How Much Should You Give?
“As soon as you are complicated, you are ineffectual.” _Konrad Adenauer
Christ Central Ministries, based in Columbia SC is on my short list of the most effective non-profits I have ever encountered.
Their reason for existing is to minister the homeless and poor with the love of Jesus Christ.
A few years ago I had the privilege of spending a day with founder and CEO Jimmy Jones (an amazing leader) and observing the operation of this ministry up close.
On any given day you will find a steady stream of people coming to their door seeking help. Jimmy shared with me their simple process of determining what Christ Central can do to help.
The staff (mostly volunteers) ask three questions:
(1) What is your emergency?
- That is where you must start. All the noble intentions in the world matter little if someone is in a state of crisis.
(2) What is your goal?
- (Here they turn a corner.) With the previous question, they acknowledge the need and brought clarity. But question #2 changes the tone. “Yes, you’re in a state of emergency, but this is not the end. You still have a future, let’s take action to get you headed toward that better future.”
(3) What can I help you with?
- And this is the best question of all…now we’re dealing with solutions, solutions made in light of a better future.
I’ve been associated with Christ Central approaching 30 years and I know of thousands of changed lives that give testimony to the effectiveness of these three simple questions.
I’ve used them myself over the years. Maybe they will help you in your efforts to make a difference in the lives of those around you.
The ONE THING for today: How much should you give? Answer: Give until it helps.
These three questions will help you get there.
