose the reality that something is drastically wrong with typical ministry (which can, at best, only produce typical "Christians")...

As a three-decade-plus veteran of youth ministry I say, "duh." Anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear is not shocked by this article, but yet it also is patent evidence that much of what the church and parachurch groups do is simply not working.

If insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results; maybe a lot of our programs and activities can be liked to insane asylum tactics?

Thom Rainer, president of Lifeway Christian Resources that conducted the survey, states that of those surveyed who called themselves Christians, "many are either mushy Christians or Christians in name only...most are just indifferent. The more precisely you try to measure their Christianity, the fewer you find committed to the faith."

Here's what we should find most disturbing in the study:

Even among those in the new survey who "believe they will go to heaven because they have accepted Jesus as savior":

• 65% did not mention faith, religion, or spirituality when asked what was "really important in life"
• 50% do not attend church at least weekly
• 36% rarely or never read the Bible. Only 17% read it daily.

Only 40% of professing Christians feel it is their duty to share their faith.

SO WHAT IS THE MAIN PROBLEM? 

Why are we losing youth? 

• In many (most?) cases because we never "had" them. They may have raised a hand, gone forward, prayed "the prayer" (that is not found anywhere in scripture), filled out a decision form...but the reality is Matthew 7.21-23
• Most of those who have genuinely been captured by the Spirit of God have been programmed to apathy, had their "felt" needs met without doctrine, been living from big event to big event, but have not been mentored, nurtured, challenged to live out their faith 24/7 rather than anticipating the next concert, missions trip, or camp.
• The Biblical illiteracy of the church as a whole is deepend (shallowed?) in them. (Amos 8.11)
• We have not lost most of this generation because we challenged them too little. We've lost them because we've not challenged (yes, even demanded) more!
• And we continue to produce baptized pagans because we wimp out and refuse to be fruit inspectors

WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?

Do what Jesus did! When trying to reach people of all ages with the gospel make it easier to say "no" than to say "yes." Can anyone really imagine Jesus turning to the crowd and saying "Every head bowed, every eye closed"? Why do we who want to see disciples rather than decisions all too often start them out in secret, "No one looking around..."

Please do not misunderstand or misquote me, I am not (totally) against the (very new to church history) invitation "system," nor am I questioning the hearts of any who are proponents, but any "witnessing", any "invitation" that does not stress lostness, repentance, surrender, and faith is not biblical and typically produce "decisions" that don't stand the test of time. (yes, God can still use these to His glory in spite of ourselves...but rarely)

And never should anyone be told...even hinted at...that "now you are a Christian." Or, in my mind, "based on what I heard you pray (or what you've said) you are now a child of God." That is the job of the Holy Spirit. The book of FIRST JOHN has a MISSION STATEMENT, but this mission statement is not that isolated verse, but "these things" are everything in First John that comes before...Let the Spirit of God, through  the written Word, give "assurance" of salvation in the living Word - The Lord Jesus Christ.

This is already too long...I invite you yell at me, agree with me, call me a works-righteousness dude, or whatever. But, for God's sake (literally) and for their sake, at least think about this ongoing disaster...

Grace in Crisis

(I posted this on my PUBLIC BLOG, but wanted to share it with you in case you don't check that blog out:

Brian and Sandi Kluth have been friends for almost thirty years. At one time Brian was on the Board of Headwaters Christian Youth where we served in Rhinelander, Wi. He has been active in politics, the pastorate, and now is focused full time on helping churches and individual believers manage the finances with which God has entrusted them.

Sandi has battled cancer for 7 1/2 years...and they were recently told that, medically, the battle has been lost, and she has only a few months to live.

What follows is a message from them that is a demonstration of "peace that passes all understanding." I urge you to watch it, and then come back and CLICK HERE to read more - the information they supply concerning how people can help is invaluable and worth filing away in case you ever ask the question in a similar situation, "How can I help?"

Take Time to Observe

This isn't support-raising related...directly...but since most of us are involved in youth ministry, methinks it is worth posting...your call as to whether or not you read it...It's from The Campus Ministry Guy:

The margins in my life have been pretty thin this year. 

Our family moved into a new house back at the end of August - yes, just as the new school year was beginning - not the ideal time to move... but we were so thankful to have the chance in the economy that we're living in.


Between this big adjustment at home, and the crazy pace of life that seems to define most school years, my margins have been thin... and one of the things that has regularly been pushed off of my daily page has been exercise.  I hate that.  And I've missed it (another post for another time).


Well, this morning I was able to get out for a run.  It's not the first time since we've been in this new house, but it was the first time I took this particular route.  I've driven this direction numerous times - it's one of the two ways out of our neighborhood - so it's a route I'm very familiar with... or so I thought.

It's amazing what you notice when you slow down.  

On my run today I noticed houses that sit back off the road just enough that I've never seen them before.  I noticed, for the first time, a creek that cuts back and forth under this street in several different spots.  I noticed the hills... OH, how I noticed this hills - so beautiful to look at, but something totally different when you encounter them on an early morning run.


All of this got me to thinking about our routines on campus.


If you're anything like me, your days are probably pretty full of meetings - with students, colleagues, administrators, etc. - and those times in between meetings can often easily be consumed with checking email, returning email, planning and prepping for what is next on you calendar... even the walks between meetings can be filled with checking in on our 'smartphones'... and there's something that doesn't seem quite right about it all.


I wonder how different our days might be if we created more space in our schedules... If we chose to intentionally slow down, make ourselves more mentally, emotionally and physically available.  I wonder how different our walks through campus might be if we chose to leave our phones in our pockets and attempted to greet students as we passed them (I recognize that about 99% of them will be on their phones, but... that's a whole other post as well).


We need to challenge ourselves to slow down.  To take in all that makes up the unique place that God has called us to... if we don't, how will we ever see Him at work, or know how to come alongside what He's already doing in that place?


So what do you think?


How thin are the margins in your life?

Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc....Worth the time?

