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Money and Ministry

In my Christian life I have been chairman of five national ministries. Rarely have I attended a board meeting that money wasn't on the agenda.

Often I meet very dedicated young people who want to go into ministry but do not want to have anything to do with the money. Unfortunately they disparage money and take a "high ground" that creates an unrealistic approach by ignoring the laws of economics. I never doubt the provision of God, but I also see Him working through fiscal responsibility.

After awhile I began to say that when the time came I would ask why he tied together money and ministry because they undoubtedly are. I have a sneaking suspicion that it is one of the critical crossovers between the secular and the spiritual.

In my contacts with various parachurch groups I notice that most of them either wither or are stunted by the lack of financial support. Sadly, in some cases this lack influences key decisions. The few I have seen who have more money then they can rightfully and prudently invest become shallow.

Ministries are faced with the dilemma that the Psalmist expressed when he asked the Lord to give him money enough that he wouldn't be tempted to steal and not so much that he wouldn't feel a need for the Lord's help. The need for money shouldn't overshadow the passion for mission, but the search for security shouldn't dominate, either.

I feel that when I am making a contribution to a ministry then I am sharing in the Lord's work as much as those who are giving their time and effort. Many current organizations use the trio "time, talent, and treasure." There is always a healthy balance. A philanthropist friend of ours told me that too many times people will write a check long before they will invest their time and talent.

One day I will step into heaven with my question about money and ministry but then with C.S. Lewis quickly admit, "Oh, of course! Why didn't I see that before?"

This week carefully consider: 1) How do money and ministry coexist with me? 2) Are the organizations I support realistic about their financial aims? 3) What does money mean to me?