If we are honest, we would have to say numbers are important. If the numbers are there, then it means churches are saving ministry dollars, vendors are growing, and the CO+OP can continue doing its ministry. We strive to keep the internal factors under control, yet inevitably we run into external factors which can affect overall numbers. Looking at internal and external influences through the lens of a biblical perspective is key for success. The factors outside of an organization’s control may cause tension; however, tension and adversity are important to embrace.

We ought to see tension and adversity as an opportunity to refocus the mission. The anxiety caused by a negative impact to the numbers can be detrimental. On the positive side, the healthier an organization is, the more likely it will adapt. In my opinion, setting our gaze on factors we can

control and striving towards that chief principle, are most significant. For example, at the CO+OP, we are aware of our competitors, the economy, buying trends, etc., yet we stay focused on the main thing. Within the realm of a working environment, there are three key categories where the chief principle can be manifested. Some of these keys are leadership, mindset, and the culture of the organization.

Leadership. For the person in leadership, his or her relationship with the “Ultimate Leader” is fundamental. A question I am reminded to ask is, “How am I growing in my relationship with the Lord?” I exhort everyone to examine the best example of a leader, Christ Himself. What stands out in the way Jesus led? He led by serving others. It is human nature to lean toward serving self instead of others. A motivation to serve self is settled on the temporal bottom line.

Mindset. True development and genuine growth is more than knowing or having the ability to do something. It boils down to what’s in the heart. That which flows from the heart affects what we say, do, and even think. In large part, what we do is led by our thoughts. The principle of preparing the mind is found in Scripture (Col 3:1-3, 1 Pet 1:13,

Phil 4:8, Rom 12:2). As this truth spills over into various areas of life and business, growth will undoubtedly follow. When our thoughts begin to align with God’s will, our actions will assuredly sync with success. Biblical success looks much different than worldly success. It is far beyond temporal numbers on paper or any material possessions.

The Culture of the Organization. As a manger or leader, it is good to seek out how your people feel when it comes to their attitude toward your company’s defining purpose. Whether

you are a church or nonprofit, getting the right people in place lifts a heavy burden. If the team is ministry-minded, it can be confidently said, “God will take care of the bottom line.” Are your team members passionate about the mission, vision, and core values? When looking beyond the bottom line, these areas of thought can be dynamic to a healthy flow of an organization. It is easy to get consumed, almost paralyzed, by trying to hit numbers.

Imagine for a moment a church with 10,000 people. The focus is to get as many people in the pews as possible. This church has 10% of the members serving and striving to keep Christ first

in all things. In this hypothetical, we can safely say 9,000 people are missing out on being a vessel for God’s glory. Let’s say, even beyond that, they are spiritually dry. Is this church truly successful

and reaching its full potential? This scenario paints a clear picture that bottom-line thinking is meaningless because it has missed the mark of keeping the main thing the main thing.

We can no doubt obsess over the numbers and the bottom line and lose sight of the main thing. Even as a Christian organization, to be ministry-minded is a choice. We can either be a slave to the numbers or honor Christ in our service. Certainly, we should consider that there are many

critical elements which go into creating and maintaining a solid, sustainable future for an organization. But the most important thing should not rest on the bottom line.

— John Hagarty

(Originally published MAY 2017 Magazine)