How to Raise Funds for Full-time Missions
Would you like to travel full-time for missions around the world? In this article, I will reveal the secret to successfully fundraising for long-term missions and evangelism trips. There are four major components to consider.
Building Connections with Christians
Financial Responsibility
Practical Fundraising Tactics
Vision
1. Building Connections with Christians
Let's delve into the topic of finances. Many missionaries face challenges in fulfilling the work God has called them to do. One of the main hurdles I have observed is the lack of funds. However, it doesn't have to be this way. God is abundantly rich: "The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine," says the Lord of hosts (Haggai 2:8). The Christian community has ample resources to support missionaries, evangelists, pastors, and other individuals in full-time ministry.
Before launching a fundraising campaign, it is crucial to establish a network of friends whom we know and trust. These individuals can be family members, coworkers, church members, pastors, and so on. They are a part of our lives, and we influence each other. Building friendships is the foundation of successful fundraising. Connections are key. "A man who has friends must himself be friendly" (Proverbs 18:24).
Pastors can be a valuable asset. In the past, I have encountered pastors who didn't personally contribute financially, but they introduced me to others who generously donated thousands of dollars to my ministry. I have met with pastors and shared the visions that God has placed in my heart. When a trusted individual in a position of authority recommends me to others, it opens up numerous opportunities. Since pastors and leaders possess influence within their communities, the people they connect me with are a valuable resource.
Jesus teaches, "Treat others the same way you want them to treat you" (Luke 6:31). If your colleagues only reach out to you for financial support, it is natural to eventually cut off communication. However, if they make an effort to connect with you, pray with you, and express gratitude, you will continue to nurture that relationship. Let's not only be receivers but givers as well. Invest your time. Respond with letters of appreciation. Arrange meetings over coffee. Visit their homes and spend time with their families. Maintain these relationships, and they may become ministry partners. We are seeking partners, not just supporters in missions. If you want others to bless you financially, be a blessing to them.
2. Financial Responsibility
Let's discuss the effective use of entrusted money. During my experiences, I have encountered individuals who spend money on unnecessary items. They often overspend on flights, choose luxury hotels, and dine at expensive restaurants. While I understand these choices in certain situations, some of them are excessively extravagant. The funds could be put to better use.
When I am in Africa, I prioritize the essential features in a hotel room. I look for hot water for a shower, a comfortable bed, and air conditioning if the climate is hot. Even if it is a $20 hotel, as long as it is equipped with these essentials, I am content. I aim for hotels of decent quality, neither the cheapest nor the most expensive. Something in the middle. On the other hand, invest in your supporters. Buy them a memorable gift, a cultural item, or a souvenir so they feel valued. Make them feel special once you’re back from your trip.
Flights require a significant amount of financial resources. There’s no need to fly business, economy class is sufficient. Whenever possible, I encourage individuals to stay in a particular country or location for an extended period. This allows them to cultivate lasting relationships and make a greater impact with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is beneficial to become a part of a supportive community, whether through groups, churches, or friends. Not only will this lower travel expenses, but it will also deepen cultural understanding and enhance service to the people. Before making substantial financial decisions, it is crucial to pray and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit.
A pastor in a poor region was fundraising for a sound system in his church. Despite having a small congregation of 15 or 20 members, he managed to receive a few hundred dollars in donations. However, instead of wisely spending the money on the necessary sound equipment such as the mixer and microphones, he only purchased the speakers. As a result, the speakers sat unused for several months until he eventually relocated to the USA. This wastefulness is not only ridiculous but also a poor use of funds. Additionally, it's worth noting that the pastor's small congregation would have been able to hear his preaching without the need for loudspeakers. It seems his intention was simply to attract attention from neighbors and impress others. The point here is to avoid squandering money on unnecessary items and instead save and be wise with your finances. Don't be extravagant, but also don't be stingy. As the Bible teaches, "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). If you see a genuine need, bless your fellow brothers and sisters. Remember that "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). Look for opportunities to make a positive impact and ask the Lord for guidance on how to use your resources effectively. I once heard someone say that Lou Engle teaches, "You either go on missions or give to missions."
3. Practical Fundraising Tactics
Now, let's discuss practical strategies for fundraising. One approach that worked for me was establishing my ministry. I sought assistance from a trusted source Dr. Kitty Bickford, who helped me set up an official 501(c)3 organization. This step motivated me to begin raising funds for my ministry trips. By having an official non-profit status and a bank account associated with the ministry, I was able to gain credibility and effectively manage the funds. However, if you prefer not to create your own ministry or feel unsure about handling the finances independently, you can consider joining an established non-profit organization that supports missionaries and evangelists. This option will not only ensure proper record-keeping but also provide accountability for the financial aspect. One organization that some evangelists recommend is https://www.modernday.org/. It's important to note that they do charge a small percentage fee (6%) for partnering with them. To gather more specific information, you can contact each organization individually.