As I type it is early on Bible Quiz Fellowship National Tournament Day 2...got up, read, jogged, and now reading emails etc. Even here in Pittsburgh a few adults and teens have said, "How in the world do you find time to tweet/facebook/blog etc in the midst of Nationals?"

As in anything, I don't find time, I make time by praying, planning, and disciplining myself to do it.

Is it valuable? Yeah, it is; but the point is it ministers. Daily I get communications that something I've shared (either written by me or, more likely, others) has ministered grace and truth to someone. Because of my "social media" time I have connected with people I'd never meet otherwise...for instance, the home missionary in India who is trying to work it out for me to fly to his nation and spend a week or two ministering. There is also a guy in Hong Kong who wants me to come.

But you are already busy..and whether you are a director, in the process of raising support, or "just" a worker "on support," (and though you may not see yourself as an "executive director" or "ceo", you are the boss (under His Lordship) of your life and ministry)I urge you to read what follows from Michael Hyatt

How Do Busy Leaders Find Time for Social Media?

On Wednesday, I made a presentation at Catalyst West on the subject of “Platform: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How to Build It.” When I finished, I opened my presentation for Q&A. Finally, after about 20 minutes of lively discussion, I indicated that we had time for one more question. Someone asked, “How does a busy CEO—someone like you—find time for social media?”

Photo courtesy of ©iStockphoto.com/tzara

Great question. Frankly, I get this a lot.
On Tuesday, I spoke to a group of CEOs at the Christian Leadership Alliance on “Social Media and Your Ministry.” Different audience, similar presentation. However, because it was an audience of CEOs, the question about finding time was the first question out of the gate.

It is an important question. Why? Because increasingly CEOs, pastors, and other leaders are being asked by their staff, constituents, and even boards about their “social media involvement.” Most leaders I have spoken with, still don’t see the value or, if they do, know how to work it into their workflow. They already feel overwhelmed with their current responsibilities; they aren’t looking for one more thing to do.

Here’s how I answered the question on both days.

First of all, if you see engaging in social media as simply one more thing you must add to an already overwhelming list of responsibilities, it won’t happen.

Blogging, Twitter, or Facebook, can’t simply be another add-on activity. You and I both know that you don’t have time for one more thing. (In fact, if you are honest, you are struggling to keep up with what you have on your plate now.)

Instead, you have to see the use of social media as an integral part of your job (emphasis added by Jack). It has to be a tool that enables you to accomplish your work—your real work—more effectively and more efficiently. But what is your real work as a leader?

It probably includes a dozen things. It will be a little different for everyone. But here are five that probably should be on every leader’s list:

1. Raise your organization’s visibility. You can do this the expensive way by employing traditional, interruption-based marketing. Unfortunately, fewer and fewer people are paying attention. They are very selective about who they give permission to speak into their lives. This is why the use of social media is so effective. The only people listening are people who choose to follow you and become part of your tribe.
2. Articulate your organization’s vision. As a leader, you can’t do this too much. Vision is to your organization what blood is to your body: it gives it life. The problem is that it is difficult to be constantly articulating the vision to everyone. Besides, it’s not just your own people that need to know it. Your constituents need to understand it as well. Social media, particularly blogging, provides a perfect delivery vehicle for this.
3. Network with people can help you. One of reasons you are probably in your position is that over the years you have acquired a network of invaluable contacts. This is one of the secrets of your success—you’ve been able to tap into this network when you need to accomplish more than you could do on your own. Social media take this to next level. I have dozens and dozens of people that I now know, work with, and count on that I first met via social media. My network is larger and richer than ever.
4. Be alert to what your constituents are saying. Again, you can do this the expensive way by employing traditional market research. I still think there is a place for that. But there is nothing like understanding first-hand what your customers and constituents are saying. HootSuite, Google Alerts, and other tools give you that opportunity for free—in real-time. Like it or not, there is a conversation happening right now about you, your brand, and our company online. Social media provide an opportunity for you to participate in that conversation, learn from it, and even influence it.
5. Mentor the next generation of leaders. This is why I originally started blogging. I found that I kept dispensing the same stories and advice over and over again. Blogging gives me the opportunity to curate my best ideas, archive them, and share them with those I am charged with leading. Twitter is similar. I use it to direct my followers to links and other resources I believe they will find helpful. Best of all, these tools have extended my leadership and my circle of influence.

So, how do you find time for social media in your already busy life? By beginning to see them as tools that help you achieve your objectives as a leader. If you grasp the potential and connect it with your vision, making time for social media will be much easier.

A Case in Point

You know I'm a huge believer in Thank You notes.

You know I'm a huge hater of excuses, "I don't have time," "I'm too busy," etc. Get it done. Excuses are like elbows, every body has a couple...just like your newsletter..you may have to plan ahead, you may have to get help, but if you are "on support" your newsletter is, horizontally, your life line and thank yous are just polite.

I also use email, facebook, twitter, blogs and more to stay connected. i sent out a request to my "Prayer Update" email list earlier, and got this response from a long time supporter. He was my high school journalism teacher while we were both children-of-the-devil. He is one of my biggest supporters financially, and stays in touch with me frequently.

He also is a man of few words. I share this with you to let you know your people probably are much more willing to hear from you than you are willing to put the effort into connecting with them:


"Happily responding ........no one makes better updates than you....   helps us to feel engaged..."

Three Fears?

The folks at PEOPLE RAISING are dogmatic that the "only" way to raise support is to make face-to-face appeals. I don't concur (I have never made a face-to-face...which is NOT to say that is "the" way; but it is how I've been directed)...but the points made in the following are worth considering:

1. The Fear Of Asking For An Appointment.

If we were to choose our fund raising strategies based purely on convenience, many of us would be very comfortable just sending letters asking for funds; however, the most effective way you can communicate your passion and vision is to be in front of people. It is easy to identify all the reasons why meeting people face to face is valuable, but let’s focus on why it is difficult for people to ask for the appointment. It’s the fear factor the fear of not knowing what to say or how to respond to peoples objections, the fear of getting a ”no”, or the fear of offending people. Part of the solution is practicing making those calls. Practice responding to objections that you will tend to hear. Keep in mind that confidence comes from experience and the more experience you have the easier it will be in dealing with this fear factor.  

