Money or talent

Which is more important? Money or talent?

In the recent history of missions, agencies in prosperous countries are held in high regard with most international leadership positions given to people from these countries.

It’s a strange paradox that the sermons in wealthy countries are often about the poor, young, uneducated men who became the apostles and inflamed the first-century world with the gospel. These first faith leaders were not the wealthy and educated from Athens or Rome.

In the sport movement, we have learned that God’s Spirit raises up equally gifted and talented leaders on small islands and in impoverished nations. A significant movement develops capable leaders from disadvantaged locations to fill roles equal to their leadership capacity.

At a critical stage, the global sports network required a person with exceptional organizational and computer skills. The leader who accepted the request to serve this need was from one of the five poorest countries in the world. The leader was so gifted, committed, and with a humble spirit, there was no one else considered for the task.

Should this mean those from developing nations with equal spiritual leadership talents be given priority? Maybe yes, maybe no. You need to decide. Most of all, you need to be aware.

Scripture to ponder – Psalm 37:30-31

The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.

Key Lesson: If you are part of a local, national, or global organization or movement, are you hierarchical or first among equals in how you function? It is not wrong to be hierarchical but realize having a round representative table may be more beneficial. When the table is round it is essential to keep in mind that those with money should not have the loudest voice. It may also take extra effort to help those who aren’t used to speaking up to do so.