5 Key Principles to Help Maximize Impact

By Ron Bare

        Many of you share our passion for maximizing our impact on this earth by using the gifts and resources that God has entrusted to us. Why do we choose to do this? For His glory, so that we can play a part in accomplishing His purpose and plans! 
	Whether you’re ready or not, 2025 is fast approaching, and we believe there are five key principles that can help you maximize your influence and impact in the new year! 
	First, remind yourself regularly that God owns all of your resources. God has been gracious to each of us by providing what we have. Just as car manufacturers define how their cars function–designing each part and assembling the car–the Creator of all things defines the purpose and use of the resources that He gives. He has entrusted resources to us, empowering us to honor Him in how we manage them. Understanding that God is the owner of our resources changes everything about how we handle our personal and business finances.
        Second, learn the secret of contentment! Paul talks about learning this secret in Philippians 4. This passage reminds us that contentment doesn’t come naturally to us, because you don’t have to learn something that’s innate! We have found a few practices that have helped us learn this secret. We encourage you to take a close look at your finances and define how much is enough. How much do you need to live on annually? Don’t be afraid to throw some fun things in that budget – God does have an interest in our enjoyment, and sometimes that requires money. When you’ve defined enough, draw a finish line. Determine the amount you will accumulate, and walk in confidence, knowing that it will suffice. If you happen to accumulate more, consider giving the excess away!
	Third, give extravagantly! I could talk about this principle forever. It can be a difficult one to implement but is incredibly valuable. 2 Corinthians 9 offers helpful insights on generosity and we encourage you to spend time reading through it. We truly believe our God is a God of abundance and provides us with what we need to be generous. If God is the true owner of our resources, let us show gratitude for all He has given and give back to Him! All that He asks of us is to determine how much to give, and then to give with a joyful heart. 
	Fourth, create a vision for how to allocate your resources. We read in Proverbs 29:18 that without vision, people perish. Take some time to look around your community, your church, your neighborhood, and your family, and ask why God may have given you the influence and wealth that He has. How does He intend for you to use your resources? What has He laid on your heart? Pay attention to those passions, and chase after them.
	Finally, align your finances to this vision. Once you have an idea of how God might have you use your resources, begin to make a plan for it. Consider how you can collaborate with other organizations or families. How can you be generous with your time and money? Can your church, neighbors, or family benefit from what you have been given? Continue to pray and be open to guidance the Lord might provide for you.
	What is your vision? Why has the Lord blessed you with the resources you have, whether it is an abundance of wealth or your time, talents or influence? Who in your community needs care? If you’re not sure, take some time to pray. The Lord hears our prayers; rest assured in that. We look forward to walking alongside you as you seek to serve those around you and impact the world for good in 2025!