What a year 2020 has been. Between the global pandemic, a contentious election, and mass cultural upheaval, the nation’s nerves are frazzled. There are days when it seems like our sense of stability and structure has been torn right out from under us. It can feel hard to make plans when nothing seems certain.
Understandably, some fundraising leaders are nervous. There is a lot at stake – on average, nonprofits raise about 40% of their annual revenue in the last two months of the year.
But who has the time or energy for hand wringing? Now more than ever, we have to lockout anxiety, the thief that steals our joy and sabotages our plans. In times like these, it’s good to stay centered and focused on what is knowable.
As Christians, so much is sure – we just have to remind ourselves. Ask yourself these three questions:
1. What is the truth?
First, there are a lot of hopeful data points out there to lean into. Seek them out because they will encourage you and empower your plans! Reliable studies indicate that donors are not going to be deterred this season. They want to hear about your needs; they want to be solicited, and they are prepared to give. The majority of major donors don’t have any problem meeting with you face to face and aren’t shy to visit in small gatherings.
Next, your work – and your plans – are important to God. Your mission matters and His mission never fails. We know this because he said it. “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but the purpose of the Lord will stand.” (Proverbs 19:21)
2. What has God promised?
“All the promises of God find their “Yes” in him.”
2 Corinthians 1:20
We serve a God who has given us promises, proven that He is faithful, and then confirmed in his Word that his promises are true and trustworthy. With all the effort God himself has put into emphasizing them, it’s clear that they should be an important part of our lives – particularly in seasons like these.
Remember – even cling to – the following promises:
He will put the right plans in your heart. (Proverbs 16:3)
When you trust him, he will give you peace. (Isaiah 26:3)
He goes before you and is with you. (Deut. 31:8)
He keeps his loving eye on you. (Psalm 32:8)
His power more than makes up for your weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
His plans for us are good and joyful. (Jeremiah 29:11)
He responds to your prayers. (Mark 11:24)
3. What does God expect of you?
“…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Phillippians 4:6
God has offered the perfect remedy to anxiousness: prayer, petition, thanksgiving, and solicitation. We are to solicit him for help through prayer. How fitting that is for us as fundraisers.
Spend time on your own and with your team meditating on his antidotes.
Do not be anxious! (Philippians 4:6)
Keep your eyes “stayed” on him. (Isaiah 26:3)
Commit your plans to him. (Proverbs 16:3)
Listen for God to speak and direct you. (Deuteronomy 28:2)
Thank him for his faithfulness. (Philippians 4:6)
Fundraising is a noble calling, and we know it can be as scary as it is rewarding. When you need a coach to walk it out with you, we are here!
Contact us today to see how we can help you maximize your fundraising results this year-end.
