Where do you find that?As professionals in development, we always hope that we share things that are solid, well researched, and thought provoking when speaking with our donors. But what do we share as "ministers of development"?  Are we sure what the Bible says about some of the things we believe?  When someone asks you about generosity or stewardship and you answer that it's in the Bible, what if they ask:

Where would you find that in the Bible?

Can you answer?

Let's consider some Biblical Stewardship 101 in this edition of our eNewsletter.

What if a donor asks you what the Bible says about generosity?

You could direct them to the book of Second Corinthians where Paul shares with the church about giving, the grace of giving, being excellent in giving, and how our generosity brings praise to God.

What if a donor asks you about the tithe?

This is a tough one. I have come to my conclusion that tithing is not a New Testament teaching. Rather, generosity is a way of life as a follower of Christ. The Law of the Tithe has many explanations in the Old Testament. But Jesus spoke of caring for one's neighbor in the Gospels and his disciples share in Acts how needs were met in the early church. There is no mention of keeping to a 10% tithe as a part of the church. We are encouraged to give more than just the basics. You can do your research and come to your own conclusion.  The website www.generousgiving.org has some scripture references and thoughts on this topic.
 
What if a donor asks you what is included in stewardship?

You could share with them that in Matthew (Chapters 24-26) Jesus challenges us to care for the hungry, the tired, and the poor. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) gives some of Jesus' great words on how to give and share with the needy and meek.  There is also strong study in Genesis of how we are to take care of our earth and all of creation.
 
What if a donor asks you how much they should give?

I would direct them to Deuteronomy 16:17. Each of you should bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you. And again in Luke 12:48b, to whom much is given, much is required. How much to give is a personal stewardship decision between a steward and their God. This spiritual reflection is a key difference between fundraising and stewardship. It is not OUR goals that are to be met; it is the STEWARD'S goals that are to be met.
 
These are a few of the basics and I am sure many of you can give more answers. While we add books and research to our personal study, make sure we can give an account of where we find our theological and spiritual foundations for our calling. A ministry of development philosophy is not just using scripture to "market our ministry".  It is a key component of the Christian life.
 
Here are some great books to study as ministers of development:

(Note: When I complete my dissertation this fall I will post my bibliography on my website for those interested.)
 
 The New Stewardship Institute
WHY ATTEND THE MINISTRY OF DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE?

As more and more people are brought into the development profession, it is critically important that the role of the steward, scripture, and our strategies for nonprofits keep in balance. At the Institute, cutting edge issues in stewardship, leadership, and development will be discussed. But more than a lecture, student involvement, case studies, and discussion groups will be a part of the institute's learning culture.
 
So if learning more about your profession is important to you. Please join us. It will be well worth your time.  Register now by clicking here or to learn more, visit The Ministry of Development Institute page.
 

Have you ever wondered what are the necessary characteristics that would make up a good leader? In his new article, John Samaan outlines those assets that are key to effective leadership and encourages us to develop each in our own professional careers.

Traits of Effective Leaders

By John Samaan, Senior Counsel - The Frank Group

Leaders are people of integrity and courage.  They will make their decisions after they ask the question: What is the right thing to do?

They are people of vision. They are clear about their organization's vision and will not deviate from it. They are always concerned with the future.

They set the organizational direction. They are able to articulate the future in clear, simple language. A leader should be able to state concretely what success will look like and how their organization will get there.

They are learners and will not stop growing, within their profession and as well-rounded human beings.

They have an ability to motivate and empower others to achieve at higher standards. They are clear about what they expect from others, give them the tools they need to succeed, and then support them to succeed.

Leaders are good mentors. They learn to listen to understand people, and they appreciate them and recognize their good performances. They love people and will not use them or abuse them. They will not hide behind people but will stand at the forefront of the organization and "take the heat."

Leaders must possess strong self-awareness and a gut instinct about what others are thinking and feeling. They can read people and situations far better than the average person.

They study and weigh both threats and opportunities facing their organization, and they will always look for the strategic opportunities.

They work smart and hard, and they achieve their goals; they are finishers. This includes knowing how to set priorities strategically, knowing how to accomplish necessary tasks, and then meeting final outcomes.

They are people of courage:  they do their best even if the decision may not be popular. They are honest about their shortcomings, will admit mistakes, and will change course when they know they are on the wrong one.  They take risks and encourage risk-taking in others.

Leaders enjoy their role as a leader.  They like taking responsibility, relish challenges, and are energized by the weights and privileges of caring for the organization and achieving the desired outcomes.

Leaders have the trait of resiliency - the ability not to be overwhelmed by life; they can find humor even in difficult situations. Leaders know how to laugh at themselves and put others at ease.  In that alone may be found their greatest success.