Matthew 6:19-21
With these words Jesus brings an instrument as sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel to the human heart. Anyone who really wants to know what he values most need look no further than how he spends his money. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
There is, I suppose, no subject about which
people are more sensitive than this, and, at the same time it is a
subject often handled with little sensitivity. And some of the worst
offenders are religious professionals, who whine and wheedle, threaten
and implore, and when all else fails resort to making fantastic claims
of prosperity for those who will support their cause.
CPCI has decided to avoid the normal tactics of religious fundraising,
choosing instead to present our needs as calmly and simply as possible,
while trusting the Lord and His people to respond. After 25 years of
successful ministry, we can report that this method works. So it is with
sincere thanks to our donors and heartfelt gratitude to God that I set
forth the principles that have guided our fundraising for many years.
- Be a vessel God can bless.
We are convinced that God’s blessing follows obedience. God’s standard for blessing has much more to do with purity than with the material from which the vessel is made. He will more quickly fill a clean clay pot than a filthy golden one, so purity is a goal we reach for, both in our doctrine and in our practice.
- Keep it simple; don’t be extravagant.
Simplicity is a Christian virtue, and should characterize any Christian ministry. Whether we are building a building, or preparing a brochure, we are aware that people will judge us by what they see. With this in mind we strive to achieve two simultaneous ends, quality and simplicity. Whatever we do we want to do it well and with authenticity, because we understand that extravagance and artifice are the twin children of hypocrisy.
- Be Accountable.
God’s word counsels us to “provide things honest in the sight of all men.” Romans 12:17 Could there be a clearer call to financial accountability? We think not, and because we are so commanded, we make every effort to assure our donors that their gifts are being used properly. Audits are conducted annually, and all steps are taken to assure our compliance with both legal and moral obligations.
- Don’t forget to say thanks.
Receipts for most gifts given to CPCI are prepared on the very day the gift is received. This is because we believe our donors deserve a quick acknowledgement of their giving. We know that the great majority of our support comes from people who must sacrifice in order to give, and we do not want to fail to express to them our sincere thanks.
There are many other things on this subject that
might be said, but there is not space for them here. But please be sure
of this. If God is leading you to contribute to our ministry, you can be
sure that we will do our utmost to use your gift to bring honor and
glory to His name. To see the work grow we need the regular help of a
growing number of supporters, and we trust that the Lord will raise them
up from among His obedient children.
May God bless you for your generosity and faithfulness.
S