I don’t want to manipulate you. It feels like I do sometimes, when I write support letters or thank you notes. It’s hard to not feel like I am trying to make you believe in something or to prove to you donating your money is worth it. It’s a lot like how I feel some people approach the gospel.
I’ve been reading a book called “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek. It has nothing to do with Jesus but is changing the way I think about him, and the way I approach the Gospel.
In the book Sinek describes all the ways businesses fail, all because they are transactional. They work so hard, using manipulations to get the sale. They gain one time, or repeat customers instead of loyal followers. They approach sales starting with what they are selling, how they are different or better, and then why you should but their product. Sinek’s whole point is they have it backwards.
We are supposed to be starting with WHY and working to what.
“People don’t but what you do; they buy why you do it.”
I have been approaching this all wrong. Jesus doesn’t want me convincing anyone to do anything. He wants me to inspire others to follow Him by obeying, and loving like he does. He wants me to let Holy Spirit do the convincing.
When God put G42 and Squad Leading on my heart at first I was ecstatic. My heart is for young people knowing Jesus and their identity in him. My heart is missions, local and global, and my heart is Him. G42 and Squad leading hit on all of those.
Soon after I started adding up the cost and my heart shriveled up..
- G42 = 6,300 + 1,300 plane ticket +insurance.
- Student loans/bills during time away= a lot
- Squad leading= 8,00 ish + insurance
You get the point; it’s scary, seeing all those numbers, and it looks impossible. Fear flooded me, I was overcome and felt this huge pressure to perform and make life altering decisions in a timely manner.
So I did nothing.
I was crippled. I wanted to impress you. I wanted to win your hearts and support. When I really dig deep though, I wanted an easy way out.
Night after night I was up weighing the options that filled the buffet in front of me, it was easy thinking it all though instead of trusting the promises he has made to me. Waiting was easier that obedience.
Part of all of that was because I didn’t believe I could sell you on this. Another trip, another adventure, another “word” from God.
Then I realized I don’t have to. I don’t have to sell you because I don’t want transactional relationships. I don’t want people who don’t believe in Why I am doing this. I want loyal supporters who are inspired by Holy Spirit and who believe in the vision. The vision is to make disciples in our backyards and all over the world, and to help people realize who they are in Christ.
So, here is it, all out in the open and a little raw. I am uncomfortable and a little scared of what is to come, but I know this leap of faith will be honored. I know the father’s resources are unlimited.
I am going to G42 leadership academy in April, and in January I will squad lead a world race team and after that the possibilities are endless.
If you are interested in partnering with me I would love to talk with you. You can email me at: [email protected]
If you would like to directly donate you can do so here and make sure to put my name down.
http://www.g42leadershipacademy.org/donate