2. The Fear Of Asking For A Gift.

Here again negative thinking really tends to promote fear back within our hearts and minds. We are fearful that by asking for a gift it will turn people off, they will feel offended, they will never talk to us again, and the mind can run wild. If you want to be fully funded in your ministry, it’s important that you engage with people, challenge people and ask for the gift. Here again your confidence can be built up through experience and the more you can do to practice your presentation and role play it will make a huge difference in overcoming the fear of asking for a gift. 

3. The Fear Of Placing A Follow Up Call.

Here again negative thinking comes into play. We think that if we follow people up it will turn them off. Negative thinking tells that us that the prospect certainly knows about our ministry and about our need and then we rationalize that there is no need to follow them up. In my over 35 plus years of fund raising experience follow up, follow up, follow up, is one of the keys if you are to be successful in raise funds. 

With each of these three fears the good news is that they can be overcome. On your part it’s going to call for preparation, prayer and the willingness to go for it.

Vital Reminder for All Who Work with Youth

Good Doctrine Makes Better (Teenage) Saints

Download:  

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By John PiperAugust 15, 2007

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Here it is again. More evidence from surveys what the Bible makes so plain: superficial, non-doctrinal, non-serious Christians sin pretty much like the world; but more serious, more doctrinally oriented Christians lead lives that are morally distinct. Two years ago Ron Sider flagged this in his book The Scandal of the Evangelical Conscience: Why Are Christians Living Just Like the Rest of the World?
Now a new book by Mark Regnerus called Forbidden Fruit: Sex and Religion in the Lives of American Teenagers gives the same bleak picture of so-called “evangelical teenagers” who sleep around as much as unbelievers. But again the book points out that “the 16% of American teenagers who say that their faith is ‘extremely important to their lives’ are living chastely” (Gene Veith, “Sex and the Evangelical Teen,” World, August 11, 2007, p. 9).
Some of you may remember what Sider said two years ago. But here it is again. The point is that what he said then has now been confirmed again by a totally separate survey. May the Lord use both these studies to encourage us that even though growing a church by serious teaching of biblical truth may be harder and slower, it does bear more radical fruit than less doctrinally serious strategies of growth.
Here is what Sider says the more radically transformed Christians believe:

These people believe that “the Bible is the moral standard” and “absolute moral truths exist and are conveyed through the Bible.” In addition they agree with all six of the following additional beliefs: that God is the all-knowing, all-powerful Creator who still rules the universe; Jesus Christ lived a sinless life; Satan is a real, living entity; salvation is a free gift, not something we can earn; every Christian has a personal responsibility to evangelize; and the Bible is totally accurate in all it teaches. (Scandal, p. 127)

Then Sider lists the kinds of behaviors this more doctrinally rigorous group tend to show.

They are nine times more likely than all the others to avoid “adult-only” material on the Internet. They are four times more likely than other Christians to boycott objectionable companies and products and twice as likely to choose not to watch a movie specifically because of its bad content. They are three times more likely than other adults not to use tobacco products and twice as likely to volunteer time to help needy people. Forty-nine percent of all born-again Christians with a biblical worldview have volunteered more than an hour in the previous week to an organization serving the poor, whereas only 29 percent of born-again Christians without a biblical worldview and only 22 percent of non-born-again Christians had done so. (Scandal, p. 128)

Sider concludes with a word that pastors and youth leaders should hear with great seriousness—mainly because the Bible teaches it, but also because Regnerus’s new book points in the same direction. Here is Sider’s conclusion:

[The] findings on the different behavior of Christians with a biblical worldview underline the importance of theology. Biblical orthodoxy does matter. One important way to end the scandal of contemporary Christian behavior is to work and pray fervently for the growth of orthodox theological belief in our churches. (Scandal, pp. 129-130)

Yes. Pray for sure. And work our heinies off teaching and preaching and modeling the Truth. And resist an entertainment model for youth ministry. And cultivate a joyfully blood-earnest atmosphere for worship. And call for our youth and our retirees to go risk their lives somewhere for the risen King Jesus. This is where serious truth-driven ministry takes us.
Growing in the knowledge and grace of Jesus with you,

Pastor John

Die on the Right Mountain(s)

Since many of those who drop by here minister in what some call "Parachurch" (how I detest that term!) ministries, and since many of us are, ah, rather opinionated (to include me), this from Bryan Chappel serves as a useful reminder...and, from my perspective, in these days when people are arguing the very essentials of the gospel; dare we separate ourselves from those who hold to the basics though we may disagree with far-secondary stuff?

"We are called out of our separateness not to do as we please, but to direct our faith and practice toward the truths given to us by the testimony of Scripture. This calling also causes us to honor brothers and sisters of other churches and denominations who unite their thoughts and actions to Scripture. In doing so we must affirm that there are differences that are honorable but not vital; there are believers with whom we differ on matters important, but not essential; and even as were are correcting ourselves by Scripture, we are called to seek ways to come together with those who are with us in their testimony of one Lord, one faith, and one baptism. What we are not permitted to do is unite ourselves with those who have abandoned these truths affirmed in Scripture."

A Great Whatever You Wanna Call It

April 9 I had the privilege of sharing my "support/deputation" journey with about a dozen folks at various stages of the support adventure. A few had almost as many years as I, and some were just in the launch window. Most were workers in a similar-style youth ministry (although one that doesn't (yet) have Bible quizzing as part of their strategy...pray for them :)...

A young couple isn't quite sure (yet) where the Lord is leading them, but they are reasonably confident support will be in their future. A couple other guys were getting launched into a ministry focusing on the campus of Fort Hays (Ks) State University...

