Paul’s Business Plan

I Corinthians 9:24 “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.”

Recently I read an article about developing a business plan. When engaging in a business venture, it is important to have a system by which you develop your clientele. Though you may have an ultimate goal in mind, the process by which you achieve this goal is crucial. We have all heard it said, “If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.”

For example, an entrepreneur may hope to engage twenty new customers a month. The process of achieving that goal starts with the first step. He may commit to making two phone calls a day and connecting with an existing client once a week. He may consider running a weekly ad in a newspaper or communicating with potential clients by email on a bi-weekly basis. By being consistent in his day-to-day plan, the goal becomes more attainable.

Those involved in sports develop a different type of plan. One does not wake up one morning and run a marathon. The goal of reaching the finish line starts months ahead of time with the daily goals of running and strengthening endurance and muscle. The day-to-day process is what allows you to reach your goal.

Though it is very common for us to develop methods for reaching our personal goals, I wonder how often we develop a strategy for winning others to Christ. The Apostle Paul was compelled to share the gospel message with the world – his whole life was devoted to it. He did not go at it half-heartedly but ran straight towards the goal with purpose in every step. Paul had a missionary “business plan.”

He tried to find common ground with everyone.  He chose to become a servant to all he met in order to open the way to bring many to Christ. When he was with the oppressed he shared their oppression. When with Jews he followed their traditions. When with Gentiles he would try to fit in with them as much as he could within the realm of obedience to Christ.

Paul gave up many of his own rights for support and comfort for the purpose of removing any obstacle for others to believe. And he set out on planned missionary journeys, all the while being open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. By developing a “business plan” for evangelism and disciplining himself with determination, the Apostle Paul became one of the most successful deliverers of God’s salvation message to the world.

Have you developed any type of “business plan” for reaching your world with God’s message of hope and forgiveness? You will never reach your goal if you don’t have a strategy. Maybe you could start by praying for two people who need Jesus a day. Then you could seek one daily opportunity to share a word of spiritual encouragement with a neighbor or a friend. Start small, but stay consistent, and ask God to grow your influence.  Make your business God’s business. Remember, “If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail.”

Love,

Mama