As a pastor or church leader, do you know how to leverage money to change a person’s life forever? I recently sat down with Kevin Cross, Stewardship Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church (FBC), who told me about an experience he had regarding the practical use of money.
While the story is miraculous, the principles he taught me at the story’s conclusion can be utilized by all Christian leaders.
This past Saturday, Kevin and a team from FBC were returning from a prison ministry opportunity. While there FBC had the privilege of watching over 200 inmates give their life to Christ! But the story doesn’t end there.
The team stopped at a convenience store on the way home to pick up some drinks and snacks. Kevin was the 2nd of three individuals in the line waiting to be checked out. He noticed the person behind him had a $2.99 energy drink. Realizing this was not a $.49 cup of coffee, Kevin intuitively realized this gentlemen felt he needed A LOT of energy for something about to happen in his life.
Kevin immediately responded and told the cashier, “I got all three of these” as he pointed to the person in front and behind him. Everyone looked shocked as Kevin paid for each of their orders.
As they were exiting the store, the man asked Kevin why he did this. Kevin responded, “We just left the prison where we asked people if they were to die today and stood before God and He asked them, ‘Why should I let you into My heaven’, what would they say? Do you know what you would say if God asked you that question?” The man answered, “No, I don’t.” Kevin said, “Can I tell you what I told those prisoners?” And the rest is eternal history!
The following are four practical applications Kevin then taught me from his experience:
- Perceived Need – The man had a perceived need – energy. He felt that the additional energy could improve his life.
- Heart Need – His real need was a heart need. He needed the energy that only comes from eternal life and a relationship with Jesus.
- Biblical Truth – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21 (ESV)
- We Often Lead With Our Money – Kevin has a deep desire to see lives changed. That is where his heart is. Did you notice his money was leveraged at that convenience store to where his heart is. He used his financial treasure to earn the right to have a spiritual conversation.
It is important to note that Kevin used money to meet a perceived need which then allowed him to address the man’s true heart need.
As I sat with Kevin I really had to do self-inventory. The question was not do I have a passion for the unchurched like Kevin. I clearly don’t. The question is WHY don’t I have that passion?
I also had to examine how I leveraged my money and what it said about how where my heart is.
Perceived Need, Heart Need, Biblical Truth, and Leading With Your Money. Pastors and church leaders, what is one practical step you can take today from Kevin’s life to help you better impact the lives of others?
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