It was neat to facilitate/guide the discussion, and a discussion it was; questions were voiced, several of us offered our insights. I hesitate to call it a "seminar" or a "workshop," but I'd rather call it an encouraging strategic planning meeting.

I did not teach "how" to raise support, as if there is only one way. We did discuss various scenarios, and it was, by appreciation voiced afterward, helpful.

All that to say this: I am passionate about a few things...Jesus and His gospel; my family; Bible quizzing; and support raising. If there is any way I can help you in this journey; shoot me an email, facebook, pigeon, whatever, and I commit to do all I can to help you get on and stay on the field to which the Lord has called you.

And if you are a ministry head, consider bringing me to your turf for a day or two of "consultation."

The Vital Thank You Note

This, from Marshall Jones is good stuff. My line is, "If someone came to you and handed you a twenty (or fifty, or five hundred) dollar bill, you'd probably say something in gratitude. Do the same if it comes in the mail!

10 steps to the Thank You note habit

Written by Marshall Jones Jr.

Topics: Relationships

Photo by halfmortimer

Thank You notes are a lost art – I don’t need to tell you that. The habit is even less common. But Thank You notes are simple to write, and a blessing to receive (and send). So why lost?
Yesterday, I came across a brief post about Thank You notes. I’d been meaning to write about this for a while, but her mention of it tipped me over the edge (thanks to Mrs. Donnelson). With this post, I’d like to encourage you to send one (or two or make it a habit). I’m by no means an expert Thank You note writer. Take what you can from my suggestions, but mostly, start Thank You-ing.

1. Decide to write a Thank You note

If you wait for circumstances to prompt you to send a Thank You note, you probably won’t send any. Just think how that approach has worked for you in the past.
Instead decide up front that you’re going to write a Thank You.

2. Choose someone to thank

Again, I suggest this step before you even have a “reason” to thank someone. Choose someone based on who needs to be thanked rather than who’s done something for you worthy of thankfulness. In other words, who will most benefit from receiving a Thank You note? Choose that person.

3. Find a reason to thank

Only now, after choosing who to write, do I suggest brainstorming the actual topic of the Thank You note. Starting with the person instead of the reason can be a challenge when it comes to this step, but I think it helps you dig deeper into thankfulness. Here are three tips to guide you with your topic choice:

1. Thank for (seemingly) small stuff. The smaller the detail, the more thankful you seem. If you’re willing to write a Thank You note because someone let you “borrow” some staples, your thankfulness will skyrocket, and your friend will realize that you notice and really care.

2. Thank off season. Pay particular attention to sending Thank You notes when it’s not right after your birthday or Christmas. While I still promote that, I think it can sometimes just look like you’re promoting gift giving for yourself. Also, it takes away some of the spontaneousness of the Thank You.

3. Thank for intangibles. Try to thank for who the person is instead of what the person’s done. What I mean is, try sending a note thanking a friend for being a patient listener instead of just when you receive a free meal.

4. Get the address

If you have it in an address book, fantastic. Often in my experience, though, I don’t have the person’s address. You can look it up sometimes, but a strategy I like better is simply to call and ask for the address.
I like this because it builds anticipation. Call and say, “Hi, I’m writing you a short Thank You note but realized I don’t have your address. Would you mind giving it to me?” Now your friend gets to look forward to your note. Sometimes anticipation is just as fun as actually receiving the note. Just be sure to say “short Thank You note” when you call so your friend doesn’t expect a long letter.

5. Pick or purchase a Thank You card

If you’ve not written much in the past, you might have to buy cards. That’s a good thing, though. Choose a pack so you’ll have extras to send to others in the future. Pick cards that are versatile, so you can send them to anyone any time of year, but also be sure to choose cards that are “you” (that match your personality).

6. Write a draft

Yes, I know it sounds lame, writing a draft for something as short as a Thank You note. But do it. You’ll be glad you did (at least I have been). By the way, the need to write a draft implies you’re not typing this up in a word processor. I didn’t think you would type it but just wanted to be sure.

Format suggestion:

• Date: I forget this one too often, but it’s a nice touch to include. Write it in the upper right corner.
• Salutation: I suggest, “Dear Mr. (or Mrs. or Miss) ______.” I like the more formal style even if you’re on a first name basis because it reminisces of the days when Thank You notes were more common. But use your own judgment.
• 1st sentence: “Thank you for…” I’ve heard that you’re not really supposed to begin that way, but I’m like, “Whatever with that.” I think it’s fine. Stay short and punchy with this line.
• 2nd sentence: Unpack that first sentence by telling what exactly you’re thankful for and, if applicable, how you realized you’re thankful for it (see example below).
• 3rd sentence: Explain why you’re thankful and why the reason you’re thankful matters.
• 4th sentence: Repeat your thanks. I’m not sure you can’t repeat this too often in a Thank You note.
• Closing: If it’s to a relative, “Love” works. You can sometimes get away with it to close friends as well. If it’s to a Christian, you could write, “Blessings in Christ,” or “Your brother [or sister] in Christ.” If you really can’t think of the right words, just set off the fourth sentence (the repeated thanks) from the rest of the note and use it as a closing.
• Signature: Finally, sign the note. I like a simple first name.

I try to go for a very informal tone (except for that “Mr.”). Use contractions (“you’re” instead of “you are,” etc.). Use small words and short sentences.

7. Write the note

After you’ve edited your draft (if it needs it), write the note in your best handwriting.

Here’s an example:

Dear Mr. _______,
Thank you for being such a patient listener. I particularly noticed this the other day as I watched you interact with the children in your Sunday School class. They seemed to really engage with you because of it. Again, thank you.
Blessings in Christ,
Marshall

8. Prepare the envelop and pack the card

Address the envelop and put a stamp on it. Include your return address. Make sure the a stamp is current.  Pack the card and seal it in.

