By Tom Shanklin

Here’s some dos and don’ts for raising ministry support. Failure to raise adequate support is one of the biggest reasons people give up on their God-given ministry vision.

Since going into the evangelistic ministry in 2005, I have lived by some biblical principles for raising support for the ministry which have been a great help to me and have given me peace about what I’m doing. Everyone needs to find their own comfort level and method, so I present these do’s and don’ts which have worked for me for your consideration. I pray that they will be a help to you in fulfilling the purpose that God has for your life.

Raising finances for your ministry does not need to be a dreaded chore. In fact, it’s a joy to involve others in your mission. You are also blessing people by giving them an opportunity to get involved in building the Kingdom of God through your ministry.

DO let people know who you are, what you believe and preach, what you are doing, and what your vision is for the future. The Lord showed me to communicate these four things:

• The Man—who you are (or the Woman)
• The Message—what you preach
• The Ministry—what you are doing
• The Mission—where you are going

DO find a way to joyfully communicate these things, whether it be through personal communication, meetings, newsletters, websites, or emailings. The more personal the communication is, the more effective it will be.

DO be consistent in pursuing your goals and developing your ministry. Follow through with your plans whenever possible.

DON’T jump from one thing to the next, but build your ministry with a long-term strategy.

DO be honest and clear about the accomplishments of your ministry.

DON’T despise or belittle small accomplishments, but give God glory for all that is accomplished.

DO pray!

DO ask people to pray for you and for your ministry.

DON’T beg, pressure people, constantly declare an emergency, or criticize those who don’t give or who stop giving to your ministry. God is in charge! Be at peace with it!

DO walk in integrity in all your financial dealings.

DON’T use gimmicks to raise funds.

DO recognize that God is your source, not man.

DON’T lose heart when giving is down. Seek the Lord and listen to His voice.

DO see your supporters as an essential and valuable part of your ministry team. Be a friend to them, encourage them, and seek to become a blessing in their lives.

DO operate on a cash basis.

DON’T get yourself over your head with debt or with projects you can’t afford. Let the Lord build the house.

DO give thanks to God and to your supporters for all gifts that you receive for your ministry.

DON’T whine and grumble about lack of finances or complain about people’s priorities.

DO give to other ministries so that they can fulfill their mission also. Give and it shall be given!

DON’T focus on yourself.

DON’T worry about finances.

DO focus on manifesting God’s glory in your life and ministry. The Lord will touch hearts to stand with you in the work you are doing.

May God bless you as you serve our Great King Jesus!