Endurance Requires Conviction |
Jun 29, 2010 |
It was the longest recorded match in tennis history.
Last week on the legendary grass courts of Wimbledon, American John Isner collapsed victorious after winning his over 11 hr. match against Frenchman Nicholas Mahut. This marathon match spanned the course of three days and broke nearly every conceivable record in the world of tennis. By all accounts it was a powerful demonstration of the mental and physical stamina of two athletes, both committed to compete in such a way as to win (II Tim 2:5). It was a test of their endurance to be sure, but I would propose that perhaps it was their conviction that was under the greatest test.
Over the past few weeks I've enjoyed meeting with various ministry leaders from local organizations here in Raleigh and discussing ideas related to the Transformational Giving principles, and the content from our recent workshop on Thanking & Receipting. And while each conversation covered a variety of issues unique to the organization, I observed a strong theme presenting itself in each.
Without exception, each conversation made its way back to these ideas of conviction and endurance. And while these topics may not be such a long shot for Christians to discuss, in light of the vast amount of attention they're given in the Scriptures, it is a bit surprising (at least to me) how they came up. Invariably, the ideas were brought up, not while discussing the issues associated with non-profit sustainability, but with the question, "what do we do next?"
This very straight forward question, asked with the purest of intentions, led into some deep waters. I suppose the question was intended to produce a simple list of “TG to do’s” that would ensure the asker was on the right track to implementation. What ensued on each occasion was a meaningful conversation about the need to develop clarity of direction predicated on properly cultivated convictions. The type of conviction to first turn from wrong thinking to embrace truth (i.e. repentance). Resulting in a conviction that manifests iteself in a deeply held belief or sense of resolve. The type of conviction not addressed in merely answering the what and how questions, but moves deeper into question of why.
That’s why we’re here. Through a steady exchange of ideas in workshops and coaching calls, your GTO will help you as you develop your convictions around TG. And though it might feel like a volley of wills at times, with many hard fought rallies, we're committed to think through these ideas with you that so that together we might endure.
Here’s a meaningful way to deepen your conviction, if you haven’t signed up already: register for July’s Fundraising Banquets Workshop.
| Topics: Leadership | 0 Comments » |