9. Drop the note in a mail box

I know I’ve had cards sitting around for a couple days for no reason in particular. Don’t do that. Get out and mail the thing (including the date in step 6 helps motivate you). ‘Tis a wonderful feeling.

10. Plan to repeat steps 1-10

Once you’ve sent one, make a plan to send another within a certain time, say within a month. Jot it down on your calendar. Recruit friends to keep you accountable on your Thank You notes (and encourage them to build the habit too). It will bless others more than you think. And it will bless you more than you think. Try it.
This is a fairly (almost ridiculously) detailed guide. Remember, though: thanking for anything is better than nothing. Don’t sweat it if you don’t follow these suggestions. Just write something. Just thank.

Serving Suggestions:

(1) Send a Thank You note. (You saw that one coming, right?)
(2) How about spreading this around? Team up with others to commit to writing a note per month or more (and don’t just write to each other). Watch your thankfulness explode.

One of the Most Important Things I've Posted...or Read

Many of you may be following the John Piper sabbatical story. If not, you probably should, since the stuff is hitting the fan in many ways (don't freak, he hasn't committed gross sin or been exposed). Perhaps some who read this will smile as he is being hammered for inviting Rick Warren to speak. (for more info, CLICK HERE)

 It may well be that some who drop by here also don't care for Mark Driscoll. Oh well. I trust that if you hammer him (or anyone else) you've at least read or listened to him, and, of course, written him a letter to tell him why you think he is off base rather than spread stuff about him?

But he and his wife comment wisely on the entire issue. I don't only want to be "in ministry," I want to finish well, and that means, among other things, being a good husband and dad. I urge you to read this with an open heart and mind. The links are worth examining also, to ensure you are getting the facts.(the yellow highlight is what most whacked me in the side of the head)

Eight Godly Precedents Set By John Piper's Sabbatical:

Mark and Grace Driscoll

Pastor Mark's Introduction

Dr. John Piper recently announced that he will be taking an eight-month sabbatical from public ministry to invest his full energies in the private ministry of his family. My wife, Grace, and I have spent time reflecting on what we can learn from the Pipers’ example. In particular, we asked ourselves how we can better love and serve one another and our children. My prayer is that other ministry leaders would emulate the Pipers’ honesty by seeking out areas in their own lives and families where God would call them to focus energies and get their priorities in the right order. Many marriages and children will be affected, I believe very positively.

Indeed, this act could be the most important message Dr. Piper has ever proclaimed.

In praying for the Pipers, I felt the Holy Spirit burden me to give some public reflection—but not my own reflection.

Rather, I felt compelled to ask Grace to write a blog from her heart as to what Dr. Piper’s decision feels like from her perspective as both a pastor’s daughter and a pastor’s wife.

The question I asked Grace to answer was this:
“As the wife of a pastor and the daughter of a pastor, what are your thoughts and feelings about the precedent Dr. Piper’s announcement makes for his family and the families of other ministry leaders who look to him for leadership?”

Grace's Answer

I was brought to tears and was extremely humbled by the courageous letter that Dr. John Piper wrote to explain that he is taking a sabbatical “because of a growing sense that [his] soul, [his] marriage, [his] family, and [his] ministry-pattern need a reality check from the Holy Spirit.”

This is a hard thing for any of us to do, let alone someone whom God has raised up with a public ministry, allowing his life to be exposed before the world. I am so grateful for the example he has set by this action.

Growing up as a pastor’s daughter and now as a pastor’s wife, I can honestly say that pastors rarely do this. The pressure to be all things to all people, and the lies by which the Enemy tries to persuade leaders can cause them to believe that church ministry IS their life. The Bible is clear about what God’s priorities are, but sadly, I have seen so many examples of pastors’ wives who are no longer the first love (after Christ) of their husbands.

I am thankful for the precedent and example that Dr. Piper and Noël are setting because:

1. It frees up wives and children to be priorities (1 Tim. 3:4; Eph. 5:28).
2. It allows the church and ministry to not be idols (1 Tim. 3:5).
3. It can give wives a new freedom to have this honest discussion with their husbands (I have seen many wives silenced or unsure of how to have this conversation when they have genuine concern) (Prov. 19:14).
4. It can give children a new freedom to have this honest discussion with their dads (I have seen so many kids of pastors feeling last on the list with the church at the top) (Prov. 17:6).
5. It urges us all to examine our priorities and make sure our Jesus, our marriage, and our children are the top three, in that order (1 Tim. 3:1–5).
6. It challenges the church to give their pastor the freedom to examine his own life and take a break if needed (Mark 2:27–28).
7. It challenges us to not idolize pastors or think of them as sinless, but rather see them as gifted, called men (under immense pressure) who need to be free to repent and be redeemed like the rest of the church members (Heb. 13:18).
8. It challenges wives to examine if they have enabled their pastors-husbands to become islands unto themselves (Gen. 2:18; Prov. 31:12).

Thank you, John and Noël Piper, for the courageous and humble example of what it means to BOTH preach the gospel and live it out in your life!

Pastor Mark:

And thank you, sweetheart, for sharing your perspective with others and your life with me.

Five Drop outs

This is from the "Body Builders" people...take it for what it is worth. Since I, personally, have been "on support" for over thirty years and have never done anything but what the first guy did (except be an exceptional athlete!), this again falls into my three main points about support:

1. There is no "way" to raise support (you gotta find what works for you)

2. Support-raising/maintaining is not preparation for ministry, it is ministry

3. Money follows ministry.

With that caveat, here is the stuff:

Support Raising Dropouts:
Five Who Gave Up

Whether it’s a long distance race or the support raising journey, it’s exciting, fun, even glamorous to blast off at the sound of the starting gun, but incredibly challenging to stay focused and endure all the way to the finish line. The kind of grueling perseverance required to complete the task reminds me of Walt Henrichsen, an old Navigator and hero of mine, who would issue us a discipleship challenge: “Men, many aspire…but few attain!” Here are the short stories of five individuals who, though well intentioned, apparently did not truly count the cost:

