As a Christian ministry, should you fundraise like the world fundraises? Jerry Panas (1928-2018) was the premier fundraiser of modern times. He wrote 20 books including such classics as ASKING, Mega Gifts, and Born to Raise. Soak in three of his quotes, “Little of consequence would ever have been accomplished in this world without someone having had the courage to ask,” “The true art of asking lies in listening,” and “Only three ingredients are needed to be a successful fundraiser: Hard work, hard work, and hard work.” Read everything can from Panas because all truth is God’s truth.
As Christian fundraisers, our methods go beyond what the world has to offer because they have divine power to demolish strongholds. Overcoming the love of money and the deceitfulness of riches are fundraising strongholds. We have an advantage over the world because when a donor gives to our ministries, they reap eternal rewards. Consider these four perspectives.
Faith
Ultimately, generosity is not a financial decision, it’s a faith decision. Both the asker and the giver must have faith God will provide for their needs. Secular fundraising professionals can only appeal to their donors based on how a potential gift might alleviate human problems. We can appeal to our donors with the truth that their gifts will make a physical and eternal difference in the lives of those we serve.
Hope
Paul teaches in 1 Timothy 6:17, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.” We have the privilege of challenging our donors to place their hope in God by laying up “treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age” (1 Tim. 6:19).
Love
Consider this scene from Mark 10:21 about the rich young ruler, “Jesus looked at him and loved him. ‘One thing you lack,’ he said. ‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’” This young man’s riches prevented him from laying up treasure in heaven. Jesus loved him by challenging him to generosity which can only come from a heart changed by love.
Prayer
It goes without saying that fundraisers should be prayer warriors. “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray” (James 5:13). Seriously, when it comes to your fundraising efforts you should “pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests” (Eph. 6:18). The strongholds of greed and selfishness will not be demolished without prayer.
Think About This: Jerry had a sign on his desk, “If you can read this… you are not out calling on prospects.” That’s great advice for everyone who raises money!
Response: Father, help me learn as much as I can from successful fundraisers then remind me you are the final authority. “I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes” (Psa. 119:99).
Ron Haas has served the Lord as a pastor, the vice 
president of advancement of a Bible college, a Christian foundation director, a board member and a fundraising consultant. He’s authored three books: Ask for a Fish – Bold Faith-Based Fundraising, Simply Share – Bold, Grace-Based Giving, and Keep on Asking – Bold, Spirit-Led Fundraising. He regularly presents fundraising workshops at ministry conferences and has written fundraising articles for Christian Leadership Alliance’s Outcomes magazine.