One powerful tool for fundraising that I found helpful was studying "The God Ask" by Steven Shadrack. This book can also be found on Audible. During my time at Christ for all Nations ministry school a few years ago, a friend recommended this book to me. He shared that after reading it and following the instructions, he and his family were fully funded within a few months. Now, they are closely working with Christ for all Nations ministry and visiting Africa and unreached people groups four times a year. They have even built a team and are doing an exceptional job. This could be you. Take fundraising seriously and learn from those who are ahead of you. Ask questions and read books on fundraising. Another recommended book is "Friend Raising" by Betty Barnett, which I am currently reading and have heard good things about. For a podcast on fundraising, I suggest the Support Raising Podcast by Generosity, available on Google Podcasts or Apple Podcasts . Also, a powerful tool if you’re serious about fundraising is attending the Support Raising Bootcamp. It’s a 3-day seminar that will get you to reach full support and stay fully funded.
In 2022, I spent the entire year on the mission field until Christmas. I calculated my average monthly expenses in Africa and Asia and found that the amounts were similar. Understanding my numbers helped me set monthly goals to effectively serve without hindrance on the mission field. Since I don't have a family to support, it is easier for me to travel and preach. However, many families are doing similar things. While it may require more finances, families can fundraise. Couples often have more credibility with partners than individuals traveling and preaching the word of God. Families tend to be more responsible and accountable with their finances overall.
It is important to set both monthly and annual fundraising goals. "The God Ask" provides practical steps for monthly ministry fundraising. When asking for financial support, it is essential to do so from a vision that the Lord has placed in your heart, rather than out of need. My personal goal is to reach 1,000,000 decisions for Christ in the next decade. To achieve this, I am planning to preach at youth crusades, particularly in unreached countries and tribal groups. The goal and vision must be clear. People want to know how the finances will be used and the steps you will take to accomplish this goal. I keep track of my spending and include a list in the end-of-the-year tax receipt email to my partners, so they know where their money was spent. This helps maintain accountability for the finances. I also keep all receipts from my trips and have accountability in case any questions arise.
4. Vision
People are attracted to serious missionaries. Are you truly committed to your goal or is it still unclear? What are the specific steps you need to take to achieve your goal?
It is crucial to share and communicate your vision as frequently as possible. If you are passionate about your vision, others will catch that same enthusiasm. Let's not be ashamed of the vision that the Lord has placed in our hearts. Whether it's building orphanages or planting a church, we should share it openly! Share how the vision originated - was it through prayer, at a conference, or when you witnessed the plight of a hungry child in a third-world country? Share the story behind the vision and draw others in. By doing so, you will undoubtedly attract financial support. People are willing to give, but they want to ensure that they are partnering with a trustworthy individual.
We aim to raise funds while treating people as more than just projects - we should view them as friends. We are seeking to establish lifelong partnerships, maintaining connections, and reaching out to them whenever possible. I find it effective to send out monthly newsletters, not solely for fundraising purposes, but to update people on my ministry and demonstrate my commitment to the vision and goals that the Holy Spirit has revealed to me. Stay in touch with people through various means such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, Viber, or any other platform. I use a WhatsApp channel (and Viber for Russian-speaking audiences) to quickly share updates from the mission field, ensuring that my donors and partners are kept informed.
Once we begin to ask individuals to partner with us, many of them will say yes. However, if we do not ask, they cannot say yes. Be explicit in your requests, asking them if they would like to contribute to the ministry and explaining why they should do so. Be intentional in your approach. The worst response we can receive is a "no." We believe that God will use us to speak to them and prompt them to give. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7).
Furthermore, let us not be unreliable when it comes to our calling, projects, or events. If we have made promises, we must follow through and complete the tasks at hand. Integrity is key. Our fellow believers will trust us more if we demonstrate integrity. It is beneficial to ask for monthly partnerships, as this ensures a regular flow of finances. It only takes 100 people giving $50 each to raise $5,000 per month. With a steady income, we can already begin ministering and stepping out in faith to fulfill the calling that God has placed on us. We do not need to remain stuck in a job that we do not appreciate. Let's overcome our fear of asking and boldly step out in faith, inviting people to partner with us in the mission field. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me or leave a comment below, and I will do my best to provide an answer.