1. Bart: Being a prominent athlete, he exempted himself from spending the hundreds of hours on the phone, traveling, and meeting face to face with supporters. Confident the money would come rolling in by just sending a signed letter (and enclosed envelope), he was shocked with the pitiful response. After financially limping along for three years, he and his disillusioned wife finally departed for a “real” job and paycheck. Issue: Taking shortcuts

2. Jake: After 14 years in ministry and support raising, this key leader was worn out by the constant “demands” of having to create and send out newsletters, calling and thanking supporters, and spending time and money to visit them. As they gradually dropped off his team, he too faded out of ministry and into a job that didn’t require an “attitude of gratitude.” Issue: Lack of thankfulness

3. Julie: She was so excited about going into ministry and visiting all of her family and friends, knowing for sure they would all rush to be on her team. But, after a series of “no’s” from people she was counting on, she gave up, spiritualizing the situation and sharing that God had now revealed to her a different path. Barely out of the gate, she let a few obstacles and rejections completely cloud her calling into ministry. Issue: Lack of conviction

4. Richard: Stepping into ministry as a 40-something was a risk, he thought, but his “ace in the hole” was that he was part of a huge and wealthy church that would surely get behind him. He survived for almost a decade on large and sporadic “one-time” gifts, but failed to take into account how his wife felt about living on support. As the years rolled by (with ongoing financial instability), her resentment increased, and he finally felt forced to drop out and go back to work—just to keep peace in the family. Issue: Oneness in marriage and ministry

5. Dylan: Having been a successful salesman, he felt the call into ministry and (for six years) was willing to live at the decreased “salary” he was required to raise and live on. As he got into his 30’s, though, and saw a lot of his peers entering their peak earning years (and enjoying the fruits of their labors!), he too began missing the perks of a comfortable income and lifestyle. Finally stating he felt “led” back into the secular work world, he quit the ministry and returned. Issue: Lure of the world

Danger! Warning!

If you are "on support," in the process of raising initial support, or contemplating same, you are in some type of leadership role. This, from Pastor David Murray, should be read carefully...and often. After over 30-decades of public ministry, I am still capable of falling into this hole; and I've seen too many friends/associates fall in and not get out; and, yeah, there's a couple that I pray for now even as I try to guard my heart. If you think you are somehow "above this," frankly, I pity you:

The Pastor's Worst Enemy

The pastor's worst enemy is pride, and it is a special danger for young pastors (1 Tim. 3:6).
The Particular Causes of Pride

• Public gifts. As your gifts are exercised in public (unlike those with more private and unseen gifts and ministries), they are more likely to be recognized, admired, and praised.
• Official status. As many of God's people respect and honor the "office" of pastor (sometimes regardless of who fills it), you may be inclined to think it is you they respect and honor.
• Man-centeredness. When people are blessed under your ministry, they will often attribute it to you rather than to God.
• Worldly ideas of leadership. You see yourself as "in charge of all these people," rather than their servant.
• Inexperience. The Church is quite unique in how it places untested and inexperienced young men into positions of the highest responsibility without going through the "humbling school of hard knocks." Having never been led, they sometimes do not know how to lead.
• Misunderstanding of call to the ministry. Paul did not see the pastoral ministry as a prize he had earned. For Paul, it was as much a grace, an unearned gift, as salvation (Eph. 3:8).

The Pastoral Consequences of Pride
If you fall into pride there will be serious consequences in your ministry.

• You will start depending on your gifts rather than on God.
• You will become impatient with your less gifted brethren in the ministry or eldership.
• You will become thoughtlessly insensitive to the traditions and customs of the past.
• You will resist personal criticism and mature counsel.
• You will become discouraged and discontented because "I deserve better than this crowd!"
• You will regard yourself as above the small/dirty jobs in the congregation.
• You will stop learning because you know more than everyone else anyway.
• You may fall into the "condemnation of the devil" (1 Tim.3:6).

The Personal Cure of Pride
Let these two phrases be the double heartbeat of our ministries.
1. I am a sinner

• Remember what I was (think on the sins you've been delivered from)
• Remember what I could be now (if God had not stopped you)
• Remember what I still am (research your own heart )
• Remember what I could yet be (if God removed His restraining grace)

2. I am a servant

• A servant of God (not independent but dependent on God for commission, authority, blessing)
• A servant of God's people (not their lord or sovereign)
• A servant of sinners (do not look down on the unsaved but get down on your knees for them)
• A servant of servants (don't compete with other pastors but serve them)
• A servant of the Servant (who said, "I am among you as one who serves," and, "the servant is not greater than his Master.")

Final Sayings of (ex) children's and youth pastors

Sure, doesn't apply to support raising; but...

Greetings from Seattle, where I have the privilege of ministering thru this w…eekend. Saw this on a BLOG

wanted to share with you:

TOP TEN SAYINGS VOICED BY CHILDREN/YOUTH PASTOR"S JUST BEFORE GETTING CANNED:

10. We don’t have to preview this video; one of the deacons told me it was clean.

9. Just go ahead. It’s easier to beg forgiveness than to obtain permission.

8. The board won’t care.

7. We’ll set a record for this!

6. What does this switch on the soundboard do?

5. I’ve seen this done on TV.

4. I’m sure it’s strong enough to hold both of us.

3. Let’s go ahead and order it, the church will pay for it.

2. I decided we’re not having VBS this year.

1. I don’t care if he is the pastor’s kid

Chew on This Stuff for a While - It'll Do You Good!

m I think this is an important word from Michael Hyatt

 

The Leadership Strategy of Jesus

So much of the activity I see among leaders today is focused on reaching the masses. “Successful leaders” speak at big conferences, host popular television or radio shows, publish bestselling books, or write successful blogs. Their goal is breadth. They want to extend their influence to as many people as possible.

