12 >> "I'm willing to do what God wants, but right now I just don't feel comfortable raising support."

Most people find themselves a little uneasy as they approach the challenge of support raising. It seems to go against our American culture to depend on others... especially for finances.

As Christians we heed strong scriptural warnings about our culture's view of morality, materialism, etc. Similarly, we should not rely on the world's view, or our own feelings, when it comes to God's Word on support for His full-time ministers. The Bible strongly states that accepting support gifts is part of God's economy.

Raising support is a matter of obedience, not feelings. If God calls you to a supported ministry position, then He will provide everything you need to fulfill your ministry (including emotional strength and perseverance). "...my God shall supply all your needs" (Philippians 4:19), and "Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass" (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Developing a financial support team is a faith adventure and an opportunity to see God work in your life and the lives of those who will financially stand with you. It is also the best possible preparation for the ministry, because asking people if they would like to know Christ is no easier than asking someone to support your ministry. Both require courage and humility. What are cultivated in support raising are the prerequisite virtues for a minister of the gospel.

You must choose to remember God's promise to meet your needs and to bless those who give. The phrase "it is more blessed to give than to receive" is not a trite platitude, but the conviction of our Lord Jesus (Acts 20:35). God honors giving and promises to return His blessings a hundred-fold. In Malachi 3:10-12, God commands, "test me now in this. Will I not open for you the windows of heaven, and pour out for you a blessing until there is no more need." Your supporters are not merely doing you a favor, but you are helping them to make investments which will return benefits to them now and throughout eternity.

For further study and consideration: Numbers 1:47- 54; Numbers 18; Deuteronomy 18:1-6; Luke 8:1-3; 1 Corinthians 9; Matthew 16:25; Luke 6:38; Jeremiah 29:11; John 15:16.

 

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