The Money Stuff

Pastor spoke a great sermon yesterday morning as a pre-launch, if you will, on an upcoming series on spiritual health & fitness. It was a great message, with some lines that a couple friends posted on social media later in the day. Yet, as I struggled with a subject for #seniorPastorMonday, it wasn't until late last night that something from the service stood out. We had gotten weather in the middle of the night, rain had frozen, with snow on top, so when it was time for church the roads weren't that great yet.

And it showed... attendance was done. Our church has been debt-free for many years now, and while we rejoice in the Lord for being in such a strong and stable position, it doesn't reduce our reliance on Him to provide the resources to move forward with ministry. That said, the reminder that too many churches aren't in that position leaves many pastors worried about the offering when service comes to a close on such days when the weather plays havoc with church attendance.

It's a struggle that's real... as much as for seasonal business owners (case in point: this is only the second serious snowfall of the season for us, so the snow trucks were rejoicing as they've gotten off easy for the past 5 weeks or so.) But much like business, there's an X-factor to doing business and being prepared for slow and lean days, weeks and seasons. Especially for the ones that are harder to predict, such as the weather.

Ministry and life require funding. It's a basic principle... the more you spend on debt, the less you have to invest. For ministry, the investment is eternal. When you can't do a Christmas program, a VBS, a bus program to help those in the community get around... whatever it is, yes God provides, but He uses people and their resources. Which requires people being wise and obedient with them, so that they are ready to be used by God, as He directs them.

In the meantime, Pastors worry about their ability to stay afloat. And like Peter, it's hard to stay focused on Jesus, when the surrounding storm is unstable. Yet, it is all the more necessary to do so.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling with anxiety and nervous regarding the "numbers" of the church. Pray for a spirit of peace, that God will provide the people and the resources necessary for the body of Christ to move forward in ministry. Pray for wisdom and discernment regarding all church decisions, particularly in the realm of finances. May their trust in God to perform the miraculous be strengthened. May their creativity with regards to stewardship be expanded, in deciding what is most appropriate and effective for their church when money is involved. Pray more churches are able to experience the freedom that comes with zero debt, that they would experience the joy of being able to say "yes" more often to ministry opportunities.

Advancing the cause of Jesus Christ, through wise usage of the world's resources. For the earth, and all that is in it belongs to Him. For the glory of God; fulfilling our purpose by His grace. Laying up treasure in Heaven.

- PNC

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