Jesus had a much different leadership strategy. His goal was not “reach” or popularity. In fact, as strange as it sounds today, he actively discouraged publicity. On more than one occasion, after performing a jaw-dropping miracle, he told those who witnessed it, “Tell no one what you have seen” (see e.g., Matthew 8:4; 16:20; 17:9; Mark 7:36; 8:30; 9:9; Luke 5:14; and 8:56). He was a publicist’s nightmare.
Instead, Jesus focused on true depth and long-term impact. To achieve this, he had a four-pronged leadership strategy:

1. He taught the multitudes. Yes, Jesus had a public ministry. He occasionally spoke to thousands. However, he didn’t pander to these groups or “tickle their ears.” He confronted the status quo, jarred his listeners’ sensibilities, and often taught in parables. He didn’t feel the need to clarify everything. He often left his audience confused and wondering what he meant. His goal was apparently to shift their paradigm and get them to think.
2. He mobilized the seventy. Jesus had a smaller, more intimate group to whom he gave specific assignments. He sent them out two-by-two. He asked for a BIG commitment. He gave them virtually no resources. Yet he demanded that they perform miracles. He told them to expect opposition (see Luke 10:1–12) and promised no earthly reward (see Luke 10:18–20).
3. He trained the twelve. He chose the twelve disciples to be “with him” (see Mark 3:14a) He taught them and also gave them assignments (see Mark 3:14b–19). However, he also shared with them his daily life. Like the Apostle Paul would do years later, he poured into them his very life (see 1 Thessalonians 2:8). Because of this, he entrusted them with power to do the work he himself had done. In fact, he promised them that they would actually do greater works (see John 14:12–14).
4. He confided in the three. Jesus had an inner circle comprised of Peter, James, and John. He took them on special outings (see Matthew 17:1). He allowed them to witness his greatest glory (see Mark 9:2–3) and his deepest temptation (see Mark 14:33–34). He prayed with them (see Luke 9:28f). He taught them things He did not teach the others (see Matthew 17:2; Mark 5:37–43). He even introduced them to His heavenly family (see Matthew 17:3). They were his closest friends and confidants.

Jesus’ leadership strategy evidently worked well. Within a generation, His followers turned the world upside down (see Acts 17:6). Within seven generations (318 A.D.), the emperor Constantine accepted his message and made Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire. And here I am, almost two millennia later, writing about it.
After interacting with leaders at every level for more than three decades, my observation is that most leaders only focus on the first two strategies. They have a public teaching ministry, and they are good at mobilizing groups for specific assignments. However, very few intentionally train a small group of disciples. Even fewer build deep relationships with a handful of confidants. As a result, they do not have the kind of lasting impact they could have.
The older I get, the more value I see in going deeper with a few. Leading the masses may feed my ego, but it won’t guarantee an impact that will outlive me.

Word of God does Work of God

Many who read this are involved in Bible quizzing; all are involved in preaching/teaching the Word of God. This quote from a guy who died in 1900 is perhaps even more applicable today than when he penned the words:

“What is the best safeguard against false doctrine? I answer in one word, ‘The Bible: the Bible regularly read, regularly prayed over, regularly studied.’ If we want a weapon to wield against the devices of Satan, there is nothing like ‘the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God.’ But to wield it successfully, we must read it habitually, diligently, intelligently, and prayerfully. This is the point on which, I fear, many fail.” (emphasis added)

~ J.C. Ryle

Is It a "Concern" or a "Responsibility?"

There may be some who read this who are not "fans" of Mark Driscoll. Even if that is the case, I urge you to read what follows as it has a tremendously important message for those of us who are in ministry and thus, by definition, care about people and their needs: (this is from Driscoll's blog)


One of the most important skills every Christian, especially a ministry leader, must learn is the distinction between a concern and a responsibility. The younger the Christian or ministry leader, the more likely they are to lack the skill of discerning concerns and responsibilities. In my own pastoral ministry, failures in this area have contributed to extreme overwork and exhaustion. I was recently reminded of this important distinction when I read the simple and helpful book Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro, a fellow pastor whom I have greatly enjoyed the few times I have met with him.

As a Christian, we should lovingly and sincerely have concern for many people and their many circumstances. Our hearts should ache for the pain and trouble that others experience in life. This concern should compel us to speak truth into their life, which can include everything from pointing out sin to giving wise counsel, and intercede for them before God in prayer.

Still, as a Christian we cannot take responsibility for everyone and everything for which we have concern. As finite beings, there is only so much we can do and we must discern whom God has called us to help and how God has called us to help them. When we take responsibility for people and things we ought not, we are sinning by taking off someone’s shoulders a load God has called them to carry and sinning against our own health, family, and priorities by offering to carry it for them.

I envision that everyone has a backpack with responsibilities that God has given for him or her to carry. Some people’s backpacks are big, and others are small. Nonetheless, God has called us each to fill up our pack with specific responsibilities. Some people are lazy and try to take things out of their pack and get others to carry them instead. Examples include the able-bodied man who lives with his mom, making her responsible for his housing and food; the lazy employee who cannot keep a job and expects his or her friends and family to always give him or her money; and the irresponsible young woman who assumes the government, her family, or a wealthy boyfriend will pay the price for her foolish life choices. Tragically, for many, the whole definition of someone being loving, godly, and spiritual is that they are willing to carry the loads God has called others to carry. This is not ministry. This is co-dependency, co-idolatry, and sin.


Scripture, of course, says it perfectly. Galatians 6:2–5 admonishes us, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. . . . For each will have to bear his own load.”

At first glance, this Scripture passage seems contradictory but it is not. It says that everyone, by himself or herself alone, should carry whatever load God has placed in his or her backpack. It also says that Christians should take some burdens out of the backpacks of some people and put them in their own packs and carry them out of love. In the Greek, the difference is between the words “load” and “burden.”

A “load” is a light enough pack that someone should be expected to carry it alone. Practically, this means that the typical person needs to find a job, pay their bills, read the Bible, attend church, pursue Christian friends, pray, repent of sin, share their faith, watch their diet, exercise, and look after themselves and their spouse and children if applicable.

