The Philistines were a constant thorn in David’s side. To add insult to injury, they set up shop in his hometown, Bethlehem (1 Sam. 16:1). David dreamed of a different future and commented how wonderful it would be to again enjoy a cool drink from the well by the city gate. He didn’t have to say it twice. His three mighty men heard his desire and executed a flawless extraction mission to retrieve a skin of water from behind enemy lines. When they presented the water to David, he realized the risk they took to fulfill his dream and poured it out to the Lord as a drink offering. How can you cast a compelling vision to inspire your ministry partners to action? Consider these four principles.
Leadership
Simon Sinek, in his book Start with Why, shares the story of two stonecutters. One hates his job and complains about lifting stones every day in the hot sun. Another replies, “I love my job! Sure, its backbreaking work but I’m building a cathedral!” Why do these two men with the exact same job have opposite perspectives? One caught the vision, one didn’t. David inspired his followers to a higher cause. Are you inspiring your donors to accomplish something that will last beyond their lifetimes?
Relationship
David didn’t release a statement to the press; this was quiet conversation with his close friends. Have you ever had a “dream” conversation with your close major donors to let them know what God is laying on your heart? Don’t take your ideas to your major donors wrapped up nicely in a bow. Invite your key friends into the conversation while you’re still formulating your ideas. Let them imagine the future with you.
Stewardship
David had proven himself on the battlefield and earned the respect of his followers. Trust is a critical component of leadership and followership. People must believe that you will do what you say you will do. Leadership is influencing others. As Spider-Man learned, “With great power comes great responsibility.” As a leader you have great influence over your donors’ giving priorities. Make sure your vision is worthy of their sacrificial giving.
Worship
These men risked their lives to bless David with a remarkable gift. The only thing David could do was to reflect the glory back to God. This is exactly how we should respond when people give sacrificially. “Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else” (2 Cor. 9:13).
Think About This: John Quincy Adams, said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” Inspire your donors to dream more, learn more about God’s vision for your ministry, give more, and become a vital part of your future.
Response: Lord, please help me understand your vision for what you want us to accomplish. Help me share it effectively with my ministry partners.
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 At the Center magazine and Christian Leadership Alliance’s Outcomes magazine.