A “burden” is a heavy load that is simply too much for one person to bear without the loving help of Christian friends. Practically, the person with cancer or another debilitating ailment, the mother of young children who is abandoned by her husband, the poor elderly widow who cannot pay her bills, and others like them should not feel guilty for seeking reasonable help nor should they be chastised for doing so. Rather, the church exists in part to help lessen their burden by taking some of the financial, emotional, and practical weight out of their pack and carrying it for them.

One key to ministry is discerning what is a load someone else has to carry (in which case we show concern) and what is a burden we and others need to help carry (in which case we take some responsibility).
Are you someone who is expecting too much time, energy, money, and/or investment from the leaders in your church? Which loads do you need to just buck up and carry without whining until someone else does your job? Have you manipulated others’ concern for your load to get them to take on your responsibilities as their burden in the name of loving Christian community?

Are you a Christian leader who is weighed down by all the loads you are carrying for others who need to carry their own load? How have you sinned by allowing concerns to become responsibilities and others’ loads to collectively become your burden?

Writing Matters!

Like you, my to-do list gets longer and sometimes a bit vague and perhaps overwhelming...(or knee-dropping...in that it leads me to dependent-prayer!)

But just read the following, and it is good stuff for us all.....Communication is such a huge part of our lives; whether in email to a kid, our normal newsletter, etc...Here is some good advice:

Why Good Writing Matters – And How You Can Improve

from Dumb Little Man - Tips for Life by Ali

In today’s world, being able to write well is of vital importance, whatever your industry. You could be a computer programmer, a small business owner, an administrator ... whatever your job, it’s likely to involve a lot of words.

Just think of the things you might write in a typical working day:

• Emails to clients
• Internal memos or reports for colleagues
• Instructions for a subordinate
  
• A presentation for a seminar
• Notes or action points from a meeting
• New content for your company’s website

I’m sure you could extend the list. The fact is, text is the currency of the web: although video and audio content is slowly becoming more popular, text has massive advantages (like being searchable, very easy to produce and edit, easy to scan, and quick to download).

So why is it so important that every time you put fingers to keyboard, you write well?

Your Writing Must Give a Good First Impression
In many situations, the first contact someone will have with you is through an email or through reading a website. This could be when:

• You’re applying for a job, with a cover letter and CV
• You’re replying to an email from a prospective customer
• A client is reading your website
  
• A colleague passes on the email address of someone they want you to contact

There are also plenty of non-work contexts where this applies too, such as:

• You need to write a letter of complaint, and want to be taken seriously
  
• You’re creating a profile on a dating site
• You’re writing content for a community or hobby website

Again, these lists could go on and on. In all these cases, the quality of your writing and the way you express yourself is going to form a strong impression on the reader. You want that impression to be good!

Poor Writing Won’t Be Read
How many times have you skimmed blog posts, ignored pages of jargon on a company site, or even stopped reading as soon as you saw a badly-worded or confusing headline?

It’s probably not news to you that we live in a world saturated with information. If your emails are long-winded and rambling, if your blog posts are vague and ungrammatical, or if your website is full of corporate jargon, people simply won’t read it.

You’re Using Social Media – And You Can Be Found
I’d be willing to bet that you have some sort of online profile or presence. That might be on LinkedIn, for business; it might be a Facebook account, a Twitter stream, or even your own blog. It could be posts on a public message board.

If you’ve never tried this before, give it a go: type your full name, in quotes, into Google. What comes up? (If you have a common name, you might try adding your profession or location.) Would the results impress a prospective client or employer? Bear in mind that almost anything you write online can be found by people searching for you. Again, you want to give them a good impression with well-written content – even if that’s just your bio on LinkedIn.

So, if you know that your writing isn’t your strongest point, what can you do to improve?

Step One: Practice!
If you ever learned to play a musical instrument as a child, you were probably encouraged to practice regularly. Writing is no different: the more you write, the more confident you’ll become. If you need a primer on grammar or if you need to revisit some of the rules, here is are 50 writing tools that can help and here are another 40+ tips on punctuation.

For those who aren’t natural writers, it can seem like a chore to sit down and put words on the screen. Try spending just five or ten minutes each evening writing about something that interests you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your use of language: no-one needs to see this except you.

Step Two: Read It Aloud
One of the most powerful ways to “hear” any flaws in your writing is to read it aloud. If you’re someone who’s a fluent speaker but who struggles a bit with writing, this is a great way to make the most of the way you prefer to communicate. Problems which your eye skims over on the page can become very obvious when you hear them.

When you read aloud, you’re also much more likely to notice convoluted, overlong sentences – they’ll be the ones where you run out of breath!

Step Three: Get Feedback
When you have an important piece of writing that needs to be right, don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. That could be as informal as asking a colleague or friend to read it over – ask them to let you know if it was confusing at all, or whether any of the sentences were hard to follow. It’s also worth asking them to look out for “clunky” words that just don’t sound right.

In some cases, you might want to consider hiring a professional writer or editor to look over what you’ve written.

Do you find writing a struggle, in your job or business? Have you got any tips to share?

Written on 9/28/2009 by Ali Hale. Ali is a professional writer and blogger, and a part-time postgraduate student of creative writing. If you need a hand with any sort of written project, drop her a line (ali@aliventures.com) or check out her website at Aliventures.

Connected?

How are you doing staying connected to your support team?

Not "just" newsletters (though the monthly newsletter remains, in my mind, mandatory).

I do blog, I do twitter, I do facebook. Do all my team do such? Nope; but a bunch of them do.

So everyday there is some connection with those supporters who are electronically connected. It may be a shared item, a praise report, a prayer request, a funny video, perhaps even a joke; but it is something that intersects my life with theirs...and that is a good thing.

And, yeah, I still send out thank yous; often by email, occasionally by snail mail; perhaps with a quick phone call.

Connecting with our support team is part of our "job," part of our "duty," and a privilege!